Page 115 of Blake

Blake glanced toward the living room, where Devon and Gwen were talking quietly.

“Think we should move her again?”

Emmett followed his gaze. “Why?”

“Because whoever’s behind this knows we’re closing in.”

“That’s why we’re not leaving you and Devon here alone.”

“I know, but these guys are good.” Blake swallowed. “It’s like they’re always one step ahead. And now⁠—”

“You won’t protect her by running every time something changes.”

He scoffed. “Easy for you to say.”

Emmett’s expression sharpened, and Blake immediately wished he could take the thoughtless words back. He remembered what it was like when Janie had been kidnapped, and what Emmett had gone through to get her back.

“No.” Emmett shook his head slowly. “It isn’t.”

He released a curse under his breath. “Listen, man. I’m sorry. I didn’t mean⁠—”

“It’s okay. I get it.” He clapped a hand against Blake’s shoulder. “We’ll figure this out.”

Blake nodded, though the uneasiness in his gut remained. Across the room, Devon laughed at something Gwen said.

The sound drew his attention.

God, he loved hearing her laugh. He wanted a lifetime of that. A lifetime of mornings together and even Willow stealing his side of the bed.

Normal things. Things he’d never given much thought to before he met Devon. For years, Blake had believed his work was enough.

Now he knew better.

Blake glanced out the kitchen window and spotted Draven walking along the edge of the gravel driveway. Jethro was farther out, near the tree line, scanning the surrounding property.

Something about the way both men moved caught his attention.

His phone vibrated. Blake checked it to find a new message from Draven.

Possible vehicle surveillance. Checking perimeter.

Blake frowned.

“What is it?” Emmett asked.

“Draven spotted something.” He showed Emmett the message.

The other man’s expression turned to stone. Blake looked toward the living room. Devon and Gwen were still talking, unaware of the change in atmosphere.

“Maybe we should get them upstairs,” Blake murmured.

Emmett nodded. “Hey, Winslow?”

The tiny blonde turned their way. “Yeah?”

“Why don’t you and Devon head upstairs for a bit?”

Gwen frowned. “Why?”