Chapter 5
Rio wasn’t having a good day. Thus far, Dakota hadn’t come up with anything on the car. He was headed out the door on another call and would talk to Rio when he and Skylar came in that afternoon.
The clear, husky sound of Skylar’s laughter was like a prod to Rio’s back. Arms crossed, he kept staring toward the driveway for the next delivery. For a woman as delicate and cultured as Skylar, her laugh was bedroom-husky. It made a man’s mind wander where it shouldn’t.
“Skylar, you’re a mess,” Conner exclaimed, his laughter joining hers.
Rio refused to look over at the happy trio. Henderson was there with them. Skylar had enough sense and was woman enough not to try to make him jealous. She was just being her usual friendly self. In Tucson, she’d donated time and money to a women’s shelter. She’d flown home last year on Christmas morning because she’d helped with shopping and wrapping presents for the women and children staying there. The twenty-foot fully decorated tree in the front room had been from her. She cared about people.
She’d just picked the wrong one this time. I’ve watched you for two years. I’m ready to do a little touching. He’d laughed last night. He wasn’t laughing now. Skylar was proving to be more tempting than he had anticipated.
“Rio, I see the last delivery truck. We can make our one o’clock appointment,” she said cheerfully.
He straightened and looked at her. “I can’t make it. We’ll leave at one thirty to go see Dakota.”
Her hazel eyes narrowed. Her chin lifted. “Of course.” She came to her feet and turned to Conner and Henderson. “Time to get back to work, gentlemen.”
Both men saluted her. Rio walked from beneath the tent to meet the driver. Skylar was not going to get to him.
Five minutes later he wasn’t so sure about the delivery driver. He couldn’t seem to keep his eyes off Skylar. Usually she stayed beneath the tent and waited for Rio or one his men to bring the packages to the unpacking table. This time she was there when the man brought out the first box. He actually stopped in his tracks.
“Thank you.”
Seemingly oblivious to the man’s stare, she took the small box from his hands and went to the unpacking table.
“We’d like to get this done this year,” Conner said.
The man jerked as if coming out of a trance. “Yeah. Sorry.”
Conner and Henderson loaded their dollies and wheeled them back to the table. Skylar, ignoring Rio, unpacked the diamond-and-ruby brooch. “This is exquisite.”
Not as exquisite as you, Rio thought, and turned to help unload the dolly. They were almost finished when the driver approached with another box.
“This is the last one.”
“Thank you.” Skylar smiled at the man. “Would you like something to drink while we open these?”
“I’d appreciate it.” The man looked as if he’d just won the lottery. He stepped forward and Rio reached for the box. The man’s gaze met his. The driver’s eyes widened. He stumbled back. The box slipped from his hands.
Rio caught the package and mentally cursed. He knew his expression was ice-cold and dangerous. He also knew the reason he looked that way.
“Ah, sorry.” The man wiped his now sweaty face. “I think I’ll pass on the drink.”
There was absolute quiet as the packages were opened. Rio called out the items to Skylar, and she checked them off the master list. After the driver signed, Rio gave the man a large tip and handed him a cold bottle of water. He swallowed, took the money and water, nodded, and rushed back to his truck.
When Rio looked around, Skylar was gone.
* * *
“Where is Ms. Dupree?”
Mary, the cook, jumped and swung around from the kitchen sink, her hand going to her heart. Seeing it was Rio, she still looked ready to bolt.
“Sorry, I didn’t mean to startle you.” He really didn’t like frightening people unless he meant to.
Mary slowly lowered her hand. “That’s all right. I didn’t hear you come in.”
“Have you seen Ms. Dupree?” he asked again. He’d expected her to come out after she finished her lunch. He’d gone to the men’s quarters and checked in with Blade.
“She’s gone.”
“Gone where?” he asked, barely managing to keep his voice even and non-threatening.
Mary shook her dark head. “She just said she had business in town and that I didn’t have to cook lunch or dinner for her.”
She wouldn’t, he thought, but he was already moving to his Jeep because he knew she would go to meet Dakota without him. He spoke into the wrist radio. “Where’s Skylar’s car?”
