and indicated she should follow him through the house. The living room held oversized leather couches and a big-screen television. An open floor plan provided a view of the kitchen. “I’m making beef stew, but it needs longer to cook. Have you eaten? I have plenty.”
Her cheeks flushed with embarrassment. The impromptu decision to drop in had been a mistake. Jason had done enough for her already. It was bad manners to push her way into dinner with him as well.
Connor nudged her hand and Addison absently petted his head. “The offer is very kind, but I should’ve called or texted first.”
“Friends don’t need to call or text before coming over. At least, mine don’t.” He flashed her an easy smile. “I come from a big family and never mastered the knack of cooking for one. You’ll be doing me a favor by staying for dinner. Otherwise, I’ll be eating beef stew for a week.”
She laughed, leaning on the bar separating the living room from the kitchen. “When you put it that way, how can I refuse?”
“Good. Now, what’s wrong?”
Addison quickly recapped her conversation with Trevor. “I feel terrible saying this, but Trevor is the same height and weight as the man who attacked me. Does that sound paranoid?”
“No. Gut feelings shouldn’t be ignored.” Jason was quiet for a long moment. “You know Trevor better than I do. Do you think he’s capable of violence?”
“I think everyone is capable under the right circumstances.” She sighed. “But no. Trevor and I are childhood friends. He’s never been violent. However, he is ambitious. It’s no secret Trevor wants to be Chief of Police one day. Michael’s connections to the mayor and Chief Walters complicates matters. Trevor won’t rock the boat for fear of losing out on his chance of climbing the ranks.”
“In other words, he can’t be trusted.”
“Yes.” Her nose wrinkled. “As much as I hate to say it, I don’t think we can rely on anyone in the police department. Trevor isn’t the only one with ambition. Chief Walters has discussed running for the state legislature. I heard a rumor last week that he’s putting a campaign together, although nothing has been officially announced.”
“I heard the same. Unfortunately, ambition and a friendship with Michael aren’t enough to prove a cover-up.”
“Especially since Michael has an alibi for the night of the break-in.” She rubbed her forehead. “I don’t know. Maybe Trevor was right and I’m making connections that aren’t there. Michael could be innocent. He’s not the only man I’ve ever made angry.”
“You aren’t wrong to be cautious. If it makes you feel better, I’ve had the same thoughts. I even called a friend of mine with the Texas Rangers.”
“You did?”
Jason nodded. He used a serrated blade to cut two slices of thick bread. “Grady offered to assist with the investigation, but Chief Walters refused his help. It could be simply that the chief wants to keep control of this case. Or it could be he’s covering up for Michael. Either way, I think you’re right. We need to operate as though the chief is compromised.”
It was a terrible position to be in. Addison valued law enforcement. Most of the officers she’d worked with were honest people. “So what do I do now? Launch my own investigation?”
“Kyle is cleaning up the image of the SUV from your surveillance video. If we can get a clear view of the license plate, or even a partial, that would provide a new lead. In the meantime, Nathan is digging into Michael along with the other men on the list you provided to the police who have threatened you in the past.”
“Oh, Jason…I appreciate the help. Truly. But I don’t know if it’s a good idea to involve Kyle and Nathan.”
His mouth quirked up. “Nathan and Kyle have faced down some of the most dangerous terrorists in the world. Trust me, Michael McCormick and the other bullies on your suspect list don’t scare them.”
He didn’t say it, but Addison heard the words all the same. Jason wouldn’t be scared away either. The knot of worry eating away at her stomach lining uncoiled.
She shook her head and chuckled. “How do you make everything seem easy, even when it isn’t?”
He winked. “Military training 101. Never let them see you sweat.”
They both laughed.
There was nothing more to do at the moment. The last few days had been hectic and stressful. Maybe it was time to give the case a rest. She leaned over the edge of the counter. “Can