Read Online The Apple Of My Eye by Christine McGreggor - Free Book Online Page B

jumped in her chest. She had hoped he’d meant the words, not just used them as a tactic when the situation warranted.
                  A gloved hand stopped hers as she reached for a lacy slip, fluttering in the night air. Gently Hayes lifted her, so the two were standing toe to toe. His voice wrapped around her like an embrace. “Michelle, I didn’t just…”             
                  “Excuse me, Miss Perry? I’d like to take your statement now.” Officer Gonzalez stood on the front porch, Kara slightly behind her.
                  “Oh, of course, I will be right there.” Michelle turned away from the handsome man, but not before he gave her hand a comforting squeeze. Michelle followed the officer into the house, and Kara stepped out onto the lawn, taking her friend's place by the handsome arborist. The icepack was still clapped against her face.
                  “Hayes, I wanted to thank you for what you did tonight. You got Jeff out of here, without ever throwing a punch. That was pretty amazing.” Kara held out her free hand.
                  Hayes took Kara’s hand in his and shook it firmly. “You’re welcome Kara. How are you doing?”
                  Kara removed the ice pack and gingerly touched her swelling eye. “I will be okay, eventually anyway. I’m tougher than I let on. While we are out here, I wanted to talk to you about Michelle.” She looked at Hayes with her good eye, coolly assessing him. “I’ve seen how you look at her, how she looks at you. You meant what you said in there, didn’t you? About you being her man, even though you just met her.”
                  Hayes’ eyebrows shot up in surprise. “Yes, I did. Michelle is the most amazing woman I’ve ever met. She’s…”
                  “Kind, generous, smart, funny, caring, and she would do anything for the people she loves. Trust me, I know. She has been alone for too long, and she deserves to be happy. I want you to make her happy.” She poked Hayes in the chest. “You don’t want to make me angry. You won’t like me when I’m angry.”
                  “Yes, Ma’am, you have my word.” Hayes saluted the fiery brunette. “Your Hulk impression needs some work though.”
                  Kara sighed. “Darn it, I thought it was coming along. I guess the black eye kind of detracts, huh.”
                  “A little bit, yes. I wouldn’t worry too much about it though.” Hayes’ expression turned serious. “I have a good friend who is a lawyer. He specializes in family law. Would you like me to have him give you a call?”
                  Kara sighed and touched her face again. “Yes, I need to talk to someone. I don’t know how I will afford it, but I guess I can figure out something.”
                  “I’m sure he can help you. I don’t think a restraining order costs anything to file, but I don’t have any experience with it.” Hayes looked around at the mess on the lawn. “Why don’t you go back inside and rest. I’m going to stay for a few hours and help Michelle.”
                  “Do you have to work tomorrow?”
                  Hayes cleared his throat. “I may have cleared my schedule. I have this apple tree pruning project I was hoping to get started on.”
                  Kara giggled. “I see. Well I’m sure Michelle appreciates your dedication. Good night, Hayes. See you for pancakes in the morning.”
                  Kara headed back inside, passing officer Gonzalez who was on her way out. “Michelle, I’m going to go lay down. Hayes is still outside picking up.” Kara called out as she headed back into the study.
                  “Are you sure you want to sleep in here, Kara?” Michelle asked, getting up from the couch. “You can take my bed