9.

The door chime sounds at exactly 5:15 and in walks Officer Jace Taggert, a tall wall of muscle wrapped in navy blue. His blonde hair was swept off to one side in that manner that was so casual she wondered whether it in fact took time to achieve and blue eyes 100% aware of his surroundings yet managing a twinkle as if the world were a constant source of amusement. The latter had always seemed odd to Belle considering the man's line of work, but perhaps that spoke volumes about Jace's fortitude.

Belle glances up from her spot behind her desk, her green eyes just visible over the top edge of her monitor. "I'm almost finished, Jace. Come on in and get comfy." While she still thought the idea of having to be escorted home rather silly, she had agreed and at least Jace was pleasant company. He flashes his trademark smile which used to have all the girls in high school, and the boys who were so inclined, fawning over him. "No rush. I've always enjoyed the peace and quiet here. That's not something I get all that often."

After a few more mouse clicks Belle puts her new computer to rest for the evening. Rising from her seat and motioning toward the travel mug in his hand she says, "Can I top you off? It's...relatively...fresh and I need to clean the machine before I leave." Jace nods, flashing another arresting smile and moves to pass the mug to her. "Yes, please. If you don't mind." His fingertips lightly brush against hers during the exchange and Jace quickly clears his throat in a boyish manner that only endears him to her. While she had never encouraged any romantic notions, there was no denying that Jace was indeed a fine example of 'one of the good ones' and while he may not be the one for her, he would make someone, someday an amazing husband.

On her way back from the office, Belle begins clicking off lights, then delivers Jace's coffee. "I'll be out in a moment. I just need to close the front blinds and lock up." At this, Jace moves to stand at the door, yet he does not exit the building. He was determined to walk her directly from door to vehicle. With all lights off, blinds drawn and doors locked, Jace walks Belle directly to the passenger side of the black Jeep Cherokee, it's doors reading 'Oakhaven P.D.' in scuffed gold lettering.. Closing Belle's door behind her, Jace walks around the rear of the vehicle, his eyes scanning the fence line behind the library. He offers a brief nod of familiarity to the large copper and black wolf peeking out from behind the giant Oak then jerks his head off to the left as if signaling at something. The wolf nods in return then slowly turns to slink off in the indicated direction.

Only moments later they arrive in front of Belle's charming little single story home. She turns to look upon him, her mouth opening to say good night, but before she can do so, Jace is outside, opening her door. Her cheeks flush slightly, once more thinking this whole escort affair being a bit silly, but she smiles and says simply, "Thank you." before allowing herself to be walked all the way to her front door. Jace's blue eyes move briefly about their surroundings as she unlocks the deadbolt, propping open the screen door with his right shoulder. As his gaze comes back around to rest upon her, he asks, "Same time tomorrow?" one hand lifting to rake through his hair and thus solving the mystery of his blonde locks for they fall perfectly back into place. Looking up to meet his gaze she shakes her head. "Thank you, but no. I have Tuesdays off, so I plan to spend my morning on the back porch with a cup of coffee and Darynda Jones." At this Jace quirks a curious brow, not recognizing the name. Belle grins and pats her purse, her palm causing a light 'thud' as it hits the hardcover within. "Aaaah..." he says with a nod, then pauses a moment, as if silently considering his next words. "...Belle...I don't mean to frighten you or anything, but be mindful of anything unusual when you're outside? I realize that all this wolf talk seems a bit much, but even pampered poodles have the ability to cause harm." He lowers his chin further so as to hold her gaze, his eyes now a lighter shade of blue in the already waning sunlight. "Please?" He adds, his tone soft yet far more intense than she felt it need be. Belle swallows, her mouth suddenly feeling a tad dry. "You really think they could be dangerous? I mean, why all of a sudden?" she asks, drawing her purse upward to hug at her chest. Jace lifts one large hand to lightly cup her elbow. "Just be a little extra cautious is all. We don't really know what's causing this new behavior and it's just best to play it safe for now. Alright?" She nods while still looking him in the eye, "Yes. Thank you, Jace. Good night." After holding her arm just a bit longer than was likely necessary, yet not in a manner that was uncomfortable, Jace finally drops his hand and takes several steps backward down the narrow sidewalk. "Good night, Belle."

Only once the door was closed behind her and Jace heard the deadbolt fall back into place, did he return to his jeep. Fishing his phone out from the center console he presses call to the contact labeled 'Callum' and takes a swig from his coffee. A deep male voice sounds at the other end, "This is Cal." Jace turns the key in the ignition and draws his seat belt across his chest. "You were right, man. Two more and they weren't ours. Micah and Jared are gonna tail em for a bit. I'll be there in a few."

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