Page 4 of Spotted at Lighthouse Bay
Marilyn sat back, arms crossed over her chest. She zeroed her eyes in on him. “Do you think you could do me a favor?”
He stared at her. “It would depend on the favor.”
“Could you track someone down?” She leaned forward. “You know, like a criminal?”
Rick raised an eyebrow. “That’s not what I do.”
“Hm.” She waved a hand. “What is it you do, then?”
“I provide personal protection to those experiencing threats to their safety.”
“Was it Shane, then? Who threatened Adelaide?”
He took a deep breath, looked at her, then back to the swinging door. Adelaide emerged a moment later.
“Sorry about that,” she said, walking toward him. “It’s not that I didn’t believe you. I’ve just never been in a situation like this before.”
“I understand,” Rick said. “It’s wise to be cautious. I’m sorry you weren’t aware before my arrival.”
“Why do you need a bodyguard, Adelaide? What did you do?”
“I’m not sure. Shane didn’t answer, but he left a voicemail saying to expect someone.” She cleared her throat. “Am I really in danger?”
“What do you expect him to say? Of course he’ll say you are.” Marilyn jerked a thumb toward Rick. “Otherwise, he doesn’t get paid!”
“Mom.”
Nothing from the file he’d gotten had indicated this woman lived with her elderly mother. If it had, he might’ve turned it down. “I assure you, you’re in good hands. Out of an abundance of caution, the firm involved in the lawsuit agreed to pay a third party for your protection.”
“Well, ifthatisn’t fishy,” Marilyn continued. “How do we know they’re not the ones that made the threat?”
“I’m an army veteran with a decade of experience in personal security. I have no association with the firm involved in the lawsuit and I can assure you your daughter is in good hands, Marilyn.”
“Please stop insulting my bodyguard, Mom,” Adelaide said, shaking her head. She flashed a smile. “Do you want to take a seat?”
Better to stay by the door. “I’m fine, thank you.”
She set the wine bottle down and took off her coat, gingerly bracing that right arm.
Eliza returned with a tray of tea.
“I’ve got our London Fog blend for you, Grandma,” she said, setting down a tea pot and cup.
Marilyn scrunched her nose. “Is that lavender I smell?”
“Yes, and I’ve got some sugar cookies as well.”
“You’ll like it,” Adelaide said.
Marilyn sighed. “I suppose I’ll get used to it.”
“Is there anything you can tell me about the threat?” Adelaide asked.
Rick cleared his throat. It was enough that her file was barren. Now he had to work through the awkward details. This was what he got for signing up for a job no one else wanted.
“A brick was thrown through your ex-husband’s window.”
Adelaide gasped, her hand going to her mouth. “A brick? Is he okay?”
