Page 70 of Clear Blue Sky

He raced to the door and took the steps into the restaurant two at a time. Veronica called to him, but he ignored her. His mother tried to call, but he didn’t answer. “The only way to end this is to get Marcus to admit what he did and what he’s planning. Trust me when I tell you that he’s arrogant enough to toss that in my face if he thinks he’s got me by the balls.” His phone buzzed. This time it was Maverick.

Shit.

He didn’t have time to deal with each member of his family trying to talk him out of this.

“I love you,” he said. “Stay safe.”

“Nelson, please—”

“Brandi. Trust me.”

“It’s not—”

“I’ve got to go.” He pulled open his truck door. “I’ll call you when it’s over.” Time to put the past where it belonged.

In the rearview mirror.

* * *

Brandi closed her eyes and tried to keep the tears from flowing down her cheeks.

It didn’t work.

She swiped at her face, leaning against the back of the sofa in the middle of the family room. She blinked, staring out the big picture window overlooking the lake.

There were so many details she didn’t understand. Things that didn’t make sense. But she did get that Marcus was dangerous and wanted Nelson out of the picture.

Permanently.

And he didn’t have any problems making sure that happened.

The sound of the front door jiggling made her jump. She gasped. It shook again. She glanced at her watch. Neptune, the man who had been assigned to this detail, came inside about every twenty minutes.

It had been eighteen since the last time.

She shook out her hands. There were military people everywhere. She was safe.

The door flung open and a different man—a familiar one, but he wasn’t Neptune—stepped inside holding a large rifle. He pointed it directly at her chest.

“Hello, Brandi,” Tyler said. “Good to officially meet you.”

Every muscle in her body froze. Her throat tightened. She tried to swallow, but couldn’t. No words formed. Not even a scream. She stood there, unable to move. Unable to do anything.

Her thoughts went to Nelson and what trap he must be walking into. Her fear turned to anger. “Where’s Neptune?” she managed.

“If you’re asking about the man outside, he’s of no concern to you anymore.”

“You killed him?” She gripped the couch.

“If it helps, I didn’t want to.” Tyler smiled. “Now, let’s go.”

“Where are you taking me?”

“You’ll find out soon enough.” Tyler inched closer. The barrel of his rifle was still pointed at her chest, and he had a wicked grin plastered on his face. “Do as you’re told, and you won’t meet his same fate.”

“And what about Nelson?”

“His fate was sealed the first time he died.”

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