Page 46 of No Going Back

The group had all loved Branna’s word for the gang.

Troy had taken his car when he’d left the farmhouse earlier, so Marcus rode with them to the back of the diner. He sat in the front with Sean because they’d talked Branna into sitting in the backseat where she was less visible. They didn’t think Hawley knew Sean’s face yet, but they couldn’t be sure about that either. They left Jabba at the farmhouse with plenty of food and water. Troy said he’d send someone to take him outside if they stayed late.

Sean parked behind the diner, and he and Marcus checked the area before hustling Branna in the back door. She had her determined face on, but he could feel her trembling under his arm. Once they were inside with the door locked behind them, he pulled her in for a hug. Marcus moved further into the kitchen, giving them a semblance of privacy in the tiny hallway.

Sean kissed her hair. “We don’t have to do this.”

She hugged him tightly, but after a moment, she straightened. “It’s the safest way to capture Prince and get him behind bars where he belongs. I just need him to see me and come inside. Then the team can take him into custody.”

Or kick his ass if the opportunity arose. “You can change your mind at any time. There’s a good chance this would be his first stop, even if he doesn’t spot you through the window.”

She nodded. “But Hawley’s much more likely to incriminate himself if he sees me.”

Damn her smart brain. “You’re going to follow orders, be smart, and stay safe. I couldn’t handle it if anything happened to you.”

Branna smiled, eyes shining. “Same. I need you to be safe, Sean.”

He nodded and kissed her. “Will do.” Although her safety would come first every time.

They moved into the main part of the kitchen, which smelled of peppers and spices. The man cooking sent them a nod. “I’m Manuel. You must be Sean and Branna.”

Sean reached forward to shake his hand. “We are. Nice to meet the genius behind the tacos.”

Manuel’s grin was quick and fierce. “Got more cooking up for everyone now.”

Troy and a woman with his coloring walked into the kitchen from the front. She smiled and extended her hand to Branna, then to him. “I’m Ginny Phail. Welcome to the No Fail Diner.”

After shaking her hand, Branna spoke. “I’m sorry for putting you and your diner at risk.”

Ginny grinned. “Not your fault. I only have the brief version of the story, but from what I gather, there’s an asshole after you because you didn’t cave to his extortion demands after he killed your dad. We’re on your side, and we’ll get him.”

Branna liked this woman immediately. Blunt with a smile and compassion in her eyes. “Thank you.”

“You’re very welcome. Now, why don’t we let Manuel work his magic while we go up front and make a plan?”

Out front, a few men sat in booths and another at the counter. It was a typical diner layout with booths along the front and side wall and a counter with stools running the length of the room. A huge Phail crest covered one wall and chalkboards provided the menus. Blue and green tartan covered the stools and booths. A large pass-through window opened to the kitchen, where he could see Manuel cooking. With the Scottish decor and scents of Mexican food filling the air, it was a quirky and inviting space.

All the men had taken seats with a view of the front door, which was at the opposite end of the space from the entry to the kitchen. From a quick glance, Sean knew these were exactly the kind of men he wanted protecting Branna.

He would have known they were military or law enforcement from their steady glances and body language. Awareness and readiness practically radiated in the room. “Thanks for helping out, everyone.”

Branna nodded. “Yes. Thank you. I understand if you want to change your mind. Same to you, Ginny and Manuel. If you want me to leave, I totally understand. I’m so sorry for bringing danger to you and your town.” Her voice wobbled, so she clamped her lips together.

A big mixed-race man grinned from his spot at the counter. “Nice to meet you. I’m Sam Young from Midnight Security. We’re happy to help put the assholes of the world in jail.”

He introduced the rest. Joe Cheveyo and Nico Rivera, in one booth, Flynn Walker, wearing a cowboy hat, sat in another.

Sam spoke again and held up his phone with a picture of a couple. “Mitch Robinson and Bella Martinez are at the fire hall, watching the road from the south. They’ll follow anyone suspicious.”

Sam continued. “Graham is across at Phail Phoods. He’s watching the north road, but the most probable approach is south. Graham will follow anyone inside. We’re all armed, and we’re all dangerous. The asshole doesn’t stand a chance.”

Sean hugged Branna to his side. “I’m Sean Falcone. Some call me Falcon. This is Branna O’Dea, who we sometimes call Sally. We’re in your debt. All of you.”

Sam grinned. “No, you’re not. This is what we do for family. You’re part of Troy and Marcus’ family, so you’re also part of ours.”

Branna’s thank you was shaky and full of emotion.

Ginny handed Branna an apron with No Fail Diner emblazoned in white over the blue and green plaid. “Have you ever waitressed before? We want you to look natural if the jerk comes in.”

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