Page 4 of Paws & Order

She mock glares at the students, who respond by rolling their eyes but picking up the pace.

"Are you here for crowd control or just to supervise the doughnut stand?"

"I'm here to admire your work ethic," I say, because it's true and because it makes her eyes crinkle at the corners. "Also, to inform you that per city ordinance, the use of open flames on town property is limited to three feet from food service, which means the hot pretzel cart needs to shift north by six feet."

She accepts this with the solemnity of a judge in session.

"Your sense of timing is impeccable, as always."

"You get used to it."

She whips out a walkie-talkie and barks at the pretzel vendor to relocate, then tucks the device back into her waistband like she was born for it.

The breeze picks up, carrying a note of cinnamon and deep-fried dough down the street. Liza inhales, her expression turning almost dreamy.

"Can I ask you something?" she says, quieter than usual.

This is new.

She's not the type to hesitate.

"Of course."

She hesitates anyway.

"Does it ever get less weird? The festivals, the chaos. I mean, you grew up here. Do you ever just... get used to it?"

I consider this.

"The first hundred or so, it's overwhelming. After that, you kind of miss it when it's gone."

She nods, thoughtful.

"I think that's what I'm afraid of. Turning into someone who can't function without the chaos."

I smile.

"Most people move here because they want peace and quiet. You keep signing up for more."

Liza shrugs.

"I like knowing where I'm needed."

"Blackthorn Bay would shut down for a day if you took a vacation."

She tilts her head, regarding me for a second.

"Maybe I should try it. A weekend off. See if the town combusts."

"It wouldn't," I say, and I mean it. "But I'd have to find an excuse to see you somewhere else."

I'm not sure who's more surprised by that—me or her.

It lands, though.

She blushes, a real, full-color blush, and swats me on the arm.

"Are you flirting with me, Chief?"