Page 32 of Rafael

Hank, the founder of Brotherhood Protectors, was a giant head on the display screen, projecting his image from his home in Montana. “The assignment will last a week, maybe more, if the filming takes longer.

“We’ll need five men in New Orleans tomorrow to augment the singer’s own security team.”

Remy turned to the men seated around the table. “I’m going, along with Gerard, Lucas and Valentin.” Remy’s eyes narrowed as he glanced around the room. “Beau starts a bodyguard job tomorrow with Senator Anderson and his daughter. Jacques and Xavier are already out on different assignments, which leaves Landry and Rafael.”

Without pausing to think, Rafael said, “As much as I’d like a fun-filled paid trip to New Orleans, I’d like to remain in Bayou Mambaloa.”

Hank met Rafael’s gaze through the video conference call. “Did they find the intruder who broke into Ms. Gautier’s shop?”

Rafael shook his head. “No, sir.”

“Has there been another attack?” Hank asked.

“No, sir,” Rafael repeated. “But I have a gut feeling she’s not out of danger yet. She lives alone in theapartment over the shop with no backup. I just moved into the apartment across the alley from her. I’d like to hang around for a couple of days to make sure she doesn’t have a repeat of what happened last night.”

“Any clue as to what the burglar was after?” Hank asked.

“No, sir,” Remy responded. “The sheriff’s department is conducting the investigation, but they don’t have much to go on. He wore gloves, so no fingerprints. A ski mask hid his facial features. He didn’t take anything, but he trashed a shelf and tipped over a bird cage.”

“Anyone injured on the grounds?” Hank asked. “Ms. Gautier?”

“The intruder slammed into Ms. Gautier on his way out the back door. She was shaken but okay. I can monitor her situation on my own time,” Rafael offered, “since she hasn’t asked us to step in and provide her with a bodyguard.”

“That’s not necessary. We don’t only cater to people who can pay,” Hank said. “My wife and I want people to have access to our services no matter their financial status. When they need help, we want them to know they can count on us, no matter their ability to pay.”

Rafael nodded. “Then I’ll keep an eye on her and her shop for a few days to ensure the attack was a crime of opportunity that won’t happen again.”

“Makes sense,” Hank said. “Does she have a security system?”

“No, sir.”

“Encourage her to get one. Surveillance videos would’ve been handy for the investigators.”

“I’ll work on her,” Rafael said. “I’ll see what we can rig in the meantime.”

Hank looked around at the room full of men. “Then Landry will be your fifth man going to New Orleans?”

Remy shot a glance toward Valentin and then to Rafael. “Sounds like it.”

“Good. Then I’ll leave you to the arrangements. Thank you all for being members of the Brotherhood Protectors,” Hank said. “Out here.”

His image blipped off the screen, leaving it glowing a bright blue.

Remy looked around the room. “Anyone have any questions?”

Landry turned to Rafael. “I could keep an eye on Ms. Gautier if you’d rather participate in the New Orleans project.”

Rafael’s jaw hardened. It took a full second for him to force a smile. “As much as I like visiting New Orleans, I need to see the Gautier assignment through.”

Landry nodded. “Fair enough.”

“Those heading to New Orleans tomorrow can stay,” Remy said. “The rest of you are dismissed.”

Rafael stood and started to leave without saying anything...but he couldn’t.

He faced the entire team and said, “It’s good to know you all have Ms. Gautier's best interestsat heart. Let me set your minds at ease. So. Do. I.”

He didn’t wait for a response.

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