Ever so calmly and with no argument, like I really had a choice in the matter, my boss-my best friend-my Dan explained himself, "Look here, Nora! There is no way I’d ever do anything to hurt you and what’s sad is you know that, you’ve always known that. I’ve told you there was only two detectives in all of New Orleans Police Department that were without partners. You and Beaumont. It just so happens, that her daddy happens to be in a position to put both of our collective asses into a sling should anything happen to his precious little girl. As far as, this promotion goes-I took it because it was offered to me and quite frankly, Nora. You’ve always told me I was meant to lead and there was no one better than me to do so. Now, even though, I happen to disagree with you and think that you could do a better job than me-it just so happens that I have seniority and that’s no bodies fault, it’s just how it is. Just like it’s going to be you and Beaumont as partners. You are right I did not want to leave the streets and more importantly I never have wanted to leave your side. But, the deck has been dealt and we have to play our hands. No matter how much we might object to it all."

"That’s just great, just great…………" I had started when Dan’s hand came up and I noticed he was looking out the door. I turned to look out the blinds to notice the object of his attentions. I did not recognize her, but the badge on her belt I did recognize. This was the newly promoted Detective Beaumont and my new partner. Daddy’s little girl.

And God help me, I was her’s now and forever. My entire life flashed before my eyes. Things that needed to be done started to jot themselves down onto my mental list. Revise will, add her to my list of letter recipients, and whoa! she’s my new partner on the force. There’d be no romance with her. *****, she’s probably straight for all I knew.

Oh, was I ever in trouble now! Damn, I’d have to spend the next 40+ years with her practically joined at my hip and I can’t ever let her know that she has claimed my heart and sends my libido off into flames of desire. This would surely kill me before any bullet, knife, or any other weapon ever could.