The Accidental Sheriff (10 page)

He pulled to the side of the road before someone rear-ended them. Carolina had warned him of this happening. He should have listened to her.

Zoey’s eyes had taken on a distant look, and Neil was suddenly terrified. Did she think he was lying? He reached over, unbuckled her seat belt and pulled her close to him.

“Don’t listen to what those kids are saying. They’re just being mean.”

“Why, Daddy?” She buried her face in his jacket sleeve.

Neil stroked her hair, struggling to come up with a good explanation that his sweet little daughter could understand.

“You know Sheriff Herberger’s sick and that Daddy’s taking his place until he’s well again, right?” She nodded.

“Not everybody is happy about that.”

“Why?”

“They don’t think I should have gotten the job.”

“Why?”

“Because we haven’t lived here very long. Not like the other deputies. Some people don’t want a stranger as acting sheriff. They think if they say bad things about me, I’ll quit.”

“We’re not strangers.”

“No, we’re not. And I’m a good acting sheriff. They’ll see that and stop saying lies about me.” Or once Otis was back on the job, Neil would no longer be the focus of attention.

“Tell me again about my mommy.”

Neil continued to stroke Zoey’s hair. She’d been so young when her mother died. She didn’t remember Lynne at all. Photographs and stories were his daughter’s only connection. He made sure she had plenty of both.

Ignoring passing traffic, Neil recounted for at least the hundredth time how he and Lynne met and how happy they’d been when she was born. When he was done, her mood was greatly improved.

“Would you like to go to Dairy Queen for supper?” he offered on impulse. The leftover fried chicken he’d been planning on serving could wait until tomorrow. “Yes!”

One of her school friends was at the restaurant. The girl must not have participated in the day’s cruel taunting because Zoey was overjoyed to see her. While they played, Neil took out his cell phone and made a call.

“Hello,” Carolina answered, a bit warily. “I didn’t realize I gave you my number.”

“You didn’t. I have resources.”

“Of course.”

He thought he heard a trace of amusement in her voice and was glad. Now wasn’t the time to offend her.

“What can I do for you?” she asked.

“I changed my mind.”

“Again? That seems to be a trend with you and me.”

He didn’t comment. She was right, and he was already having trouble keeping his emotions in check.

“I’d like to take you up on your previous offer,” he said.

“Which one?”

“To call the newspaper and see if you can find out who’s behind the articles on me.”

“I already did.”

He should have guessed as much. Before he could ask her what she’d found, Zoey came running back to their booth. Her friend’s family was leaving.

“I can’t talk now,” he told Carolina. “Is there any chance you can swing by my house before you head home?”

“Sure, but I won’t be leaving for another thirty minutes.”

“That’s fine.” He winked at Zoey and indicated for her to finish up her hot dog. “Let me give you my address.”

“No need. I have it.”

“You do?”

“I have resources, too, Sheriff Lovitt.”

That shouldn’t have surprised him.

“A
NOTHER GREAT STORY
, Carolina!”

“The phones haven’t stopped ringing since yesterday!”

Carolina walked down the hall at the station, accepting accolades from her coworkers. Inside, she was tingling with happiness. Her twice-daily reports on the illegal mining operation couldn’t be going any better and were generating high ratings.

“Nice job this afternoon, Carolina.”

“Thanks, Ward.”

“What’s on tap for tomorrow?”

“I’m still playing with a particular angle.” If everything went well, Neil would give her something new when she saw him shortly. His call had taken her aback, and she wondered what had prompted his change of heart. Perhaps the newspaper articles were getting to him after all.

She frowned, recalling the letters to the editor in yesterday’s evening edition. The accusations made were cruel and untrue. She began mentally composing a letter in response.

“See you in the morning,” Ward said.

“Bright and early.”

She had barely reached the parking lot when Jake called. “What did Howard have to say?” she asked.

Her cousin had contacted the family attorney the moment Carolina advised him of the assistant curator’s comments regarding previous claim disputes and mineral rights.

“He’s still researching it,” Jake answered. “The deed is old and the language unclear. He’s contacted a colleague to review the deed. We’re supposed to hear back by the first of the week.”

“I was afraid of that.”

How ironic would it be if the mother lode were on their property and they had no right to it?

“We’ve had some other news, too. Good and bad.”

“Tell me.” Carolina switched to her Bluetooth so she could talk on the phone and drive.

“The police called this afternoon. The CSI team is done. I’ve already contacted the Arizona Geological Society. Their crew will be out first thing tomorrow.”

“That is good news.” For the family—they’d finally get some answers about how much, if any, gold was in the mine—and for her report tomorrow.

“Unfortunately, the police have nothing further to say on who’s behind the illegal mining.”

“I’ll try and get something out of Neil when I see him shortly.”

