“When that kid said that, I got mad and reacted—that was my only defense to my father. Because I was mad, I didn’t notice he was smaller than me and said it because his friends goaded him into it.”
“Why tell me that?”
She smiled and moved her hand to his cheek. The older Hayden got the more he resembled her father. “I want to explain why I did what I did today. But before I do tell you, why do you think I gave in?”
“I thought—” he stopped and cut his eyes down again.
“Say it,” she said. “When it’s you and me by ourselves, don’t be afraid to say what you’re thinking.”
“You gave right in. That didn’t make you look very strong. It’s almost like you were afraid of those guys, and you were innocent. You’re supposed to stand up for yourself no matter what.”
“Son, being strong is knowing when to give in. I didn’t go because I was weak and scared.” She ran her fingers through his hair and sighed. “I was trying to be strong and show no fear. I unclenched my fists and used my head, like I should’ve done with that kid a long time ago. It’s like I always tell you.”
“I know, don’t let anger rule your brain.”
“Maybe I should have you talk to Muriel,” she said, laughing, and shook her head when he looked at her like he didn’t understand. “And remember, it’s all right to be afraid. Don’t try to live thinking nothing will ever scare you, because that’ll only make you more reckless than some hothead.”
“I’ll keep that in mind, thanks.”
Cain stood up and hugged him, liking how solid he felt in her arms. “Thank you for taking care of your mother and Hannah until I got back.”
“You said it was my job, but I like having them here to take care of.”
She smiled and left him to his video games to join Emma and Hannah next door. Emma was sitting on the floor surrounded by the doll clothes Cain had bought for Hannah’s new favorite companion. At the moment the doll Hannah had named Becky was naked and hanging upside down in Hannah’s arms as the little stylist struggled to get her shoes off.
Cain stood right outside the door and watched Emma. Her blond hair was a little longer than usual, so as she studied the outfits she had to brush it back more often. During their talk Hayden hadn’t asked what did scare her, but here in this house was her greatest fear—that someone or something would take away these moments by either locking her up or harming Emma and the kids.
That fear made her wish she’d had that talk with Dalton. How did he balance his business obligations with keeping his family whole?
“You okay?” Emma asked from right in front of her.
The question brought Cain back from where her mind had flown to. “I hate to break up this play date, but how’d you like to have dinner with me? It’s a double date with Remi.”
“What’s the special occasion?”
“I was planning to bait Juan, but any more of that and I might land in central lockup.”
“Forget about him.” Emma lifted her hand and kissed her fingertips. “He’s not important enough to worry over.”
“Whatever you say, Mrs. Casey.”
“Worry about finding something for Miss Becky to wear, or you might have to go shopping again.” Cain laughed and followed Emma into the room.
Juan, no matter what Emma thought, did warrant worry, but that was Cain’s job. The role she played and accepted with all her heart was to worry, fix, and eliminate concerns and threats so her family could have these carefree moments. Perhaps that’s what Dalton’s answer would’ve been.
Chapter Twenty-Four
Remi’s phone rang right after she pressed the buzzer to Dallas’s front door. “Change your mind?” she asked about their double date with Cain and Emma for dinner, recognizing the number.
“Don’t you wish,” Dallas said. “Could you work your charm on the lock again? I’m almost ready but not quite.”
Simon stood with her back to Remi as Remi quickly unlocked the gate, and as it closed behind them it seemed someone flipped a switch on the noise as well. The door to the house was open, and when they stepped in they found the drinks Dallas had poured.
“She’s a great hostess,” Simon said, taking a seat in one of the wingback chairs by the fireplace.
“True,” Remi responded automatically. Since Dallas was still upstairs she walked slowly around the room.
The house, or what parts of it she’d seen, were comfortable and so tastefully put together they could be in a magazine layout. Beautiful artwork hung on the walls, and mementos of Dallas’s work sat on the mantel and other pieces of furniture.
“You’re snooping.”
Remi put down the badge Dallas had been issued for
“Looks good to me.”
“It’s great, but you could move in here and not feel like you’re invading anyone’s space.”
