and family where you’re going, how long you’ll be gone?”
“Sometimes—and sometimes not. There are times I’m sent on assignments with little notice. I have to drop my life and do my job. I had to miss my dad’s wedding, and I was his best man—that was the worst. I’ve missed Christmas and birthday parties and anniversaries.”
“Family or girlfriend?” she asked.
“Both.”
“I can see where that might be a problem.”
“It’s a sacrifice. Not just mine, either. But people’s lives are at stake, and I’m one of the people they depend on to make sure nothing happens.”
Grace closed the lid to the peach cobbler and propped her chin on her palm. “I bet you’re really good at what you do. You took a bullet for someone.”
“Part of the job.”
“Well, it’s admirable.” She gave a self-conscious chuckle. “You’ve seen how I handle danger. You don’t want me around in an emergency.”
“I bet you can handle more than you give yourself credit for.” He studied her face for a beat. “Been meaning to ask you something ever since that idiot assaulted you up by the creek. But after today at the park . . . Would you be open to learning some self-defense? You’re a strong woman, but I’d feel better knowing you can protect yourself in a dangerous situation.”
“Would I be able to take down a full-grown man?”
She looked a little too delighted by the idea. “It’s a possibility—eventually. But first we’ll focus on buying a little time so you can get away with your life.”
She sobered a little at the thought, then gave a nod. “All right. You’re on.”
Chapter Thirty-Two
The next morning Grace pulled Levi and Molly into the library. Molly had front desk duty, and Levi and Grace were dressed and ready for church. Wyatt was going with them this morning. The thought put a little spring in Grace’s step, even if she did have the toddler class this week.
“We’re going to have guests checking out,” Levi said.
“This’ll only take a minute.”
“What’s all the secrecy about?” Molly asked as Grace pushed the door shut behind them. “Tell me—my lips are sealed.”
“I just wanted to let you guys know something. It’s about Wyatt, and it’s sensitive information.”
“He’s a convict,” Levi guessed with a straight face. “A felon. He has a rap sheet a mile long.”
“Someone’s been watching too many cop shows. No, Levi, he’s not a convict.” Grace drilled him with a look. “He’s a Secret Service agent.”
Molly gasped. “He guards the president of the United States?”
“He’s not on presidential detail—it takes time to rise in the ranks apparently. But he does guard other people, politicians and dignitaries and such.”
Molly clutched her chest, letting out a swoony sigh. “He puts his life on the line to protect people. How sexy is that?”
“I know, right? I’ve seen him in action too—he’s amazing.”
Levi rolled his eyes. “If it’s true, then I guess I’m relieved.”
“It is true, Captain Dubious. He showed me his badge and everything. Would you like to call his superior?”
“He has a badge,” Molly said giddily. “When you said he was in security, I was thinking police officer or sheriff or—”
“Mall cop?” Levi said.
Grace scowled at her brother. He was really getting on her nerves.
Molly looked at Levi and burst out laughing. “And you assaulted him! You’re lucky Grace stepped in. He would’ve kicked your butt.”
“Ha-ha. I’m not exactly a wimp, you know. I can hold my own.”
Grace quirked a brow at Levi. “What she said.”
“I sure never imagined this,” Molly said. “I mean, how safe are we right now?”
“Yeah, well, he doesn’t broadcast it, so keep it under your hats.” Grace gave Molly a look. “And try not to lose your cool the next time you see him.”
Molly’s eyes widened, blinking. “Who, me?”
* * *
Wyatt faced off with Grace on the yoga mat she’d borrowed from Molly. It was spread out in the inn’s backyard, just off the patio. The sun was high in the sky, the lake starting to get busy with boats. The sweet scent of some flower hung heavily in the air, mingling with the smell of pine and fresh water.
Grace looked adorable in a T-shirt and leggings. She’d worn a pair of tennis shoes, as he’d suggested, and had her hair back in a ponytail. She stood with her feet shoulder-width apart and shifted her weight from one foot to the other like she was a prizefighter.
“Okay, bring it on, big guy.”
He smiled patiently. “Settle down there, Gracie. We’ll just be walking through a few moves today. Proper