I gather some resources for our domestic violence awareness booth over the next few days. Edward hooks with me up with the head of psychiatry's number, and the doctor gives me a list of numbers of both psychiatrists and therapists who are taking on new patients. I gather a list of AA and NA meetings next while Eric works on career resources.

I'm still on desk duty, but it's nice being back in the station and actually doing something.

"Hey, Chief?" Eric asks, knocking on the door and coming in.

"What's up?"

"I got the job fair information, but it's not happening 'til February. The college has some workforce training going on in the spring too."

"It's good information to share."

"Yeah, I put together a Powerpoint. We can print out the slides for people to take during the festival."

I smile. "Thanks, Eric. Maybe we'll be able to help a couple people."

He nods. "I hope so. You feeling okay?"

"Yep, but with the contest on Saturday, I think I'm going to work from home tomorrow. As long as you think you can handle things here?"

"Yeah, it hasn't been too bad. I hope you win the clover, boss."

I smile, nodding. "Me too."

I look over his Powerpoint, and then send him the information I've gathered to add to it. I know it's not fun for these men to be out of work, but hopefully, they're open to accepting help.

By the time I leave the station, it's going on five and my stomach rumbles. I stop by Mrs. Cope's diner and pick up a Cuban to go, and then head home. Both Edward's and Alice and Jasper's driveways are empty, so I mosey inside alone and am greeted by my cat.

It still hurts to bend, which Ulyssses must know so he jumps on the counter for his pets.

"Oh, yes, who's a good boy?"

He rubs his chin all over my hand, and I know he's communicating with me. I give him kisses and love on him for a few minutes before getting his dinner out. He runs to the sound of the can opening and starts eating as I'm still pouring it into the bowl. There's a reason he's a little chunky, and it's entirely my fault. The vet wants me to put him on moderate-calorie- food, but whenever I try, he cries all day like he's starving. He's happy and healthy right now. I just can't overfeed him with treats.

I'm halfway through my Cuban sandwich when my bell rings. It's Jasper offering to get the litter out of my car from the other day. I unlock my SUV for him, and he lugs the pail inside and to the litter box area.

"Thank you," I say.

He nods. "Not a problem. Whenever you need to top the box off, let me know, and I'll come do it for you. Or do you want me to do it now?"

"Might as well. I scooped it this morning."

He pours a fresh layer in, and then puts the lid back on the container. I'm really lucky to have such a great neighbor and friend.

"How are things?" I ask.

"Good. Can I share a secret with you? Seriously, you cannot tell a soul."

I nod, taking a seat at my counter and patting the chair next to me for him.

He sits down and sighs. "It's really early."

"What is?"

He glances up and smiles at me. "Allie's pregnant, but like I said, it's so early. We haven't been to the doctor yet, so we're not telling anyone, but it's hard to keep in. I might finally be a dad, Bella."

"Oh my god! I'm so happy for you both." I grin, reaching out and hugging him. "And mum's the word. I won't tell anyone."

"Thanks. I'm still wrapping my head around it. We've wanted this for so long."

I nod, knowing about their struggles. This would be a dream come true for them, and I pray it all works out. No one deserves to be parents more than them.

"It's going to work out," I say, hugging him again. "I promise to keep this between us. I won't tell Alice I know."

He nods, smiling. "Thank you. Just think. In like seven months, I'm going to be a father."

"An excellent one."

I don't own Twilight.

Thanks to Ashley, May, and Mary prereading and Sally for beta'ing.