Page 39 of Deadly Conflicts

“I wouldn’t tell Ally,” Mandy scoffed. “She’s my best friend. I wouldn’t ruin this for her.”

“That’s exactly what I said,” James said. “I took up for you, baby. You should be happy with me.”

“You’re in big trouble,” Mandy said, wagging a finger in James’ face. “I’m going to make you rub me until your hands fall off. You’re also definitely being the shark for the foreseeable future.”

“Is that a euphemism for something?” Louis asked, confused.

“No, she just likes massages in the hot tub while watching Jaws,” James replied.

“Jaws.” Realization dawned on Louis as he glanced around the guesthouse, the shark motif making perfect sense now. He made his decision on the spot. “I guess that’s why you redecorated and didn’t tell me. It looks so much better out here.”

“Um, yeah.” James shifted from one foot to the other, uncomfortable. “I … um … am glad you like it.”

“I love it,” Louis said.

Pride and love swelled through Jake’s chest when he realized Louis wasn’t going to press James and Mandy about not telling him what happened during Avery’s birth. This was a family he desperately wanted to be a part of. “Will you give me your permission?”

Louis turned his eyes back to Jake. “I give you my permission, son.”

“Yay!” Mandy hopped up and down as she clapped her hands. “I can’t wait. What kind of ring are you going to get?”

Jake smiled at the effervescent blonde. “I don’t know,” he replied. “I’m pretty sure I’m going to need you to help me decide that.”

“Double yay!” Mandy was beyond giddy.

“Does this mean I’m out of the doghouse?” James asked hopefully.

“Not until your fingers fall off,” Mandy said, dodging his hands when he reached for her and hurrying to Jake so she could hug him. “Welcome to the family.”