“Dante,” Mark repeated the name softly. “I remember him. Skulky kind of guy. Would never stare you straight in the eyes for long. Came in my shop once or twice. Told me some BS about looking for inspiration.”

Layla still gripped the phone. “Piper, did your assistant show a special interest in Dante Fallon?”

“She took him out to lunch a few times when he came to the area. He didn’t know the town, and she said she wanted to help him.” Had they been romantic? “Jessica dates a lot of guys. She likes to have fun and—”

“Dated,” Layla cut through her words. “She dated them. She liked to have fun. She’s gone, Piper.”

Piper pressed a hand to her heart. Her heart seemed to burn.

“She’s gone, and Dante Fallon is missing,” Layla said.

Mark pulled his phone from Layla’s hand. “Go find him. Get him to show you his damn chest.” His gaze pinned Piper. “You should have known it wasn’t me.”

Her hand fell to her side. “I’m sorry that you’ve been pulled into this mess.”

“I thought you knew me. That I knew you.” Mark shook his head. “But you were just in there watching me and thinking I was some criminal?” He shouldered past her. “I’m done here.”

She started to hurry after him.

Layla touched her shoulder. “Let him go. Our focus needs to be on Dante Fallon.”

Piper shook off the detective and marched out after Mark. She caught up to him in the hallway. “You could be a target. You have to be on guard. Maybe we can get a police officer to—”

Mark whirled toward her. “I don’t need cops shadowing my movements. You really think the people who visit my shop want to pass a cop on their way in? Way to kill the fun vibe of the place.” He shook his head. “I’ll be on guard. I know how to take care of myself. If that asshole comes my way, I’ll deal with him.” Then he blew out a hard breath. “I’m sorry I exploded on you, okay? This shit—it’s a mess, and you’re in the middle of it.” His lips twisted. “And where is your protection? I thought that your bodyguard was supposed to be staying close at all times, but I don’t see him.”

“That’s because I’m behind you,” Eric announced.

Mark’s shoulders stiffened.

“But thanks for the concern,” Eric added, voice sounding everything but thankful.

Mark’s eyes remained on Piper. “You need me, you know where to find me.” His lips thinned. “And next time, don’t send the cops after me. Come to me yourself.” He spun on his heel and stormed away.

Layla gave a low whistle as she joined Piper in the hallway. “That man has a lot of anger bubbling up inside.”

“Do you blame him?” Piper asked.