I blink. “Tamara?”
“She hadn’t seen him in days, and she knew something was off.”
I close my eyes as a cold chill washes over me.
Stephen groans nearby, and Ronan tenses against me.
“He was never going to walk away from this. Declan has had him on a leash for weeks.”
“He didn’t want to hurt me. And I’m here, aren’t I? Isn’t that enough?”
“Because you forced his hand.” Ronan’s voice turns icy. “He would have handed you over to Declan if you hadn’t acted first.”
As much as I hate to admit it, Ronan is right.
His arms tighten around me, and I rest my head against his chest, listening to the steady rhythm of his heart.
He kisses the top of my head. “I’m so proud of you.”
A sob escapes my throat as I sink my fingers into his shirt, pulling him closer.
“I thought I was going to die.”
“But you didn’t. Because you’re the toughest woman I’ve ever met, and I love you so much,Tine Bheag.”
Something in my chest splinters, but in a good way.
I used to hate that nickname, but after tonight, I know that I will look forward to it every day for the rest of my life because it means Ronan is at my side.
Chapter Thirty-Five
RONAN
When the carflipped and started smoking, I thought Ciara was dead.
It was nothing short of agony as I raced toward Stephen’s car, so the last thing I want to do right now is let go of her.
But the sooner I take care of Declan, the sooner I can have her back in my arms where she belongs.
“Stay with Brennan.” I kiss her forehead and let go of Ciara’s trembling body to walk over to where Stephen lies in a bloody heap.
His breathing is labored, and there’s a nasty wound on his temple. I have no doubt he’s got some broken ribs and a concussion. If I got him to the hospital, he would likely make a full recovery, but unfortunately for him, that’s the last thing I plan on doing.
I strip the gun from his waistband and hold it steady as I aim it right between his eyes.
“Call Declan.”I click off the safety. “I want you to tell him you’ve got Ciara and ask for him to meet you at the abandonedsawmill on Route Nine. If you dare say anything else, I will end you now.”
Stephen swallows hard as his eyes flick between the barrel of my gun and my face. “Not until you promise me something.”
“You’re in no position to negotiate.”
“It’s not for me.” He winces as he tries to move, his hand clutching at his side. “It’s my wife and kids. They had nothing to do with this.”
“You should have thought of that before you got involved with Declan Walsh.”
“Please, Ronan… I don’t care what happens to me, but I want you to swear that they’ll be safe.”
I stare at him, my finger tightening on the trigger.
