Page 121 of State of Grace (First Family 2)

“Never mind. I’ve given you enough of my valuable time. Am I calling a lawyer or putting forth your arraignment?”

Jaycee released an indignant huff. “I’ll take the arraignment.”

“And you’ll stay away from my detectives?”

She gave a tiny nod, but it was enough of an acknowledgment to satisfy Sam. “Let me be very clear—if we meet again, I won’t be anywhere near as friendly as I’ve been today. If you get the big idea to bother, harass or threaten Detective Green or Detective Dominguez, I’ll make your life a living hell. You got me?”

Tears filled her big blue eyes as she nodded.

“Excellent.”

Sam turned to walk away and nearly collided with Cameron Green. She wasn’t sure which was more shocking—that he was wearing jeans or that he hadn’t shaved. Sam directed him back toward the stairs and followed him up. “Were you listening to that?”

“I was. Thank you, Lieutenant.”

“No problem.”

When they were upstairs, he turned to face her. “I’m very sorry to have brought this nonsense into your house.”

“You didn’t. She did. It’s not your fault.”

“What she said about Gigi…” His normally amiable expression hardened. “I had no idea she was like that.”

“You’re lucky to be rid of her.”

“I feel sick after hearing the stuff she said.”

“Try to put it behind you and focus on the future. You were upstanding in your dealings with her. You know the truth, and that’s all that matters. What she read into it isn’t your responsibility.”

He released a deep breath. “Yeah, I know. It’s just hard to fathom that I spent a year with her and had no idea who she really is until now.”

“At least you found out before you shackled yourself to her for a lifetime.”

Shuddering, he said, “No kidding.”

“How’s Gigi?”

His entire disposition changed at the mention of her. “She’s great.”

“I take it things are progressing there?”

“Yeah, you could say that.”

“I’m happy for you both.”

“It won’t get in the way of the work, LT. I swear to you.”

“You’re both professionals. I’m not at all concerned about that.”

“Okay, good.”

“We’re meeting in the conference room in ten to go over the Tappen case. Can you let everyone know?”

“I’ll take care of it. And thank you again, Lieutenant, for your support and for handling the mess downstairs.”

“I’ve got your back, Detective. Always.”

“Likewise.”

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