And if she’d given it thought, she’d have assumed they’d have an adult conversation before he up and hired a bodyguard and went back to his normal routine. Instead he’d waited until he’d slept with her and then run scared. She had no doubt that’s what had occurred, either.

After an incredible night where he’d opened up emotionally, after they’d given themselves to each other in intimate ways she’d never have imagined, he’d slipped out of bed before her and she’d woken up alone. She had no doubt it had been deliberate. Then his mother had arrived and they’d had no time alone to rehash or discuss, and she honestly thought Jason was relieved. Now she had a bodyguard and Jason’s distance spoke volumes.

Well, it wasn’t like she had nothing to do. Although it had only been this past weekend that she’d provided the treats for Izzy’s son’s birthday, three of her friends had contacted her via email already.

“Faith?” Kelsey called her from the kitchen.

“Yes?” She glanced out at the shop devoid of customers and walked into the back.

The young woman seemed nervous, which was unlike her.

“What’s up?” Faith asked.

“I was wondering if you had more hours for me? My classes this semester are almost over and I–”

“Yes!” Faith didn’t even let her finish. “Yes, of course. As a matter of fact, I was thinking of hiring someone else, as well. It’ll free me up for other parts of the business,” she said, and went on to explain the party favor aspect she’d discovered courtesy of Izzy Dare. “I want to build the business and you’re going to be a key part.”

Kelsey’s eyes lit up at the prospect. “I won’t let you down,” she promised.

And Faith didn’t think she would.

Kelsey returned to work, and Faith headed back out front, her gaze falling on Jack Renault, who looked fierce as his stare held the front door.

She sighed. If this mess didn’t end soon, she wouldn’t have customers. Jack Renault’s expression would scare them off.

Faith walked up to him, meeting his gaze. “Can we talk?”

“What can I do for you, Ms. Lancaster?”

“I want to know why it’s been so hard to find my brother? And if we do find him, how can we prove he’s been vandalizing my business and my house? I need to get my life back!” And so did Jason.

He’d made it clear he was finished giving up his time for her, and she wanted to free him up and get out of his space. As much as it hurt her heart, because she was definitely falling for the man, he couldn’t give her what she wanted or needed. Oh, when he’d made love to her, she’d believed it, but not when he’d shut her out right after.

“Your brother is obviously hanging out with people who aren’t on the radar, so to speak. I haven’t been able to track a cell. He’s gone underground.”