Deklan

“Did they question you?”

“Nah. They were definitely looking for you, not me.”

“Are you sure you ditched them?” Deklan asks.

“Positive,” Brian says. “I got on the freeway and kept close to a couple semis. I got off on an exit, and they kept going. I still drove around for a bit before heading this way, just in case.”

“Good deal.”

“Warren has got it out for you, boss.”

“I get that idea.” Deklan scowls at Brian. “And what’s with the ‘boss’ shit? You been hanging around Mac too much, and he needs to cut that out.”

“He don’t trust Sean,” Brian says with a shrug. “You earned your rep.”

“Dissension is never a good thing. Don’t call me that, or you’re gonna slip up and say it in front of Sean. How do you think he’ll take that?”

“Point.” Brian rolls his eyes. “I gotta get that trailer returned, but after that, you want me to take the Viper for the night and leave you with the rental? You know they’ll be on the lookout for your car.”

“Yeah, that’s a good idea.”

“Sweet!”

“Don’t wreck my car.”

“I won’t drive over ninety—I swear.” Brian gives him a big smile.

“Sure you won’t. The tank better be full when you bring it back.”

Brian waves at me as he heads out, and Deklan starts opening boxes and putting things away. By the time Brian returns to exchange cars, I’ve had enough of unpacking.

“Want me to get some carryout?” Deklan asks.

“Ugh, not again.” I bat my eyes at him. “Can’t we go somewhere? I can’t stand looking at boxes anymore.”

“I would prefer that you stay out of sight.”

“You can’t keep me locked up in here, Dek.”

“Don’t tempt me.”

“I’ll be with you,” I say. “I can’t think of anyone better suited to keep me safe.”

“We do need to pick up some groceries.” He reaches over and takes my chin between his fingers. “How about a compromise? We’ll go get what we need, and then I’ll make a nice dinner back here, okay?”

“Yeah, that’s okay.” I check around the kitchen. “I just hope we c

an find the silverware.”

“We’ll get plastic,” he says. “We can even get some wine and try out the new tub.”

Deklan winks at me.

“Deal!”

Deklan has barely cooked anything aside from toast and soup since we’ve been married, and I’m surprised when he whips up a rather tasty lasagna and a fresh salad to go with it. While sitting on the floor of the living room, we eat off paper plates and drink wine from plastic cups. As he eats and drinks, Deklan starts talking more than usual.

“What are you going to do about that detective?” I ask, assuming I’ll get the usual brush-off.