“Yes.”
“When I gave TJ an update on my investigation, he informed me about your case and suggested we share any new information.”
“Does he see a link?”
“I think it’s more of a hunch.”
“If you’re coming in to headquarters in the morning, let’s talk then. I plan to be there by six-thirty.”
“I’ll be in around seven and find you.”
“Sounds good.”
“Luckey told me you nailed it at the rodeo. That’s no surprise. Brandon could very well be the champion in December.”
“We’re hoping.”
“So how are the widow and the priest? I’ve felt left out.”
Kit’s smile turned into a chuckle. “You guys never give up.”
“As I recall you were relentless while I was protecting Kellie. Has the boss’s advice been a help?”
He took a deep breath. “You know it hasn’t.”
“Yup. That’s what I thought. See you in the morning.” He was gone before Kit had a chance to say goodbye.
Kit would need surveillance on Natalie first thing in the morning. He made one more call, this time to headquarters to set it up. No sooner had he rung off than his phone sounded again. It was ten after ten. His mother. He’d been expecting this.
“Hi, Mom.”
“I hope you have a minute to talk. We didn’t get a chance at the arena. Thank you for hazing for Brandon. Thank you for being a wonderful son.” Kit heard the tears in her voice.
“Luckily the captain gave me a day off that allowed me to do it.”
“Brandon was so grateful. He told me Mrs. Harris is a friend of yours.”
He’d been waiting for her to say something about Natalie. “She is.”
“That little girl of hers is darling.”
“Agreed. Mom? I’m still working on a case so I’ll have to say good-night.”
“All right.”
“When this latest one is wrapped up, we’ll all get together and take a little trip somewhere.” He knew his mother worried about her bachelor sons, but that was an area where he couldn’t help her out.
“I’d love that!”
“So would I, but I’ve got to go. Love you, Mom. Talk to you soon.”
By the time he walked through the house to check the locks and turn off the lights, he discovered Natalie had gone to bed. Their talk last night had changed the atmosphere between them. She’d blamed herself for getting out of the car before he’d given her the signal.
All day she’d been careful to do everything right. Now she’d disappeared on him. He needed this case to be solved so they could behave naturally with each other.
Janie’s unexpected appearance had made him realize he’d crossed the line in his mind. And in so doing, he’d left himself vulnerable. That meant he’d have to watch every step to ensure Natalie and Amy’s safety, but it was getting harder and harder to do. Against his better judgment, his desire for Natalie had been growing, and now all he really wanted to do was to pull her into his arms and kiss her senseless.
Chapter Seven