Page 2 of Shield of Love

Then how do you want him to think of you?

“I’m going to take the captain’s advice and gather my stuff.”

**Thayer**

While she does that, maybe I can gather my wits about me and remember I’m here in a professional capacity.

Although, if we’d met under different circumstances…

If I had a type, she’d be it.

Okay, that makes me sound like my only criteria is that a woman is breathing. Yes, while that is a requirement, I do have higher standards than that. Can’t say the same for Willis, unfortunately.

As long as it doesn’t interfere with his role in our partnership, I don’t give a shit. But the instant it does, I have no problem handing him his ass.

Not that I ever see that happening.

Free with his affections and time he might be, he is steadfastly dedicated to the force, second only to my single-minded focus on the job.

It’s all I’ve ever needed.

Granted, I tried when I was younger to have more. It just never worked out. Besides, Willis dates enough to cover both of us. He’s joked numerous times that he’s simply taking up my slack like a good friend would.

To which I usually respond that he’s too kind. Then I remind him I do not want nor need any details.

Shit, I better warn him off Lillian.

He’s never crossed the line with anybody tied to a case.

No, he has not. There’s always a first.

Sure, that’s why you essentially want to pee a circle around her. At least you’re being more civilized and doing so verbally.

Ignoring that unnecessary shot my subconscious fired, and hit the bullseye with. I peer out the various windows, clocking the vehicles that pass and those that are parked on her block that I can see without being too obvious about it. So far, none of the rides I noted when I arrived have moved.

When Lillian returns, carrying a large suitcase and what, I believe, is considered a weekender though looks just like a duffle bag to me, I take them from her and set them by the door.

“Have you messaged your neighbor?” There. That should help maintain a respectful distance by focusing on the reason I’m here instead of picturing that she packed for a different reason. You know, like an extended visit to my house.

“I did, but I thought you might want to check it before I hit send.”

Appreciating her ability to think clearly when her thoughts are no doubt racing, I glance at the text on the screen when she shows it to me. I skim it, thankful she didn’t accidentally give anything away, and tell her, “You did good.

Lillian smiles so big I’m momentarily struck speechless.

It’s like seeing a sunbeam. You’re in awe of the beauty and warmth it provides.

And since I feel as if I’ve lived with the dark for far too long, hard not to with the things I’ve encountered on the force, I fear I just might come to crave her light.

Shit. She’s not the only one in danger.

Holding my hand out, I chuckle when she slaps it with her own, and says, “Never done a middle five.”

Double shit. She’s adorable and that split second of skin contact has my whole body buzzing. It reminds me of the time I was accidentally shocked as a kid. My mom freaked, so sure I was injured, but I’d just grinned and asked, “Can I do it again?”

Spoiler alert. I did not do it again.

“Will your family worry if they don’t hear from you?”

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