AllFreeNovel
Share Us
“Maybe I can help,” Iris said. “I want to know what’s on the jump drive.”
“No.” Fraser’s voice was quiet, but firm. Iris looked at him.
Growing up, Ned had always had a healthy respect for Fraser and Jonas, and more than once they’d jumped in to protect him. But Iris, as the only daughter, had had her scrapes with the two, and now Ned spotted the old spark, the one that had made her and Fraser go round and round in the living room of their home, even as kids.
He even had a memory of her winning a few times, Fraser backing down.
Not today.
“No, Iris. I love you, and I’m not sure how you got involved, and—” Fraser held up a hand to stop her argument—“we’re super grateful for your help. But no. Ned and I and Roy will take it from here. Shae’s in big trouble with some pretty bad people—at least, that’s what we think—and the last thing we want is you getting hurt in any way.”
“Fraser—”
“Nope.” He shook his head, and Ned saw the big brother kick in, a sort of velvet over steel demeanor. “Please, take her home,” he said to Hudson.
“I don’t…we’re not together.”
“Take her home,” Fraser said. “Keep her safe.”
Hudson’s eyes narrowed, but he took a breath and nodded.
“I don’t need his protection, Fraser. I can get home on my own.”
“Where do you live, Iris?” Hudson said.
“Lake Como, but—”
“We’ll grab the first flight.” He pulled out his phone. “I’m getting us an Uber.”
“Seriously.”
Ned stepped forward and pulled her into a hug.
And she stopped fighting. Put her arms around him. Took a breath. “She’ll be okay, little brother. I’ll be praying.” She pulled herself away and met his eyes. “That, I can do.”
“Yes. And thank you.” He managed a smile.
“C’mere,” Fraser said and also gave her a hug. “I love you, sis. Even when you’re ornery.”
“Ornery is one word for it,” Hudson said, and Ned looked at him. Interesting.
“Our Uber is pulling up in front,” Hudson said.
Iris nodded, then looked at Roy. “Get Shae back.”
“I’ll do my best, ma’am.”
She followed Hudson out.
Silence fell between the three men.
“Can’t you Marshalls stay out of anything?”
Ned frowned at him. “I’m not sure I know what you mean.”
Roy sighed. “I know. I know.” Then he shook his head and walked away.
Fraser lifted a shoulder, then followed him.
