They talked for a little while about the spa, photography, school projects and the historic district. Autumn asked how Ryker was doing and if he was still building furniture.
Dani smiled and took a sip of water. “He is. Although recently he’s been out on several security details.”
“Oh. Where does he?—?”
The conversation was interrupted when the server returned with their appetizers and drinks. Everything smelled delicious, and the appetizers were arranged like edible artwork. The crostini shimmered with bright orange citrus slices, and the coconut shrimp skewers were golden and crispy.
But the drink, oh my. Lainey took a sip of her Coconut Cream Martini and sighed. “This is dangerous.”
But then the word security popped back into her mind.
It wasn’t new to her. She’d heard that word too many times from Richard. He’d always hired security firms, bodyguards, and consultants for every project, although it seemed like they were there more to intimidate than protect. She never understood his obsession with control.
But Dani’s husband?
There was nothing controlling about Dani. She looked happy. Safe.
“What kind of security?” Lainey finally asked, her fingers tightening on the glass.
“He works for the Brotherhood Alliance,” said Dani. “You may have passed their headquarters outside town. They’re housed in the Paws for Caring building.”
Laine cocked her head. Where had she seen that building? “Oh, I think I know where it is. What does the Brotherhood do exactly? Guard politicians? Celebrities?”
“Yes to both. But also private investigations, community events. They’re very involved in the town. My friend Tessa just ran a fundraiser for a local animal shelter. I know they workwith the women’s shelter in town.” She frowned. “They do other things too, although I’m not sure about everything they’re involved in.”
“So, they’re one of those ex-military private firms?” said Lainey.
Dani took a bite of the crostini, set it down, and nodded. “Yes, they’re all ex-military, but they’re good guys. They live here in Haywood Lake. It’s kind of their mission to keep things safe close to home and to protect those who need it most.”
“I like that,” Lainey said. “Quiet heroes. We all need those in our lives.”
“For sure.” Autumn took a sip of her martini and smacked her lips. “Delicious.” She looked at Lainey. “I happen to know the guys who work there are hunks.” She winked. “Not that I’m looking.”
“Well, most of them are involved with someone or married, but I have to agree. There’s some serious eye candy over there,” Dani replied with a grin. “Not thatI’mlooking.”
Lainey laughed. “Now I’ll have to keep my eyes peeled. Strictly for research purposes, of course.”
“Of course,” Autumn echoed, raising her glass.
They lingered over drinks and shared plates before choosing a couple of desserts. For the first time in a while, Lainey felt something she hadn’t realized she was missing—friends, laughter, and, more importantly, a connection to a community.
It was peaceful right now. Sweet, even.
But the word protection lingered in her mind long after the conversation moved on.
It comforted her that there were men out there, like Ryker and the Brotherhood Alliance, who were willing to step in and help keep the world safe.
She sipped the last of her martini, watching the fairy lights dance across the lake’s surface.
Not that she needed protection.
But what would it mean if she did?
CHAPTER 5
Finn packedup his tools for the day and waved goodbye to Jimmy, a young kid he was mentoring who was just trying to get ahead.
Back in the day, he’d been Jimmy—young, broke, and looking for something to do. He still thanked God every day that he had found a contractor who had taken a chance on him.
