Page 69 of Peaks and Promises

“What?”

“Squirrel—”

“I heard you. What is that? Tilikum has enough squirrels to start an army. Why do they need protecting?”

“They don’t, usually. Although I guess that’s why it started. But they’re more like town security. If anything, they can keep an eye out for unwanted visitors.”

“I’ll talk to Rob Landon,” Garrett said. “He’s the head of the SPS. And I’ll alert Sheriff Cordero. If the deputies know to be on the lookout, we might be able to head them off before they cause trouble.”

“Thanks,” I said. “Appreciate that. And listen, for the time being, Summer doesn’t know I used to be a member. I’ll tell her. But the last few days have been kinda crazy, and it’s probably going to freak her out.”

Zachary winced. “Dude, don’t keep that from her.”

“I said I’d tell her. I just need to figure out how.”

The door opened, and I stared at the woman who walked in. She had dark blond hair and eyes that looked just like mine.

Annika—our baby sister.

Although, she wasn’t a baby anymore. She was a wife and mom of four.

Her eyes locked on me, and she took slow steps toward our table. “It really is you.”

I stood but hesitated. Would she be the one to get angry?

With a smile, she hurried around the table and practically jumped into my arms. I hugged her tight.

“This is surreal.” She stepped back, searching my face. “You look so different.”

“Sorry we didn’t wait for you,” Garrett said. “We weren’t sure if you were coming.”

“No, it’s fine. Sorry I’m late. Will got stuck in a tree.”

“Again?” Luke asked.

“Yes, but a different tree.” She shrugged. “He’s five and has no fear.”

“Glad he’s okay,” I said.

Zachary stood and pulled another chair over. “Do you want a drink?”

“I can’t stay. Levi’s on duty tonight, so I need to get home to the kids.” The heartache in her expression made my chest tighten. “But I wanted to see you, especially if you aren’t staying.”

“He’s staying,” Zachary said. “His friend Summer’s ex is in a motorcycle club, and he wants to kidnap their son. What’s his name?”

“Nate.” I was about to explain, but Z kept talking.

“So Reese brought them here and they’re going to pose as a family to keep them hidden. Also, Reese was gone so long because he got into a life of crime and felt guilty about it. But he’s not into that anymore. He uses his skills for good now.”

Annika’s eyebrows lifted. “Really?”

I nodded. “That’s actually a decent summary.”

“How old is her son?”

“Ten. He’ll be eleven in the fall.”

“Poor guy,” she said. “Sounds like he’s been through quite the ordeal.”