“Five miles from here, headed north into town,” came the answer from the control room.
Two of his men had gone to retrieve her car last night. He hadn’t thought to tell them not to let her leave unless he was with her. Opening the front door, he rushed toward his Jeep. He wouldn’t underestimate her again, but neither should she underestimate him.
* * *
Skylar followed the policeman to Dakota’s office. She would show Rio that she didn’t need to depend on him or any other man. She’d been taught to be the perfect hostess for her husband, but never subservient to him. The nerve of him trying to scare the poor deliveryman half to death after ignoring her all morning. She’d show him!
“Here it is, Ms. Dupree,” the young officer said. “The chief is expecting you.”
“Thank you.” She knocked on the half-glass door.
“Come in,” said a male voice.
Skylar opened the door and saw the police chief rise from his chair behind a neat desk. She extended her hand. “Chief, it’s—” She whirled around to see Rio leaning against a file cabinet. “What are you doing here?”
He straightened and came to within a foot of her. “I told Dakota we’d be here.”
“I’m perfectly capable of being interviewed without you. Thank you, but you can leave.”
Rio looked at Dakota, who leaned against the front of his desk, his lips twitching. He was glad someone found the situation amusing. “The chief might have a question or two for me.”
This was not working out the way she’d planned. “You weren’t the one being followed.”
Anger glinted in his dark eyes. “I was the one you called.”
She knew the anger wasn’t directed at her, but at whoever had been in the SUV. “Because I knew the police would respond quicker to you than to me.” The words were barely out of her mouth before she realized she might have insulted the police chief. He and Rio seemed to be on good terms. She glared at Rio for making her speak without thinking and faced the police chief. To the man’s credit, he still wore that patient expression he’d had on last night and when she’d just now entered his office.
“Chief Rodriquez, I didn’t mean to disparage your department,” Skylar told him. “However, if I had called the 911 operator, he or she would have wanted to be sure I wasn’t imagining things, ask questions about the car, the reason I might be followed, before dispatching a police car. I was one signal light away from the last one out of town. I made the call that would get help the fastest.”
“The right one, as it turned out.” Dakota motioned to a chair in front of his desk. “Please have a seat.”
She looked from Rio to the door.
“Not happening,” he said flatly.
If Blade couldn’t intimidate Rio, she certainly couldn’t. She took a seat. She sensed him moving to stand just behind her. “Have you been able to find out anything more?” she asked.
Irritation flashed across the policeman’s face. “Unfortunately, not much. As you said, the car went down a side street. One of my men questioned the valets at the restaurant, and none recalls getting an SUV after you left.”
“The restaurant has cameras,” Rio said.
“The tapes should be delivered to me before five today,” the police chief answered, “I located the man you said was the most persistent because he’d been that way with other women that night. The manager asked him to leave. He paid with a credit card. He drives a small compact and didn’t leave the restaurant until at least an hour after you did.”
Skylar didn’t want to ask if he’d been able to find the other men. Rio wasn’t so hesitant.
“What about the others?”
“Another dead end with three of them.” The police chief looked at Skylar. “From your descriptions of the men and their clothes, I was able to find them. They were still at the bar, still betting who could pick up a woman in the shortest length of time.”
“Juvenile and crude. Women have more sense,” Skylar said.
“The fifth man?” Rio asked.
“Nothing. A waiter thought he recalled a man wearing a black-and-white-checkered jacket, but couldn’t be sure. The restaurant was very busy. We’ll look for him on the tape,” the chief told them. “Have you thought of anything else, Ms. Dupree?”
“No, nothing.” Skylar sat back in her chair. “I told you everything last night.”
Dakota glanced over her head at Rio and leaned forward. “Any old disgruntled boyfriends?”
She did not want to answer that. It would be too much to ask Rio to step out. Then she realized that those close to Blade had few secrets from his personal bodyguard and chief of security at Navarone Resorts and Spas. “I haven’t dated in some time.” Like not in the past two years, and very little before then. She had lots of male friends, but they were just that, friends.
