Page 11 of Rattlin' Bones

“Her ride home.”

“He’s also the guy who saved me, Dad. Be nice.” I walked into his open arms, hugging my father tight.

“Saved you from who?”

“The guys who kidnapped me.” I already knew how this would sound to my dad and Skel. Judging by their twin scowls, I knew both men were concerned.

“You forgot to mention that part,” Skel huffed, “but now I know why you were out in that cemetery.”

My father gripped my shoulders as I stepped back. “And you’re not hurt? They didn’t do anything to you?”

I shook my head. “No. They tied me up and dropped me at the cemetery. I think it was a warning.”

“Who did this?” Skel asked.

“Not here,” I whispered, uncomfortable with the security guard and James listening in. I wanted to talk about this to my father without an audience.

“Let’s go up.” My dad guided me toward the elevator that led to our penthouse.

“Sir,” Skel began. “I’d like to be a part of this conversation.”

Dad raised an eyebrow, asking what I thought.

I nodded. “He might be able to help.”

“What’s your name?”

“Bran.”

Bran? I thought it was Skel. How many names did he have?

“Well, Bran, I want to know more about how you helped my daughter. Join us.”

It wasn’t a question. More like an order.

Skel stepped onto the elevator, and the doors closed. When we arrived on our floor, Dad helped me down the hall, unlocking our door before stepping inside.

I moved to the couch, curling up with one of my favorite blankets. Several of the softest materials were kept in the ottoman. I snatched one out and covered up, resting my head against the back of the cushion. “I feel like I could sleep for weeks.”

“Not until you tell me what happened,” my father announced. “Who took you?” He sat on the edge of the couch, tensing as he awaited my answer.

“He said his name was Luis Diego. That you would know his name,” I added. “He said you owe him a debt, and he’ll come to collect if you don’t follow through.” I swallowed, terrified of what that meant.

“Fuck.” Skel sat down beside me. “I don’t think he’s fucking around.”

“I know that,” my father spat. “I’ve been on the circuit for twenty years and sent more scumbags to prison than you could count. Luis Diego is just another criminal with a god complex. He thinks he can force my hand.”

Force his hand? “What does that mean?” I already knew this had something to do with one of my father’s cases. I just didn’t know how dangerous Luis Diego was or if he’d make good on his threat.

“There’s a murder trial on the docket for next week. I’m guessing he’s asking me to be lenient since the defendant also shares the same last name.”

Shit. “Dad. I think you should take this seriously.”

“I already am.” His sharp gaze focused on me. “The police are on the way to his residence now.”

I paled. “Is there enough evidence to bring him in?”

My father clenched his phone hard enough for it to crack. “Luis kidnapped and threatened you. He threatened a judge. He won’t be walking out of that jail anytime soon.”