“He’s lucky you haven’t said good riddance and left,” Lucas noted.

“That could happen someday,” Hollowell said wearily.

“But we’re not at that point yet. Good day, Foxton. Thank you for staving off potential violence.” He inclined his head, then headed down the street toward the tavern.

Thinking how much luckier he was in his friends than Hollowell was, Lucas turned into the house. Tea and sane conversation sounded good.

CHAPTER 25

CHAPTER 25

Kendra stood and moved into Lucas’s arms when he entered the kitchen, not caring if the Browns deduced that she and Lucas were more than just friends. As his protective arms came around her, she gave a sigh of relief. “Thank you for coming up with a sensible compromise, Lucas. If you hadn’t, blood might have been shed.”

“Blessed are the peacemakers. It’s a role I’ve always liked.” He hugged her thoroughly, then released her. “I heard there might be tea on offer?”

“Tea and ginger biscuits,” Mrs. Brown said as she rose to get another mug. “My thanks also. That former husband of yours is a nasty piece of work, Miss Kendra.”

Kendra sighed and returned to her chair to collect another ginger biscuit. “He wasn’t always so dreadful, but these days, I don’t even want to be in the same room with him. And I certainly wouldn’t hand a child over to him!”

“I wonder where that poor lad is?” Mrs. Brown said and she poured more tea for everyone.

“From what Kendra has told me about Christopher,” Lucas said, “he’s a clever lad and would have a plan to find a safe place for himself.”

Kendra nodded agreement. “I’m sure he’s safe and well somewhere. I just wish I had legal custody of him!”

Her comment triggered a discussion about stupidities of the law, which lasted until Kendra rose and said, “Time to get back to Suzanne. She’s Lucas’s almost sister-in-law. She hasn’t been feeling well so I volunteered to come help out with her baby until she’s feeling stronger.” She smiled. “I adore babies and will use any excuse to hold one. Perhaps when she’s older, your new grandson can visit here?”

“I’m sure he shall, and a more adorable baby you’ve never seen!”

“A very right and proper sentiment for a grandmother,” Kendra said with a smile. “I’ll be back here in a few days.”

“I think Denshire has been convinced that Christopher isn’t here,” Lucas said as he pushed his chair back and stood. “But he’s unpredictable and could be dangerous. Which is why I’ve decided Kendra needs a bodyguard.”

Kendra rolled her eyes at the Browns dramatically as she left, but once they were outside on the street, she took hold of Lucas’s arm. “Really, a bodyguard?”