By the time I had my coffee and had driven to Grace’s place, I’d put the encounter to the back of my mind, pleased to see that Kennedy’s Subaru Outback wasn’t parked on the curb. I’d rather avoid her if possible. Coffee in hand, I walked to the front door of the main house and knocked. It took a few seconds for Grace to answer. Her hair was loose around her face, which was uncommon for her, and she was wearing a tank top and a pair of denim shorts that showed off long, shapely legs. Not for the first time, I wished Grace was my type. She’d have been a much easier woman to care for than Kennedy. Although Nate might have torn me apart if I’d ever made a move on her.

“I’m hoping you won’t mind if I upgrade the security for the cottage,” I said as she gave me a knowing look. “I picked up some equipment earlier today.”

“What kind of equipment?” She leaned against the door frame.

“A couple of cameras, motion sensors, and a keypad for the entrance.” I fidgeted, knowing she’d read into the fact I was here, and that she was right to. No matter how much I wished I didn’t care about Kennedy, I did.

“Just for the cottage?” she asked, cocking an eyebrow.

“Yeah.” My cheeks heated. “Say whatever you need to. I’ll wait.”

Her lips quirked. “There’s nothing to say, Liam. I’ve been thinking about having the security upgraded anyway, so it was timely of you to drop by. Why don’t we head out there, and you can show me what you have in mind?”

I stared at her, waiting for the other shoe to drop. Could it be that simple? I’d basically told her I still cared for Kennedy, and she hadn’t pried. Hadn’t demanded more information or made me feel uncomfortable. In fact, she seemed to be going out of her way to make it easier for me. “Sounds good.”

“I’ll just put some shoes on.” She slipped on a pair of boots with a low heel that made her even taller. “Kennedy is out at the moment.”

I nodded, a lump dislodging from my throat. While Grace might be willing to let me off the hook, I doubted Kennedy would do the same, so I was grateful to know I wouldn’t have to explain to her. Hell, if I was in and out before she got back, I might be able to prevent her from knowing I’d been here at all.