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I nod. “Smart lady.”
“So, you’ll find another ride home, and I can cut out now?”
I shrug. “Yeah, I can grab an Uber. Go have fun with your smart new lady.” I’m jealous as hell because I want to leave, too. But I haven’t even put in face time with the captain, so he can see that I got dolled up and did the whole dog and pony show.
“I will. Thanks, Frankie.” Without another word, Jay gets up, strolling toward the captain who’s holding court with a commander and a few sergeants.
Before I can do the same, a journalist steps in front of me. “Detective DeMarco, I’m Sarah Murphy from?—”
“I know who you are, Miss Murphy. You do the crime beat for the Times.”
“That’s right. I’d like to do a profile on you for the paper.”
I frown. “Why? No one gives a damn about the life of a cop.” Most days people don’t even want to be bothered with law enforcement, not even when they need us. Luckily, homicide detectives are often exempt from that hate.
She laughs. “Usually, I would agree, but when the detective is beautiful, smart, and heading up a possible serial killer case, everyone will be interested. You are single-handedly keeping the city safe.”
A loud bark of laughter escapes, and when I scan the room, my gaze connects with Damien’s. “I wouldn’t say that at all. My partner is the lead on this case, and we have an entire team helping.”
“Modest, too. Think about it,” she says, pressing a business card into my hand before she spots someone more interesting and darts off.
Thank fucking goodness.
Seventy-five minutes into the ball, and I’m making my way to the door because it wouldn’t look good if I’m seen running at full speed toward the nearest exit. I smile and offer my thanks to donors and farewells to other cops, edging closer and closer to the exit.
“DeMarco.”
Dammit. I turn with a smile. “Yes, Captain?”
“Thanks for coming tonight. You snagged a big donation from Mr. Wolfe, and I hear you’re sitting down with the Times for an interview.”
“No, she railroaded me. I haven’t agreed to anything yet.”
“You should. But we can talk about it later. I just wanted you to know I see you, and I’m fine with you leaving. Early.”
Of course. “Thanks, Captain. Enjoy the rest of your night.” I rush through the ballroom doors and run smack into a warm, broad chest emanating a deliciously masculine scent. “Excuse me.”
“We meet again, Francesca.”
I look up into Damien’s teasing hazel eyes and smile. “Frankie. We do, but only to say goodbye.”
“So soon?” He seems genuinely disappointed, which I think is weird, but okay.
“Yeah, these types of events aren’t really my scene. I’ve made my appearance and now I’m heading home.”
“Would you like a ride?”
Hell, yes, I do, but how does he know? “Uhhh,” I choke. I know better. And why does this man leave me speechless?
“I promise to keep my hands to myself.” He puts one hand over his heart and holds the other up like he’s about to be sworn into court. “Promise.”
The gesture makes me laugh. “I have a gun in my purse, so yeah, I’ll accept your offer.” I must be crazy. Just because he’s hotter than sin, rich, and charming doesn’t mean he’s not dangerous. Probably more dangerous than the average-looking non-billionaires roaming the planet freely.
“Feel free to let your partner know that I’m giving you a ride home,” he says with a gleam in his eyes. “You know, just in case you’re worried about your safety. Or your honor.”
His comment catches me off guard, but I can’t deny he’s got a point. I fish my phone out and shoot Jay a quick message about my ride home. “All right, lead the way.”
He clasps my hand, his touch both authoritative and tender. “Follow me.”