“I see,” Dakota said, when it was obvious he didn’t.
Skylar glanced at her watch. “If there are no further questions, I need to get back to the castle.”
The police chief came to his feet and around the desk. “That’s all for now. Thank you for coming.”
Skylar stood. “Thank you. I wish I could be of more help.”
“You’re safe. That’s the most important thing.”
“And you’ll stay that way,” Rio said from behind her, steel in his voice.
Despite her wish to show Rio she didn’t need him, she had a desire for the man. She didn’t have a shred of doubt that he’d protect her with his life if necessary. The thought of him being hurt sent a chill through her. “Let the police handle this.”
From the blank look he gave her, Rio wasn’t going to listen. “Stay in touch, Dakota.”
“Will do.”
Taking her arm, Rio headed for the door. Skylar had no intention of creating a scene in the police station. Once she reached her car was soon enough to set Rio straight.
Luckily, once they were outside, he walked in the direction she’d parked the car. However, when they reached the spot, instead of her black BMW there was a red Toyota. “Someone stole the car!” she yelled, unable to believe it.
“It’s back at the castle,” Ro said calmly. “I had it picked up.”
She stared at him, then swung her purse at him. He caught it with his hand. She lifted her foot to kick him, then stomped it instead. She might have a black belt, but she was no match for Rio’s quick reflexes. “You should have told me.”
“You should have waited for me.” He stepped closer. His eyes blazed. “Be annoyed at me, but be smart about it. The nut from last night could have been random or he could know you and be waiting for you to leave the castle.”
Fear overrode the anger. “I’ve been trying to make myself believe it was random.”
“Until we know for certain, we have to assume it wasn’t. That means you don’t go anyplace from now on without me or one of my men.” He continued down the busy street until he reached his Jeep. “When we reach the castle, you’re getting another car.”
Rio hadn’t said so, but obviously she was changing vehicles in case the person or persons in the SUV would recognize her last one on sight. He stopped on the passenger side and opened the door.
“Nothing is going to happen to you.”
“Nothing better happen to you, either, or you’ll hear from me.” She faced him with her back to the Jeep’s seat. “I mean it.” She poked his chest with her finger to make her point. “We both stay safe.”
He caught her hand. “Little warrior.”
She was undeniably touched. “You better believe it. Now come on, let’s grab some food and get back before the next delivery.”
His thumb grazed her hand before reluctantly releasing it. “Already taken care of. Mary said you told her not to cook for lunch or dinner.”
She stepped closer, her arms going around his neck. “Does the invitation go for dinner as well?”
His hands splayed on her small waist. He wasn’t sure if it was to keep her from getting closer or to touch her. “Brandon is waiting.”
“So am I.” She didn’t move.
“Brandon doesn’t like it when people are late for their reservations.”
She cocked a brow, withdrew her arms, and reached for the door handle. He was faster, but it also placed her slim backside against his front. She stilled. Since she was unpredictable, he moved back.
Tossing him a grin, she climbed inside. “One day you won’t be able to or want to move away.”
He gave her a flat look. Her grin widened. She had an easier time climbing in this time because of her flared skirt. It slithered back on her thighs when she crossed her long legs. He closed the door with a snap, went around, and got inside. That’s what he was afraid of.
* * *
They must have been watching for them. As soon as the hostess spotted Rio and Skylar, she picked up a cell phone. Rio couldn’t imagine allowing her to have it ordinarily.
A waitress greeted them. “Good afternoon, I’ll show you to your table. Your food should be out shortly.”
“How many times has Brandon called?” Rio asked, his hand in the small of Skylar’s back as they followed the waitress.
She glanced over her shoulder. “Twice in less than two minutes.”
Rio grunted. “Someone was poking.”
Skylar looked at him, then patted his arm. “Everyone can’t be a good driver.”
“Here you are,” the young woman said, her lips twitching. “Brandon is probably on his way.”
Skylar slid onto the red, tufted barouche bench at the end of the family table and patted the seat beside her. “I won’t bite.”
