Chapter 3

The shop remained silent as Tim and Lucy made their way towards Tim's house. Lucy admitted to herself that she was glad everyone was on board with her staying with Tim. Even if she put on a brave front at the station, she really didn't feel like being alone. As a matter of fact, Tim's place is exactly where she wanted to be.

The silence was oddly comforting. There was a feeling of safety when she was with Tim. She couldn't explain why or the logic behind it.

As Lucy watched out the window, she knew Tim was glancing her way. It didn't even shock her when Tim reached her hand and squeezed. She knew he meant it to be a short reassurance. However, Lucy quickly grabbed his hand before he could remove it. She didn't look Tim's way but let him know not to let go. They held hands as the silence continued between them.

Only when Tim began to park his truck, they released the holding of hands. Tim helped Lucy into the house. Part of her wanted to protest Tim treating her like a wounded child. The biggest part of her appreciated the effort Tim was making letting her know he was there for her.

After making it into the house, Tim tossed their belongings on the counter. Lucy punched in the numbers in his alarm system. Kojo excitedly wiggled his whole body when he saw Lucy. Of course, Lucy gave Kojo the attention he was eager to receive.

"Go get a shower. I'll get you a change of clothes." Tim crossed his arms over his chest as he smiled at the scene. Kojo was going to love Lucy being around. "I showered at the station."

Lucy nodded before heading down the hall towards the bathroom. Tim was behind her. Lucy waited outside the bathroom as Tim went to his bedroom. . After rummaging through some drawers, he returned to stand beside her. He placed the clothes on the small table outside the bathroom door. He nodded at Lucy as she grabbed the clothing. Both parted ways.

Tim couldn't help but notice how oddly quiet Lucy was. He would enjoy her never-ending chatter about now. After all, Lucy always talked through her problems. He had become accustomed to being her sounding board. Tim knew Lucy was hiding her real feelings about Rosaline. He hoped she would let her emotions go with him even if the façade of bravery was in front of others.

Lucy allowed the hot spray of water to careen over her body. She felt a need to scrub off the imaginary dirt on her skin. The masculine body wash didn't deter her from scrubbing vigorously. She felt oddly comforted by the smell because it was how Tim smelled.

A knock on the bathroom door startled her enough to come out of the thought of needing cleansing. She realized the time had gotten away from her.

"Lucy, are you okay?" Tim's masculine voice reverberated over the sound of the shower spray.

Lucy quickly turned off the water before answering. " I'm getting out now."

She could hear Tim's footsteps fading away as he walked towards his living room. A smile slid on her face as she thought of Tim taking a shower at the station. She knew he wanted her to have his shower all to herself. He didn't want to rush her even if he had knocked. After all, she had been in the shower a while. Tim was nothing if he wasn't protective.

Detective Carter was given instructions on what items to bring Lucy tomorrow. There were no chances taken. Lucy would have to wait for the comforts of home. The consideration of Rosalind watching Lucy made them all overly cautious.

In the meantime, Lucy would wear the clothes Tim offered her for the night. It was the same outfit he had offered her the night Jackson had died. Lucy chuckled slowly as she slid the black t-shirt over her head.

"Tim is consistent. I'll give him that." Whispering, Lucy pulled the cotton sleep pants over her hips. Despite the clothes being freshly laundered, there was still the scent of Tim lingering.

Making her way into the living room, Lucy petted Kojo. She glanced up to see the curtains drawn. She knew Tim wasn't taking chances of anyone seeing Lucy in his home. Tim had already made up the couch for her. He patted the cushion directly beside him. Lucy felt shy suddenly. In an unladylike fashion, she plopped down next to Tim.

To her surprise and glee, Tim's arm wrapped around her shoulder. He pulled her to be squeezed against his side.

Tears finally came as Lucy leaned deeper into Tim's side. He pulled her even tighter as he felt her shoulder begin to shake. She didn't have to pretend in front of him. Lucy allowed all her emotions to spill out. It was a much needed break from the bravado.

"I'm here. I'm not going anywhere." Tim reassured her.

"I know. Thanks." Lucy exhaled.

"For what? Doing my job?" Tim teased as he leaned his head against the back of the couch.