Page 136 of Mile High Daddy

His smirk vanishes, and his brows lift slightly. “You really do love her,” he murmurs, like the realization just dawned on him.

I don’t say anything.

Because I don’t need to.

I restart the engine, the quiet hum filling the car. “I can’t lose her,” I say simply.

Torres is silent for a beat.

Then he exhales, shaking his head. “Yeah. I get that.”

I put the car in gear, my mind razor-focused now. “Tell me more about the guy,” I say, my tone sharp as steel.

Because one thing is certain.

If he’s a threat to Lila, I will bury him.

The drive to the Fevre Inn is quiet.

I grip the wheel tightly, my foot pressing heavier on the gas. The thought of Lila at the Inn, surrounded by people I don’t trust, sits like a stone in my gut.

“You think this Alex guy will make a move tonight?” Torres asks, breaking the silence.

“He won’t get the chance,” I mutter.

Torres exhales, shaking his head. “You’re really on edge, huh?”

I don’t answer.

Because something doesn’t feel right.

I keep my focus on the road, gripping the wheel tighter, my jaw locked.

Then, just as we approach the long driveway leading to the Inn?—

Gunshots.

I react instantly, slamming the brakes and throwing the car into park, my hand already reaching for my gun.

Torres curses, his eyes sharpening. “Shit. That’s coming from the property.”

I throw open the door, stepping out fast, adrenaline surging through my veins.

Another shot rings out.

We move fast, staying low as we weave through the shadows, scoping out the property.

Gunfire still rings through the air, sharp cracks splitting the night, but I don’t rush blindly toward the noise.

Not yet.

Because something isn’t adding up.

Torres nudges my arm, his voice low. “You see that?”

I follow his gaze.

There are men everywhere, moving in coordinated formations, covering entrances, blocking off pathways.

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