“You’re going out with him?”

“No. Stopping by his house.”

“Carolina.”

Why did everyone say her name that way, with an unspoken warning tagged on the end?

“It’s not what you think. I have information regarding the articles the newspaper has been running on him.”

“And you get information from him in return for your reports?”

“Exactly. Purely professional.”

Jake’s laugh deteriorated into a choking fit.

“Seriously.”

“If you say so.”

Carolina tried her best to work up a good mad at her cousin. It wasn’t easy when she knew deep down he was at least half-right. “We’re done discussing this.”

“I’ve got a call on the other line. Hang on.”

She drove toward Neil’s, pretending the butterflies in her stomach had nothing to do with seeing him and everything to do with her mounting excitement over obtaining information on the illegal mining.

Jake came back on the line. “That was your boss’s secretary. The station wants another interview with me tomorrow morning.”

“So soon? You just gave them one yesterday.”

“It appears they’ve already heard about the police releasing the crime scene to us.”

“That was fast.”

“Your boss must have a direct line to the police chief.”

“I guess.” She turned onto Neil’s street. “Hey, I’m almost here. I’ll call you later.”

“Be careful,” Jake said.

“Neil’s the acting sheriff. I think I’m pretty safe with him.”

“That’s not what I was referring to.”

“Oh?”

“Don’t fall too hard for him, Carolina. He’s a good guy but maybe not the one for you.”

“I’m not falling for him at all.”

Correction, she
was
falling for him, but holding herself in check. So far, anyway.

Clicking off from Jake, she pulled into Neil’s driveway. The one-story ranch house had lush landscaping and a spacious front yard filled with a swing set, bicycle and discarded roller skates.

The sun, which had been dropping by degrees during her drive over, was about ready to slip beneath the horizon when she rang the front doorbell.

A moment later, Neil flung open the door.

“Hi, I’m—”

Without any warning, he hauled her into his arms.

Carolina wasn’t sure what to expect from Neil. A wild, passionate kiss that went on and on? Throwing her over his shoulder and carting her off to the bedroom? Knocking her to the floor a microsecond before a thug lunged at them from behind the bushes?

What she got was a hug.

Not the kind of hug you give someone you haven’t seen in ages, but the kind you desperately need when life throws you a curve.

“What’s wrong?” she asked, her hands sliding up to circle his shoulders. The hug might not be romantic, but she could still enjoy the sensation of his body conforming ever so nicely with hers.

“Zoey asked me today if I shot her mother.”

“Oh, Neil.” Her heart ached for him.

“You were right. Some of the kids at school were taunting her.”

Carolina pulled back and gazed into his dark brown eyes, brimming with hurt and confusion. “I so hate that I was.”

He nodded. “Me, too.”

“What did you do?”

“I told her there were people in town who weren’t happy
I’d been appointed acting sheriff and they were getting back at me by saying bad things about me.”

“Did she believe you?”

“I think so. It’s more or less true.”

“I’m not sure.”

He stepped away and stared down at her. “What did you find out?”

Three seconds apart and already she was longing for his touch again.

“Not a whole lot. My contacts were less than cooperative.”

“Let’s sit down.” He motioned for her to follow him into the kitchen.

“Where’s Zoey?” Carolina didn’t think he’d want his daughter to hear their conversation.

“At her friend’s house across the street. You want anything?”

“A glass of water if you have it.”

He got one for each of them while she made herself comfortable at the cozy dining table.

Neil’s house was reasonably tidy, the clutter typical of a rambunctious five-year-old and single dad. Although homey and decorative accents were missing, the house felt warm. Carolina’s house, which had plenty of homey decor and no clutter suddenly seemed empty in comparison.

“Here you go.” He set the glasses of ice water on the table.

“You gonna be all right?” she asked.

He almost smiled. “Why? Do I look that bad?”

“Actually, you do.”

His uncharacteristically distracted appearance concerned her. Neil was a rock. The person everyone leaned on in a crisis. Then again, it was easier to be strong for others, and this crisis hit at the very heart of his family.

He made a disgruntled sound and ran his fingers through his hair. It didn’t improve his appearance. A small tuft stood up in the center of his head. Carolina found it—and him—endearing. There was something very appealing about a strong, capable man showing his vulnerability.

“Here. Let me.” She got up and went to him. “You’re making it worse.” She smoothed the errant tuft and couldn’t resist combing her fingers through the hair at his forehead and temples. “There. Much better.”

His gaze locked with hers and intensified. “Thanks.”

“You’re welcome.” Carolina started to move toward her chair but didn’t get far. When had he taken hold of her wrist?

Without saying a word, Neil lifted her hand to his cheek and trapped her fingers against his warm skin. The innocent gesture sent a spiral of desire curling through her.

