She laughed and wondered just how old Briggs was, but she didn’t ask him.
He was probably a decade or so past her. Maybe thirty-eight. Possibly forty, but not over.
Not too old for her at all, she told herself with a smile.
“I’d love to come. But unfortunately, I’m at a benefit. Though I don’t think anyone here actually cares about raising money for charity.’
“I gotcha. Sounds like one of those fancy Hollywood things.”
Riley hoped that didn’t bother Briggs. She never wanted to seem like a celebrity. People tended to act differently around famous people. Though she got the impression Briggs was always himself no matter who he was with.
“It’s boring,” she told him. “I’d much rather be watching the movie with you.” Realizing what she’d said, she quickly added, “And all the other Littles.”
“Wish you could be here.”
He didn’t seem worried about being too forward. But there probably wasn’t a hidden meaning to his words. Briggs was just a nice, friendly guy.
“Maybe we can meet up later this week,” he said.
Riley’s attention was drawn to a commotion ahead, and she looked to see Rowan storming through the courtyard, ranting about nonsensical things.
Seeing his key fob in his hand made Riley’s blood turn cold.
“I’d love that,” she said. “Briggs, I’m sorry but I have to go.”
“No worries. Have fun, Riley.”
She loved hearing him say her name. But right now wasn’t the time to think about that.
Rowan was about to do something potentially awful.
And it seemed that no one was willing to stop him except her.
Chapter Eleven
“One of my favorite movies of all time!” Annika said.
“An absolute classic,” Lana added.
Sitting on the couch, Trevon nodded. “Man, it gets me every time.” He dabbed a tear from his right eye.
Briggs looked at him.
Trevon spread his hands. “What? Nick and Liz were made for each other. It was meant to be.”
Briggs nodded. “You’re right.”
Trevon looked serious as he said, “But don’t tell everyone I cried. I’m not ashamed of my sensitive side. That doesn’t mean everyone needs to know, though.”
“Don’t worry, Uncle Trevon. We won’t tell anyone!” Cami said.
Briggs looked at all the Littles and smiled. He loved being around them, even though they all had Daddies.
Those Daddies—part of the fabled Daddy Guard—were out on assignment, helping someone. So, Athena had invited the ladies over for movie night. And she’d talked Briggs into coming over too.
Once he’d gone home, showered, and changed clothes, he’d gone right back to the mansion for pizza, popcorn, and a film.
It did his heart good to be around them, but he couldn’t help but wish Riley was there.
