“I'm sorry. I'm so sorry you have that image in your head. I wish I could take it away but I can't.”
“Just having you here helps,” she told him, and felt his lips press to the top of her head.
“I'm always here, Rylla.”
“I know.”
“Do you think you can manage to go back inside? I don’t think he would have followed us here, but we can't be sure, and I'd rather have you inside where he at least can't see you.”
Because she wasn't stupid and she had no intention of taking unnecessary risks, she straightened and nodded. “I don’t want to but you're right, it’s smarter to be indoors right now.”
“Together,” he reminded her, taking a firm grip of her hand and leading her back inside.
There was no TV, so Nate suggested they play cards, they were just setting up when the door opened, and Sam and Naomi came in.
“What are you doing here?” Rylla asked Naomi. A killer was stalking her, her pregnant friend shouldn’t be anywhere near her right now.
“Keeping you company,” Naomi replied.
“Really?” She rolled her eyes. “And you’re okay with that?” she asked Sam.
Sam just glowered and she suspected that they’d had quite the argument about it.
“I may be pregnant, but I still know how to shoot,” Naomi reminded them.
“Is Anton still outside?” Rylla asked.
“Yes,” Sam replied.
Although she didn't want Nate to go, she wanted to find out what was going on with the case. “Can you do me a favor?”
“What?” Nate looked suspicious.
“Can you and Sam go and talk to Matthew, see what's going on with the case?”
“I'm not leaving you,” Nate said immediately.
“Please, Nate. They just lost both their suspects, you and Sam could help. Anton is here so I’m perfectly safe, and he doesn’t even know where I am. Please, Nate,” she said again. “I'd feel so much better if you went and helped them. You’ll be back here tonight.”
“Okay,” he reluctantly agreed. “If it will make you feel better.”
“It will.” She would miss him, but he’d only be gone for a few hours, and she trusted him, he was smart and paid attention to details, he’d be able to help Matthew and the others.
“Stay safe, no risks, promise me.” Nate put an arm around her waist and drew her against him.
“I promise.” She had no intention of doing anything but stay safe.
Nate kissed her then went to get his keys. Sam followed him to the door.
“I don’t get a kiss?” Naomi asked her husband.
“I'm still mad at you.”
“How much trouble could I get in sitting here quietly with Rylla with Anton right outside?”
“If you were a regular person, none. Since it’s you, I don’t even want to think about it,” Sam shot back but came and gave Naomi a quick kiss.
“So, I'm not as good company as I'm sure Nate has been but I'm better than nothing.” Naomi grinned once the guys were gone.