“No wonder
she’s being blamed.”
“It doesn’t help that I found her residual scent on Ken’s clothing.”
“Does Tomlin know where she is?”
“We don’t know.”
“Have you seen Kiara?” This was just the excuse she needed to slay Gaby.
“No. She came to check on Margo and then left promising to seek revenge.”
“Kiara might have framed her.”
“I’m not a fan of the cruel princess, but she swore a royal vow to serve our kind and knows the consequences of breaking the oath. Besides, why would she? You agreed to be her mate.”
Rylee had a point. Even if Gaby would forever be the love of his heart, Kiara wouldn’t risk death. Mating him would give her the higher royal status she craved. “Does she know where Gaby is?”
“We made it appear as though she headed to Canada.”
“Unless there was a leak.”
“There’s no way she would know unless Cricket or Slade told her and I know they wouldn’t. Besides, they are on a mission.”
“I’ll leave for Oregon as soon as possible. Is Lev around?”
“Unfortunately, he is not due back for a couple days.” She met his gaze. “Commander, secure Gaby away from our kind and Tomlin. Put Hallie on the helicopter and have the pilot return here. My niece is too green to confront our enemies.”
“Agreed.” He sighed. “Thank you for having faith in Gaby.”
“Hurry, I’ll have the helicopter to take you.”
“I’m happy you trust me with Gaby.”
She smiled. “I know you’ll protect her.”
Steele met her eyes. “With my life.”
Rylee nodded. “You essentially just gave up your life by protecting her. King Conan will consider you a traitor. Banishment if you are lucky. Mostly likely, he’ll order your death or a werewolf lobotomy.”
“I understand.” Steele bowed and dashed out to the helipad. His only advantage, knowing her location.
Gaby sat in a café in Portland while Hallie scanned the area for trouble. Kiara and Project Sabertooth trouble. “Is it safe?”
“For now, but be ready to go if I tell you.”
“Okay, but where do we go next?”
“Good question.” Hallie took out her cell phone and started typing, presumably texting. She put it away and smiled. “Might as well order something to eat.”
How could she even think about food? “What about your organic farm?”
“No worries. I told them I’ll be out of town. They are used to my sudden vanishing acts.”
“Sorry for the inconvenience.”
“It’s my job. In fact, it’s kind of fun. This is the first time I’ve worked so close to Auntie Rylee.”