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He also explains that another detective will be taking over my case because of its possible connection to the department's larger investigation into the Moretti organization.

Apparently, stabbing a mobster's wife comes with paperwork above his pay grade.

When Daniel finally heads for the door, Murder Mittens follows him, inspecting his shoes with an expression I recognize all too well.

"That one's been planning my murder since I walked in," Daniel observes.

"He's an excellent judge of character. Usually."

"I'll try not to take it personally."

After he leaves, I realize I haven't felt quite this normal in days. Talking to Daniel is easy. No expensive gifts, no mysterious business calls, and no wondering which questions will make him change the subject.

Just a nice man doing his job.

God, normal sounds wonderful.

Thursday afternoon, Daniel Reyes walks into the library carrying an overdue mystery novel.

"Well, well." I smile as he approaches the circulation desk. "Look who's decided to visit the scene of another crime."

He puts the book down. "Figured I'd turn myself in before you sent somebody after me."

I check the date. "Four days late. That's practically a felony around here."

"Think I can get off with a warning?"

"Depends. Have you got a good excuse?"

"I was busy."

"That's what they all say."

He laughs, and I find myself smiling back. He's cute, with broad shoulders, kind brown eyes, and a smile that doesn't make me wonder whether he's secretly planning a hostile takeover of Los Angeles.

He asks about a new thriller displayed behind me, and we spend several minutes arguing about the ending of his last book. He likes murder mysteries almost as much as I do, which is refreshing. Most men I've dated think reading means checking sports scores on their phones while sitting on the toilet.

As I hand over his receipt, Daniel hesitates.

"Listen, Bridget. I wanted to ask you something, but I didn't want to do it while I was involved in your investigation."

I raise an eyebrow. "That sounds suspiciously like the beginning of a very awkward conversation."

He smiles. "The reassignment's official. I'm not working your case anymore, and I'm here on my own time."

"Okay."

"And I was wondering whether you'd like to get coffee sometime. Maybe dinner, if you don't think I'm completely boring."

Oh.

Well, shit.

"Are you asking me on a date, Detective?"

"Daniel. And yes, I am."

Enzo's face flashes through my mind. His smile, his kisses, and the way he looked at me when he said he wanted something worth coming home to.