On the Hunt

“And if I don’t choose to do that?”

“Then you’ll run the risk of getting people you care about killed. He’ll go after them. The best place for them is right here where I can keep them safe.”

“You can try,” she said bitterly. “But your best may not be good enough.”

“Check with the local police or military officials. They know I’ve made certain to keep this property and the people on it safe for years. I’m telling you the truth. As for Summer Island, I’ll send out teams to watch over all your friends.” He paused. “Until you have some faith in me.”

She shook her head. “That might take a long time. I’m not a very trusting soul.”

“Will you give me a week in which to get to know me? You should allow yourself that amount of time anyway to rest and get a final okay from your physician. After all, you didn’t object when I suggested we do it for Mack. Then can we talk again?”

She was silent. “I’ll think about it.”

He gave a low whistle. “Okay, three days. You’re one tough lady.”

She smiled faintly. “It’s how I make my living.”

He nodded. “I promise I’ll bring my vet back first thing tomorrow morning to give Mack his final walking papers. I suppose you’ll want to take care of him yourself from now on?”

“Of course.”

“He’s a good boy. Fiona and I both enjoy him.”

“Naturally. He’s a wonder. Ask anyone.” She watched him put the collar on Mack’s neck. “He likes you.” She smiled faintly. “He has good taste. You might not be so bad after all.”

“He’d better approve of me after what he put me through,” Harlan said lightly. “And I have a favor to ask while you’re still here at the property.”

She stiffened. “A favor?”

“If you decide to go away, all I ask is that you let me know when you’re going to leave her.”

“Her?”

“Fiona. I know she may not be your favorite person, but she’ll probably be hanging around you and trying to make up for being a pain in the ass. I’d appreciate it if you’d keep an eye on her and let me know if there’s anything wonky going on.”

“Wonky?”

“Heartbreak, kidnapping, murder, et cetera, and so forth.”

Her eyes narrowed on his face. “I take it that Fiona is also a target?”

“Her father was killed when she was only seven,” Harlan said. “Naturally, I have her watched like a hawk, particularly when she’s out of the country competing in the Olympics. But she can be both reckless and emotional, as you saw today.”

“Seven years old?” She shuddered. “Did Taylor ever manage to get hold of her?”

Harlan shook his head. “But he’s been trying ever since he realized that it would be a great way to cause me pain and suffering. He scared her a couple of times, but I didn’t let him get near her.” He added grimly, “Though I had to kill one of his men the second time they went after her.”

“Was she scared?”

“Terrified. But I had a long talk with her and then I bought her a new horse and told her how she had to protect the animals who were her friends. She has a very protective soul, and she forgot about being afraid for herself after that.”

“But you didn’t forget.”

“Never,” he said bluntly. “And I never will. She’s a top priority.”

“A child…” She shook her head. “How could anyone…”

“Easily. Taylor doesn’t care. Remember that. But we care, and we have to make certain that we make him know it. She still has guards on duty, but as I told you, she can be reckless. Will you keep an eye on her for me?”