Page 14 of Once Removed (Blackhawk Security)

When his car was out of sight, Lainey closed the door, then leaned against it. Closed her eyes and took a deep, shuddering breath. Stu’s accusations had shaken her. Was everyone in town thinking the same thing? That she’d stabbed Ron to death because she wanted out of their marriage immediately?

“Lainey.” Brody set his hand gently on her shoulder. “I’m so sorry. Is that a sample of the treatment you got when you called for help with Ron?”

“Mostly not. Most of the deputies were respectful. Helpful. But Stu Stevens was Ron’s best friend in the department. They hung around outside of work all the time. When Stu and Ron hung out here, I usually left. Went to a friends’ house, or to my office. I never liked Stu, and the feeling was mutual.”

“And they sent him out here when you called to report a prowler.” Brody’s voice was quiet. Expressionless. But his eyes were blazing with anger. His body vibrated with it.

“He was probably the closest patrol car.” She shrugged. “My bad luck.”

“I was serious about you coming to the ranch. I have a good security system. You’ll be safe.”

“I can’t stay with you, Brody. That would just make rumors fly. Especially since Stu is the one who’d be telling the story.”

“Do you feel safe in this house?” he asked.

Lainey closed her eyes. Shook her head slowly. Opened them and studied Brody. “No. I don’t. I didn’t scratch that door, and neither did Ron. Someone tried to get into my house.” She swallowed. “I’ll stay in a motel tonight. Tomorrow I’ll talk to Sheriff Jacobs and explain what happened. Make sure he doesn’t let Stu answer any calls from me.”

“What if other deputies feel the same way as Stevens? What if they all drag their feet about answering a call to your house?”

“I don’t think they will. Stu is a special case. He’s just like Ron. Likes to blame other people for his failings.”

Brody stared down at her, but he didn’t touch her. Lainey was grateful. If he did, she’d fall apart. Take him up on his offer, which would just make rumors fly through Helena.

He took her hand. Held it between both of his. “Tell me truthfully, Lainey. Do you feel safe in this house? Will you be able to go back to sleep tonight? Will you be reluctant to walk inside when you get home from work tomorrow?”

His fingers were warm around hers. Comforting. Soothing. Finally she sighed. “No and no and… maybe.”

“Then come with me. I’ll sleep in the bunkhouse, if that would make you feel better about staying in my house.”

She tightened her fingers around his. “I’m not worried about you, Brody. I know I’m safe with you, and I would insist that you not sleep in the bunkhouse.” She sighed. “But going home with you? It would look bad, especially after Ron was killed today.”

“If anyone brings it up, tell them the truth. That you had a prowler, and the deputy who responded was disrespectful, suggested the prowler was all in your head and accused you of murdering your husband. You were afraid the sheriff’s department response would be slow if the prowler came back. Slow or non-existent. You don’t feel safe in your own house anymore.” He smiled, and the knot in her chest loosened a little. “Fight gossip with gossip.”

The thought of staying here tonight, or anytime in the near future, was horrifying to Lainey. She could afford to stay a few nights in a motel, but she’d have to come back here eventually. Who knew how long it would take to catch Ron’s killer?

“I understand why you’re hesitating,” Brody said quietly. “Is there someone you could stay with here in town? One of your friends?”

Lainey shook her head slowly. “I’d call Ron’s sisters, but it’s the middle of the night. And they’re in Butte, an hour away.”

He watched her steadily. Not pushing. Just waiting.

She didn’t want to stay here tonight. She knew she wouldn’t sleep. She’d lay awake until dawn, listening for the sound of an intruder.

She would feel safe on Brody’s ranch.

“Okay, Brody,” she sighed. I’ll come with you.”

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