Page 71 of Forever Dead

“He didn't hide the history. Didn't pretend he and Eleanor never had problems. Said his therapist had suggested he make amends with her.”

"Convenient."

"Could be."

"And the no alibi?"

"Keeps him on the board. So does the timing of his return."

Selena nodded.

Connor continued, "We'll keep tabs on him. Now, Selena, please go back to the motel and rest. I'll come by and see you tomorrow."

She looked at Arnold.

He gave the smallest possible nod.

Selena planted the cane and pushed herself upright.

The knee gave way.

Her balance shifted before she could catch it.

Connor moved fast. One arm went around her waist while the other caught her forearm. Selena collided against him.

For a second, neither of them moved.

His body was solid against hers, muscle beneath the uniform shirt, one arm firm around her waist. Memory came with the contact. She remembered that strength from another life. Connor lifting her from the couch because she refused to move. His arms around her in their kitchen. The weight of him beside her in bed.

The ache that followed had nothing to do with her knee.

"Are you okay?" Connor asked.

Selena drew a breath.

"Yeah. I just forget this leg's still weak."

His hand remained at her waist for another second before he let go.

"I'll walk you out."

Connor turned toward Arnold.

"And you, I'll deal with in a minute."

Selena steadied herself with the cane. "He hasn't done anything wrong. I was just here to give him information. That's it."

Arnold remained very interested in the table.

Connor said, "Selena..."

"I can get out to my car by myself."

"But Selena..."

"Connor, please. I'm fine."

He stopped.