We left Petunia’s room and headed for the stairs. My gaze traveled around the busy room, looking to see who might be a threat. Several of the delivery staff seemed nervous, potential threats? Had security even bothered to set up a list of who was allowed access?
Max was walking Johnny to the door as he pleaded to stay, swearing he wouldn’t let Pet out of his sight ever again. That was a lie.
Carter left Petunia and me in a huge office with a giant desk. I settled her in the chair and gave her the crayons before slipping my phone out of my pocket. I fired off a text to two female operatives, telling them I’d need their help. God forbid anyone else screwed up. This might be Petunia’s last birthday with the way this security detail was running.
Carter returned with Max and a woman. So this was the infamous sister. They had the same color eyes. The same color hair. She was a younger version of the matriarch. The resemblance was uncanny.
“Amelia Pierce.”
I held out my hand for Amelia to shake. Amelia ignored it and marched to around the desk, grabbing Petunia from the chair. She hugged her tight and didn’t set her down.
“Amelia, this is Gwen. She’s the one who found Johnny AWOL from his station.”
“She colored with me, Mommy, and Johnny said bad words.”
“Is that right, baby goose?” Amelia asked, her tone softening.
“Uh-huh. I saw her across the street before she brought balloons to my room.”
I clasped my hands together. “Would you guys show Petunia the bouncy house and give Amelia and me a few minutes to talk?”
“Yay! Yay!” Petunia wiggled from her mother’s arms.
“Does this mean you’re starting now?” Carter asked.
“I’ve called in more detail for this party. Rose Mitchell and Cassandra Stone will be here in the next ten minutes. Please see thatthey don’t have any issues with your other security team and make sure one of them stays with Petunia at all times. Tell them I’ll debrief them when I’m done.”
“Who do you think you are coming in here and barking orders?” Amelia asked, crossing her arms over her chest.
I glanced at Carter and Max. They hadn’t told her. “How many does she know about?”
“She’s seen the first two death threats.”
“That’s all?”
“What do you mean the first two?” Amelia spun toward her brothers. “Have there been more?”
