“We don’t need a retainer for that, Cain. I’ve made enough in my life to live the way I want, and these jobs are a way of staying safe in my retirement.”

“I’d never move against you,” she said, shocked that he’d think she’d do something like that to him.

“I think you misunderstand me,” Nathan said, putting both hands up. “These favors I do for you, with you picking up the fees, I think of as me being able to call you when I have a problem.”

That made more sense. He was savvy that way. “Sorry, and that’s a given. Dallas and her sister are family to us, and without you, both of them would still be out there struggling. Let me know if you need anything, and I’ll take care of it.”

“Maybe the fee I’ll take this time is dinner with you and your lovely wife. I figure she won’t go with me alone,” Nathan said with a wink.

It took Cain a second to smile, but she did when Emma pinched her hand, harder this time.

“I’d consider the invitation if I wasn’t so happily married,” Emma said with a small laugh. It was obvious Emma thought of Nathan as harmless.

“Find her,” Cain said, “and I’ll treat you to whatever you like…within reason.” There was nothing wrong with putting down some parameters, especially when it came to someone infatuated with Emma. “That woman did something important to bring down a sick empire, and she deserves the fresh start she wants.”

“I’ll find her, and I promise to rush.” Nathan stood and buttoned his jacket. He took the opportunity to kiss both of Emma’s hands again before he left with another promise to call as soon as he was done.

“He’s kind of hilarious.” Emma laughed and shook her head.

“Yeah, a real riot,” she said before calling Lou back in. “Hey, see if you can get us a flight. We’re done, and I’d like to get back and do a little more legwork on some stuff.”

“If we push it, there’s a flight in an hour and a half,” Lou said, texting someone as he spoke. “I think we can make it since we all packed light.”

The cars were waiting, and they were dropped off right at the gate by the two men Lou was leaving behind to deal with Colin and Judice. They walked right to the gate and boarded ten minutes before they closed the door. They’d get back early enough to play and have dinner with the kids.

“What are you thinking?” Emma asked once they were in the air.