Loving Lucas Read Online Free

that.”
    “Never have before.”
    She rolls her eyes, obviously unconvinced. “I bet most women are impressed with all that cop stuff. Flash a badge, instantly naked.”
    Is she offering? Or does she actually think that? “Some,” I admit. But it’s more than she ever needs to know. Temptation exists, and I’ve learned how to walk away. My uniform isn’t always a positive factor.
    “You’re arrogant.” She laughs.
    “Confident. There’s a difference.”
    “Maybe.”
    “Tell me more about school,” I say, genuinely interested.
    “I’m a political science major with a minor in religious studies.” She keeps her eyes down when she’s talking about herself.
    “You like politics?”
    “A necessary evil.” Her head snaps up. “I generally dislike politicians. But I believe in the democratic process. Maybe someday I can make a difference working in journalism or advocacy.”
    I’m impressed already. She’s beautiful and smart, a combination I’m not accustomed to. Most women that I’ve been involved with, including my ex-wife, have more body than brains. I rub my chin, taking in every inch of her tiny frame. “Where will you go now?” She can’t leave with Connor.
    “I don’t know.”
    I’m instantly annoyed with myself. I’m not at work and don’t have the right to ask so many probing questions. “Sorry—”
    “She’ll stay with us,” Marie says, appearing again. “You ask a lot of questions, popo.” She gives Karlie a squeeze.
    “I can’t impose on you and Brandon,” Karlie refuses. “You guys live in a six-hundred-square-foot efficiency apartment. Where am I going to sleep?”
    “With us,” Brandon interjects with a grin. “The more the merrier.”
    “Nice try.” Marie tweaks Brandon’s nipple. He jumps.
    “Ouch!”
    “You deserved it,” Marie says. “Seriously, girl, we have a sofa. It’s better than sleeping in your truck.”
    I listen intently, wondering why she can’t get her own apartment. “What about campus housing?”
    “There’s a waiting list,” Marie complains, crossing her arms over her chest.
    “And I don’t have a job.” Karlie eyes me.
    “I know a few business owners. If you’re willing to work weekends . . .”  
    “My girl can’t work. She’s already bogged down with too much homework. And if she’s going to get into the graduate program, she needs to keep her GPA up. It’s too competitive to risk losing academic rank by taking a stupid job for minimum wage. She’ll stay with us.”
    Karlie looks a little panicky, and I understand why. Sharing such a small space with a couple would be challenging at best. Grad school? Doesn’t the state provide extra money for living expenses? “What about grants or student loans?” I’m surprised by my deep interest and concern.
    Karlie clicks her tongue. “I don’t qualify, because the state pays my tuition. As for loans . . .” She shakes her head. “I refuse to be indebted when I graduate. I get a few hundred dollars a month for maintenance. It hardly covers food and insurance for my vehicle. I can sleep in my truck.”
    “And what about your bike?” Marie asks.
    “Shit.” Karlie stares toward the RV. “I nearly forgot. We should go grab my Suzuki before it’s too late.”
    “Where is it?” I ask.
    “Parked outside the trailer.” She points.
    I’d hoped to avoid another confrontation with her ex, but I can’t let her go alone. “Let’s get it over with now.”
    “Really?” She looks completely stunned. “Why are you helping me?”
    My breath catches— because you’re fucking beautiful and a fighter. “I’ve put too much time and effort into you already to just let you go.”
    There’s a brief silence before she speaks again. “Thank you.”
    Brandon and Marie follow us down RV alley. There are two dozen RVs parked in the area, illuminated by bright streetlights and surrounded by green space. Campsites with barbeque grills, a community shower, and outhouses are on the other