He nodded. “Addie, too.”
I stiffened. I couldn’t help it. And I hated myself for it. Addie was kind—and damaged. She’d grown up in a world that I wouldn’t wish on my worst enemy, with a father who took cruelty to a whole new level—not just physically but also mentally.
Yet I couldn’t help but be a little jealous of her and all the time she spent with Calder and his girls. She was becoming a part of their family. I often wondered if Calder would make a move to make that relationship more. They would fit. Far better than he and I would. She was wounded, and he was the ultimate protector.
The thought had my stomach roiling, and I set my sandwich down to take a sip of water. Everything in me rebelled at the idea. Because I’d been half in love with Calder Cruz from the moment he’d taught me to chase the stars.
The front door to the station opened, and a throat cleared. “Is Hadley Easton here?”
My cheeks heated. It was even worse. The man we’d saved last week was going to do this in front of everyone. I slowly slid off my stool and stood. “Hi. I’m Hadley.”
The man beamed as I crossed to him, holding out a hand. “It’s so nice to meet you. I’m Evan Gibbs. They told me you made it possible for them to get me out of the car.”
I mentally cursed whoever had such a big mouth. “It’s always a team effort.”
“That may be, but I wanted to get something especially for you. You were so brave.” He rubbed at the back of his neck. “I didn’t know what to get, but I figured women like jewelry.” He lifted a black velvet box.
I instinctively took a small step back. “I’m sorry, Mr. Gibbs. We’re not allowed to accept expensive gifts. The gift baskets are more than enough. Really. We’re just glad you’re okay.”
Mr. Gibbs’ face flushed. “Call me Evan. And I’m sure they’ll allow an exception on this matter.” He extended the box again.
“I’m sorry, I really can’t.”
“That’s ridiculous. Let me talk to your boss. I’ll get it sorted out.”
I felt heat at my back.
“Mr. Gibbs, I’m Lieutenant Cruz. Unfortunately, Ms. Easton is correct. It’s policy that we can’t accept gifts valued at over one hundred dollars. But you’re always welcome to donate to the department charity. They always need assistance.”
Mr. Gibbs scowled at Calder. “I don’t want to make a donation. I want to thank the woman who saved my life.”
“And you have,” I cut in. “I appreciate your gratitude, and I promise that the gift isn’t necessary.”
A muscle in his cheek ticked. “I’ll speak with the captain. He’ll make an exception for me.” And with that, he turned on his heel and left.
The tension between my shoulder blades eased a fraction as Mr. Gibbs disappeared, but I couldn’t seem to shake it altogether. Warm hands landed on my arms, turning me around. “You okay?”
Calder’s eyes bored into mine, and I fought the urge to take a step back. “I’m fine.”
“I heard he’s a new real estate developer in town. I don’t think he’s used to hearing the wordno.” He scowled over my shoulder, his hands dropping away.
I missed the warmth of that simple touch immediately. “I’m sure Cap will find a way to smooth it over.”
Calder’s gaze came back to me. “Tell me if he bothers you again?”
“What are you going to do, beat him up?”
The corner of his mouth kicked up. “I don’t think it’ll get that far.”
“He doesn’t exactly strike me as the fighting type.”
“More like he’d throw a lawyer at the problem.”
I chuckled. “Can you imagine bringing that before a judge? ‘Your honor, she won’t let me give her a gift.’”
“It’d be an interesting case.” Calder sobered. “But, seriously, promise me you’ll tell me if he hassles you.”
“I promise.”