“Oh, it’s on now!” I retaliate gleefully, flicking some flour right back at him.
For a moment, he stands there frozen, staring at me in disbelief. Then, his eyes squint as he grins, revealing those charming dimples that I’m finding myself increasingly fond of.
“So that’s how it’s going to be?” he challenges, sounding delighted.
“You started it. But I’d plan your next move wisely, detective.” My hands poised with more flour.
His smirk falters before he falls into a bout of deep, hearty laughter. “Alright, alright, I surrender!” He waves his hands in defeat.
A sense of victory tugs at my heart, and I let out an amused giggle. “Didn’t see that coming from the brave detective. But since you surrendered…I’ll show mercy.”
“Thank you,” he murmurs, his gaze soft. “You have a bit of flour on your…” He points to his cheek. “Here, let me…”
Andrew leans forward and gently brushes the flour off my cheek with his thumb. For a moment, time seems to freeze as we look at each other. My heart pounds in my chest at the proximity.
“Jane,” he begins, his voice low and steady.
“Yes?”
He reaches for my hand. “I’ve enjoyed spending time with you—more than I can express. Since the moment I met you…you sparked life back into me, Jane. I’ve spent every day thinking about you. You’re beautiful, smart, funny,” he chuckles lightly, “and sassy too. You’re kind and the way you care for people, it’s incredible.”
I swallow thickly as I try to gather my thoughts. “Andrew—”
He cuts across me gently, “Let me finish…” His hand reaches for my cheek. “I’m in love with you, Jane Brooks.”
“I’m in love with you too.” My voice is shaky with emotion as I meet his gaze, but I’m sure of my words. “I’ve never felt like this before. You make me feel special.”
A radiant smile spreads across his face as he leans in and softly brushes his lips against mine. The kiss is warm and sweet, like a sip of the hot chocolate we’d shared earlier. It sends tingles racing through my veins, igniting a fire within me.
When we pull away, Andrew’s eyes are glowing with happiness. “This is definitely the best Christmas tradition yet,” he murmurs.
I laugh, my heart full. “I couldn’t agree more.”
17
Andrew
“Nothing yet. I was sure tonight would be the night we catch them.” I shake my head in disappointment.
It’s been hours since we started tonight’s stakeout, and we’ve had nothing but false alarms and pesky raccoons knocking over trash cans. I can feel the fatigue starting to seep into my bones.
“Let’s walk through the evidence again, maybe we missed something,” Randy suggests, his brow furrowed in deep thought.
“All of the robberies occurred at businesses along Main Street.”
“And they all happened in the dead of night,” Randy adds, rubbing his tired eyes.
“They always break a window to get in and only take small items or cash from the register before leaving,” I continue.
“And none of the businesses had anyone inside when it happened,” Randy finishes with a nod.
“Randy,” I whisper urgently, pointing toward one of the businesses further down the street. In the dim light, two figures, dressed entirely in black, lurk near the entrance.
“Looks like we might finally have some action.” His voice is low and eager as he unbuckles his seat belt.
As we silently exit the car and approach cautiously, my heart races with anticipation. The figures continue to skulk around the storefront, seemingly unaware of our presence. One figure is fumbling with something in their hands—a crowbar glints under the streetlights.
“Call it in. Looks like they’re getting ready to break in,” I whisper to Randy.
