“It helps to get another perspective. In cases like this, sometimes, the victims can’t see what’s right in front of them. They don’t realize the danger because it’s hidden behind a friendly face.” A friendly face could be the most dangerous one in the entire world.

Ben’s lips pressed together. Then, as if considering, he said, “Everyone always loves Piper. At least, that’s the way it seems.”

Someone might love her too much.

She was backing out of the drive. “I’m going behind her. Call me when you’re done with court.” He turned for his vehicle.

“It’s…nice of you to help her out this way. I appreciate it. I owe you.”

Nice? Eric’s shoulders stiffened. “You don’t owe me anything.” He fired a fast glance back at his brother. “I’m not doing this for you. It’s for Piper.”

A half-smile curved Ben’s lips. “Finally gave in to her charm, huh? Like I said…everyone always loves Piper.”

***

She’d been to Wilde Protection and Securities before. More than a dozen times. The tall, dominating building sat in the heart of downtown Atlanta. And Eric’s office—the big corner office on the top floor—offered a killer view of the city.

“Do you want something to drink?” Eric’s assistant gave her a quick, nervous smile before he pushed up the frame of his glasses. Dennis had a friendly, open face. Just out of college last spring, Dennis was a newer hire, one who seemed very eager to make his way at Wilde.

“I’m good, thanks.” She slid onto the nearby couch. Eric wasn’t in the office. He’d escorted her in, then done a quick disappearing act. But he’d asked her to wait there for him.

Her hands twisted in her lap. She wasn’t particularly good at waiting, especially when she kept thinking about her house. The fire. And whoever the hell had set it.

“I’ll be right outside.” Dennis nodded. “If you need me, just call.”

“Thank you, I—”

The door opened behind Dennis. “Piper!” Simon Forrest’s booming voice filled the room as he rushed toward her. “Eric told me about the fire!”

She jumped to her feet, right before Simon hauled her in for a bone-crushing hug. He was as big as Eric, just as tall and as broad in the shoulders. The first time she’d met Simon, he’d asked her out.

Considering that the guy looked like some sort of Viking God…uh, specifically, her favorite, Thor, she’d been way inclined to say yes to him. A dark-haired Thor was pretty awesome.

But then Eric had destroyed those plans. He’d told her that Simon was too dangerous, that the guy lived for adrenaline. An ex-SEAL, Simon wasn’t exactly a safe guy.