“Better you than me,” said Colt Zander, wiping foam from his lip. “Felicia keeps trying to get us to adopt chickens. So far, I’ve stalled her by reminding her that I fix engines, not build coops. Felicia can visit Isabelle and Will’s farm anytime to get her chicken fix.”
The guys chuckled. Isabelle was Colt’s sister and Felicia, her best friend. They were chased to Haywood Lake by the mob. Will and Colt stepped in to rescue them.
What was it with all the guys falling for the women they rescued?
Even Chase and Naomi had their story.
Enough! He wasn’t going down memory lane anymore. He came here to enjoy an afternoon with the guys. After a lull,Finn leaned back against the booth, one arm draped over the backrest.
“So,” he said, turning to Chase. “How did the fundraiser do?”
Chase nodded. “Better than anyone expected. Everyone was incredibly generous between the silent auction and ticket prices. Several companies bought tables, and the program book made enough to pay for the venue.”
That was great news. It felt good knowing they could make a difference. That woman and kids like the little family he rescued would have a better shot at gaining their lives back because of last night.
“On another note”—Chase’s expression sobered—“we have some footage from the exterior cams late last night.”
Finn’s heart plummeted. “Any damage done?”
“No. But someone scoped the place around 2a.m. Didn’t get too close or leave prints. Just stood there for about fifteen minutes and then disappeared.”
“They’re watching.” He let out a heavy sigh. “Catch a plate or vehicle?”
Chase shook his head. “No, too close to downtown. Plus, Lainey only has part of the project. Cameras can’t cover what she doesn’t control.”
Finn rubbed a palm along his jaw.
He didn’t want to hear this.
But at the same time, if someone was increasing their vigilance, maybe they’d have a chance to catch them and stop this once and for all.
“Good,” he muttered. “Let ’em come.”
Let them make the mistake of thinking no one was paying attention.
Because this time?
Someone was watching back.
CHAPTER 20
Lainey finishedher sandwich and tossed the crumpled wrapper into the trash. Mondays were always slow to start but today dragged on. The spreadsheet on her screen didn’t help. Not with all the red in the wrong places.
Still, she was glad she’d gone to the fundraiser Saturday night and made a mental note to see how much it made. It had been fun. More than fun, actually. It reminded her of who she used to be. Before things got complicated. Before she was juggling payroll, permits and vandalism.
Sunday had been a gift. Her mom had taken Luke to the zoo so Lainey could have a full day to herself.
Great excuse to pamper. She took a long, indulgent bath with candles, music playing softly in the background, and the soap Isabelle gave her. Looking for Love. The name made her laugh, but the coconut soap was luxurious. And a little bit flirty, just like Isabelle promised.
Kind of like the old Lainey. The one who took long baths just because. The one who enjoyed life and laughed.
Where had that girl gone?
Right then, with soft skin and a quiet house, she felt like her old self.
For shits and giggles, she had snapped a picture of the bath bubbles, candles, the bar of soap and sent it to her new friends.
Isabelle texted back immediately. “Knew you would love it. You’re welcome.”
