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Jackson nodded. “No rank tonight, Turnbull.”
Maya's eyes lit up as she launched into a lively recount of her latest firefighting adventures, while Michael listened attentively, occasionally interjecting with a supportive comment or a shared anecdote.
Olivia looked at an approaching man, her face lighting up. “Brad, I'm so glad you could make it. And look at you, all dressed up.”
The man chuckled and gave Olivia a playful nudge. “Someone's got to keep an eye on you, Liv. Especially when you're up to your eyeballs in a case.”
Olivia laughed and rolled her eyes. “Everyone, this is Brad Killian. We went to the police academy together.” Jackson stood protectively beside her. “Brad, this is Jackson Reynolds. He’s a captain at Station 3.” The two men extended their hands at the same time, greeting each other warmly.
“Any friend of Olivia's is a friend of ours,” Jackson said.
Olivia gestured to her partner. “And this is Michael Wheaton, my partner in crime... solving.”
Michael gave Brad a curt nod of acknowledgment. “Good to meet you, Brad. Olivia's always sung your praises.”
“Join us.” Jackson grabbed an empty chair from another table.
Jackson and, it seemed, Brad observed the dynamic between Michael and Liv. Both men could tell she was oblivious to Mike's subtle flirtation, her attention fully focused on Maya's captivating stories.
As the evening progressed, Jackson couldn't help but feel a twinge of amusement at the situation. Despite Mike's attempts to charm Liv, it was clear to Jackson that her heart belonged elsewhere—perhaps without her even realizing it.
With a discreet smile, Jackson decided to play the role of the supportive friend, content in the knowledge that Liv's affections were reserved for him. They continued to share stories, their laughter filling the air as they found themselves drawn into the enchanting atmosphere of the event, focusing only on each other.
“Tell me, what's your favorite non-police adventure you've ever been on?” Jackson asked, surprising her.
“I can answer that one for her.” Michael smiled. “Trip to Italy last summer.”
“He’s right. My sisters and I took my mom on the trip. The food, the culture, the architecture.... it was all so magical. Jackson, how about you?” Her eyes lit up as she looked in her mom’s direction.
“Italy sounds amazing. As for me, it was a backpacking journey through Southeast Asia. The people I met, the places I discovered. It was a life-changing experience. One tiny issue with food in Laos, but otherwise incredible.”
Laughter bubbled up between them, and they found themselves letting their guards down, momentarily forgetting the stresses and dangers of their jobs. It was a relief to just be themselves, to laugh and relax in each other's company.
After dinner, the music shifted to an upbeat country tune, and a line dance began. Jackson and Liv, along with their families and friends, joined in the fun. The synchronized dance brought everyone together, creating an energetic atmosphere.
As the line dance concluded, the tempo of the music slowed down, and Ed Sheeran’s romantic ballad, “Thinking Out Loud,” began to play. Liv's sisters and some of Jackson's firefighters who had been watching the two interact couldn't resist the opportunity to nudge them.
Neither needed the help. They began to sway to the slow, melodic music. Jackson leaned into Liv’s ear. “Follow my lead,” he whispered and pulled her a little closer.
Liv closed her eyes and rested her head against Jackson’s chest. His body’s warmth sent his cologne wafting around her, and she relaxed in his arms. Soon her movements were perfectly in sync with his and the romantic music.
The world around them seemed to fade as they continued to move as one.
* * *
The sweet scent of chocolate cake and the clinking of spoons against plates filled the room. Over dessert, Liv and Jackson's conversation picked up again. She enjoyed control, but with Jackson, well she felt secure enough to let things simply happen.
As the dessert plates were cleared away, the conversation among Jackson, Liv, Michael, Maya, Brad, Turk, and his date Kelsey continued to flow effortlessly.
“So, Kelsey, how did you and Turk meet?” Maya inquired, her curiosity piqued.
Kelsey smiled warmly, casting a glance at Turk before answering, “We actually met at a charity event last year. Turk was speaking about recruiting firefighters, and I was helping out with the organization. We hit it off right away.”
“That's so sweet.” Liv raised her glass in a toast. “Here's to chance encounters and unexpected connections.”
The clink of glasses filled the air as they all took a sip, sharing in the sentiment. The conversation continued, with laughter and more shared stories. Liv, her eyes sparkling with determination, stared off in the distance.
Jackson cocked his head. “You’re thinking about the deaths,” he whispered.
