Page 37 of Hunted By the Cartel

My heart seized at her words. I didn't think I could give her the information she was looking for. I just didn't have it.

On top of that, witness protection would mean starting a new life, leaving everything and everyone I knew behind. But it was a sacrifice I was willing to make to ensure my safety and that of my unborn child. And, as long as Diego stayed with me, that solution could be more palatable.

"I understand, Detective," I said, my voice steady. Even though I was a wreck on the inside, on the outside, I was doing everything to show I was calm. "I'm prepared to provide you with detailed information, including names, locations, and any other relevant details. I want to help bring an end to their criminal activities."

The detective leaned back, a slight softening in her demeanor. That was good. It was better than I thought it was going to be. I thought she was going to say I didn't have anything to give her and dismiss me.

"Very well, Mr. Whisperwind. We accept your offer. We will begin debriefing sessions immediately, and in the meantime, we will initiate the process for your release and protection."

A wave of relief washed over me, and I felt Lila's hand squeeze my shoulder. It was happening for real. I didn't think it was going to, but it really was.

I knew that the road ahead wouldn't be easy, but I was ready to put my trust in the justice system and rebuild my life. Plus, as long as Diego stood by my side, I felt we could do anything.

True to their word, the police worked swiftly to finalize our agreement. For several intensive debriefing sessions, I provided them with a wealth of information about the Nightshade Wolves, including the identities of key members and their illicit activities.

That all happened with Diego's help. Without it, I couldn't have managed to give the police so much information. He betrayed the cartel one more time.

In return for my help, the police expedited my release and arranged for my protection. I also suspected they felt guilty about arresting me since I was pregnant. They had treated me too harshly. I should have been under house arrest at most.

The day of my release arrived, and I stepped out of the prison gates, squinting in the bright sunlight. Lila was there to greet me, her face alight with relief and joy. Now, I was waiting for Diego. I couldn't live my life without him.

"You did it, Mr. Whisperwind!" she exclaimed, her eyes shining. "I knew you'd find a way out of this mess."

I managed a faint smile, my heart still heavy from the ordeal. I was happy she was happy, but I hadn't been so confident it was all going to turn out okay for me.

"I couldn't have done it without you, Lila. You're more than an assistant; you're a true friend."

As we walked toward the parking lot, I felt a sense of freedom I hadn't known in months. But my heart was also filled with trepidation as I thought about facing Diego and the fallout from our abrupt separation. We had so much to talk about, after all.

Speaking of Diego, he was nowhere to be seen. I assumed the authorities had arranged for our separate releases to avoid any potential conflict. Still, my heart ached at the thought of seeing him again, even as I longed to explain everything that had transpired.

I hoped he was going to keep an open mind regarding my decisions and motivations. I wanted a fresh start with him.

Lila must have sensed my turmoil because she placed a gentle hand on my arm. As usual, she could read what I was thinking and didn't hesitate to comfort me.

"Mr. Whisperwind, I know this is a difficult time. Take all the time you need to adjust. And remember, I'm here for you, always."

I nodded, grateful for her understanding. "Thank you, Lila. I don't know what I would be doing right now without your support."

As we approached my car, a sleek black vehicle pulled up alongside us. The window rolled down, revealing Diego's cocky grin. My heart skipped a beat at the sight of him, and I felt a mixture of emotions: anger, desire, and a deep sense of loss.

It had been such a long time. We were kept separate in the prison, of course. They didn't want us to see each other. It was cruel, but it was what it was.

"Well, well, well," he drawled, his voice dripping with self-assurance. He was behaving as if he hadn't been arrested. Contrasting with me, he took that much better than I did. "Look who it is. Rowan Whisperwind, free at last. I knew you'd find a way out of this mess, my clever little omega."

I stood there, frozen, unsure how to respond. His words warmed my heart. I missed his voice so much.

Lila stepped forward, her protective instincts kicking in. "Mr. Bloodmoon, I suggest you leave Mr. Whisperwind alone. He's been through enough, and your presence isn't helping."

But that wasn't what I wanted. Lila understood a lot of what I thought, but not that. She didn't get that at all.

Diego's gaze flicked to Lila, and he raised an eyebrow. "My, my, Rowan, you certainly know how to surround yourself with fierce women. But I'm afraid I can't oblige your assistant's request. You and I have some unfinished business, and I intend to settle it."

That was an understatement, to say the least.

I stepped forward, my voice steady despite the turmoil within me. I had so many things to say.

"Diego, I know we need to talk, but now isn't the time or place. Let's take this discussion elsewhere."

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