Page 27 of Grimm County Wishes (Grimm County Lawmen #4)

“ A l, we’re down to the final three women. Iona, Jazz, and Mercedes. How are you feeling?” Shane sat across from Al on an oversized armchair.

“I’m excited and nervous. I’m falling for each of these women, but for different reasons.

” Bile rose in his throat at the lie, forcing him to pause as he swallowed it back down.

Thankfully Marina had coached him well on what to say.

His gaze flickered to Jeannie, who stood behind the camera, scribbling into her notepad.

“Mercedes matches my personality well, and I know we’ll always have fun together.

Jazz and I have a lot in common. We’re both dedicated to our jobs in the justice system, and she’d be understanding if I had to work overtime on a big case.

And Iona, well yeah. What can I say about her?

She’s a gorgeous, strong woman. We’ll challenge each other, so life will always be interesting. ”

Shane laughed into the camera, then turned back to Al. The dude was so fake. Al had no idea what Jeannie saw in him and his perfect fucking teeth.

“Sounds like you have quite the dilemma ahead of you, but maybe this will help. The next round of dates will all be solo, giving you a chance to get to know the women even better. At the end of the evening, you’ll have the chance to offer the women this.

” He handed over a keycard. “This opens the honeymoon suite, where you both can choose to spend the night. No cameras, just the two of you, a hot tub, and a mirror on the ceiling.” Shane laughed again and winked. “Just kidding about the mirror. Maybe.”

“Thanks, that sounds great.” Al gulped. He sneaked a glance at Jeannie again. Her head was down, focused on that damn notepad as if she refused to even look at him.

“And cut!” Lindsey shouted. “Great scene, everybody. Al, you’re done for today. Crew, take ten and then we’ll have a quick meeting.”

Jeannie bolted from the room before anyone could stop her. He was desperate to talk to her, but what would they even say? In the old days, they would have sat down over drinks and Jeannie would have offered her best tips on wooing the ladies. But now …

Al crossed his arms over his chest. Now, she couldn’t even stand to look him in the eye when the overnight dates were mentioned.

Could that mean she was jealous? Al grinned.

In all the years they’d been friends, Jeannie had never been jealous of his dates.

Maybe their one night together meant more to her than she was willing to let on.

The weight in his chest lifted a little.

Two more eliminations. That was all that was left.

A couple of dates and two eliminations. Then he’d collect his paycheck and go after his girl.