Page 13 of In Hiding

The cop spun, the surprise in his eyes unmistakable. “You must have still been in nappies.”

“I’m older than I look, but that was a long time ago, Sergeant. I don’t see how it is relevant.”

“So, you can defend yourself, or others, if the need arose?”

“I can.”

Unexpectedly, Wilson smiled. “There are other former soldiers in my town. Perhaps you might run into an old friend.”

Jake shook his head. “Not unless you believe in ghosts, Sergeant.”

Wilson returned to his chair. “Let’s get a couple of things straight, Mr. Langley. The woman interviewing you today is not one to stand for games. Andersen House is big, old and in need of repair. A lot of repair, in fact. You had better know what you are doing.”

It’d been a long time since Jake wielded a hammer, but he was curious about the level of interest Wilson showed. “I’m more than capable, Sergeant.”

“According to your file, you will need to report in every three days for the next three months. Will you be able to manage that?”

“Yes, Sir.” He almost felt like he was a cadet again, though if he were honest, Wilson couldn’t hold a candle to his drill sergeant.

“If I’m not in, you will report my detective, Ray Wells. If neither of us are in,” he paused and then smiled. “Report to Nancy.”

“Nancy?”

Wilson waved a hand. “Curly brown hair, purple glasses. Don’t piss her off.”

Trying not laugh, he was unable to hide his smile. “Right. Nancy.”

“I warn you, piss her off and she’ll have the whole town against you in no time.”

Jake got the distinct impression Sergeant Wilson might have learned that the hard way. “Assuming I get the job.”

“Assuming you get the job,” Wilson repeated wryly. Both men stood. “What time is your interview?”

“No set time. She said to come up some time before lunch.”

Wilson pointed to the door. “I’ll walk you out. Where will you be staying?”

Jake felt Nancy's intense focus on him all the way through reception. They left through the sliding doors. “I have a room at the pub.”

“There are worse places to stay,” Wilson mused. “And just so I’m informed, what do you drive?”

Jake frowned. “How is that your business?”

Wilson shrugged. “I can look it up, if you’d prefer.”

“I have a Harley,” Jake relented.

The cop laughed. “If you do get the job and end up staying, you’ll need something a little more suitable to alpine life. The snow will put you on your ass if you persist with a motorbike.”

That was a bridge he’d cross when he got to it. “Is there a car yard in town?”

“Not yet. One is due to open soon. If you head over to Lawson’s Garage, the mechanic can set you up. He’s the next best thing.”

“Thanks for the advice.” Dark, heavy clouds had gathered to darken the morning further. “Is it always this bleak?”

Wilson chuckled. “No. The Crossing is a beautiful place to live, but late autumn usually brings storms and June brings the snow. I promise, once you see the ground covered in a dusting of white, you’ll never want to be anywhere else.”

Jake tilted his head to the side. “Assuming I get the job.”

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