Page 93 of Cross & Crown

“Okay, okay. Where is the star thing?” Kelly asked.

“I don’t know. The records that led us here have been lost

or stolen. That’s why I was following the men at the bookstore.

I had hoped they’d gleaned some information I had yet to

come across. And when I heard someone had witnessed the

robbery, that’s when I decided to contact you.”

“Next time, how about just . . . saying hi,” Nick huffed.

“Maybe a nice text message. I’ll give you my number.”

“I’ll remember that, Detective,” Julian said between

gritted teeth. He put both hands out like he was trying to

keep everyone calm. “I am telling you all I have. I am here, in your city, asking for your help.”

Nick narrowed his eyes.

Julian inhaled shakily. “Begging. I’m begging for it.”

That brought Nick up short, his next question forgotten

as he stared into Julian’s black eyes.

“Why the fuck are you doing all this?” Kelly asked him

again.

Julian lowered his gaze, struggling with his reply. “Let’s

just say I had no choice in the matter.”

A sudden dread came over Nick and he leaned closer.

“Cameron?”

Julian didn’t move.

“Who is Cameron?” Kelly asked.

“My . . .” Julian shook his head, pursing his lips.

“His boyfriend,” Nick provided. “Civilian. Very civilian.”

“He’s not . . .” Julian nearly choked on the words he

couldn’t get out.

94

“Oh shit,” Kelly whispered.

Julian took a deep breath and raised his head. “We weren’t