Page 53 of Guarding Bristol

“Not me.CPS.”

Made sense.“I’m just waiting to hear back from my handler.Won’t know what my next move is until then.”

“Understood.”Beckett glanced around the small space before focusing back on him.Likely checking escape and entry points, assessing security weaknesses.There were plenty.“Need anything else?”

A time machine so he could go back in time and meet his CI somewhere else?Then his cover would still be intact, and Bristol wouldn’t be in danger.“Not right now.”

“Left something in the truck.Back in a sec.”He went back out the door and returned moments later with a long gun case, setting it on the floor.“Hunting rifle.Just in case.”

“Thanks.”

Beckett nodded, looked over at Cassie.“Ready?”

The set look on Cassie’s face made it clear she didn’t want to go anywhere, but her expression softened as she turned Bristol toward her.“This will all be over and behind you before you know it.Just lie low and be careful for the time being.”

“I will.”TJ had to give Bristol credit.There were no tears, no hint of fear from her.Not even a slight wobble in her voice.She was a lot stronger than she looked.

Cassie’s gaze swung back to him, laser sharp.“Anything happens to her, I’ll hold you personally responsible.”And then I’ll make you pay dearly,her eyes promised.

He dipped his head in acknowledgment, respecting her loyalty to her stepsister.Bristol deserved that kind of love and protectiveness.

The two women hugged and said their goodbyes.“Just shout if you need anything,” Beckett said before he and Cassie left.TJ locked the door behind them, let out a deep breath and turned around to face Bristol.

Chapter Eighteen

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“So where am I sleeping?”Bristol asked, bag in one hand and her bat in the other.

A whole new kind of tension filled the room now that they were locked in here alone together again.It was selfish as hell, but deep down he liked the idea of having her all to himself.“My bed.”

“You sure?I’ll be fine on the couch.”

“No.You’re taking my room.”It was more secure, for one.But the totally primitive part of him wanted her in his bed.Even if she was in it without him.

Jesus, he had to stop thinking about her in a sexual way right the hell now.

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