The Hero She Deserves (Unbroken Heroes #4)

She let out a long breath. “It doesn’t matter. I’m a high-strung actress, we love making things up and being the center of attention.”

And being sarcastic. “Hollis?—”

“It’s okay, Sawyer. Thanks for coming. I’m sorry to waste your time.” She hopped out of the SUV, and turned toward her car.

“Hey.” He grabbed her hand again and pulled her to face him. “Ifanythingworries you, big or small, you call me. I have no idea what happened on that trail, but just because there’s no evidence, doesn’t mean that someone wasn’t there.”

Her lips parted. Her perfect, kissable lips.

“Thanks, Sawyer,” she whispered.

“We’re having a barbecue on the beach this evening. My cousin and some of his family. You should come.”

“A barbecue? Like a luau?”

“Sort of. It’s just family. Luaus are usually to celebrate special events, with traditional dress and entertainment. This is just family sharing good food and drink, and a bonfire.”

“I’d love to come.”

Sawyer really liked seeing the happy look on her face.

“Good.”Not good. It was a dumb idea to spend more time with her. “From Archer’s place, just head out to the beach, then turn right. You’ll see the bonfire. Benny always makes a big one.”

“It sounds great. Thanks, Sawyer.”

CHAPTER FIVE

Hollis sat on the couch reading a new script. She liked the story. The character was strong, yet flawed, and didn’t trust easily.

It was a Western saga, which was new for her. She liked Elsa—a tough, confident woman making her own way in a challenging world, who also falls for a stoic lawman.

Hmm. It seemed she and Elsa had a thing for stoic men of the law.

There were also some Native American characters who were going to be played by some great up-and-coming Native American actors. The lawman was being played by an actor she respected. The female director attached was brilliant. Hollis had worked with her before.

She lowered the script and smiled. She felt good. The morning’s drama was long over, thank God. With some perspective, she was sure she’d just panicked over some noises and imagined things. She felt a buzz of excitement for this script, and for the up-and-coming barbecue on the beach.

She glanced at her watch. She needed to get ready.

Setting the script aside, she headed for the bedroom. She loved Archer’s house. She couldn’t believe he didn’t come heremore often. In the walk-in closet, she studied the clothes she’d brought with her. Sawyer and his cousin’s family were going to be attending tonight. He’d told her it would be small and casual. She chewed on her lip and pulled some clothes out.

That was too casual. She tossed the trousers on the bed. That was too dressy. She hung the dress back up.

She wanted to look good, but not like she was trying too hard.

There. She pulled a pretty, red, wrap dress out. Casual but nice.

She slipped on a black bikini, then pulled on the dress and tied the belt.

Perfect. She didn’t wear red a lot, but she didn’tnotwear it. She pulled her hair up in a messy bun, and kept her makeup natural. She was well aware that someone could recognize her tonight, but she couldn’t wear sunglasses and a cap at nighttime. Hopefully, Sawyer’s friends wouldn’t feel the need to post her picture on social media.

Since the barbeque was on the beach, she wouldn’t wear too much jewelry. Maybe just her favorite silver bracelet. It had been a gift from Dave when she’d landed her first movie role. Sure, it had only been a tiny part in a teen flick, but it had meant the world to her. Dave had acted like she’d already won an Oscar. Unsurprisingly, her mom hadn’t given her anything.

She pulled a face and headed over to the dresser. She opened her jewelry case and skimmed her gaze over the few pieces she’d been wearing lately.

But no bracelet.

She frowned. “Crap.” She remembered putting it right there last night. She searched the bedroom, then the bathroom.