“Part of the job.”
“Well, it’s admirable.” She gave a self-conscious chuckle. “You’ve seen how I handle danger. You don’t want me around in an emergency.”
“I bet you can handle more than you give yourself credit for.” He studied her face for a beat. “Been meaning to ask you something ever since that idiot assaulted you up by the creek. But after today at the park... Would you be open to learning some self-defense? You’re a strong woman, but I’d feel better knowing you can protect yourself in a dangerous situation.”
“Would I be able to take down a full-grown man?”
She looked a little too delighted by the idea. “It’s a possibility—eventually. But first we’ll focus on buying a little time so you can get away with your life.”
She sobered a little at the thought, then gave a nod. “All right. You’re on.”
Chapter Thirty-Two
The next morning Grace pulled Levi and Molly into the library. Molly had front desk duty, and Levi and Grace were dressed and ready for church. Wyatt was going with them this morning. The thought put a little spring in Grace’s step, even if she did have the toddler class this week.
“We’re going to have guests checking out,” Levi said.
“This’ll only take a minute.”
“What’s all the secrecy about?” Molly asked as Grace pushed the door shut behind them. “Tell me—my lips are sealed.”
“I just wanted to let you guys know something. It’s about Wyatt, and it’s sensitive information.”
“He’s a convict,” Levi guessed with a straight face. “A felon. He has a rap sheet a mile long.”
“Someone’s been watching too many cop shows. No, Levi, he’s not a convict.” Grace drilled him with a look. “He’s a Secret Service agent.”
Molly gasped. “He guards the president of the United States?”
“He’s not on presidential detail—it takes time to rise in the ranks apparently. But he does guard other people, politicians and dignitaries and such.”
Molly clutched her chest, letting out a swoony sigh. “He puts his life on the line to protect people. How sexy is that?”
“I know, right? I’ve seen him in action too—he’s amazing.”
Levi rolled his eyes. “If it’s true, then I guess I’m relieved.”
“It is true, Captain Dubious. He showed me his badge and everything. Would you like to call his superior?”
“He has a badge,” Molly said giddily. “When you said he was in security, I was thinking police officer or sheriff or—”
“Mall cop?” Levi said.
Grace scowled at her brother. He was really getting on her nerves.
Molly looked at Levi and burst out laughing. “And youassaultedhim! You’re lucky Grace stepped in. He would’ve kicked your butt.”
“Ha-ha. I’m not exactly a wimp, you know. I can hold my own.”
Grace quirked a brow at Levi. “What she said.”
“I sure never imagined this,” Molly said. “I mean, how safe are we right now?”
“Yeah, well, he doesn’t broadcast it, so keep it under your hats.” Grace gave Molly a look. “And try not to lose your cool the next time you see him.”
Molly’s eyes widened, blinking. “Who, me?”
***
