Page 208 of Wild Embers
Camera flashes burst like small fireworks. People surge forward toward the entrance, eager to be among the first inside.
Walker doesn’t move, which means I don’t move either. He watches the crowd instead.
The sea of winter coats bombards the plaza as people funnel through the open doors. Volunteers hand out trail maps while hotel employees welcome guests with steaming cups of hot chocolate.
Walker shifts beside me, his gaze sweeping methodically from face to face, disregarding the celebration.
His radio crackles on his shoulder.
“Walk.”
Without taking his eyes off the crowd, he presses the button on the side. “Go ahead, Jo.”
“We just got a tip of a suspicious man dressed in black.”
Walker lets out a slow breath through his nose. “Clothing isn’t suspicious, Jo.”
“The caller said he smells like gasoline,” Jolene continues. “He’s carrying a large duffel bag around with him and was last seen heading inside.”
Walker’s posture changes subtly. Every muscle in his body goes rigid. His hand drops to the radio again. “Tessa. Ridge.”
“Go ahead,” Tessa answers immediately.
“Circle the south side of the lobby. Approach from opposite directions,” Walker commands.
“Copy.”
“Levi. Santi.”
Levi’s voice comes through the speaker. “We’re here.”
“Take the west corridor. Check the conference rooms and ski lockers.”
“On it.”
Walker finally looks at me. “You?—”
“If you tell me to stay here, I’m going to scream,” I warn.
His jaw flexes. “This isn’t the time, Baby Girl.”
I shoot him a glare. “If you didn’t think it was safe, why’d you bring me?”
Walker raises his brows. “Because I couldn’t leave you at home either.”
I hate that he makes sense.
Walker studies me for a second, and I keep my face stern. When he comes to a decision, he lets out a harsh breath.
“Fine. Come on.”
Victory.
“You stay right on my six.”
“I can do that.” I nod.
“Hand on my belt the entire time.”
