Witness Pursuit (Bodyguards #1)

Ben riffled through it and held up her driver’s license. “Definitely Mia Taita.” He eyed Gilchrist. “Guess where we’re going?”


“To locate and lock up Kern Hyena.” Gilchrist clapped Tyler on the shoulder. “I could use your help. I’m leaving you in charge of Jenna Winton’s security. Once I have Kern Hyena in custody, and all the details sorted, I’ll contact you to give you the all clear. In the meantime, stay low and out of sight.”

“About damn time.” Tyler jerked his head toward the elevators. “What are you still doing here? Get moving.”

No sweeter words had she ever heard, and once they left, she kissed the man who’d issued them, not breaking for air until she needed it. “I want to go home, with you, but with one proviso on the staying low.”

“Please tell me you want a big, big bed involved.”

“Yes, and with you naked in it. For days on end.”

“Ahh, we have the same thing in mind.” He swung her up into his arms, grinning as he carried her from the room. “Finally we’re in complete agreement.”





17




Digging her fingers into the silk sheet under her, Lydia held onto her thoughts by a mere thread. “Making love to you rocks.”

“And I never want to stop.” Tyler balanced over her as The Idle Dream cruised the Pacific Ocean.

She wrapped her arms around his neck. “What am I going to do with you?”

“I say we change your name one more time. Lydia Sands and Jenna Winton, no more. I want you to be Mrs. Whitehall.”

“Did you just propose to me?”

“Call it what you will, but we’re getting married either way.”

She laughed, and then relaxed back with a sigh, secure in Tyler’s arms.

So much had happened since they’d left Blenheim. Tyler had chartered a plane to Auckland, and during the flight Ben had linked in via video conference to confirm they had Kern Hyena in custody, and the man matched her description. He’d requested she take a look at Hyena and produced his mug shot for her to confirm his identity.

The killer’s beady eyes drilled into her, his lips twisted in an evil snarl. His fury had jumped out, making her cringe back into her soft leather seat.

“Relax. It’s just an image. Look at me.” Tyler had lifted her hands and pressed them against the scorching heat of chest, his gaze and hold piercingly protective. “No one will ever harm you again. Do you understand me? Ever. Again.”

“Yes.” She’d kissed him then faced Ben and nodded. “It’s him. He’s the one who killed Johnny Taita and shot Tyler. What’s going to happen now?”

“Charges will be laid against Kern Hyena for everything Gilchrist can slap on him. Mia Taita’s already lawyered up, although we’re well aware she’s the remaining heir to Taita Senior’s company. Add to that she leaked your information to the reporter, and she’s the killer’s ex and her dealings with him, then her motivation ramps up. She had a part in this, likely ordering the kill. The team here won’t rest until they prove that assumption is more than mere speculation.”

“What about Ladd Hyena?”

“The evidence of his attempt on yours and Drake’s life is solid.” He eyed Tyler. “You’ll be pulled in as a witness to what you heard when he attempted to take Lydia’s life, as will Brigs and Ronson. There isn’t a chance Hyena will see the light of day for years to come.”

“I’ll be there. Have you spoken to Taita Senior?”

“Yes. The news hit him hard, but at least he has the truth. He’s also requested to meet his grandson, but Drake’s not up for it yet. The doctor’s just issued his release from hospital, and he’s returning shortly straight into Ronson’s care.” He tipped his gaze back to her. “Drake wants to see you. I informed him the moment Tyler allows it, you’ll be there.”

“Tell him I’ll call him, that I still want my ride.”

Tyler growled under his breath. “Which will be some time away. Thanks, Ben. We’ll chat later.” He switched off the link and squeezed her hands. “Okay, we need to talk about your need to ride bikes.”

“No.” She smiled and pressed a finger to his lips. “We need to talk about you and the big bed–”

“Hey, come back to me.” Tyler caressed her belly, holding her and their child close.

“Sorry, I’m here.” She looked into his beautiful eyes, those of the man who’d stolen her heart. “Do you want to go and see the others?”

His family and hers were upstairs. Tyler had arranged for everyone to come. Nico had been beyond excited.

“After you give me your answer on the name change. I’ve decided I want to hear a yes.”

“Yes. I love you, and I want to be Mrs. Whitehall, but I’d prefer it if you called me Lee.”

“Lee.” He tangled his hands in her hair. “I love you so much it hurts.”

“Then let me help you fix that.” Wriggling her bare bottom into the sheets, she grinned. He’d guarded her a year ago, and she had no doubt, he’d guard her and their child for the rest of their lives.

No more pain, not now they were together.

Mrs. Whitehall. Oh yeah, she would surely love her new name.