Page 4 of Protecting Lainey (Broterhood Alliance #7)

The tall windows flooded her bedroom with sunlight. Ugh. Time to invest in blackout shades if she ever wanted to sleep late. Not that Luke ever let her sleep late.

That was the dream.

Reality was a nine-year-old boy with too much energy too early in the morning.

The pale gray floor-length drapes at each corner looked beautiful but weren’t cutting it. Still, the high ceilings and tall windows were just one more reason why she bought this townhome. It felt open and fresh.

She’d painted the walls a soothing gray, trimmed the woodwork in bright white, and layered the space in soft textures. The bed coverings were cream and brown, and a patterned rug in smoky neutrals covered the floor. It was sleek but homey, and she loved it.

After stretching the kinks out of her back, she padded into her en suite, the tile cool under her feet.

She showered with her favorite lavender body wash, brushed her teeth, and pulled on a sleeveless top and a pair of shorts.

Florida mornings started cool, but the heat rolled in fast. She paused at the doorway, cocked her ears to hear if Luke was up or not. No sounds yet.

Perfect.

Lainey hoped to steal a few minutes alone on the screened-in lanai with a cup of coffee before he got up.

She peeked into Luke’s room. Still asleep.

His sweet little face was smooshed into the pillow, with only the top of his head visible.

The space-themed comforter he chose for his bed had already slid onto the floor.

His Lego creations lined the bookshelves, surrounded by well-loved books. Reading was one of his greatest pleasures, right up there with building and all things space. The glow-in-the-dark stars they put up on the ceiling were fading fast in the morning light.

She smiled, then tiptoed downstairs, put on the coffee and grabbed her computer to catch up on emails. When the sharp smell of freshly brewed coffee hit her nose, she put the computer down. Nothing of interest this morning, thankfully.

Mug in hand, she stepped onto the screened-in lanai.

Sipping the hot elixir while she looked out over the peaceful lake was the perfect way to start her day.

The lanai was big enough for a suite of patio furniture and a table but no grill. She didn’t grill. Never had.

She settled into the rocking chair—her favorite seat—and set the mug on the small table next to it.

The chair creaked softly as she rocked. The lake was just coming alive.

Already a small family of mallards was swimming around, making soft noises.

Last year, a pair of wood ducks had taken up residency but left.

They were quite beautiful but loud as hell.

The morning air was cool but would warm up fast. Later, it would be hot.

This was normally a sweet moment alone for her.

Not today.

She couldn’t stop thinking about the graffiti from yesterday. Was it just local kids acting out like the police thought? Or something more?

Could Richard have found her?

He knew she was moving here. Knew her mother lived not far from here. But would he really stoop that low? Sure, they parted on less than positive terms, but she never thought he’d lash out like this. Then again, Richard always hated losing control.

Bah. She curled her fingers tighter around the mug. This was her time. Her second chance.

She wasn’t going to waste it on Richard. Or for that matter, let anything else derail the life she was building. Not again.

Lainey took a slow sip of coffee.

Her thoughts wandered ahead to the evening. Zara was babysitting, and Luke was thrilled. He’d already planned their evening activities, complete with a movie, snacks, and a Lego build-off.

As for her, she was going adulting.

Lainey giggled. Adulting. What a silly word that meant so much more.

She’d be meeting a couple of girlfriends at Sugar Crush, a new dessert and cocktail bar, nestled on the edge of Haywood Lake.

A night out. With friends. With laughter, drinks, and chocolate. The kind of night she hadn’t let herself enjoy in far too long.

What could be better?

The low hum of conversation and laughter mixed with the clink of glasses and the warm scent of cinnamon, lemon zest and something sexier—caramelized sugar!

Yum.

Lainey paused just inside the door of Sugar Crush, taking it all in.

The interior was dim and shimmered with golden pendant lights shaped like upside-down champagne flutes hanging from the ceiling, casting a soft glow over a display case of yummy-looking desserts.

The place was cozy but chic with midnight-blue walls, glossy black tables in the center with rattan chairs and navy cushions, and smooth leather banquettes in slate gray lining the edges.

