“There is nothing like a man with a badge to terrify rambunctious children.” Gaines winked at Ellie. “He doesn’t have to carry a gun. Just a shiny badge and a uniform. He simply needs to look intimidating.”

“That is a brilliant idea.” Ellie perked up. “I know just the person for the job. He used to help manage the farm. He’s retired but still spry. He wanted to retire while he still had some good years in his bones, is what he said. He also said if I ever needed any help to call him.”

“That’s great, Ellie. How old a man is he?” Luna asked.

“Around sixty. He was in very good shape when I last saw him. Just under a year ago. At the grand opening. So, unless he’s gone all flabby in the past twelve months, he might fit the bill.” Ellie leaned back in her chair.

“I think the meeting of the round table has been productive.” Cullen took the last sip of his coffee. “I need to get to work.”

“And you, sir,” Luna pointed to Gaines, “have to review our puzzle before you leave.”

Cullen got up and brushed against Chi-Chi accidentally. He was mortified. “I am so terribly sorry.” Cullen spewed an apology.

Chi-Chi was happy her honey-toned skin didn’t reveal the blush in her cheeks. “It is not a problem.”

Luna piled the dishes, cups, and the basket onto the tray and placed it on the counter. Ellie said her goodbyes and thanked Gaines for his superb suggestion.

“If it doesn’t work out, let me know. I might have a few contacts of retired law enforcement in the area.”

“Thanks again.” Ellie gave him a hug.

“I must get to my shop,” Chi-Chi said to the group. “Enjoy the rest of the morning. Have a safe trip home.” She waved to Gaines as she turned to leave.

Luna could barely contain her excitement. She, Cullen, and Gaines were on another “assignment” together. She put the sign on her door that said:

PLEASE GO NEXT DOOR FOR SERVICE

Even though the sensor would trigger a bell in Cullen’s workshop, a sign was helpful.

“Let’s do this,” Luna said playfully, as she bounced toward the rear of Cullen’s showroom and into the workshop. She was as excited as a child would be going to an amusement park.

Gaines paused for a moment to enjoy her boundless enthusiasm. She was part nymph and part woman. Luna stopped in her tracks and turned to him. “Everything all right?” She cocked her head.

Gaines’s smile was from ear to ear. “Everything is just fine.”

“What’s so funny?” she asked.

“Your excitement to solve a puzzle,” Gaines replied.

“Well, isn’t that what you do at your job? Solve puzzles? You just call them cases.” She smirked at him.