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TURNING TO IVY, Bennett gripped her hands with a ferocity that surprised her. “I’ve got to go. I’m a volunteer firefighter, and those are my neighbors.”
As she realized the magnitude of his words, her heartbeat quickened. “Be safe,” she pleaded. She couldn’t lose him now.
With a last, searching look at her face, Bennett raced from the house.
A moment later, Mitch rushed past. “Right behind you, Bennett,” he called out.
The chief looked outside, where an errant shower of embers twinkled like fireflies but could spark a destructive fire. “With these high winds, cinders can sail through the air and skip blocks. You’re close to the sea, but don’t be fooled. Keep watch, and make sure your guests get to safety.”
Ivy rushed into the reception room to check on everyone. Jen and George fro
