Peyton stepped aside, then closed the door behind him. “Are people in Trinity Falls in the habit of telling perfect strangers where to find their neighbors?”
Darius cocked his head. What was causing the tension in her voice? “First, calm down—”
“Don’t tell me to calm down.”
“Second, I’m not a stranger. I grew up in Trinity Falls. I went to school with some of your neighbors.”
Peyton leaned against her office door. “Suppose I didn’t want you to know where I was. Would they tell you, anyway, just because they know you?”
“Obviously, they don’t see me as a threat.” He hesitated. “Do you?”
Peyton pinched the bridge of her small nose. “That’s not the point.”
“Then what is the point?” When Peyton didn’t answer, Darius continued. “It’s a small town, Professor. But take heart, nosy neighbors are the best crime deterrent on the market.”
“I hope you’re right.” Her eyes challenged him. “I’m not giving you an interview.”
“I’m not here for that.” Darius desperately wanted to ask the professor what it was she feared, but he’d promised himself he wouldn’t pry into her life. It was only fair, since he’d recently realized he didn’t want anyone digging into his.
Peyton crossed her arms and angled her chin. “Then why are you here?”
Darius stepped forward to offer her the bouquet. “These are for you.”
Peyton finally looked at the long-stemmed roses. She accepted them with caution. “Why?”
“Consider it a peace offering.” Darius wondered at her reticence to his gift. “We got off on the wrong foot.”
Peyton’s smoky eyes were suspicious. “Are you trying to bribe me? Sheriff Lopez said he’d spoken with you.”
“The roses aren’t a bribe. I promise not to write any articles about you without your permission.”
Peyton studied him in silence as though she could read his thoughts. Could she? “How do I know I can trust you?”
That hurt. “If I’d wanted to write an article about you without your permission, it would’ve appeared in the paper already.”
“That’s good to know.” Peyton opened her office door, an obvious but silent invitation for him to leave. “Thank you for the roses.”
Darius crossed to her. “I’m sorry I made you uncomfortable. That wasn’t my intent.”
Peyton returned his gaze. “Just keep your promise not to write any articles about me.”
Darius extended his right hand. “Fair enough.”
Peyton shook his hand. “Thank you.”
Darius smiled. “I’m not likely to cross you. After all, the last time I was here, you marched me out of your office.”
Peyton’s cheeks pinkened. “I’m sorry about that.” She pulled her hand free.
“I deserved it.” Darius closed his hand to hold on to her warmth. He turned to leave. “Enjoy the rest of your weekend.”
“You do the same.” Peyton’s soft response followed him out the door.
Darius smiled as he strode down the empty, quiet hallway. At least this time, he left without assistance. He’d consider that progress in their relationship.
Kerry crossed the lobby of the main cabin, belly first Saturday afternoon. His ex-wife looked ready to give birth today. Jack rose from his seat behind the registration desk.
“I’ll get to the point, Jack.” Kerry stopped in front of the counter.