Page 22 of Three Months Yesterday

“Just my head of security and Ryan.”

“Whitaker?”

“Yeah. He’s the one who suggested Stonebridge Hollow and The Lantern Inn.”

“Remind me to thank him for that.” Aiden scoffs, his eyes moving to the porch where his son and sister are cuddling together under a blanket having finished their cookies and milk.

The words make me wonder if Ryan had another reason for suggesting this town. Ryan clearly has some kind of relationship with all the Hawthorne siblings. It wouldn’t be a stretch to imagine he knows much more about Aiden than I do. Enough to know he’d do anything to keep his family safe. Including keeping an eye on my situation and keeping me safe in the process.

“Who knows about the possibility of a stalker?”

“My team and Ryan.”

“You’ve been keeping things close to the chest.”

“I’m not one to let people into my world.”

“Hmm,” he hums.

“Big brother,” Madison whispers, both of us missing her quiet steps. Jackson’s passed out in her arms and it’s clear why she’s made her way over to us. “I think it’s time to get this little guy home.”

“Looks like it. I’ll take him.”

Aiden reaches for his son, but Madison gently turns away. “No. If you open the door I’ll get him into his car seat. We don’t want to jostle him more than necessary.”

“Thanks, Mads,” Aiden murmurs, doing as requested. He watches over her shoulder as she gets Jackson situated. It’s not until Madison gently closes the door that Aiden turns to me. “Stop by the station on Monday?” His tone implies it’s a question, but I know it’s a gentle demand.

I give him a nod of confirmation, and before Madison can ask the question forming in her mind, Aiden pulls her in for a quick hug, cutting her off before she can start.

“I love you, sis. I’ll see you tomorrow at Mom and Dad’s for dinner?”

“Yeah. Love you too,” she says absentmindedly, her gaze bouncing between her brother and me.

Aiden doesn’t say anything else and simply climbs into his cruiser, pulling away with a small wave.

“Should I be concerned my brother wants to see you at the station?”

“No.” I’m not sure if that’s the truth, but for now, it’s the best I’ve got.

We stand there a few more minutes, neither of us saying anything. It may have only been one encounter, but I’ve learned my lesson with the oldest Hawthorne sibling. I’m keeping my mouth shut.

Madison studies me a few seconds longer, but the cool air of the fall evening starts to seep through, causing a visible shiver to run up her spine.

“You should get inside,” I hum, not wanting to disrupt the stillness around us.

“But—”

“We’ve got three months, Madison.” My words are soft, a small smile forming at the thought of three months getting to know this woman. “Plenty of time for you to ask your questions.”

Her eyes bounce between mine, but I see the moment she decides to let it go—for now. “All right. I’ll see you around.”

“Most definitely.”

I don’t move as she turns back for her house. I’m still watching her when she makes it to her door, glancing over her shoulder. She doesn’t say anything, but I’m pretty sure I see her take a deep breath, as if she’s surprised I haven’t turned away yet.

“Good night, Madison,” I call.

“Good night, Beckett.”