Chapter 43: Chapter 43

Dazed, Laney watched Zach walk away with the other deputy through the open door of the police car.

Had Zach really just kissed her in front of the entire town and half a dozen of his coworkers? Well, if it was a dream or hallucination, it was a good one. She leaned her head back against the seat of the cruiser. Though she wanted to keep her eyes on Zach, it wasn't long before they drifted shut. For the first time in a while, she actually felt safe.

It seemed like a minute later when he gently nudged her awake to close the door then came around and slid in beside her.

"I've got to get back to the office, but I'm having one of the deputies take you to my place and wait there with you until I get back."

"Zach, I don't have any clothes, no toiletries, no anything." Even to her own ears, though, she didn't sound convincing. Taking a shower then curling up in Zach's big warm bed sounded wonderful, though it would be even better if he was there to hold her.