Page 46 of Blue-Eyed Hero

“Well, I appreciate it. Besides, I could never lie that easily.”

Reid’s body tightened, his jaw turning to granite in the sun. “Sometimes a lie is necessary for the bigger picture.”

She stared at him a moment, wondering what was beneath the million layers he hid beneath. He’d always been mysterious and kept to himself, and no matter how hard she tried, she could never breakthrough his outer shell.

There was so much more to Reid than met the eye, and she only hoped one day he’d finally let her in. She grabbed his hand before they entered the backyard. His gaze drifted to where their fingers intermingled. She ignored the sudden rush of electricity that snapped through her. She’d worry about that another time. “Remember not to mention the whole stalker thing to any of my family.”

“I already told you I wouldn’t.”

“I know.” She glanced at the ground, kicking at a dandelion. “Also, I just want to…” Her words stuttered on her tongue.

“Just want to what?”

She didn’t want to believe she was in danger, but she couldn’t ignore the signs any longer, especially since Reid wouldn’t let her brush it off. “Thank you.”

“I told you I wouldn’t say anything. You don’t need to thank me.”

“Not for that. For wanting to protect me. I know I have been a royal pain in your ass for years, so I guess I just…”

“I never thought I’d see the day.”

“When I admit to being a pain in the ass?”

“Well, that, but also to see you speechless.”

“I’m not speechless.”

“I think you are. But message heard loud and clear. And Allison?”

“Yeah?”

“You’re welcome.”

Her phone vibrated in her pocket, and she slipped it out. Her eyes scanned over the email before she clicked into it. An excited gasp tore from her mouth, and she slapped a hand over her lips.

“What is it?” Reid was on her faster than a crow on roadkill. “Did you get another threat?” he asked, and she glared at him, hoping her parents didn’t hear.

“No, I got the nomination for my story on online bullying.”

“That’s amazing. Congratulations.”

“Oh my god!” Allison threw herself into Reid’s arms. He caught her effortlessly, holding her close.

“You deserve it.” His breath brushed her ear, sending a heated chill down her spine. She inhaled, taking in his intoxicating scent. His hold loosened and she glanced up at him, an impenetrable smile curving her lips. “Thank you. This is unexpected and amazing.”

“Is there a reason we’re hanging out in the corner?” Sammy asked as she approached. Her eyes widened when she spotted Allison with Reid’s arm still around her. “Sheriff, I wasn’t expecting to see you here.”

He dropped his hold and stepped back. “Me and your sister are working on a story together.”

“Is that so? A story.”

“Y-Yes.” Reid stumbled on his words, which Allison found oddly sexy. “And your sister has, um…. She has some great news.” He scratched the back of his neck. It was adorable to see him so flustered, and if she was a horrible human being, she would continue to let him try to piece words together, but she wasn’t a monster.

“I’m up for an award!” Allison exclaimed and threw herself in Sammy’s arms.

“That’s awesome! I’m proud of you, big sis.”

“Thank you.”

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