Though his work wouldn’t really make the world a safer place, he corrected his thoughts. More like he’d be making the person or persons he was hired to protect safer.

“I’ve read your background.” The sheriff’s cheeks turned a little pink as he seemed to recall why he’d performed a background check. “You’re more than qualified,” the sheriff continued. “Have more training than most of the men in my department. You change your mind and decide to stick around, give me a call. I’ll arrange an official interview.”

The sheriff handed him a business card, and they shook hands again.

Out of respect for the sheriff, Bodie put the card into his jacket pocket. He’d toss it later as he had no intention of calling the sheriff or of staying in Pine Hill. His life was elsewhere.

His gaze cut to Sarah and she motioned to where her father and Maybelle headed toward them. “Looks like our shift relief is on the way.”

Bodie glanced at his watch, surprised at how much time had passed while they’d been selling ornaments. Sarah greeted Maybelle and her father, kissing them each on the cheek.

“If you two hurry, you can catch the last half of the parade,” her father suggested.

“Oh, let’s.” She turned to Bodie and grabbed his hand.

He glanced toward Harry.

“The dog can stay with us if you want,” Maybelle offered, giving Harry a squinty-eyed look. “He won’t misbehave on my watch.”

Bodie doubted anyone misbehaved on Maybelle’s watch, but he shook his head. “Harry will go with us.”

At hearing his name, Harry’s head lifted and Bodie motioned for the dog to join him. Harry was immediately at his side, raring to go, and Bodie clipped the leash to his collar.

Straightening, he turned to a visibly excited Sarah and couldn’t resist grinning. “Let’s watch this Christmas parade you keep talking about.”

Chapter Twelve

Chapter Twelve

Sarah stole a look at Bodie, hoping to see complete enchantment on his face at the parade floats passing by.

Not exactly enchantment, but he didn’t look bored. Keeping a tight rein on Harry, who was distracted due to all the people and noise, he was hunkered down next to the dog.

“Hey, Sarah!” Carrie’s son, Jeff, called as the local high school football float passed by. A handful of candy rained down several feet in front of them onto the paved street.

“He’s obviously not the quarterback,” Bodie mused.

Picking up the candy from the pavement, Sarah laughed. “You’re right. He’s not our quarterback, but he is one fantastic receiver and a great member of our church youth group. An awesome kid.”

Sarah handed the candy she’d picked up to a couple of nearby kids, then she rejoined Bodie.

“Looks like he has a little crush on the special projects director.”