Page 33 of Island Rescuer

“Sure thing.” She grabbed utensils too and set the table.

He brought over the steaming casserole and served them both. “You don’t look like a woman who is about to best her older brother at the next quarterly meeting.”

“It won’t be easy. If nothing else, I might challenge him to darts or something.”

“You’re good at darts?”

Her lips pursed as she blew lightly on the bite of food on her fork. His body tensed up.

“I’m better than Rhett.”

He believed her. “The Pelican Pub has a few dart boards.”

“I’m aware.” Now she grinned. “That’s where I’ve been practicing. Rhett has no idea how badly I will trounce him next time we get together.”

Knox would love to see that. The siblings were highly competitive, but also adored each other. It was a remarkable balance, especially from his point of view as an only child with extremely selfish parents.

“If you need solid proof, we could go over tonight,” she suggested. “But you had another surprise. Sorry, my brain is mush.”

“Eat up,” he suggested. “And yes, I do have a surprise.” Maybe they could swing by the pub for a little bit. There was usually live music on Friday and Saturday nights. With a couple of calls, it could be arranged. “It doesn’t have to be tonight.”

“Of course it does. You’re excited about it,” she said. “Darts will wait until the idea of going out doesn’t throw you into logistics mode.”

He gave her a long look and decided not to argue when he had the win. Besides, the comment indicated she’d been watching him and he liked the way that made him feel.

When dinner was done, she insisted on cleaning up. He let her handle the dishes while he stowed the leftovers in the fridge.

“Can I count on you to behave and stay put for a few minutes?”

“When have I ever misbehaved?” She propped a hand on her hip. “Ask anyone in the family. I’m the perfect kid.”

He chuckled. She only spoke the truth. He wasn’t sure quite how she made it all the way through college without ever putting a toe out of line. “All the doors and windows are locked except for this one,” he said. “I’ll be back in less than ten minutes.”

“I’ll be here,” she promised.

He hustled out to the fire pit and got a small fire started. Stepping back, he remembered her nightmare. And the horrible fishing trip. Was it too soon? Maybe this was the worst idea ever. If she hated it, he’d take her to the pub and salvage the evening, somehow.

He scanned the horizon and mentally crossed his fingers she’d be okay. The skies were clear and out here, away from any city lights, the stars would be incredible. A breeze kicked up and he decided to bring down a blanket or two in case she got cold.

He jogged back to the house and found Harper in the kitchen. She’d set out jackets for both of them, along with a stack of beach towels. He gave her a look.

“You headed to the beach,” she said. “I assumed you set up the fire pit.”

“Did you look in this bag?”

She shook her head, her lips twitching with humor. “I never misbehave,” she reminded him, batting her eyelashes.

“I’m going to believe you.” He picked up the grocery bag and opened the door for her. “Come on.” He paused to use the key to throw the bolt, then his phone to set the alarm. He wouldn’t take any chances with her safety. “There’s no reason to worry, but I refuse to be careless.”

“And the cove?”

“Covered.” At her questioning gaze, he added, “Jess sent over more cameras. I installed them the other day. No one will sneak up on us.”

“Awesome.”

She sounded excited and her eyes sparkled. As they walked away from the house, the evening air blew away the last of his worry. Until they reached the fire pit.

“Too soon?” The fire had caught and the flames glowed brightly in the pit. “What do you think?” Her smile seemed to freeze on her face. He swore softly. “Talk to me, Harper.”

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