Julie’s back went straight…and Gabe remembered all the other insulting statements Brooke had made. Hell, at the rate he was going, he’d soon have every female in the roadhouse aiming for his balls. “About the wildlife, I mean. You need lessons.”

“I’ll do some reading about—”

“I work tomorrow, you work Saturday. Let’s make it Sunday morning. I’ll pick you up in the morning at nine. Wear shoes you can walk in.” He tucked a strand of hair behind her ear, enjoying the sweet curve of her cheek. “In the meantime, park closer to your door and avoid that moose. Call the station if you need help.”

He left before she could argue…because as smart as she was, she’d undoubtedly win.

Chapter Thirteen

God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot shoot, the courage to shoot the things I can, and the wisdom to hide their bodies.

~ Unknown

Well, that didn’t take long. The next afternoon at the station, Gabe leaned back and watched a video play out on his computer. Words appeared on a building.

“OUTSIDER GO HOME”

He, Bull, and Caz had positioned one of the security cameras outside an old Victorian-style house that a married couple had purchased for a B&B. Built by a millionaire in the 70s, the house was a broken-down beauty with ornate trim, towers and turrets, wrap-around porch, and a bay window.

On the camera, a short man with no neck was wielding a can of spray paint. Finishing the “OUTSIDER GO HOME” lettering, he exchanged fist bumps with his comrade in crime—a tall man with a distinctive drooping mustache.

Knox and Chevy, the handymen he’d met at Lillian’s house.

Gabe scrubbed his hands over his face. Man, this was going to be a mess.

From the lobby, Regina’s voice came through the open station door. “Earl, you’re right on time.”

“Hey, Regina. I heard you’re our new receptionist. That’s great if you’re ready to get bored. The police station doesn’t get much action.”

She laughed. “I’ll stay busy enough, since I’m covering the municipal offices and the health clinic, as well.”

“Whoa.” After a second, Baumer added, “That’s pretty smart.”

“I thought so. Before you ask, the chief is in his office.”

“Thanks.”

A second later, Baumer strolled through the open office door. Gabe gave him a sweeping glance. Clean uniform shirt, jeans, and boots. Duty belt on. Good.

“Afternoon, boss. How’s the week gone?”

“Not too well, but it might get better.” Gabe turned the monitor so the officer could see it.

“What the freaking eff? Hey, that’s a camera feed. Was someone filming them?”

“Me. I put up security cameras.”

“Yeah?” Baumer’s face clouded over. “Just when were you planning to tell me we had cameras, boss?”