She grinned at me.
God, she was so damn bright and perky. I sat on one of the stools and sipped my juice.
“Breaking news. The body of local businessman Chadwick Goodyear was found on his ranch today near Kyle Canyon.”
The reporter’s voice made my head swivel, and Lili paused, spatula in the air.
“The ranch building was badly burned, and there was evidence that Goodyear set the fire himself. Police are not releasing details, but sources say he died of a single gunshot wound to the head. There was also evidence that several womenhad been kept hostage at the ranch and that Goodyear had been involved in human trafficking and sexual abuse. More proof was also delivered this morning to the LVMPD implicating Goodyear in the murder of local boxer, Chuck ‘Bronco’ Jones and his girlfriend Gloria Reed. This is in addition to evidence of other corruption in Goodyear’s businesses.”
Moments later the news changed. I looked back at Lili.
“Can the bullet be traced back to you?” she asked.
“No. And all DNA evidence of the women was removed as well. The police will find no evidence any of us were there.”
“You’re sure?”
“Nash and his team are good.”
“What about the men that were still alive from the attack at Darkwolf Tactical?”
“They’ve been dealt with.”
She held my gaze for a long beat, then nodded, and didn’t ask any more questions. “Good.” Then she started serving up the pancakes.
“That’s it?” I asked.
“Yes. Goodyear needed to be stopped, and I’m glad you stopped him.” Her voice changed. “I’m glad you avenged your friends.”
I stared at the pancakes she set in front of me. “You can do whatever you want now, Lili.”
She set the second plate down, her gaze on me.
“You can go anywhere and make your life exactly what you want it to be. You can find that beach town and start afresh. Whatever you want.” My hands gripped the counter, my knuckles turning white.
“All because of you,” she murmured. “Without you…” She shuddered. “I know what I want.”
I steeled myself.
Her lips twitched. “Will you let me walk away?”
I rose from the stool and dragged in a deep breath. “Fuck, no.” I grabbed her and held her against my chest. “You’remine.”
With a blinding smile, she threw her arms around my neck. “Good, because what I want is you, Cole Black. And where I want to be is right here with you.”
I covered her mouth with mine. As we kissed, I gripped her waist and set her on the counter.
“I’m falling for you, Cole. Hard and fast.”
I groaned and kissed her again. I had no idea what I’d done to deserve her.
“Falling for you too, sunshine.”
There was a loud knock at the front door.
Cole groaned. “I’m thinking of getting rid of my friends.”
Lili gave a little giggle.
