She focused on the gurgling fountain and tried to think. She’d been on the phone and distracted when she pulled up. And she knew that was a mistake. She should have paid more attention while walking around alone at night, especially in the middle of downtown.

“Skateboarders,” she said. “That’s all I got.”

His eyebrows arched.

“There were a couple kids on the sidewalk when I showed up.”

“How old?”

“I don’t know. Thirteen? Fourteen? They were probably headed to the parking garage on the corner to use the ramps.”

“Did they look at you? Make eye contact?”

“No.”

Her phone chimed from inside, and she looked through the glass door to see it glowing on her kitchen table.

“Just a sec.” She went inside to check the caller. Javi. If she didn’t answer, he’d worry.

“Hey,” she said. “Can I talk to you later?”

“Just wanted to see how you are.”

“Pretty good.”

“You want me to come by?”

“Thanks, but I’m fine. Just having a beer.”

“God. Have several.”

“I might. And I’ll probably take a bubble bath.”

“Okay, well call me if you need anything.”

“I will. Thanks. And thanks for showing up tonight.”

“Please.”

“You didn’t have to do that. I know you were out, and I ruined your evening.”

“I’m going to pretend you didn’t say that. Ciao.”

“Ciao.”

She set the phone down and went outside, where Brandon was now standing by the fountain, examining the gate leading to her driveway.

She stepped over and looked up at him in the dimness. “Still critiquing my security?”

“Yeah.”

“How is it?”

“Fair.”

She nodded at the gate. “I keep it locked.”

“Good.”

She stepped closer, heart thudding as she drew near enough to feel his body heat. The air between them felt charged, and a confusing array of emotions swirled inside her—nervousness, stress, relief to finally be home.

Relief that she wasn’t in the ER right now. Or worse.

“Thanks for coming over,” she said, and her voice sounded raspier than she’d expected. She cleared her throat. “Weird day.”

He took her hand, shocking her as he gently turned it over. He traced his thumb over her wrist, setting off a ripple of nerves. His fingers were thick and strong, but his touch was featherlight. He released her hand, and she looked up. He gazed down at her, his brow furrowed with concern.

To Leigh’s horror, her eyes filled with tears.

He wrapped his arm around her and pulled her against him. She rested her head on his chest, and it felt like the most natural thing in the world.