Page 55 of Colton On Guard

For a few minutes, they chatted about inconsequential things. Finally, Lakin pinned Genna with her gaze and got to the point.

“I understand you’re staying with Parker.” Though Lakin asked her question in a casual voice, Genna stressed inside.

“I am, for now. It’s only temporary. I just haven’t felt like it’s safe to go home.”

“I hear you. But I heard you put in an alarm system and new front and back doors. How much safer could your house be?”

Ah, now Genna understood. Though she and Lakin had always gotten along, Lakin asked the hard questions because shewas looking out for her brother. Instead of upsetting her, this made Genna like the other woman even better.

Genna decided there wasn’t any point in beating around the bush. “I’m not taking advantage of Parker, if that’s what you’re thinking,” she said.

Though Lakin’s surprised expression felt gratifying, Lakin didn’t back down. “I think he has feelings for you.”

“If he does, that’s his business,” Genna shot back. “And mine. Both Parker and I are adults.”

Lakin could have bristled, or come back with some kind of sharp retort. Instead, she did none of those things. She stared at Genna for a moment before her mouth curled up and she laughed. “Dang, you’re every bit as prickly as he is.”

“Maybe,” Genna allowed. “But Parker warned me that his family would be talking about this. I suggest, if you want any more detailed information, that you should speak to him.”

Admiration shone in Lakin’s eyes. “I always liked you,” she said. “So, relax. As long as you don’t hurt my brother, I think you and I will get along just fine.”

“You know how Parker is. He does what he wants. Once he makes up his mind to do something, I don’t think anyone can change his mind.”

Lakin nodded. Expression delighted, she clapped. “Oh, wow! You have feelings for him, too.”

Again, Genna didn’t want to start any more gossip. “We’re friends, okay? Don’t make this something it’s not.”

After a brief pause, Lakin sighed. “Fine. It’s just that Parker has been alone for so long, I’ve just been hoping he’d find love.”

“Then take that up with him,” Genna quipped. Then, after a deep breath, she got serious. “Lakin, I’ve always liked you, too. But I need you to understand what’s happening here. I have a stalker. Someone who has broken into my house twice. And slashed all the tires on my car.”

She took a deep breath and then continued. “Someone is calling the office and hanging up numerous times during the day. I went to get my hair cut and someone had canceled my appointment. Eli looked into it, but so far we don’t have any idea who might be doing this. Honestly, I don’t feel safe. That’s the only reason Parker offered to let me stay with him, in his guest bedroom, I might add. That’s all there is. Nothing more.”

Though Lakin grimaced in disappointment, she finally nodded. “Fine. I get it. That said, is there anything I can do to help?”

“I appreciate that.” Genna squeezed Lakin’s arm. “But I think I’m good right now.”

“Were you able to get another hair appointment?” Lakin asked. “If not, I can call my hairdresser and see if she can fit you in.”

“That’s kind, but I was able to rebook. I did tell the salon not to cancel it under any circumstances.”

Finally, Lakin got up to leave. She hugged Genna again, holding on a bit tighter this time. “You take care of yourself, okay?”

Genna promised she would.

“And while you’re at it, take care of my brother, too.” With a broad smile and a wave, Lakin went out the door, leaving Genna staring after her.

CHAPTER 12

Parker couldn’t shake the feeling that he’d overlooked something. The entire time he led his group up the steep trails, he tried to figure out what.

Hell, he wasn’t even sure what his feeling related to. What had happened at Genna’s house? Or to her car? Or the multiple hangs-ups as she answered the phone at RTA.

All around him, the sights and sounds of nature. This trail had long been one of his favorites. This group, which consisted of avid birdwatchers hoping to check a few more species off their list, made appreciative noises at all the usual places. They paused at the halfway point, overlooking a small waterfall.

As the guests milled around, talking quietly among themselves, Parker gazed out over the familiar landscape and all he could see was Genna’s beautiful face. He didn’t notice one of the women moving closer until she bumped elbows with him.

“Penny for your thoughts,” she said, smiling.