She climbed the steps to the porch and realized he was no longer beside her. She turned and found him standing at the bottom of the steps. The storm of emotions whirling between them had formed a barrier, or more likely in his gruff mind, a warning. The steps brought them almost eye to eye. Tracey could barely think past her racing heart, so she didn’t even try to think, and let her emotions lead. “Thank you for pushing me to go out tonight. I had a good time.” She leaned in and kissed his cheek, whispering, “You can trust me with your secrets.” When she drew back, his hard eyes met hers. A tough pill to swallow. “I guess I’ll see you at work tomorrow.”

“I’ll be out here.”

It took a second to realize what he meant. “But Izzy’s here, and you said I don’t need to worry or have anyone watching out for me anymore.”

“I’m staying.”

“Diesel—”

“I’m not doing it for you, Trace.” He turned and walked away, leaving her baffled.

As she went inside, she had a feeling that might never change.

Izzy bolted to her feet on the other side of the living room, wearing a tight gray minidress, her feet bare. Her straight black hair swung along her shoulders as she ran to Tracey and threw her arms around her. “I’m so sorry I wasn’t here for you.”

Tracey winced, but hugged her back. “It’s fine. I’m fine. How was your visit with your family?”

“They’re amazing, and Susan’s pregnant! I can’t wait for her baby shower. I’m going to spoil that baby rotten.” Susan was married to Izzy’s oldest brother, Jeremy. Izzy took Tracey’s hand, leading her to the couch. “More importantly, how are you?”

“I’m okay. I was shaken up pretty bad, but I feel better now. Diesel said the guys who attacked me aren’t going to get out on bail. I don’t know what he did to their friend, but I guess he took care of him, because he said I don’t have to worry about him coming back to town.”

“Good. I hope he broke his legs. Are you sure you’re okay?”

“Yeah, just a little sore. It’s funny what being abused for years will do to a person. As scared as I was, I think I was even more angry. But I’m fine. I promise.”

“Okay.” Izzy let out a breath of relief. “Then give me the good stuff. What did I just witness between you and Diesel? It looked like he hugged you by his truck. Did you crack that stone?”