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Ryker clicked off and thought about his friend’s need to have his family close. It was that damned control issue he always had going strong. This was always who Jac had been with his guys in the military, and his employees in the agency. What was his was his. Suddenly it clicked with Ryker that while he’d always laughed and just dismissed Jac’s need to be within arm’s reach of his people, it was that same need that Ryker now had with Oakley.
He needed her protected by mouthy but intelligent, skill-laden men who would die defending what was theirs. He was lucky he had these kinds of men within arm’s reach and that they counted him and Oakley among their numbers as family. With new relief and resolve, he put in the call to the detective.
Detective Linton, one of Jac’s military buddies, was on the force and often helped when needed. He couldn’t do much for them while she was a missing person, but now that Oakley had given a statement that Audra and her group kidnapped her, things had changed. Linton had snagged the case. His captain often assigned Jac’s cases to him for continuity and because Jacquard Reynaud tended to be a dog with a bone. Linton could handle that.
Linton listened to Ryker and agreed to meet at Jac’s place later this afternoon, after Oakley’s session. “She needs to be as protected as possible. Jac can provide that for her and you.”
“I don’t need it.”
“Don’t be so sure, my friend. If they are trying to make a point, they have already made it with Oakley about her personal safety and the effects of medications. Now, to get to her in a way that will hurt forever, they need to get to you.”
***
CONVINCING OAKLEY THATmore was better in the protection and bodyguard department was easier than he thought, and Ryker was relieved that she accepted it immediately. “Not that I don’t think you can’t handle everything,” she said as she cupped his cheek in her hand. “I don’t want you to have to. The courtroom is your battleground, remember?”
“I’m worried about you dealing with all of this.”
She shook her head. “I’ll be okay.” Ryker knew her words sounded braver than she felt. “I need to test the lines of my security, or it will bind me rather than free me.”
He hesitated, clearly torn between giving her space and ensuring her safety. “But leaving the security of even this apartment is a challenge.”
Oakley placed her hand against his cheek again. “It is, but you’ll be right next to me, supporting me. I know that.”
Ryker leaned down and kissed her softly. “Always.”
The single word was filled with meaning, a promise that went beyond this moment. Oakley drew strength from it as she walked through the doors of her cocoon, clinging to the knowledge that Ryker would be there to catch her if she fell.
When it was time to go to Jac’s house, Levi, Callie, and Garrett arrived to get them there.
“Why so many of you?” asked an alarmed Oakley.
“I have to drive my rig because I anticipate needing to run into court or work sometimes.”
Callie smiled. “We have already moved your car to the underground garage at the shop.”
“What shop?” asked Oakley.
“Sorry. The office. I call it the shop because going to the office doesn’t appeal to me.” Callie shrugged.
“Oh... right. I’ve always loved saying I’m going to the office. That’s a good idea, I guess,” said Oakley. “But why?”
Garrett explained. “See, we can stop any tracking being done on your vehicle once it’s in the garage. We can also sweep it for any devices and clean them off, so when you’re ready to drive it, you won’t have to worry.”
“Um, I guess you’re right. I’ll want to drive sometime.”
Ryker pulled her close. “But that is in the future and nothing to be concerned about right now.”
Levi clapped his hands, and Oakley jumped. “Damn. Sorry, Oakley. Didn’t get enough coffee today, I guess.”
“Or too much,” grumbled Garrett. “Levi is riding with you, Ryker. Callie and I will bring Oakley.”
“Oh, but... I,” The panic was rising as Oakley’s breathing hitched and picked up.
“Change of plans. Callie, you ride with Levi in Ryker’s car. Ryker and Oakley will ride with me.”
Ryker squeezed Oakley tighter. “Deep breaths, baby girl. Slow and easy, now. I won’t leave you.”
“Okay,” she said. “I’m sorry I’m such a coward.”
