Free Her Valentine by Amanda Anderson

spun her in a circle before setting her on her feet again.  He let his eyes run over the bare office.
    “Not very personal.”  He said with a frown.
    “I know, I need to decorate, but it’s still mine!  Can you believe it?”  Lacey was bouncing on her toes like a child so she stilled and tried to compose herself.  She could tell by the twinkle in his eyes that she was failing to impress him with her professionalism.
    “I never will understand why you wanted to be a lawyer and a prosecutor at that.  You could have done something respectable.”  The scowl of disgust on his face caused Lacey to laugh out loud.  At her burst of laughter he scowled harder.  “Well I wish you’d move out with me so I know you’re safe at least.  Lacey, it’s still not safe for you here.  They still have a hit out on you honey.”
    “I’m fine Preach.  I have an alarm and I’m not far from town.  The Devils aren’t active around here anymore are they?”
    “They aren’t, but that doesn’t mean they won’t come for you if they find out who you are.”
    Preach looked into Lacey’s bright blue eyes and sighed.  He knew she wouldn’t relent and he knew he would have to protect her anyway.  He didn’t bother saying so because she would argue and he would still do as he damn well pleased so it was pointless to even discuss it.  He had a promise to keep and that mattered to him, but he didn’t want her to be afraid.  He wanted her to be happy and she wanted to be here and if he were honest with himself he loved having her so close. 
    “Well, I’m throwing you a party to celebrate.  Mrs. would have my neck if I didn’t and whether you like it or not we are your family.”
    Lacey smiled.  His face was so serious as if he thought she would reject him.  “I like it very much actually, but I have to warn you.  I am the ADA now and I will not cut you any slack if you step out of line mister.”  She adopted her most serious face as he leaned down for her to kiss his tanned cheek.
    “Saturday.  We’ll start at six.”  He said as he strode out of the office.