He must have sensed her response for his eyes went smoky.

Her heart raced in anticipation. What now?

In the next instant, Neil let her hand drop and closed his eyes.

Okay, nothing was going to happen. Probably wise, considering.

Carolina continued to stand there for an awkward moment then, with a forced laugh, returned to her chair. “I think you’re fit to be seen in public now.”

He scowled. So much for showing his vulnerable side. Was he irritated at her or himself?

Since the highly charged moment had obviously passed, Carolina got down to business. The sooner she told him what she’d learned, the sooner she could leave and nurse her injured pride.

“I wasn’t able to find out exactly who tipped off the newspaper about your IA investigation after Lynne’s death.”

He gave a curt nod.

“There’s more.”

“What?”

“It might be nothing. I could be trying to connect two unrelated dots.”

His scowl deepened. “Tell me.”

“My contact hinted that the editor of the newspaper decided not to run anything on you after receiving the tip. That he’d researched you and decided the story wasn’t relevant.”

“What changed his mind?”

“My contact wouldn’t say, only alluded to pressure being applied.”

“What are the dots you’re trying to connect?”

“My contact mentioned that my boss, Ward, and the editor have been talking a lot lately.”

“Are they friends?”

“Acquaintances. They’re both in the news business and belong to the same professional organizations. But I’d say they’re more rivals than friends. Definitely not prone to talking.”

Neil appeared to digest the information.

“I wouldn’t give it a second thought,” Carolina said, “except Ward’s been acting strange lately.”

“How so?”

“Just not himself. Cutting employees slack when he’d normally bite their heads off, then making a huge deal over nothing.” She didn’t mention her recent reprimand.

Neil tapped the knuckles of his closed fist on the tabletop. “I agree. I’m not sure there’s a connection. But what you said does seem to confirm someone’s attempting to target me.”

“Do you know why?”

“No.” He glanced at her again, his expression devoid of emotion. “And as far as I can tell, I haven’t done anything to be a threat to anyone.”

“Not yet. This could be a diversion tactic. Insurance against something you might do.”

“Perhaps.” He sat back in his chair. “I tend to think one of my deputies is carrying a grudge.”

“That does make sense.”

“I have a few leads I’m going to check out tomorrow.”

“Anything I can help with?”

“Thanks. You’ve done enough already.”

“If you change your mind, let me know.”

The back door banged open and Zoey bounded into the kitchen. Her face lit up. “Hi, Carolina.” She didn’t act surprised to encounter an unexpected visitor.

“Hey, kiddo.”

“Ms. Sweetwater,” Neil corrected.

“Carolina’s fine,” she said, and winked at the little girl. “We already decided. Zoey can call me Carolina, and I can call her greenhorn.”

Zoey giggled hysterically.

Neil rose from the table and pulled her to his side for a brief hug. “What are you doing home? You’re not supposed to cross the street without calling me first.”

“Casey’s mom walked me.”

“Okay.” He bent and kissed the top of her head. “But next time, call.”

“Yes, Daddy.” She tried to send Carolina a return wink, only she had trouble keeping one eye open and the other shut.

Carolina was completely enamored.

Neil was blessed to have a daughter like Zoey. No wonder he went to such lengths to protect her. In his place, Carolina would do the same.

Though the idea of lingering appealed to her, she couldn’t. “I’d better go.”

“When are we going puppy shopping?” Zoey asked.

“Soon. Another week or two.” When she was done with the series on the illegal mining. Even if the culprits weren’t found, there was only so long she’d be able to ride the tide of excitement. After that, interest would wane. “I’ll have some time off work then to spend with the dog.”

“Don’t forget we’re going for ice cream.”

“I won’t. Oh, wait!” Carolina reached into her purse and pulled out a CD. “Speaking of promises. Here’s a copy of your dad’s interview.” She gave the CD to Zoey. “Your dad said he didn’t mind.”

“Thank you!”

“Do you have a CD player?”

“Yes, yes,” Zoey exclaimed. “Can I listen to it now, Daddy?”

“How about we both listen to it after dinner?”

Zoey stuck out her lower lip but made no further protest.

“Why don’t you finish your homework while I walk Ms. Sweetwater to her car.”

“Goodbye.” Zoey threw her arms around Carolina with such force she almost lost her balance.

“Bye, kiddo.” She fought back a wave of unexpected emotion. “I’ll call you soon about the dog shopping.”

Outside, Neil’s expression was unreadable again. Did he not approve of his daughter’s budding friendship with her?

“If I’m overstepping my bounds with Zoey, let me know.”

“You’re not. I’m glad you two are hitting it off.”

Okay, apparently something else was bothering him.