A sleek marble bar curved along one wall. Several bartenders moved with graceful rhythm. Soft jazz played overhead. Beyond the bar, tall windows opened onto the lakefront patio strung with tiny fairy lights. A few tables with candles flickering in the breeze overlooked the dark water.

She scanned the room until she spotted Dani tucked into a corner table near the windows. Her friend caught sight of her and waved her over. Lainey smiled. As she walked over, something in her loosened.

This wasn’t just a girls’ night out; it could be the beginning of her new life. One dessert at a time.

She felt beautiful even though she hadn’t dressed for anyone in particular.

The navy jumpsuit wasn’t new, but it was one of her favorites. It hugged her in all the right places and made her feel confident. Gold hoops and a bracelet were a last-minute touch. Her hair was down, tucked behind one ear. She caught a glimpse of herself in the glass and didn’t look away.

Damn. She looked hot.

The two women hugged and settled into the plush cushions.

“You look terrific. Is that outfit new?” asked Dani, giving her the once-over.

Lainey shook her head. “I just haven’t had an occasion to wear it lately.”

Dani smiled and pushed a lock of her honey-blond hair behind her ear. “Well, we need to change that.”

“Humph.” Lainey gave her a small smile. “I truly don’t need a man in my life right now.”

Dani waggled her brows. “Who said anything about a man? I mean, you need more occasions. You deserve to have some fun, get dressed up, go out and laugh.”

“True.”

“And maybe flirt a little?” Dani gave her a sly smile. “I happen to know a few sexy men.”

“You’re incorrigible.” Lainey sighed. “I’ve given up on men. Luke keeps me on my toes. My job keeps me busy. I don’t have time to date.”

“Poo.” Dani’s attention moved to the door. “Oh good. Autumn is here. You’re going to love her.”

She waved across the room. “Autumn!”

A woman with chestnut hair pulled into a messy bun stepped in, looked around and returned the wave. Lainey loved Autumn’s sleeveless round-neck crop top and wide-legged cropped pants in brick red. She made a note to ask her where she had purchased them.

Dani rose to greet and hug her, then turned to introduce her.

“Lainey, meet Autumn Bennett, preschool teacher extraordinaire and seriously talented photographer.”

“All true.” Autumn slid into the booth and smiled. “So, Dani tells me you’re in charge of revitalizing the historic downtown.”

“Trying, anyhow,” Dani said with a laugh.

They were interrupted by Bree Gallagher, the owner of Sugar Crush. Tonight, her blue-black hair was in a high ponytail, and she had on one of the retro outfits she favored: a pink, short-sleeved belted dress with strawberries on the skirt. She looked adorable.

“Oh, Lainey, I’m so glad you made it.”

“Sugar Crush is amazing,” Lainey replied. “When Brian told me about this place, he undersold it.”

“Brian?” asked Dani.

“Brian Gallagher owns Brick & Barrel. A gastropub that is going to open in the historic district,” Lainey replied, then hesitated. “Soon, I hope.”

That is, if she could stop whoever was trying to sabotage her project. Lainey sure wasn’t mentioning that. No need to dampen the festive spirit until she knew what was happening.

Bree handed over menus. “Drinks tonight are on me.”

“You don’t have to do that,” Lainey said.

Lainey glanced at the menu, which offered small bites like charcuterie boards, beef and caramelized onion crostini, rosemary flatbreads, goat cheese croquettes. They were paired with desserts and cocktails, and Lainey wanted one of each.

“It’s my way of saying thank you.” Bree turned to Autumn with a nod. “This lady here has photographed just about everything I’m offering, making them look better than they taste.”

Autumn laughed. “Not true. I have yet to be disappointed, especially with your chocolate martini.”

“Well,” Bree said with a wink. “Tonight’s specials are a Coconut Cream Martini and a Clementine Sparkler as well as whatever else is on the menu.”

Lainey groaned. “I’d have one of each, but I have to drive home. Let me try the Coconut Cream.”

“I’ll have the Sparkler,” said Dani.

“Make that two,” piped up Autumn.

“And what do you suggest pairing with our drinks?” Dani asked.

Bree grinned. “Well, with the Sparkler, the crostini with whipped ricotta and clementine slices. For the Coconut Cream,” Bree continued, turning to Lainey, “something richer, like the coconut shrimp skewers with a sweet chili glaze. Actually, everything on the menu is good.”

