Page 57 of Colton On Guard
“Sometimes, Genna reminds me of a wild doe,” Parker said, surprising himself for speaking his thoughts out loud. “She’s beautiful but easily spooked. I don’t want to do anything that might make her run.”
“Then take things slow. But at least let her know you care about her.”
Since his brother had his well-being at heart, Parker mumbled something noncommittal and attempted to end the call.
“Wait,” Eli ordered. “I thought you were calling about the cookout. Did you know that Lakin is organizing a cookout. Sunday afternoon, at RTA headquarters? She made sure there aren’t any tours on the books. If you haven’t heard, I’m sure you’ll be hearing from her soon. She expects everyone to be there.”
Parker wasn’t sure how to react to that. “Even you?” he asked, aware of Eli’s busy schedule and how seriously he took this investigation.
“Yes, even me. She thinks it’s time everyone in the family got reacquainted with Genna. I’ve got to run. Talk to you later.” And Eli ended the call.
No one ignored a direct order from Lakin, but since she hadn’t spoken to him yet, Parker briefly considered trying to avoid her. But that would be pointless. When Genna had first come to work at RTA, Parker had tried to organize a get-together at a restaurant. The weather had thwarted that effort and then he’d never attempted to reschedule anything.
A cookout would be fine, he thought. Casual, in a familiar setting, which would set Genna at ease. Truthfully, he wanted his entire family to meet her. Even if she didn’t know it yet, he hoped someday she’d be part of them.
Right now though, he needed to figure out who was stalking her and why. Eli had to focus on the Fiancée Killer, which in the grand scheme of things had a much greater urgency. But Parker wanted to find out who was tormenting Genna. As soon as possible, he planned to put a stop to it once and for all.
When another vehicle pulled into RTA’s lot and parked, again Genna found herself stiffening. She had to get past this fear, she knew. She didn’t intend to live the rest of her life terrified.
When the tall, graceful woman wearing an Alaska State Trooper uniform emerged and headed toward the front door, Genna allowed herself to relax.
It must have been Colton female visit time. First Lakin and now Kansas Colton. Maybe, just maybe, Kansas had come here on official business.
“Welcome,” Genna said, smiling as Kansas strode up to the front counter. Like all of the Coltons except Lakin, who’d been adopted, Kansas had vibrant blue eyes. With her long dark hair pulled back, she looked both competent and professional.
Though Kansas and Lakin had both been several years behind Genna in school, when Genna had worked at RTA during high school, she’d gotten to know them since all of the Colton siblingshad either worked there in some capacity or made a habit of stopping by.
Like Eli, Kansas had gone into law enforcement. From what Genna heard, she was damn good at her job.
“Any news?” Genna asked, not even trying to contain her hopeful eagerness.
“On the Fiancée Killer case?” Kansas shook her head. “Eli is taking the lead on that one.” She came back around the counter. “I just came by to see if you have a minute to talk.”
“I do,” Genna replied. “Let’s go back to the break room. I just made a fresh pot of coffee, but we have soft drinks and bottled water in the fridge.” She glanced around. “Parker’s group just left. He’s around here somewhere, if that’s who you came to see.”
“Nope. I wanted to talk to you,” Kansas answered. “Though I can say hi to Parker, too, if he puts in an appearance.”
“I’m sure he will.”
Kansas grabbed a water and took a seat at the table. Genna, who’d just finished her coffee, poured herself another cup and joined her.
“I heard about what’s going on with you,” Kansas said, covering Genna’s hand with hers. “About your stalker and everything. Lakin told me and then Eli. I’m really sorry you’re having to go through all that.”
“Thanks.” Figuring the next comment would be about her living situation, Genna decided she might as well mention it first. “I’m sure you’ve heard that Parker was generous enough to let me stay in his guest bedroom.”
Kansas nodded. “I did. That’s really kind of him.” A quick smile flashed across her pretty face. “And I’m sure he has no ulterior motive whatsoever.”
Startled, Genna reluctantly laughed. “He’s a good guy. I really appreciate the way he’s helping me.”
“You know my entire family is talking about it.” Kansas thought for a moment. “As they should. Do you have any idea how long it’s been since Parker brought anyone to a family function?”
Before Genna could respond, Kansas answered the question herself. “High school. Since he’s a year older than me, and the last girl he brought home was at senior prom, that’s almost ten years.”
Not sure why Kansas had brought this up now, Genna shrugged. “That’s a long time. But Parker isn’t bringing me home to meet the family. I’d think I would know if he was.”
Kansas stared. “He didn’t tell you about the cookout we’re having here on Sunday? RTA is closed for the afternoon and the entire family is coming, along with their significant others.”
“No.” Perplexed, Genna swallowed. “Is Parker the one organizing it?”