Chapter 35 – Bonds Forged in Fire
Later, after police had secured the scene, the three of them sat in silence in Ethan's office.
Clara on the couch, Ethan at at his desk, Damien pacing with a drink in hand.
"So," Damien said at last, "that's two rescues in one month. At this rate, she's going to start charging you for hazard pay."
Clara managed a weak laugh. Ethan glared, though the corner of his mouth twitched.
"Don't joke," Ethan said softly. "I can't—"
He stopped himself. Words weren't his strength.
Damien leaned back. "You care about her. Stop pretending you don't."
Ethan's eyes met Clara's. "I do," he admitted quietly. "More than I should."
Clara's breath hitched. She wanted to say something, anything, but Damien interrupted with a grin. "Well, that's progress. Guess I'm part-time matchmaker now."
Ethan groaned. "You're impossible."
"True," Damien said cheerfully. "But you're stuck with me, friend."
For the first time in a long time, Ethan didn't mind.