Chapter Eight
Duncan was still in the bedroom and just tucking his gun in the waistband of his jeans when someone knocked on the door the next morning. He didn’t rush into the living room because it sounded like Kyla knew the guy.
“Hey, honey, it looks like you got a little sleep last night.”
“I did. Why are you checking on me again, Ronin?”
“Because I don’t like you in this place. Please change your mind about coming home with me.”
“I…”
Duncan walked out of the bedroom, and the guy’s gaze zeroed in on him.
“Who is this, Kyla?” Ronin asked without taking his eyes off him.
Duncan cleared his throat. “I’m a friend from home. I’ve come to take her back.”
Ronin stiffened. “Is that right? Is that what she wants?”
Both men turned to her, and Duncan almost smiled at the bewildered look on her face. “Sweetheart, why don’t you go start packing while we talk?”
She nodded, and without a word, she turned and walked off.
“Well, that says something.”
Duncan looked at Ronin. “What?”
“She listened to you right away, and all she’s done is fight me,” Ronin said.
He couldn’t believe how pleased he was to hear that. “And who are you?”
The guy held his hand out as he introduced himself. “I’m Detective Ronin Blackwood from the Columbus police.”
Duncan gripped the man’s hands. “I’m Duncan Gregor, and I used to be a cop, but now I’m head of security for Simmons Corporation in Arkansas.”
Duncan knew if he hadn’t shown up, this man would have gotten Kyla to go home with him eventually. He caught the possessive look in the cop’s eyes and didn’t like that at all.
“So, where did you guys meet?” Duncan asked Ronin.
“I was riding the bus she was on when she was attacked.”
“Tell me what happened. The bus driver told me some of it.”
“It was a serial molester we’ve been trying to catch. I was riding to see if we could catch him, and we did while he was trying to get in her pants.”
“How freaked out was she?” Duncan asked.
“She screamed while it happened, but after that, it was like she closed down. I was so worried about her, and after we took her statement, I took her to a hotel and paid for a few nights. I was hoping to get her to move in with me. I’ve got a huge protective streak where she’s concerned. I just want you to know. And if you think I won’t check you out, you’re delusional.”
“I expect it. I can tell you already care for her, and I won’t care if you stay in touch, but she’s mine.”
Ronin nodded. “I can see that. She obeys you pretty well.”
“Duncan.”
Both men turned toward the door.
Duncan held his hand out and was pleased when she took it right away. “What do you need, sweetheart?”