“Maude vill be so disappointed to cancel da bake sale. It vould be silly to have it for two rich fellows like yourself.”
“Don’t cancel it, Carlotta.” Lance thought the good intentions of the ladies should be rewarded. “Surely there’s another charity the money could go to. Chuck and I will double whatever the ladies auxiliary collects.”
“That’s a great idea, buddy.” Chuck turned to Carlotta. “We will also write another check for our own foundation, which benefits orphans and the homeless, in the name of the citizens of Wilde. It’s the least we can do for all the confusion we’ve caused.”
“Excellent idea, young man. I’ll see to it dhat a retraction is in tomorrow’s paper. Too bad. I could’ve used a couple of good workers like yourselves at my diner.”
Danielle giggled. “Anna and I have it covered. I don’t want to split tips with these two rich guys. You understand.”
“I see how you look at them, child. You’re not telling the truth.” Carlotta laughed. “The spirits saw it all. Look what these gentlemen sent you.”
Danielle turned and looked at the roses on the counter. “How did I miss them?”
“You vere in a rush, that’s how.” Carlotta stood and grabbed up her crystal ball. “Brandon, come forward. I’m ready to talk vith you.”
“Yes, ma’am.”
“Da spirits have told me dhat Lance and Chuck are to take over you and your brothers’ duties as Danielle’s bodyguards.”
Lance didn’t like the sound of that one bit. “Bodyguards? Why does she need bodyguards?”
Brandon studied him and Chuck for a moment. “You’re the homeless guys, right?”
“Actually they’re billionaires.” Michael walked in through the front door with Harry. “What did I miss?”
“Carlotta says these two are going to take over the bodyguard duty for Danielle,” Brandon said. “You know them?”
“Yes, and you can trust them. Brandon Champion, this is Lance Archer and Charles Covington.”
“He goes by Chuck now, Michael. Da spirits are telling me that Danielle, Lance, and Chuck need a moment alone.” She looked at Brandon, Michael, and Harry. “Gentlemen, come vith me. I have a freshly baked apple pie that just came out of da oven.”
Brandon walked up to Lance and Chuck. “Since Michael has vouched for you and since Carlotta says the spirits have, too, I’ll enjoy a slice of her pie. After you finish talking to Danielle, I’ll fill you in on what to expect being her bodyguards.”
“No.” Danielle took a deep breath. “I will tell them about the cartel.”
“Cartel?” Lance was ready to do whatever he must to make sure she remained safe.
“The whole story is on page two of WOW,” Harry said. “I guess none of you got past the first page.”
“Time for dessert, gentlemen.” Carlotta’s tone was firm.
“I knew this was my lucky day.” Michael rubbed his hands together.
Harry shook his head. “Shouldn’t we be getting on the road?”
“You’re right, honey.” Michael turned to Carlotta. “When we get back Monday, can I have some pie then?”
The sweet woman smiled broadly. “Vhy don’t I box up a couple of pieces and you and Harry can take dem vith you?”
“Thank you.” Michael leaned forward and kissed Carlotta on the cheek. “You’re a doll.”
“So I’ve been told many times.”
“Danielle, Lance and Chuck are great guys.” Michael was a very good friend. “Give them a chance.”
“Mmm.” Danielle grinned. “Maybe you should start a dating service, Mr. Matchmaker.”
“I’d be fantastic at it. Bye. See you on Monday.” Michael took the to-go box and left out the front door, Harry following close behind.