Page 36 of Last Date

I waved my arms helplessly. “I… I didn’t know where to go or what to do.”

“You should be home.”

“I was too restless.”

He blinked at me. “I assume you told the police everything you know?”

“Of course.” I swallowed hard. “There was a detective there though. I got the feeling he wants to put me in jail.”

“No.”

“You didn’t see Detective Bergen at work.”

“I’m sure you’ll be fine.”

I sighed. “I’m not so sure. I’m worried about being arrested for something I didn’t do.”

A muscle worked in his cheek. “Obviously this situation is awkward for me.”

I narrowed my eyes. “Because I’m your friend or because you’re a cop?”

“Both.”

I gave a humorless laugh. “Sorry, but it’s twice as awkward for me. Regardless of what that detective thinks, I didn’t hurt Allister.”

“I… I didn’t say you did, Kip.” His tone was calm, but nervous energy buzzed just beneath the surface. “But if you want hand-holding, I can’t do that.”

Heat touched my cheeks. “I didn’t come here to find you. I didn’t even remember you’d be here.”

“Good because I really shouldn’t be seen talking to you.”

“Is that right?”

“Yes. I would think that’s obvious.”

I squinted at him. “You say you want to be my friend, but you don’t act like a friend.”

He hesitated. “You always seem to miss the point. Appearances are important in a situation like this.”

I shook my head. “God. Never mind. I should have known of all the people to seek comfort from, you’re not the guy.” I started to move away, but he grabbed my wrist. “Let go,” I said through gritted teeth.

“You’re being emotional. You’re not thinking about my position.”

“You’re right. I don’t care about your job right now, Merrick. A man died tonight, and as if that isn’t horrible enough, I’ve got some jerk of a detective trying to put me away for it.” I jerked my hand free of his grip.

“If Allister died accidentally, you have nothing to worry about.”

“How do I prove he died accidentally? If I was the one who found him, and I was alone, how do I prove I didn’t push him or fight with him?” I hissed.

“It’s way too soon to be worrying about things like that.” He sounded exasperated. “I know Detective Bergen. He’s lazy, but he isn’t a crooked cop. He wouldn’t frame you. He’ll follow the evidence. Calm down.”

“Calm down? You didn’t see him. He’ll probably build some circumstantial case against me, and I’ll go to jail for something I didn’t do. But you want me to calm down? Easy for you to say.”

Glancing around, he stepped closer to me. “Stop it,” he growled. “I’m on your side, but I can’t announce that to the whole world, Kip.”

“Pfft, you’re on my side,” I muttered disbelievingly.

“Do you seriously think I’ll let you get bulldozed?” He narrowed his eyes.