Her Wilde Bodyguards (Wilde, Nevada 5)

“Actually, the founders’ original homestead is still intact. The members of the Wilde Historical Society are the caretakers of it for the town. I’d love to show it to you while you’re here, Gya.”

“I would love to see it.” Her mind was spinning. So he and Aaron had grown up in a house with two dads and one mom. Maybe it isn’t so bad that I’m attracted to both of them. “This is the most interesting story I’ve ever heard. But you’re not Wildes. You’re Straits. How did this poly…what did you call it?”

“Polyamorous relationships.”

She nodded. “Polyamorous relationships take off with the other families in the area.”

“The people of Wilde are about love in all its various shades and colors. They really don’t put limitations on it. Back in the old days, the townsfolk had to really stick together to survive. That spirit has continued to this very day.”

“You sound like you should head the Wilde welcome committee, Kyle.”

“I do love my hometown.”

“Then why did you and Aaron leave?”

“Our dads were killed in action in ‘89 down in Central America. And when our mom died while I was still in high school, Aaron and I both felt lost and adrift.” Kyle’s tone softened as he described his past. “Aaron postponed his college until I graduated. Being the oldest, he took on a ton of responsibility. Mom was so sick. The treatments the doctor prescribed were hard on her. Aaron took care of her and still made sure I got to school on time. Maybe knowing this, you can understand why he is so serious most of the time. It was how he survived all we went through. After I got my diploma, Aaron left Wilde and never returned. Until now.”

Tears welled up in her eyes, thinking about all they’d been through. “This is the first time Aaron’s been back to your hometown, to your parents’ house? Maybe he was just overwhelmed and had to leave.”

“I never thought about it that way. I just thought he was ready to get on with his life.” Kyle sighed. “He’s an incredible brother and friend to me, Gya.”

“I can tell. How long did you remain in Wilde?”

“Until a year ago. I stayed but the town and this house seemed so different without our parents and Aaron to me. The color and vitality of life turned gray and cold. For years I searched for something that would bring back the feelings I’d once known, but I never found anything.”

Hearing the sadness in his voice was breaking her heart, but she wanted to hear more. She reached out and grabbed his hands. “Go on.”

“I sowed some oats after high school for quite a while. Aaron offered me a job and I jumped at the chance, knowing it was time to make something of my life. I love my job. He wants me to become his partner. Fifty-fifty. Can you believe that?”

“I’m beginning to.” Hearing Kyle’s story, she was seeing Aaron Strait in a different light. The man was much more than a tight-lipped, egotistical, control-freak. Aaron was loving and loyal, self-sacrificing and kind. “How is it working for your brother?”

“It’s the best job I’ve ever had.” Kyle squeezed her hands. “So here I am. Keeping an eye on a superstar named Gya Gaynor.”

“Doing a damn good job of it, too.” She looked into his deep blue eyes, thinking about the struggles he and Aaron had been through. They’d survived by supporting each other. How she would’ve loved to have them in her life during her dark years. “I’ve never felt so safe and so comfortable in my life.” Lost in the moment, she kissed his cheek. Shocked at herself, she leaned back. “I’m sorry. That’s not like me, Kyle.”

“It was just a kiss on the cheek, Gya.”

“I’m not the touchy-feely type normally. I don’t even like to hug people.”

He didn’t say a word, but his unblinking eyes mesmerized her. What was he thinking? Did I overstep the line? Of course you did, Gya.

“Kyle, can we just forget this ever hap—”

He pressed his lips to hers, silencing her and sending a shiver up and down her spine.

She placed her hands on his chest, trying to find the courage to push him away, but the courage never came. Instead, she found herself melting into his arms.

* * * *

Aaron stepped into Sheriff Champion’s office and found the lawman, who he’d never met before, sitting behind his desk, and three others, who he knew well.

The Taylor twins sat in two chairs facing the sheriff. Adam and Bane had been on the high school football team with him. Even though they’d been a couple years older, they’d been good friends.

Austin Wilde stood next to the sheriff, looking over his shoulder at some files.

They all turned his direction.

Adam stood and came up to him. He patted him on the back, giving him a manly hug. “Good to see you, buddy.”