Page 77 of Raging Inferno

Presley’s arm stung where he’d shot her, but it was a dull ache. Dominic had made her forget everything last night, including the injury. The feelings he evoked scared her. They were compatible on every level. It frightened her to think of how much she needed him.

When someone had shot at them yesterday, she hadn’t worried about herself being in harm’s way. Her only thought had been to get Dominic to safety. She couldn’t stand it if something happened to him. She was the one the perp wanted.

Sitting around, waiting for the next shoe to drop, went against all her instincts. She was aggressive, not passive. Earlier in the morning, she’d called Jessie to ensure she was okay. Presley had been shocked to discover Tamera was staying with her. It warmed her that they were back together. Hopefully, their renewed friendship would last. Plus, she felt better knowing Tamera was safely ensconced in Jessie’s secure house.

They were in the living room watching television when Presley’s phone buzzed. She recognized the tone as the one she’d set for the fire station. She’d had Dominic shut off his cell since it could be traced and forwarded his calls to her number.

She got up and handed him the phone. He met her gaze as he listened to the person on the other end of the line. Whatever was happening, it wasn’t good. He told them he was on the way and disconnected before standing.

“There’s another fire.”

Presley’s stomach dropped to her feet. “Oh, no. Please tell me it’s not Jessie’s place.”

“It’s not, but it is a house fire. The call just came in, so they aren’t sure of casualties yet. I need to change.”

“Me too.”

Presley followed Dominic up the stairs, and they split off toward their respective rooms. She donned her tactical pants, Kevlar vest, and a top.It was a good thing she’d brought work clothes, she thought, as she stepped into her boots and laced them up. Her trip had nothing to do with COBRA Securities, but she’d brought them anyway.

She met Dominic in the hallway. Kayne was ready when they jogged down the stairs.

“I’m not sure how long I’ll have to be there. Maybe we should take both vehicles. You and Kayne can leave if it looks like I can’t get away.”

“Okay.” Presley handed him her keys and phone. “I’ll call my office and have them forward my calls to Kayne. His number is programmed in, so you can reach us if necessary.”

Dominic led the way in Presley’s SUV. She rode with Kayne in case they got separated. She could guide him to the address.

Pumper trucks were spraying streams of water onto the fire when they arrived. She prayed that no one had been inside the house.

Dominic screeched to a stop and jumped out. With a wave, he ran to meet his crew. Presley and Kayne stayed inside the SUV where they could monitor who came and went.

Kayne’s cell buzzed. He picked it up and glanced at the screen. “I don’t know who this is. Must be for you.”

She took it from his hand. “It’s Dominic’s daughter.”

“Hey, Gia, what’s up?”

“I have the girl. If you want to see her alive again, let’s make a trade.”

Presley activated the speakerphone. “Who is this?”

“That’s none of your business.”

“It is if you’re holding a child hostage. Where is she, you bastard?”

“Come see for yourself.” He spouted an address.

“How do I know you have her?”

The man sighed. “Say something, kid.”

“Presley? I’m scared.”

“It’s okay, Gia. Don’t be afraid. I’m on my way to get you.”

“Touching,” the man drawled. “Come alone. If I see her dad or anyone else, I will kill her. You call the police, I’ll know, and I will kill her. If you try anything funny, she’s dead. Get the picture? You have twenty minutes. If you’re not here by then, the kid eats lead.”

“If you hurt her—”

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