Page 95 of Security Breach

“I heard a thump inside the room. I knocked on the door. Before I could turn the knob, the door flew open.” She fell silent.

“And?” he prompted softly.

“Everything happened so fast.”

“Gigi, look at me.” When her gaze locked on him, he squeezed her free hand briefly and released her. “Anything you remember will help.”

“This sounds stupid, but a wall of black rushed toward me, and hard hands shoved me against the wall. When I regained consciousness with this killer headache, Mr. Wells was sprawled on the floor of the library.” She swallowed hard. “So much blood everywhere.” Gigi swiped at the tears trickling down her face. “Sorry.”

“Don’t apologize. I’m sorry that you have to deal with a murder in your home.”

“Will you and your brothers investigate?”

“Not directly. This might be related to another case we’re investigating. For the moment, Chief Hoffman is lead investigator.” But he bet that didn’t last long. Jordan was territorial, and the vic was his colleague.

Headlights lit the room and a siren cut off. David glanced at his watch. Owen. Until he was sure, David moved in front of Gigi, weapon held by his side.

Seconds later, Owen opened front door and rushed into the room with Cal following in his wake. David moved aside as his brother made a beeline for Gigi.

“Owen,” she said, her voice husky.

He crouched in front of her. “You okay, G?”

“Why are you here?” she asked.

Owen captured Gigi’s free hand. “Answer the question.”

“I have a goose egg and a massive headache. Otherwise, I’m fine.”

He glanced at David, an unspoken question in his eyes.

“The EMT said she needs to go to the hospital.”

Gigi sent David a dark look that spoke of payback. Guess he wouldn’t score muffins and coffee on his early morning rounds for a while.

Without a word, Owen stood and scooped the B & B owner into his arms. He headed for the door which Cal opened for him.

“Put me down, Owen,” Gigi protested. “I have guests. I can’t leave them, especially now.”

“This place is full of cops and will be for several hours. Your guests will be fine. If they need something, one of the cops can get it for them. I’m more concerned about you.”

“Owen….”

“Hush, G. I’m taking you to the hospital. Cal, you’re with me.” He angled Gigi through the doorway and carried her away from the house without a backward glance.

Cal whistled softly. “I hope your brother knows what he’s doing. The lady looks seriously ticked off.”

“She’ll get over it. Go. Watch his back. He’ll be focused on Gigi.”

“Is this murder related to Emma’s situation?”

“Probably. I haven’t looked at the crime scene or body yet. For now, assume one of the teams took out Wells and may come back for Gigi. Make sure they don’t have a second chance.”

With a nod, Cal left, closing the door behind him.

After updating his brother Caleb and contacting a part-time deputy to cover the rest of Owen’s shift, David returned to the kitchen. Jon looked relaxed while Blair’s frustration was almost palpable.

“If you’re holding out on me, Smith, you’ll regret it.” Blair threw down her pen.

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