Page 17 of Gideon

“Really,”Kat asked, intrigued. What does he do now?”

“He’s married and working for a tech company,” Laney explained.

Kat’s eyes lit up. “We need someone like that. I wonder if he’d be interested in working with us.”

“That’s a great idea,” River said. Do you know how to reach him?”

I looked at Laney as she chuckled. “When you guys decide on something, you don’t waste time! I don’t have his number, but I know someone who does. I’ll ask tomorrow.”

“Where does he live?” River asked. “I could find him with just his name and location.”

“You won’t be able to find Sean,” Laney said, smiling. “His entire life is hidden. He made sure no one could track him down. I’ll have him set up another computer for me—one that’s just as secure.”

“You’re safe with us,” I said, reassuring her. “Are you two ready to go home?”

“Yes. Thank you for dinner—it was delicious,” Laney replied. “Hopefully, I’ll catch some fish tomorrow.”

“It was nice meeting you, Laney,” Gage said, smiling. And you’re welcome. I enjoy feeding people.”

We told the others goodbye and walked down the beach to my home.

“The fishing pole and other equipment are in the garage,” I told her. Feel free to use them whenever you want.”

“Thank you,” Laney said. She and Haley headed to their room, with Bear and Little Bit trotting close behind. I decided it was a good idea for the dogs to sleep with them tonight.

I went into the kitchen and made myself a cup of chamomile tea, hoping it would help me relax. Before heading to bed, I checked all the windows and doors to ensure they were locked. Normally, I left my bedroom window open to hear the waves, but tonight, I decided to keep it closed.

9

Laney

I wokeup before sunrise and headed into the kitchen. Gideon had one of those single-serve coffee makers, so I brewed myself a cup and went to the garage to grab a fishing pole. Fishing was always better in the cool of the morning before the day warmed up.

After washing my coffee cup, I stepped out back. The ocean was stunning, the early light glinting off the waves. Ready for the day, I chose my bait and walked to the water’s edge. I cast the line as far as I could, feeling a familiar rush of excitement.

Almost immediately, I sensed something nibbling at the bait. I waited patiently, letting it take hold, then jerked the pole and reeled it in. This fish was different—stronger. It was putting up one heck of a fight.

I was so focused that I didn’t need to look when Gideon came to stand beside me; his scent gave him away.

“How long have you been wrestling this one?” he asked.

“About fifteen minutes,” I replied without taking my eyes off the water. “I haven’t seen him yet, but I bet he’s big. I’m close to reeling him in.”

“Need a hand?”

“Not a chance. This one’s all mine. I want to look him in the eye and say, ‘I got you.’”

Gideon chuckled and sat down, watching as I fought the fish for another five minutes. Finally, I hauled it in. To my surprise, it was the ugliest fish I’d ever seen.

“What kind of fish is this?” I asked, wrinkling my nose.

“That’s a rockfish. Ugly as sin, but delicious,” Gideon said. “I’ll clean it for you.”

I turned to see Haley standing nearby. She grinned. “Just in time! How about I make pancakes?”

“Yes! I love pancakes,” she squealed, bouncing with excitement.

Laughing, I took her hand while holding the fishing pole in the other. We followed Gideon into the garage, where he had a large sink.

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