Page 77 of Torch’s Wildfire

“Excuse me?”

“Prospects are posted outside. Nobody gets near this place without us knowing.”

“Good for them.”

“Madison.”

“No, Torch. We just had a fairly memorable conversation about you making decisions for me.”

“I remember.”

“Do you?”

“Every damn word.”

“Then maybe try asking instead of ordering.”

I look at her.

She's got a point.

Hate that.

I take a breath.

“Would you please stay inside until I get back? We still don't know who put that device in my cabin, and the SUV that followed us hasn't magically disappeared.”

She studies me for a long moment.

“Was that so difficult?”

“Nearly killed me.”

“Tragic.”

I shake my head.

“You going to be okay here?”

“Yes.”

“Prospects are outside. Give me your phone.”

She hands it over, watching me with a raised eyebrow.

I add my number and give it back.

“If you need anything, call me.”

“You know, I've managed twenty-two years without a personal bodyguard.”

“And look how much trouble you managed to find in twenty-two years.”

She gives me a look that could strip paint.

I head for the door before my mouth makes things worse.

“Come here a second,” I say.