But that wasn’t his biggest concern at the moment. What really bothered him was the way he’d felt when she’d eyed his lips—the way his stomach reacted to it. He’d never felt that way before and that didn’t sit well, especially when the Iron Maiden had caused it. From now on, he planned to avoid her. Because if he didn’t, he could end up in a bigger mess, and that was the last thing he needed when he was trying to keep his job.
He entered the precinct office and was instantly bowled over by the large banner welcoming him back. Hank stood under it with two cups of coffee in his hands and a grin so big, he looked like the Grinch.
“Hey, partner. It’s about time you got your lazy ass back to work. I’m sick of doing your paperwork.”
Nick took the coffee and slapped Hank on the shoulder.
“Glad to be back. There’s just so much Jersey Shore you can watch before you realize those people have to be actors. No normal, everyday person would be that stupid.”
Hank laughed.
“So what’s on the agenda for us?” Nick walked to the far wall and glanced at the roster board which read: Trent and Dawson. Desk jobs until further notice.
He turned to Hank. “What? This is crazy. Why are we deskbound?”
Hank leaned against the wall and shook his head. “I don’t know. It’s been like that for two weeks. I thought it would change once you got back.”
To hell with staying away from her––not with this turn of events. “I’m not putting up with this.” Nick headed for the elevator again. “I’m going upstairs and talk to the Ice Princess myself. I want to know what’s going on. And why.”
“You’re just going to make matters worse, Nick.”
“No, I won’t. I just want to find out why we’re getting this crap, that’s all.”
He wasn’t going to allow Director Templar to destroy any chance he had to save his career. She would either give him an assignment, or he’d reveal to the higher-ups that she’d made a pass at him. It was completely up to her. Either way though, he’d win.
CHAPTER SIX
Shiloh had finally managed to get her files in order when her door flew open. Nicholas stalked into her office, his face distorted with anger.
“Why are Hank and I on desk assignment?”
She stared at him. “Agent Trent, you can’t just barge into my office and demand answers. If you want to see me, make an appointment with Sandra.” She opened the file in front of her and focused her attention on it, hoping he’d get the message and get lost.
“I’m not making an appointment. You’re going to tell me why you put us on light duty, and you’re going to do it now. I’m completely recovered. I insist you give us a real assignment.” He crossed his arms over his chest and waited for her response.
Shiloh tucked a strand of hair behind her ear. “I’ll be the judge of what you can do, Agent Trent. I feel you’d be more useful in the office. Now, I’m busy. I don’t have time for this.”
He slammed his palms on her desk and glared at her. “You’re going to make time or I’m going upstairs and tell the powers-that-be that you made a pass at me.”
Shiloh smiled at his threat. “You just do that, Nicholas. Because when you do, I’ll tell all of them about how you offered your services to me. And I’m not talking about your professional services.”
His eyes narrowed. “What are you talking about?”
“I’m talking about my little visit to the hospital. Sure, you were a bit looped, but you offered to screw me for the sake of security. Don’t you remember?”
He swallowed and his eyes glazed over.
“Did I kiss you?”
Her gaze met his. “Yes.”
“Shit. I was out of it. I didn’t know what I was doing. I thought it was a dream.”
“More like a nightmare.” Shiloh jumped up, bumped the desk, and caused the stack of files on top to slide off in a domino effect. They landed in a heap on the floor, blanketing her gray carpet.
A fresh wave of anger