The security guard’s phone beeped loudly in the quiet shop.

The guard looked at the screen, then stepped closer to Damon.

“Sir, the local sheriff is headed this way,” the guard said. “A neighbor reported our vehicles blocking the intersection.”

Damon did not even blink.

“Tell the sheriff we are conducting private business,” Damon said. “Offer him whatever is necessary to clear the road.”

I saw the determination in his eyes and knew he meant every word.

He would ruin Marlene’s life, and he would ruin this town, just to force my hand.

I had to protect the people who had kept me safe.

“Please,” I whispered, my voice cracking. “Just let us talk. Without the guards.”

“We will talk,” Damon said. “But not in this shop.”

He reached into his coat pocket and pulled out a sleek, black smartphone.

He set it gently on the flour-dusted counter.

“I have arranged a suite at the lodge down the road,” he said.

“I expect you there in one hour.”

“And if I don’t show up?” I asked.

Damon glanced toward the kitchen curtain where Marlene was hiding.