“I mean to tell you before,” she said. “I bought a gun.”
He leaned back, surprised, his mind now on the new topic and off kissing. “Good! What kind did you get?”
Why didn’t she call me, to ask for help? I gave her my card, so she has my number.
“A Glock nineteen,” she said. “I bought it at Jim’s Sporting Goods and the salesman in the store was very helpful. I also bought ammunition.”
“Sounds like you’re all set,” he said. “Can I see it?”
“Oh.” She looked sheepish. “I, uh, don’t have it with me. It’s at home.”
“Why don’t you have your gun?” he asked.
“I can’t carry it to school,” she said.
“Inside the school, no,” he said. “But this isn’t the school and it’s dark out. You should have your handgun with you when you go out at night.”
“Well, I was just coming over here,” she said. “And you probably have enough guns for four people.”
More than that,he thought, with a laugh.If she only knew.
“Of course, you’re safe here,” he said. “But please start carrying your gun when you’re not at school.”
“Okay, I’ll try to remember,” she said.
“Do more than try,” he said.
If they were going to be dating, if she was his girl, as he hoped she’d be, there were some things they were going to have to work on, and this was one of them.
“Yes, sir,” she said.
“None of that sir stuff,” he said. “You are my equal.” He winked at her.
She blushed.
This time he moved in for the kiss he’d missed out on when she’d remembered to tell him about the gun purchase.
The kiss was soft, sweet, and promising more before he pulled away.
Then he said, “Drive safe, lock your doors, and text me when you get home.”
“I will.”
He watched her walk to her car. She got in and backed out of the driveway, with him still watching her. As she pulled onto the main road, she waved at him, and he waved back. Then he closed the door, to go check on Scotty.
* * *
The Courageand Confidence Center also fondly known as the Three C’s Ranch, now had one of the best security systems on the market.
Before Chyna Taylor’s ex-husband and his cousins found her in Eagle Rock Montana, tried to kidnap her and caught the main house on fire, the Three C’s management hadn’t thought a high dollar security system was needed, or in fact any security system. Even though Hank Patterson, head of Brotherhood Protectors had suggested they get one.
After the fire, they’d finally listened to Hank and unanimously voted to install a strong security system. The insurance company agreed with Hank. The center needed one.
He made sure they got a good one and oversaw the installation of it.
Though nothing was impossible, it would be damned hard to break in again without the Brotherhood Protectors being alerted.
The women at the ranch were safe.
