“It’s a theory.”
“You’re not sold on the idea.”
“I think the theory is far-fetched. Why would Dad bother to force me back into the Reckoners now? I’ve been gone for a long time; ten of those years I spent as a police officer putting groups like the Reckoners behind bars.”
“I don’t know how sound your reasoning is, but I don’t want your mother used as a pawn in Eddie’s crazy head games.”
Elias’ temper flared. Joe couldn’t possibly think he condoned his father’s habit of manipulating people into doing what he wanted. “I’m concerned about Iona for the same reason. Dad will go to any lengths to achieve his objectives.”
Following a slight nod, Joe said, “Why didn’t Eddie kill you?”
“That’s the question, isn’t it?”
“Power play,” Iona said.
“Explain.”
“Eddie could have had you killed. Instead, the shooter left you wounded instead of finishing the job. The only thing that makes sense is that his goal isn’t to end your life. It’s showing you he has power over you. He’s not finished, though. He’ll ramp up his campaign to grab me or Naomi to use one of us as leverage to force your cooperation.”
Elias’ gut knotted at the possibility she was correct. He loved Iona and his mother. He’d gladly die for either of them. But thatwasn’t enough for Eddie Knight. Nope, he didn’t want Elias to die. Eddie wanted to suffocate Elias and force him to become someone Elias hated.
“Can he do that?” Joe demanded.
“Force me to cooperate?” Elias uttered a bitter laugh. “All he has to do is grab Iona or Mom, and I’m toast.”
“You don’t give the rest of us much credit.” Iona glared at him. “We knew the risks when we signed on to be your backup. Instead of worrying about what your father has planned for you, why don’t you consider what plans we have for him if he crosses the line and endangers one of us?”
He blinked, amazed at his own shortsightedness. He knew Seth better than any family member. His team leader always thought eight to ten steps ahead of everyone else. Of course he had a plan. The stress and fear eating him alive since this op began melted away.
Elias leaned in and took Iona’s mouth with his, forgetting about Joe until his stepfather loudly cleared his throat.
“That’s enough of that now.”
Wrong. He’d never get enough of Iona. Not in a million years.
Joe studied him for a moment. “How serious are you and Iona?”
“Very.”
“You realize your mother will start talking about grandchildren the week after you’re married?”
He laughed. “Yeah, Joe. I know.”
A nod. “I expect you to maintain your cool when she does. Am I making myself clear, son?”
“Yes, sir.”
“Good. Anything else you want to discuss with your mother or me?”
“I need a second favor, sir.”
“Anything.”
“Take Mom on a second honeymoon, somewhere out of Dad’s reach.”
Joe gave a slow nod. “I’ll take care of her. You have my word. If you need us, we’re a text or phone call away. We’ll do anything we can to help.”
“I appreciate it, Joe, but we’ve got this.”
