Audrey gave her a sympathetic look. “Last year, I…let’s just say I kind of know how you feel.”

There’d been a few hints that Audrey’d arrived in Rescue when running from someone. One of these days, Frankie needed the whole story. She rose and rubbed her hands together. “Shopping. I’m in.”

JJ tucked an arm around Regan’s shoulders. “While we’re in a shoe store, Regan here could use a pair. She’s outgrowing everything.”

Regan shook her head. “Papá just got me shoes last winter. I don’t need—”

“You do need.” JJ kissed the top of her head. “Don’t be so worried. Every kid outgrows clothes and shoes until…oh, until around seventeen or so.”

Regan didn’t relax.

Aw. Bull said Regan hadn’t even met Caz until last fall. How long would it be until she felt as if he truly was her father? Frankie felt the ache of empathy. Sometimes it felt as if her family weighed out love on a scale. How much worse would it be to have not grown up there?

JJ gave Regan a squeeze. “Your father expects you to need new clothes. However, he’s male, which means he’s blind when it comes to women’s clothing, so it’s my job to keep you outfitted. As it happens, I think that’s a great job. You wouldn’t deprive me of a fun time, would you?”

Now worried she’d hurt JJ’s feelings, Regan started assuring JJ she really liked getting new clothes.

Frankie glanced at Audrey and said in a low voice, “That was one smooth snow job.”

Audrey covered her mouth, but a laugh escaped. “JJ is as good at smoothing out problems as you are at managing people. By the way, we’re all glad Bull is getting a break from managing the roadhouse.”

“Let’s get moving,” JJ said. “Frankie, gather what you might need.”

Frankie automatically checked for her purse and groaned. “Wait, I don’t have money or credit cards or even a phone.”

“Obviously, you wouldn’t. We should stop at a phone store, though.” Audrey patted her purse. “We’ll use our credit cards, and Bull will reimburse us and take it out of your salary. All arranged.”

Frankie stared. “Seriously?”

“He knew you wouldn’t let him pay for everything, so he arranged it the best way he could.” Audrey snorted. “However feminist Mako’s sons may be, they have cavemen-worthy protective instincts. You were in danger; Bull’s protective instincts were triggered. This is what happens.”

“Sometimes, it’s really clear you majored in biology, professor.” JJ walked around, making sure everything was locked up, then glanced at Frankie. “She’s right about them trying to shield us. Caz and I get into some pretty vehement discussions about me being in danger.”

Regan giggled. “He yelled at you last time. A lot.”