Page 27 of Nicole's Shelter

“Maybe I’ll have Bart teach me.”

She paused in the process of savoring another bite of egg. He couldn’t be flirting, could he? And if he was, he couldn’t be serious. The happy little kick in her pulse voted yes, but she didn’t trust it. When she’d managed to swallow, she glanced around the apartment. “Bart’s single?”

Rick’s expression sobered. “Don’t go there.” He pushed his plate away and sipped at his coffee. “On second thought.” He stared into the cup as if it held all of life’s secrets. “If you can get him to open up, you might be able to uncover the mystery of his superb coffee.”

“The man is gifted,” she agreed. “But assuming I could get in his kitchen—so to speak—I’m sure I’d feel too loyal to just hand over the secrets.”

Rick’s hearty laughter shocked her. The sound was richer than chocolate and far more satisfying. She wished for her camera to catch his mood and the pure happiness on his face.

“I can’t wait to introduce you.”

“How did you meet him?”

The laughter faded, but the warm, open expression remained. “We served together in the Army.”

“Mmm-hmm.” Expecting more, she waited, and was disappointed when he changed the subject.

“I need to get to the bank to visit with security for Allie’s case.”

“You’re looking for something that will help her, right?”

He nodded. “My only other obligation to her case is you. Making sure you’re safe.”

“Uh-huh.” They’d been over this. As much as she wanted to explore this attraction she felt for him, she didn’t want to wreck his world.

“I meant it when I said I’d like to help you. Just give me enough information.”

She waved off his offer. “I’ll be fine on my own.”

“I’d like to believe that.”

“But you don’t trust me.”

“No. I don’t trust you—”

The front door burst open and a massive man stormed in. Nicole found herself shielded by Rick, who was suddenly pointing a weapon at the intruder.

“Stand down.”

“Bart. What the hell?”

She peeked at the giant over Rick’s shoulder. “That’s Bart?”

“Yes. Bart, Nicole Livingston.”

Bart swore and immediately apologized. “You are always mixed up in the worst sh— crap.”

“What’s going on?”

“The police scanners just announced a BOLO on your girl there and the morning news anchor says she’s now suspected of starting two fires last night.”

“That’s impossible. We were dodging the feds last night.”

“I’m on your side, man. There’s more. The second fire took down a known gang house and cocaine is missing. DEA will be crawling into everything around here within the hour.”

“He knows I’m out here.” Nicole slumped into the chair. “He knows.”

Both men turned to her. “Who?”

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