Page 81 of Until Joy

“We don't know that for sure,” Joy said quickly. “It could be someone completely different.”

“Doesn't matter.” Little Grandma's voice was firm. “Someone's bothering our girl, and that's not acceptable.”

Aunt Pattie nodded vigorously. “What are y'all doing about it?”

I leaned forward, needing them to understand I had this handled.

“I've got people working on it. Capable friends with military backgrounds, as well as Jax Mayson. He runs a security company here in town. His whole family's in law enforcement or security. They're the best around.”

Little Grandma studied my face through the screen. “I should have realized that July’s family were all in one form of protection or another.”

“And what about Joy's daddy and brothers? When are you planning to tell them what's going on?” Joy’s mother asked.

My jaw tightened. This was the conversation I'd been dreading.

“I'd be more than happy to have that conversation with the Magill men. In fact, I think it's necessary.”

Sarah Magill smiled, while Joy’s whole body tensed beside me. “Graham, they're going to lose their minds.”

“Maybe so,” I said gently. “But they have a right to know their sister and daughter is being threatened.”

“He’s right, Joy,” her mother said. “Your daddy's going to be furious that you told us first as it is. He needs to know as soon as possible.”

“Seth and Randy are going to want to drive down here immediately,” Joy said.

“Let them come.” I kept my voice steady. I'd handled worse than overprotective brothers. “I can handle your brothers.”

Little Grandma let out a delighted cackle. “Oh, I like him.” She pointed a gnarled finger at the screen. “Joy girl, you better hang onto this one. He's got backbone.”

“Little Grandma,” Joy protested, her face turning red.

I bit back a smile. This woman was something else.

“Don't you ‘Little Grandma’ me. I've been around long enough to know a good man when I see one.” She fixed me with a steely stare that reminded me of senior chiefs I'd known. “You planning on taking care of our girl?”

The question hit me square in the chest. There was only one answer.

“Yes, ma'am. For as long as she'll let me.”

“Good answer.” Little Grandma sat back with satisfaction. “Now, when are you planning on meeting with Joy’s daddy on this stalker situation?”

I glanced at Joy, then back at the screen.

“As soon as I can gather the men here, it’ll be no later than tomorrow night, I promise. In the meantime, Joy's staying with me where I can keep an eye on her.”

“And you think that's the best approach?” Aunt Pattie asked.

“I think it's the safest approach until we know what we're dealing with.”

Joy's mother leaned forward. “What can we do from here?”

“Make sure they’ve been fed and watered before the call.”

Little Grandma chuckled.

“Smart man.” She winked at Joy. “I told you he was a keeper.”

“Little Grandma, please,” Joy buried her face in her hands.