Page 21 of Mr. Perfect

Felix turned to Jude, who looked mad enough to chew nails. “See. Woody knows how to issue a real apology.”

“Christ,” Jude said, stepping forward until only a few inches separated them. “Do you really want to do this now?”

Someone snapped their fingers, then Woody said, “Jasper. My camera, please. Right now.”

Felix was too focused on Jude to pay anyone else much attention. Jude’s sapphire blue irises had darkened to almost black. Felix knew he was either turned on or furious. Perhaps angrily aroused. “Yes, Jude. I want to do this right here, right now.”

The sounds of a camera furiously clicking registered in Felix’s brain, but he didn’t dare turn his head to see what the hell was going on. Jude might view it as him backing down. No fucking way.

“I’m not sorry for what I said to you at the grocery store or in my office,” Jude told him. “I meant it. I’m also not going to apologize to you for petty college bullshit.”

“Fellas,” Woody yelled loudly, intruding on their moment.

They both turned and looked at him. Felix knew he was scowling and imagined Jude’s expression was similar. Minerva gasped, Jed clapped, and Woody snapped a photo before looking down at his camera.

“There’s the money shot,” Woody said proudly. “I’d hate to see these two coming for me if I were a criminal, dirty cop, or unethical politician.” Woody showed the digital display to Minerva and Jed. “What do you think?”

“That’s a wrap,” Jed said happily.

Minerva checked her watch and grimaced before retrieving her tote from the chair. “I’m so sorry, but I must get going. Walk me out, Felix?”

He nodded, then followed her out into the hallway. She stopped there and rounded on him instead of continuing outside.

“Are you sure you’re up to this? It’s not too late to call it off.”

Felix surprised her with a hug. “Thank you, Minerva.”

Her brow furrowed, marring the smooth skin with worry lines. “Why on earth are you thanking me? It’s obvious how unhappy you are around Jude Arrow.”

Felix took a deep calming breath. Then another. And one more for good measure. He could do this. Hewoulddo this. “For putting my feelings first. It means more to me than you know. I got my temper tantrum out of my system. I’m good to go now.”

Minerva narrowed her eyes. “Are you sure?”

“Okay, I’m not quite good there yet. I’m better than I was before and getting closer to good by the minute.”

She hitched her tote higher on her shoulder. “I trust you, Felix.”

“I won’t let you down,” he promised.

Minerva studied him for a few more moments before nodding and walking away. Felix blew out a harsh breath before heading back into the room where Woody and Jed talked animatedly. Jude stood apart from them, leaning against a wall and scowling down at his feet.

“Jude?”

He snapped his head up and stared at Felix.

“Are you ready to start planning our segments?” Felix asked.

Jude nodded. He didn’t say anything until they reached the privacy of his office. “We don’t have to do this. I can come up with some lame excuse why it won’t work.”

“It’s not necessary,” Felix assured him. “Let’s just hash out some ideas for Crime Prevention Month.”

“Are you—”

“No, I’m not sure,” Felix abruptly said, cutting Jude off. “I just know I need to try.”

“Fair enough.”

An hour later, they had an impressive list of potential topics and interviewees. Felix also had a vicious headache, which he attempted to ease by rubbing his temples. Recognizing the signs, Jude opened a drawer, pulled out a bottle of Advil, and handed it to Felix.