Chance Collision by C.A. Szarek

Caselli last year, too. He wants her safe. Protected. She’s as good as family to him.” Pete wasn’t going to go into what Chief Martin had said about Nikki’s parents the other day in his office.
    His partner’s frown deepened. “I don’t like how you’re defending him.”
    Pete swallowed and shrugged, shoving his hands into his jeans pockets.
    “What aren’t you telling me?”
    That I kissed her. Then I barely pushed her away when she kissed me. That it is a struggle to keep my hands to myself. “Nothing, partner. Just that I can’t leave her alone. She’s…stuck with me.”
    “Uh-huh…” Andi nodded slowly, still appraising him. Her pointed stare was a change. He was usually the more perceptive of the two of them. But she knew him well—too damn well.
    Pete forced himself to stand still. “Hey, I didn’t really get a good look at the little guy.” He gestured to the infant in her arms. Please buy the distraction.
    A brilliant smile lit his partner’s beautiful face. “He’s perfect,” Andi whispered.
    “Lemme hold him.” Pete strode forward and gently took the sleeping baby from his mother.
    Micah didn’t stir as Pete nestled him closer to his chest. Andi grinned when he glanced at her. The baby was beautiful, like his parents. His hair curled at the ends, instead of all over like his older brother, and it was dark brown. Pete could see Andi in his little nose, but Cole’s stamp was all over the kid. His mouth moved in his sleep and the hint of dimples was visible in both cheeks. “Damn, he does look like Cole.”
    Andi laughed. “Yup, he sure does. I hope his eyes settle into grey like Cole’s, too. But Cole wants him to keep the baby blues.” She pointed to her own eyes.
    Pete’s gaze swept her form and he had to smile. His partner radiated happiness. She glowed, gorgeous despite the fatigue under her eyes and the outfit of cotton pyjama pants and matching pale blue tee with overlapping hearts on the front of it.
    “Time will tell,” Pete whispered, unable to tear his eyes away from Andi.
    They’d been through too much to name together, but he was so glad she was happy again. Remarried to a great guy and the mother of two adorable little boys. Andi was made for Cole, as much as she was made to be a damn good cop. How she balanced everything was something to admire.
    His partner had always fought for what she wanted. For her it was love… Family.
    Nikki’s smile flashed into his head and Pete frowned, making himself focus on the tiny bundle in his arms.
    “Something wrong?” Andi asked, taking a step closer to them.
    “Hmmm, no.” Pete met her eyes. “He’s beautiful and I’m so happy for you, partner.”
    She smiled, but still studied him. Like Andi didn’t believe a word out of his mouth. “Thanks. I wouldn’t trade him for the world.”
    Pete chuckled. “Not even for a full night’s sleep?”
    “I’m not desperate quite yet. He’s only three days old. Catch me in a few weeks.” Andi winked.
    Laughing again, he shook his head. “No thanks. You make Cole help you this time.” He didn’t want to say more. Didn’t want to wipe the teasing from her expression by mentioning Ethan’s infancy or how many nights Pete had helped her after she’d lost her first husband.
    “As if he has a choice.” Andi raised her voice and giggled as Cole leaned in the kitchen doorway.
    “Hey, I heard that,” Cole said. He grinned, flashing dimples.
    “Did I lie?”
    “No, but you didn’t admit you order me out of bed at gunpoint when it’s my turn.”
    Pete chuckled. “I believe it.”
    Andi mock-glared, hands on her hips.
    “I have the video set up if you want to check it out,” Cole said. “Had an actual reason for coming in here. You know, didn’t want to invade partner time.” Amusement rippled across his expression.
    Andi rolled her eyes as she gently retrieved their son.
    Micah fussed as he awoke and she rocked him. “I’m gonna feed him in the bedroom before he