I walked over to her and gave her air kisses over both cheeks. "You didn't tell me you were coming, but thanks for being here."

She looked at me seriously. "What happened last night affects us all, but I also came for a reason that I will divulge later." Then, she gave my arm a gentle squeeze. "But when it comes to yours and your family's safety, I will always be here."

I pulled her in for a slight hug, and she gave me air kisses over both cheeks, careful not to smudge ...