Yes, you would, he almost said, then took his seat. No man or woman had ever gotten the best of him, and it wasn’t going to start now.
“About time.” Brandon set down a platter of smoking beef and chicken fajitas, piled atop grilled onions, and red and green peppers.
Another waiter brought their drinks, chips, flour tortillas, and salsa. “Rio. Skylar. Happy to see you back.”
“We’re a minute early,” Rio said.
Brandon grinned and leaned against the edge of the booth. “My watch must be off.”
“Thanks, Brandon.” Skylar reached for her purse. “I appreciate the rush. Would it be possible to get an order for chips and different dips to take back for Rio’s men?”
“Put that away. That goes for you as well, Rio. You’re helping Mama.”
“Thanks again. I really appreciate it.” Skylar returned her billfold to her purse. “She’s an awesome woman. I’m happy to help.”
“Was there something else, Brandon?” Rio asked, already knowing the answer.
“Rio, this is the first time you’ve brought a guest. Top shelf.” Bandon straightened. “If you need anything, just grab any passing waiter or waitress. Later.”
“Try this.” Skylar held a chip laden with queso.
“I can feed myself.”
She rolled her eyes and inched it closer. “Come on, humor me.”
He took a small bite of the chip. Immediately she crunched on the chip until it was gone, then licked her lips. “Good, but I know something that’s even better.”
He reached for his drink. Skylar might be more difficult to resist than he’d thought.
“Here you go.”
She held a fajita to his mouth. He was not falling for that again. He took it from her hand and took a bite. “Eat. We have thirty-three minutes to get back.”
“Then perhaps I should drive.” He took another bite, but when he lowered his hands she took both of his wrists in hers. “I can also be stubborn. I just want to see if it tastes as good as I remember.”
Me or the food? He looked up to see Mrs. Grayson turning away. Ordinarily he’d let her leave. He was on her marriage hit list.
Skylar bit into his fajita. “Almost as good until I get to taste the real thing again.”
Rio placed the fajita on his plate and rose to his feet. He needed a third party here to make Skylar behave, even one who had a bull’s-eye with a capital M on his forehead. “Mrs. Grayson, please join us.”
“Hello, Rio and Skylar. I don’t want to intrude,” she told him.
Skylar cleaned her hands on a napkin and scooted out of the seat to hug the older woman. “Impossible, Mrs. Grayson. Especially since you’re the reason this fantastic food is on the house.”
“Thanks for keeping me updated. I can’t wait to see the entire collection. Thank you, Rio, for staying and ensuring its safety.” Mrs. Grayson smiled at Rio.
He shook his head once. Not happening. It didn’t faze her.
“Please have a seat and join us.” Skylar motioned to the U-shaped booth. “There’s more than enough food.”
“That’s kind of you, but I have an appointment. Brandon said you were coming for a late lunch and I just wanted to say hi and thank you.” Mrs. Grayson took Skylar’s hands. “I can’t cook as well as Brandon, but I’d love for you to come over tonight for dinner. If you don’t have plans?”
“Do we have plans, Rio?” Skylar asked.
The women stared at him. He should just say no.
“Trying to surprise me, huh?” Skylar faced Mrs. Grayson. “Why don’t you come out and I—” She stopped abruptly. “It will be dark when you leave Navarone Castle.”
“I left the other night and it was dark, but don’t worry.”
Rio knew Skylar was thinking about the incident last night. “She always has an escort to her door, the house is checked, and she’ll be safely inside with the best security system in the world before my man leaves.”
“Thanks to Rio and Luke. I appreciate the security system, but the man following me is unnecessary. However, no one listens to this old woman,” Ruth said, with a sigh.
Brandon snorted. “If any of us called you old, you’d brain us. Watch out when she pulls the old card.” He kissed his mother on the cheek and placed three large take-out bags on the seat. “That should hold the men.”
“Thanks,” Skylar said.
His mother patted his cheek. “I love you, too.”
“You’re welcome to come over tonight and look over the collection,” Skylar said. “Or do you want to wait until Tuesday afternoon when everything is finished?”
