The memory hit me like a punch to the gut. Emersyn had been tied up, too. She’d been Anderson’s victim.
August had barely held himself together while we searched for her.
I dropped my gaze to the floor.
“Look at me,” August demanded.
Reluctantly, I lifted my eyes.
“I’m sorry,” he said.
The sincerity in his voice cut deeper than any accusation could have.
“You know I did everything I could. I wouldn’t have asked you to do anything I thought would put her in danger.”
I knew that.
August would’ve died before letting something happen to Palmer, but that didn’t stop the guilt from clawing through me.
“How did he know where she was?” I asked hoarsely.
There had to be something that we missed.
August shook his head. “I don’t know. They weren’t followed there. We were monitoring that.”
I let out a slow breath, my shoulders sagging as the weight of everything pressed down on me.
I didn’t know what the hell to do.
August’s grip on my shoulders loosened, his hands dropping away.
“We’re a team, Roman,” he said, his voice steady and certain. “That’s one thing Anderson will never have.” He reached out and grabbed my hand, gripping it tight between us.
“He’s a lone wolf,” August continued. “He might be able to manipulate people into doing his dirty work, but he has no one loyal. No one who actually cares about him.
“No matter what happens, I would lay my life down for any one of you,” he said, voice soaked with conviction. “And I know you’d do the same.”
I swallowed hard. “I would. Without hesitation.”
“Then believe in me, Roman. Believe in us.” His eyes bore into mine. “We’re going to find a way to get her back. I swear it.”
I stared at my brother, at the man who had led this family in many ways. I might be the oldest brother, but I always thought it was my responsibility to protect. I watched over everyone silently. August was a born leader.
He was a trustworthy man, willing to take everything on his shoulders. I didn’t blame him for what happened, not really. That was the fault of Amos Anderson, not my brother.
I clung to his hand, drawing strength from his steadiness. I had already lost so much. We both had. But I wasn’t willing to lose Palmer. Not after everything. I wouldn’t want anyone else but my brothers at my side to help me get her back.
“I know,” I rasped. “I trust you.”
Relief loosened his body.
For such a long time, I blamed myself for failing Jess. I had left her alone when she’d needed me most, and I’d carried that guilt inside me until it throttled so much of my softness. I’d closed myself off to the thought of ever letting another person close to my heart.
Then came Palmer.
It wasn’t even a choice for me. Before I’d realized it, her kindness and gentle, golden warmth had melted through my hardness.
I couldn’t lose my head now. August was right. I had to focus. I had to calm down and work with my brothers. I would find Palmer. This time, I would not fail her.
