Page 189 of Guarding Grace

“Of course not. She’s a big girl. She can make up her own mind if he ever makes a move.”

Their chemistry had been obvious to all this evening, but so far Zane was playing it cool.

It was only about ten minutes later that Peyton wandered over. “I’ve got to call it a night.” She took Grace’s hand. “I’m so happy for you guys.”

“Thanks for coming,” Grace answered, hugging her. “And thank you for the lovely candlesticks.”

She continued her goodbyes and left.

I didn’t say anything when I noticed Zane exit shortly after she did.

The shout came from the door a few minutes later. “Call an ambulance.” It was Zane, and he carried a limp Peyton.

“You call,” I told Grace as I rushed to the door.

Lucas beat me there. “What happened?”

“She got mugged,” Zane said as he as he set her down.

Peyton moaned. “Let me go.”

“Where?” I demanded.

“Across the street.”

With plenty of people huddled around the pair, I bolted for the door. Outside, I scanned the street, but couldn’t see anybody in either direction. The asshole or assholes had gotten away, so I went back inside.

“No,” Peyton complained. She was sitting up now. “I’ll be fine.”

“I called the cops,” Serena said.

“No cops,” Peyton said louder than I thought necessary. She stood up. “It was only twenty bucks.”

“And your watch,” Zane argued. He was animated as well.

Her wrist was missing the Rolex she normally wore.

“It was a knockoff.” Peyton pulled her arm loose. “I’m going home.”

Zane followed her. “You should go to the hospital and get checked.”

She threw up a middle finger and stomped to the door.

“Look after her,” Lucas ordered.

Zane followed her out of the bar.

My woman wrapped an arm around my waist. “Maybe you should help. I’m worried about her.”

“Zane’s worried enough for both of us.”

With the commotion over, the bar quickly went back to its rowdy self.

I tensed when Pete started our way.

But his demeanor had softened. “Hey, man. I’m sorry about before.” He looked down and took in a labored breath. “She’s my baby sister. I just lost it.”

“Forget it.” I’d expected him to have a hard time accepting anybody being with his little sister, and I damned sure wasn’t going to tell him she wasn’t a baby anymore.