“Tuesday will be fine.” Ruth hugged Skylar again, and patted Rio’s arm. “We’ll talk later and firm things up. Enjoy your meal.” She walked away with Brandon.
Skylar sat back down and reached for Rio’s fajita. “Eat up. The clock is ticking.”
Rio took his seat, picked up a flour tortilla, and prepared a fajita. Skylar didn’t even seem to notice. She was up to something.
* * *
Skylar insisted on carrying one of the bags with Rio’s men’s food. “How many minutes?”
“Eighteen.” Rio opened the back door and placed the three bags inside.
“Cutting it close. You sure you don’t want me to drive?” she asked with a straight face.
“Not—”
“Happening.” She opened the passenger door. “Didn’t your mother or father ever teach you about compromise?”
“I was raised in a church orphanage,” he said, his voice flat.
Her heart stopped, aching for him. “Then neither got to know the intelligent and wonderful man you are.” She climbed inside. Her nails dug into her palms to keep from crying. “I peeked in one of the bags. I might wander over and join you.”
Rio backed out. “You wouldn’t get within fifty feet. Sensors.”
“I sort of figured that’s what posed a problem to Sierra,” Skylar said, hoping she hadn’t brought up bad memories earlier. “But after meeting Sierra, and knowing she’s strong-willed and Blade’s wife, how did that work out?”
“I called Blade when I saw her heading in that direction for no apparent reason and went after her.” He stopped at the light. “Blade arrived while we were talking just inside the perimeter of the scanners. My men followed protocol when the scanners went off.”
Protocol could mean anything from lockdown to guns drawn. Skylar would have loved to have heard that “talk” between Rio and Sierra. It was no secret to anyone who had been around Sierra that she liked having her way, and that she didn’t like the bodyguards Rio assigned to her when she wasn’t with Blade. She and Rio had butted heads in the past and would probably butt them again.
She glanced at Rio as he pulled off. He would give only as much information as he had to. At least they’d gotten past one-syllable answers. “All right, what happened?”
“She and Blade went back to the castle,” he said simply.
There was more to it, but she’d never hear it from Rio. He was a man of principle and extremely loyal. She relaxed back in her seat. “But I’m bringing them food.”
“No women.”
“How about hot dogs on the grill later on tonight?” Skylar cajoled. She’d never had to work this hard for a date, but then there were no other men like Rio. “You wouldn’t want me to be embarrassed when Mrs. Grayson asked me and I’d have to tell her that you stood me up.” She shuddered. “I’d never be able to look her in the face again.”
“You’ll manage.” He slowed down to turn into the Navarone estate.
“I’d manage better if you and I had dinner tonight.” She wondered if she should do the finger walk up his muscular thigh.
The stubborn man ignored her. “From now until this person is caught, when you leave the estate you aren’t to be alone.”
“Rio—”
“Argue and you’ll walk the rest of the way.”
“No, I won’t, because then you wouldn’t be with me to protect me. Not that I don’t think I can take care of myself,” she said matter-of-factly.
The Jeep came to a screeching halt a yard from the black iron gate. On the other side, two men with guns drawn stepped from the guardhouse into the road. “Jaguar. Stand down,” Rio radioed. His eyes were no longer cold, but burning hot with emotion. “If you suspect anything, you let me handle it. Got it?”
“Ri—”
“Got it?” he bit out.
She could argue, but she wouldn’t win this time, either. Rio wouldn’t back down from Blade, who was pretty scary himself. “Got it.” If he thinks I’m going to run to him and risk him getting hurt when I could hand—
His hand on her cheek turned her face to him. “Whatever you’re thinking, don’t. One word from me and you’re on the jet back to Tucson.”
She stared openmouthed at him. Blade trusted Rio implicitly. “You wouldn’t?”
“Try me.”
He would, in a heartbeat. He’d do whatever it took to protect her, but she didn’t have to like it. She batted his hand away and crossed her arms. “I don’t think I’ll be hungry tonight.”
Rio started the Jeep just as the delivery van turned in behind them.
She’d show him.