Read Online She Can Tell by Melinda Leigh - Free Book Online Page A

by the nasty odorsemanating from the flattened port-a-johns. “Mr. Harmon, I understand your frustration, but I’ve pointed out several times, the township police force isn’t equipped to provide twenty-four-hour security to private businesses.”
    Vince’s thin face flushed deep red to the roots of his receding hairline. “We’ve never needed outside security in the past. When Bart Howell was chief, we never had crime like this.”
    “Things have changed over the last decade,” Mike said. “In light of the recent increase in crime, I would suggest we expand our police force. A few more officers would go a long way toward providing better coverage.”
    Population-wise, Westbury was a small community, but the township encompassed a large chunk of rural acreage. Mike’s five-member force, currently reduced to four officers, was inadequate without the problems at Lost Lake. Their backup, state and county law enforcement, was spread equally thin.
    “You know that’s not in the budget, Mike,” Fred clucked. “And raising taxes isn’t an option.”
    The mayor’s condescending tone made Mike’s teeth ache.
    Harmon tilted a lean face. “This project is a boost to the local economy. We’re employing construction workers and administrative staff. We’re paying property taxes. The sales of these units will increase the taxpayer base and increase revenues for local businesses. I’d hate to see it all fall through.”
    “Can’t afford to lose the jobs, Mike.” Fred’s head bobbed like bobblehead doll.
    Mike put on his serious, neutral face. “Look, I’d love to help you out, Mr. Harmon, but I don’t have the manpower. I’ve suggested several times that your company hire outsidesecurity.” Mike turned to the mayor. “Fred, if you have a suggestion about how to cover this amount of territory with five officers and no overtime, I’m happy to listen.”
    “There’s always one officer on patrol, right?” Fred asked.
    “Yes.” Mike tensed.
    “I don’t see why that officer can’t park on this road during his overnight shift.”
    “We have a few thousand other residents to protect,” Mike said. “Harmon Properties can’t monopolize the police force.”
    Harmon crossed his arms over his chest and raised an eyebrow at Vince, not Fred, Mike noted. And the look that passed between the two men suggested they were keeping something important out of the conversation. A full background check on Lawrence Harmon went on Mike’s to-do list.
    Mike’s phone buzzed. He pulled it from his pocket. “Excuse me. I need to answer this.” He turned his back on them and strode toward his truck.
    “You’re on shaky ground, O’Connell,” Vince called out. “Watch your step.”
    Mike pivoted. He stared at Fred. The mayor shifted his gaze away from Mike’s to study the submerged bulldozer. Hmm. Did that mean Fred was indecisive as usual or that he was going to backstab Mike? The council was split down the middle on most matters, and Fred’s deciding vote wavered with public opinion.
    Mike cell phone buzzed again, sparing him the necessity of a response. He glanced at the display. Sean, returning Mike’s earlier call.
    Mike retreated to his vehicle before punching the talk button.
    “You called?” Sean asked.
    “Yeah. I need a favor—”
    “Says the guy who turned down my invite to a barbecue and pissed off my wife,” Sean interrupted.
    “Come on, Sean. I really need your help. I’m serious.”
    “So am I. You need a favor? Get your lame ass over here and ask me in person. While you’re here, you can score a decent meal and convince my wife you’re alive. Then I’ll think about this favor you so desperately need.”
    “You suck.” Mike started the engine. “I don’t have time to party this afternoon.”
    “What can I say? Happy wife, happy life. If you hurry up, we can talk before everyone else gets here.” Sean clicked off.
    Mike tossed his phone on the passenger seat and suppressed a primal scream.