Darcy appreciated the sentiment, knew it was true, and told herself neither of them had time for a breakdown. Lauren had finally surfaced from the emotional devastation of the shocking death of her young husband, and Darcy refused to let her sink back into despair over a botched kidnapping. Darcy might be hearing things go bump in the night, but she refused to let her sister be afraid.

She drew in a deep breath as she took in Lauren’s outfit. The aqua and pink sundress just grazed generous curves in unwrinkled perfection. Delicate pearls graced her sister’s tiny ears. Her sling backs matched her purse, and a narrow woven silver and pearl bracelet completed the ensemble. She wore her long, wavy blond hair pulled back in an elegant clasp. She would fit in equally well having lunch at the club or hosting an afternoon charity event.

“Why do you always have to dress like an Easter egg?” Darcy asked. “Do you own anything in a primary color? I know you could never wear black. How scandalous. The heavens would open and weep.”

Lauren’s intense gaze never wavered. “At least I don’t dress like a former rock groupie in mourning. Does every single outfit have to be tone-on-tone black? It’s summer, for heaven’s sake. Lighten up and wear a color.”

Darcy felt the corners of her mouth turn up slightly. Lauren began to giggle. Laughter escaped, and then they were hugging each other tight. Darcy hung on tighter than usual.

“When they told me what happened, I nearly died,” Lauren whispered in her ear. “I’m so sorry. I wish it had been me.”

Darcy straightened. “No, you don’t. Trust me on that.”

“But they wanted me instead of you.”

“Don’t they all. That’s the world in which we live. I’ve gotten used to it.”

“Darcy, don’t.” Lauren sighed. “I feel horrible.”

“Don’t. Do you know where they’re taking you?” she asked.

“No. You?”

“I want to be safe. Something I’m not sure the moron brigade can do.”