Page 43 of Island Protector

Molly knew that tone. Sharon had done some digging into Molly’s lawyer. “What are you hearing?” she asked.

“Only good things. Devaney is a partner in one of the top family law firms in the country. Keep the faith, honey. You’re the best mom for that little boy. Whatever started this nonsense will fade when the facts come out. I don’t know what the Graingers are thinking, but no amount of money can compete with you.”

Tears stung the back of Molly’s throat. “With us,” she said. “I would love Bryce just as much, but living here with you makes the biggest difference for both of us.”

“For all of us,” Sharon agreed. “Our family might be built a little different, sweetheart, but that makes it even more precious. Sharing my home, being part of your lives, is a gift to me. I wouldn’t trade these years for anything. In fact, this ridiculous custody issue made me realize just how lucky I was when you moved in.”

Molly dropped her head to Sharon’s shoulder for just a few steps, soaking up the wonderful maternal vibes. “I needyou now more than ever and somehow that makes me feel weaker in the face of all of this.”

“No, no honey. We’re stronger together. Always. You know that. Hang on to that.”

“Yes, ma’am.”

Sharon released her as they walked single file over the boardwalk that spanned the sand dunes.

On the beach side, Molly slipped out of her shoes, waiting for Sharon to do the same.

Molly’s bare feet sunk into the soft sand, comfortably warm this time of year. She laughed to herself, thinking about the way Bryce danced a jig on high summer days when the sand was hot on his little feet.

There was no way she’d give up any of those moments to the Graingers.

She and Sharon walked along the cool, packed sand at the tide line, staying just out of reach of the ebbing tide. The water was a bit too cold to feel good on her feet.

“What did you want to talk about?” Sharon prompted.

“Miles put me through the third degree about your Valentine’s plans. It made me realize I should be asking more questions.”

“You think so?”

Molly recognized the teasing and took comfort in it. “Are you ready to introduce me to someone important?”

Sharon cackled. “If I were ready, I wouldn’t be going away to meet him now, would I?”

Molly rolled her eyes. “I guess Miles has concerns?—”

“Because he’s protective of you.”

“Not just me.” Molly had seen his face. Miles cared deeply about Sharon. “It seems weird to ask if you’re being safe. You’ve been an adult for so much longer than I have.”

“So much.” Sharon hip bumped her, laughing away anyinsult. “I understand what you’re saying and I appreciate any concern you or Miles have.”

“You’ve dated before.”

Sharon sighed. “I thought it was best if I applied extra discretion.”

“Because the Graingers are suing for custody.”

“Yes.”

Molly swore under her breath.

“But Bryce is getting older,” Sharon continued. “And he makes friends so easily. I don’t want him to get attached to someone who might be passing through.”

“Some days I worry that he’s never met a stranger,” Molly admitted.

“It’s a good quality you don’t want to quash entirely.” Sharon stopped to watch a pelican dive. “It’ll serve him well in the future. The world needs more people with Bryce’s open heart.”

“I’ll keep that in mind,” Molly agreed.

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