"Property markers," Brayden says automatically, lost in thought. "Maybe we have some photos that show at least some of them. I can ask Elise to drive the entire perimeter with me tomorrow, and take photos of markers in relation to roads."
"Lloyd is such a skunk that he'll say we moved them," Corbin says. "And if he has the council in his pocket, enough people could believe him that it might work."
Everyone stares glumly at either the laptops or the pretzels.
Taking a deep breath, I remember to increase my volume a bit as I speak. "Lloyd has been bribing everyone at City Hall with gift baskets, and a new coffee machine, and who knows what else. If one of you went in to ask a favor on 'his' behalf, they would probably help you out. Everyone knows you there – it's not like you would need ID for an old printout of your own land, right?"
Ansel chuckles, squeezing me tightly against him. "Gorgeous and smart. You're right, Lynn. They are public records. But we have to do it right away, before they're altered."
Carol gives me a wide smile and nod of approval, as the other brothers start debating who should go into City Hall. It quickly devolves into an animated debate of who is the most charming, and who is friendlier with the various office workers there.
They all turn to Ansel again, as if he's supposed to announce a decision.
He takes my hand, then stands up, taking me to the front door. "I took time out from our dinner date to bring you this information," he says. "I vote it should be Braden or Dash who goes."
Corbin gives him a look, then nods. "I know. I'm too intimidating, and you make things look too official."
"Exactly. Figure it out and keep me posted. I'll see you all tomorrow."
"Lovely to meet you, Lynn!" Carol calls out.
I give her a wave and my brightest smile. "Nice to meet you, too. You have a lovely home."
"Thank you, dear. We'll have you over for dinner very soon."
"Thank you."
Ansel walks me to my car, then holds me against him for a kiss so scorching hot that it rivals the flames that are long gone from my belly. "You're amazing, baby. I can't believe you did that for me."
"Not just for you," I tease, squeezing my palms against the back of his shirt. "I also got to feel like a spy while putting one over on Kayla." Looking up, he's grinning. "Plus, you know, that whole doing the right thing for the town, blah blah blah, business."
"You're amazing." His head ducks down to nuzzle my throat. Then he pauses, stepping back and taking my hands in his.
"I'm always encouraging you to be more open. So it's my turn." Ansel gently squeezes my fingers. "I know it's too soon to say certain things, but there are ferrets running around my stomach, demanding that I say this."
His lips brush mine, then he watches my eyes as he murmurs, "I love you, Lynn."
I would have expected to feel panic at such a huge moment. Instead, I feel nothing but joy.
"I love you, too."
His kiss is ferocious – filled with relief, and happiness, and so much raw lust that I shiver in his arms.
"Will you come to my house, so that I can thank you properly?" His voice is a whispered growl that sends sparks up my spine.
The first time we were naked together, I was pretty nervous, because I didn't know where we stood.
Now I know that we're solidly together? Oh boy. This might get wild.
"Yes."
12
ANSEL
Lynn and I kick off our shoes and rush up the stairs, cackling like maniacs. Then I scoop her into my arms and march her into the bedroom, swinging her back and forth dramatically as if I'm terrified to smack her head on the door frame.
Once she's standing, I slowly slip her shirt off, then drop my head to nuzzle her cleavage. Slender fingers grip the back of my hair as she holds me close.
