11:35AM - Joel & Demi
Joel nodded. “Or she’s nicer to look at,” he joked, though he tried not to discount Demi’s statement too much since she’d seemed sincere. People with unfailing beliefs could be both good and bad, depending on where their sense of justice leaned. “It sounds like she made a good impression on you. I’m sure you did the same.” Just because Joel hadn’t heard about the conversation didn’t mean that it had been unmemorable to his wife; they didn’t keep each other abreast of every interaction they had.
“I think I’ve monopolized about enough of your time as I should today, though.” There were probably other people that would want to grab her for a quick chat considering the number of friends she had present. “Thanks again for your help today, Demi,” he said again, even though he knew three thank yous might be pushing it and hovering near ridiculous territory.
With a shake of her head Demi laughed. “I don’t know, I would say you’re not that hard on the eyes, Chief.” He was of course old enough to be her father, but that didn’t mean she hadn’t noticed he was attractive for his age. “Mariah did make a very good impression on me,” Demi continued. “And I selfishly hope I managed the same.” The other woman smiled and greeted her still whenever their paths crossed, so she had to think that maybe, just maybe she had.
“I think I’m the one monopolizing your time, most likely,” Demi replied with a laugh. “I’m sure more people would like to talk to you than me.” Though she did have her fair share of familiar faces here, people she definitely wanted to catch up with. “And really, you don’t need to thank me,” another pause. “Thank you for supporting this idea, and for continuing to talk to me even after I almost started a debate.” Demi was more than a little aware of the fact that their conversation could have easily gone south. “Thanks for the talk, Ch-- Joel.” she caught herself, offering a final smile before stepping away from the Police Chief and over to a group of gathered Hounds.