Page 17 of Broken: Taylor

Behind Leah, Luke walked up, his bulk making everyone take notice. As they neared, the man looked from side to side, reminding her of a secret service agent, always aware of his surroundings.

After serving in several war zones, Luke who suffered from PTSD was always on alert. Truth be told, Luke actually made her feel safe and secure whenever he was around.

She looked past Luke to see two other men approaching. Tobias and Taylor walked side by side. The twins, Luke and Tobias, combined with their cousin Taylor made an impressive wide-shouldered wall of muscles.

Eric’s gaze locked on Taylor. “Hey Cuz, can I talk to you for a minute?”

It was then Allison recalled Taylor had been a homicide detective and with his experience, Eric could get some help to solve the murder faster.

After a quick glance in her direction, Taylor nodded and walked a few feet away with Eric.

Whatever happened now? She yawned and looked to her friend.

Leah lowered to sit on the street bench next to her. “Eric probably called Taylor. This is horrible. Who got killed?”

Allison shrugged. “I don’t know. They covered him with a blanket. I know it’s a male because I overheard them say “male victim” several times.”

“My goodness.” Leah studied her face. “Are you okay? I bet shaken.”

“Not really. I feel bad that this happened, but I didn’t really see much. I thought it was someone passed out or hurt. Never thought it would be someone who was dead.”

“Hopefully they’ll catch who did it. Maybe you should stay with someone for a few days.”

“Why would I do that?”

Leah gave her an incredulous look. “Seriously Allie, what if the guy recognizes you? You did see him after all.”

“But I couldn't make out his features. He was a bit of a distance away.”

“What if he thinks you got a good look at him?” Leah frowned. “I would come stay here with you, but I have to go to Billings in the morning to work for a week. Big contract.”

“You can stay with us,” Tobias chimed in.

“Good idea,” Leah said. “You’ll be safe there.”

“I’m safe here. I’m sure it was some sort of misunderstanding and the guy’s gone now.”

“People don’t get stabbed eight times over a “misunderstanding””, Taylor said, his gaze flat.

“I don’t see how it has anything to do with me. I can’t go anywhere.” She looked to Tobias. “Thank you for the offer to stay with you, but I have a bunch of orders to fill. Too much work.”

“Okay. I’ll stay at your place then.” Tobias crossed his arms, not giving her an option.

“You are taking the cows to Butte.” Taylor gave Tobias a challenging look. “I’m not doing it.”

Allison stood. “I don’t need a body guard. I’m sure no one wants to stab me eight times.”

Taylor frowned and moved closer taking her arm. “You saw the killer. The killer doesn’t know you didn’t get a good look. He probably doesn’t want an eye witness who can identify him.”

“Oh.” Allison’s heart began a drum roll type rhythm and she gasped. “I hadn’t considered it that way.”

“You’re scaring her,” Leah snapped at Taylor. “Don’t be so damn mean.”

“Oh goodness, you think he’ll come after me?” Allison attempted to snatch her arm free while covering her mouth. She scanned the street and turned to look back toward the darkened street. Bulky jacket, tall and fast is how she’d described the assailant. Someone who could easily overpower her.

It was then she noticed Taylor still held her arm. His features were hard like granite. “I’ll stay with you.”

He didn’t leave any room for argument.