I got up and headed out the door giving one low whistle to let the guys know it was time to get a move on. They came from all corners and levels of the house and fell in behind me at the door.

Mace stood in the entryway to the den, watching us. “I’m leaving her in your hands.” He just nodded his understanding, and I turned and left. It’s only when I felt the evening air brush against my skin that I realized what I’d said. No doubt the other three had caught on and were ...