“Yes. One is protecting what’s yours and the other is finding childish reasons to act like an idiot.”
“I guess. Thanks for the pep talk.”
“Yep. Let’s go before Dean worries that I’ve kidnapped you.”
We return to the house and Dean’s waiting for us. “Everything okay?”
“Yep. Got everything you asked for. Now if you don’t mind, I need to say hi to my mother and then head home.” He walks away from us and Dean smiles at me.
“Please get something to eat, Greta. I’m sure you didn’t eat any dinner.”
“I didn’t, but I’m not hungry. I’m tired.”
“You need to eat, Greta.” I can see he’s concerned, but the wave of emotions has worn me out.
“I also need sleep. Goodnight, Dean.”
“Goodnight, Greta.” There’s a defeated tone to his voice that almost makes me turn around, but I think better of it and head to bed.
It’s hard to have this non-relationship. We both want each other, everyone around us knows it, but because there’s a chance we give in too soon to these feelings, I have to walk on eggshells. I can’t tell him how work was because I know he doesn’t want me to work there, but he has no right to say I can’t. We don’t talk unless we’re all together, and although we see each other every single day, we are quick to stay quiet or avoid making eye contact, well at least I am.
Chapter Five
Dean Jr.
A month and I can barely hang on. It feels like the clock seems to be moving in slow fucking motion. I’ve already prepared everything for the day that I finally stake my claim, including the ring I had my brother pick up from the house. He was slick to slip it in my bag like I asked without Greta finding out.
I fired my latest therapist, and I don’t give a fuck that I did. Perhaps I should have done it sooner, knowing what I know now. The therapist and I didn't make small talk because I had no interest and speaking about anything that wasn't me getting back into peak physical shape for my woman. Hell, all I can ever think about is getting my woman naked, pinning Greta to every surface while she rides my face or cock.
What I didn't know is that my girl has been getting upset. Not a fucking soul thought to mention how jealous she was getting. I've been so focused on getting better for Greta that I had no idea she was contemplating anything sexual about the woman and me. My brother came to me before he left and explained the matter. It’s something I’ll need to fix and very soon. Greta needs to know that she’s the only one for me. Ever.
****
A week to go…
I count the hours. The doorbell rings and I wonder who the hell is here this early in the morning. “I’ll get it,” I grumble, standing with my cane and make my way to the door. Looking out, I see it’s my former partner. I open it with a smile. “Long time no see.”
“It’s good to see you smiling.”
“Come on in.”
“Thanks.” He walks with me to the living room. “You’re looking good.”
“Thanks. Have a seat.”
“Oh, hi,” Greta says, walking into the living room. She’s in her red and beige work uniform and it looks so fucking good on her. I can’t wait to see her wrapped up in nothing but red lace. I stare at her a little too long and my partner lets out a cough.
“Greta, have you met Detective McKnight?” I remember my manners.
“Briefly at the hospital.”
“It’s good to see you again,” he says, smiling at her a little more than I care for.
“Thank you.”
“Are you going to work?” It’s a stupid question, but I get lost in thought when she’s around.
“Yes. Benji’s going to drop me off.”
“Okay. Be safe and call before you get out.” I want to kiss her goodbye. Seven more days.
“Yes, sir.” She salutes me before walking out.
“Hmm…”
“What?”
“That explains a lot.”
“I don’t know what you’re talking about.”
“You and her. I wondered why you stayed away from women, avoided going out with the guys. Now I see. You have a thing for the girl. Does she live here?”
“She does live here, but there’s nothing going on between us.”
“Not yet. I can see it in your eyes. Call it the detective in me, but you can’t hide your longing and I didn’t miss the way she blushed.”
“We’re not together.”
“Hey, hey. It’s not my business. She’s the same age as your sister.”
“She’s a bit younger, but she’ll be eighteen in a week.”
“Oh. I get it. Thankfully you were injured or you might have not been able to hold out.”
“If I wasn’t, I’d be in my condo without the damn daily temptation,” I grumble.
“She’s beautiful.” I let out a growl. “Chill. You know me. I’ve no interest in her.” Yes. He’s kept it a secret, but he’s got a boyfriend. He’s a private man and I’m one of the few who know the truth. He’s not ashamed of being gay, but he’s the kind of person who keeps his work life and private life separate.
“How’s that going?”
“Good. I’m not dating anyone at the moment which makes working long hours much easier.”
“True. I’d hate to have to be away from Greta that long. It’s already been over a year of keeping my distance. Now at least I get to see her every day.”
“And share a very stilted conversation?” he chuckles like the prick he is.
“Fuck off. Sometimes I can’t get my head out of my ass.”
“I don’t mean to pick on your love life or lack thereof. I really stopped by to see if you’re going to be returning.” The itch to work hits me hard. I loved it until that very moment that I found myself on the wrong side of a gun.
“I don’t know. I can’t risk my life again.”
“I can understand that. The chief wanted me to ask you. You know, you could always come back and do desk work. Working on leads from the office. I know it’s not something you’d want, but the department really needs your skills.”
“I’d have to talk to my family about it.” I’m glad everyone else is out doing some shit. Becks is upstairs studying, so I have time to broach the subject.
“Fine. I have to get into the station. I’m in for a busy night. Just consider it.”
“Okay. I will.”
“Good. We’d love to have you back, man.” He stands and I do with my cane. “Relax, I’ll see myself out.”
“Nah, I need to get some steps in.” I clap his back and then we head to the front door.
“It really is good to see you moving about.” We shake hands and he walks out of the house to his waiting sedan. As he pulls away, I replay our conversation. What would Greta say? I already know my mom will have a shit fit. I’m a fucking millionaire, but my heart isn’t just satisfied with living off someone else’s hard work.