“Sold.” Lainey looked at the women. “Let’s pick a couple more appetizers but leave room for dessert.”

After Bree left with their orders, Lainey turned to Autumn. “I’d love to see your photographs sometime.”

“Oh, you should see the photos she took at the wellness event at Spiritual Bliss,” said Dani. “So, I originally met Autumn at Jack’s preschool. Her son, Mason, was also a student.”

Wow. Teacher, photographer, and mom. Lainey was impressed. That was a lot of hats to wear. Then again, most of the moms she met worked. Most were married. And somehow, they managed to fit everything in.

Now she just needed a hobby.

“I’d love to see what you’re planning for the historic district,” said Autumn. “It’s about time the city rejuvenated it.”

Lainey nodded. “It’s going to look great when it’s done. New stores, refurbished buildings, more people, excitement.”

“I’d love to do some professional shots,” Autumn said. “No charge. Revitalizing the area is something the community is interested in.”

“Wow, that’s generous. And unexpected,” said Lainey. “Let’s get together and set up a time in the next week or so.”

“Absolutely.”

Dani clapped softly. “This is so exciting. And it’s such a small world. Autumn’s son, Mason, is in another class, but they’re all fourth graders.”

They talked for a little while about the spa, photography, school projects and the historic district. Autumn asked how Ryker was doing and if he was still building furniture.

Dani smiled and took a sip of water. “He is. Although recently he’s been out on several security details.”

“Oh. Where does he?—?”

The conversation was interrupted when the server returned with their appetizers and drinks. Everything smelled delicious, and the appetizers were arranged like edible artwork. The crostini shimmered with bright orange citrus slices, and the coconut shrimp skewers were golden and crispy.

But the drink, oh my. Lainey took a sip of her Coconut Cream Martini and sighed. “This is dangerous.”

But then the word security popped back into her mind.

It wasn’t new to her. She’d heard that word too many times from Richard. He’d always hired security firms, bodyguards, and consultants for every project, although it seemed like they were there more to intimidate than protect. She never understood his obsession with control.

But Dani’s husband?

There was nothing controlling about Dani. She looked happy. Safe.

“What kind of security?” Lainey finally asked, her fingers tightening on the glass.

“He works for the Brotherhood Alliance,” said Dani. “You may have passed their headquarters outside town. They’re housed in the Paws for Caring building.”

Laine cocked her head. Where had she seen that building? “Oh, I think I know where it is. What does the Brotherhood do exactly? Guard politicians? Celebrities?”

“Yes to both. But also private investigations, community events. They’re very involved in the town.

My friend Tessa just ran a fundraiser for a local animal shelter.

I know they work with the women’s shelter in town.

” She frowned. “They do other things too, although I’m not sure about everything they’re involved in. ”

“So, they’re one of those ex-military private firms?” said Lainey.

Dani took a bite of the crostini, set it down, and nodded. “Yes, they’re all ex-military, but they’re good guys. They live here in Haywood Lake. It’s kind of their mission to keep things safe close to home and to protect those who need it most.”

“I like that,” Lainey said. “Quiet heroes. We all need those in our lives.”

“For sure.” Autumn took a sip of her martini and smacked her lips. “Delicious.” She looked at Lainey. “I happen to know the guys who work there are hunks.” She winked. “Not that I’m looking.”

“Well, most of them are involved with someone or married, but I have to agree. There’s some serious eye candy over there,” Dani replied with a grin. “Not that I’m looking.”

Lainey laughed. “Now I’ll have to keep my eyes peeled. Strictly for research purposes, of course.”

“Of course,” Autumn echoed, raising her glass.

They lingered over drinks and shared plates before choosing a couple of desserts. For the first time in a while, Lainey felt something she hadn’t realized she was missing—friends, laughter, and, more importantly, a connection to a community.

It was peaceful right now. Sweet, even.

But the word protection lingered in her mind long after the conversation moved on.

It comforted her that there were men out there, like Ryker and the Brotherhood Alliance, who were willing to step in and help keep the world safe.

She sipped the last of her martini, watching the fairy lights dance across the lake’s surface.

Not that she needed protection.

But what would it mean if she did?