“I know I’m probably talking to a brick wall,” she said, “but try not to be too upset about the newspaper articles. There might be a mild furor now but it’ll pass soon.”

No answer to that. Carolina decided to give up.

“Thank you.”

He speaks!

“For what?”

“Your help. Being so nice to Zoey. Not pestering me for information on the illegal mining operation.”

“Now that you mention it…

He glowered at her.

“Just one tiny tidbit.”

He sighed, long and loud. “Fine. I guess I owe you that. The CSI team was able to lift a number of boot impressions from the site.”

“Really!”

“They estimate three men are involved.”

“You’re not telling me everything.” She could read as much in his face.

“That’s all you get.”

It was enough. “Does the newspaper have this information?”

“Nope. You’ll scoop everyone.”

“Yes!”

Ward would be delighted. Carolina couldn’t help it and threw herself at Neil. He caught her, his arms automatically circling her.

“Whoa!”

“Thank you, Neil. Thank you, thank you.”

They both went instantly still as the intimacy of their positions became apparent.

When Carolina would have retreated, Neil held on to her.

“I thought you said this kind of stuff was a mistake,” she whispered.

“It is.” He lowered his head to nuzzle her cheek and ear.

Shivers danced up her spine. “Then why?”

“Because I can’t resist you.”

No man had ever said anything so sexy, so disarming, so exciting.

She didn’t wait for him to kiss her. Standing on her tiptoes,
she raised her lips to his. The resulting explosion was immediate and enough to shake her to her very core. It wasn’t, however, enough to jar her loose from his embrace. She clung to his jacket, taking all of him in, letting him fill her senses and stir her arousal. Wanting more—
much
more—she parted her lips. His tongue swept in and tangled with hers, sending more shivers dancing up her spine. He tasted cool and clean, like the ice water they’d been drinking. The rest of him was anything but cool. He teased and coaxed her with unspoken promises of just how good it could be between them if she gave him the chance to show her.

Their kiss went on and on, which was perfectly fine with Carolina. At some point, his hand slipped inside her coat to capture her waist, eliciting a soft sigh from her. Then his hand moved upward. Higher still. His thumb made a single sweep across the tip of her breast before his palm closed over her.

Wow!

The jolt had both of them springing apart. Not that Carolina objected. His driveway just wasn’t the place. That was made more evident when they discovered the neighbor—Zoey’s friend’s mother?—watching them from across the street.

Fortunately, darkness had settled, so the woman’s visibility was limited.

“Howdy, Sheriff Lovitt!” she called, her voice containing a mischievous lilt. “Nice evening.”

He groaned.

“Look on the bright side.” Carolina escaped his embrace and opened her car door. “At least people have something else to write about you in their letters to the editor.”

“Not funny,” he grumbled.

She shut the door after getting in and rolled down her window. “That depends.”

He braced his hands on the open window and leaned down. “You’re dangerous.”

“I know.”

“Not the way you think.”

“I know that, too.”

“Be careful.”

“Nothing’s going to happen to me.”

“I don’t want to lose you, too.”

Carolina was touched.

For a moment, he looked as if he might say more. Instead, he shook his head, straightened and tapped the open window. “See you later.”

“Count on it, Sheriff Lovitt.” Her voice contained its own mischievous lilt.

C
AROLINA EASED
through the door of the control booth and shut it behind her. On the other side of the glass, the engineer gave her a thumbs-up. The gesture might have brought a smile to her face if she wasn’t already grinning from ear to ear. Her report this morning had gone well, another rocking installment in her series. But that wasn’t the only reason for her happiness.

It was Neil.

Three days has passed since their kiss in his driveway and still she couldn’t stop thinking about it. She was getting to him, she could tell. At this rate, she’d break down his defenses in no time. Then what would happen? She could hardly wait to find out.

She passed Ward’s cubicle on the way to hers. Her
own
cubicle, she reminded herself. A ridiculously small thing, but the space symbolized her recent success…and she loved it!

“Morning, Ward,” she said, peering over the wall.

“Good segment.”

“Thanks.” Her impossibly huge smile grew.

Sitting at her desk, she automatically pressed a button on her phone. Immediately, KPKD’s current broadcast played through the speaker. She kept one ear tuned to the broadcast while she booted up her computer. Reading viewer e-mails after her report was the highlight of her day.

As she worked, her Mail Received icon flashed every few minutes. Carolina skimmed the incoming letters. She’d read them more thoroughly later. She was on the seventh one when something on the newscast caught her off guard. Turning away from her computer screen, she listened more intently.

“What the…?” Her blood went cold, then hot. Leaping from her chair, she marched into Ward’s cubicle. “You liar!”

His eyebrows came together in a frown.

Carolina was instantly aware she shouldn’t take such a severe tone with her boss.