The detective nodded. “All right. I was just going to encourage you to go back to counseling. I think you might need some help and time to handle the emotions that came with this investigation and Sergeant Tybee’s murder.”

She’d already had the same thought herself. “I appreciate that. It’s a good idea.”

“I’ll be on my way. Never hesitate to reach out if you need anything.”

After the detective left, Izzy turned to Aiden. “I’ve been thinking.”

“Uh-oh. A new career idea?” He smiled.

“No. But this whole experience has given me lots to think about, and I’ve decided to do it.”

“Law school?” His eyes brightened.

“Yes. I take the LSAT in a few months, and we’ll see how I do, but I’ve already been researching schools. I’d love to go to Georgetown.”

“Just like your friends.”

She smiled. “Yeah, I can’t wait to tell them.”

He pulled her into a tight hug. “Izzy, I’m convinced you’ll succeed in anything you set your mind to, and I know you’ll make a great attorney. I hope you’ll still want to hang out with a cop.”

“Of course. If I’m a prosecutor, you never know how our paths will cross.”

“I’m hoping they cross a lot more than that.” He leaned in to kiss her, and she felt safe and loved.

CHAPTER
TWENTY-EIGHT

Zane couldn’t believe the good news he had just received. Cass had been able to cut a deal that allowed her no jail time if she paid back all the money she took. It would take a long time for that to happen, but it was much better than facing hard time. If there was any way she would let him help her pay off the debt, he was going to do it. It hadn’t been easy, but he’d opened up to her about his family life and the resources at his disposal.

“How did you pull that off?” Zane asked her, regarding her deal.

“It came at a price.”

Uh-oh. “How high?”

“You know what you said about the Agency?”

“Yeah.”

“Mason talked to some people there, and thanks to Layla’s absolutely glowing recommendation, they’re willing to take me on as a private contractor. I have a yearlong probationary period, and if I make the tiniest of missteps, the deal is off. But I’m thankful to have a job, considering the debt I have to pay back.”

He took her hand. “You can do it, Cass. I’m here for whatever you need.”

“You’ve been far too good to me.”

He shook his head. “Don’t talk like that.”

“I’m just thankful you’re still willing to be my friend.”

He hesitated a moment. “Cass, I’ve been doing a lot of thinking.”

“Me too,” she said softly.

“And I wondered if you really meant what you said a while back about us.”