Officer Andy shifted on his feet, running a hand over his military-short blond hair. Obviously getting impatient. It’d been a long day for everyone.
“When you’re ready, ma’am,” he said. “I’d like to explain to you the situation as it currently stands.”
“Explain away.” I sat up straight.
Officer Andy continued, “The good news is, Mr. Chris Delaney has decided not to press assault charges against you.”
“What?” My whole body deflated, sagging back against the wooden cabinetry in relief. I’d have done a victory lap of the house had I been able. “He has?”
“Yes.”
“Oh, sweet baby Jesus. Thank god for that.” Down went the tequila. Down my throat, that is. Holy hell, the stuff was potent. I wheezed as delicately as possible, covering my mouth with a hand, tears flooding my eyes. “Why isn’t he?”
“I discussed the situation with them thoroughly,” he said, gaze serious. “With circumstances like this, it’s not unusual for people in the heat of the moment to get carried away. Once they’ve had some time to reflect upon everything that’s at stake, the full ramifications of the conflict, they often change their minds about taking any action.”
“Huh.”
“Yes, well, Vaughan also pointed out that pursuing charges against you would likely raise interest with local media,” reported Andy, almost as an afterthought.
I looked up at Vaughan.
“Still got a few friends at the local radio station.” One of his shoulders rose nonchalantly. “Would only take a call.”
“Really?”
He reached down, seizing the bottle. “No big deal.”
“No big deal? You kept me out of jail.”
“Eh.” He took another swig of tequila, cringing only slightly this time. “Couldn’t have them carting you off to the big house. We’ve made plans to hang tonight.”
“You’re the best,” I whispered to Vaughan, my hero.
He winked.
Officer Andy cleared his throat, sounding somewhat aggrieved. Over what, I had no idea. Honestly, I’d kind of forgotten he was still there.
“Seeing as the last thing they want is any more attention given to this situation,” he said, “they decided to let it go.”
I blew out a breath of relief.
“They will, however, be taking restraining orders out against you,” said Andy “Restraining orders?” Wow. It almost made me sound dangerous, like some thug or something. Like I roamed the streets of Coeur d’Alene just looking for people to punch in the nose.
“Yes.” Andy tucked his thumbs into his police officer Batman-thingy utility belt. “Under no conditions should you try to approach any of the family, or step foot on any of the family’s properties, including any and all commercial interests. Understood?”
“It’ll be entirely my pleasure to never set sight on those idiots again.” And then some. “But what about my things? They’re all over at the big house.”
“Mrs. Delaney has assured me she’ll see to the prompt delivery of your personal effects.”
“How kind.” My brows descended, my trust for Samantha in the negatives. My options, however, were nonexistent. So currently, I had my bridal lingerie and nothing more. Apart from Vaughan’s shirt and goodwill, of course.
“I hate to impose further,” I said, reaching up for the tequila to take another sip. “But would it be all right if I crashed on your couch tonight once we’re done hanging?”
“Spare room’s all yours.”
“Thank you.”
“And I told Ray he could send any paperwork here until you get something else sorted,” said Vaughan, once more taking possession of his own liquor. This time he downed a whole mouthful, no problem. Impressive. Masculine, manly and stuff. He’d probably catch up to me in no time.
“Thank you for talking them down,” I said.
Another chin tip.
“If that’s all, ma’am, I better get a move on.” Over by the table, Officer Andy stood tall, looking totes competent and stuff.
“Are they gone from out front?” Gah, I sounded so timid. “Not that I’m afraid of them. It’s just, it’s been a long day.”
“They’re gone.” Vaughan handed me back the bottle with a smile. “Took your douche ex-fiancé off to the emergency room to get his nose set.”
“I broke it?”
“That’s my bet.” We exchanged grins.
With a deep breath, I relaxed for what seemed like the first time in days, resting my head back against the cabinet. “I have no home or job. But I have my liberty.”
“I’ll leave you two to celebrate,” said Officer Andy.
“Thanks, Andy.” The men started clapping each other good and hard on the shoulder as guys do. “Good to see you again.”
“You too.” He hesitated. “Damn shame about Nell and Pat.”
“Yeah.” The smile on Vaughan’s face faded.
“You, ah, wouldn’t know if she’s dating again yet, would you?”
A long pause.
The happy on Vaughan’s face had disappeared without a trace. So much for cool, calm, and collected. I wondered who Nell and Pat were. Obviously people important to him.
“See you later, Andy,” he said in lieu of answering the question.