“I know you are,” she said wearily. “You just caught me at a bad time tonight. I’ll bounce back.” Lord, she hoped she was telling the truth. Right now she was so filled with confusion that she didn’t know when she’d be able to straighten out her thinking. “Things just seem to be very difficult at the moment and I have to see what I can do to clear them up. Don’t worry, I’ll do it.”

“Why would I worry about you?” Caleb asked hoarsely. “You persist in telling me you can take care of yourself.” He paused. “But I suppose I should tell you that Palik is sending one of his men to the Run as your personal bodyguard. Even though there’s no sign of Bohdan’s men anywhere near the Run, it will be just another safeguard so that MacDuff’s employees don’t have to assume responsibility for your care. You seemed to be concerned about that.”

“I told you about poor Fergus.”

“Yes, you did. I have to warn you that Sean Rodland is one of Palik’s best men and he probably won’t let you out of his sight. But I promise he’ll do anything you ask him to do. Is that okay with you?”

“Maybe. I’ll have to see. If it’s not, I’ll send him on his way.”

He said grimly, “Or you can send him to me, and I’ll have a word with him. Then I guarantee you won’t have any more problems.”

“That’s all I’d need,” she sighed. “Another guard to hover over me. And you acting like MacDuff does with Fergus. Palik usually doesn’t interfere in your business.”

“No, but he likes you. And he has a problem with Bohdan.” He was silent for a moment. “As I do. And Palik’s not entirely to blame for any of this. So forgive us both for taking extra care, even if you find it annoying. Is there anything I can do to make any of this better for you?”

“You’re doing everything you can. We aren’t even certain Bohdan knows I’m here. And I’m sure I’m not the only one being stalked by the bastard.”

“At the moment it seems to me as if you are. You’re at least the only innocent one being stalked.” He muttered a curse. “And I don’t like the fact that you’ve been sounding almost numb ever since you picked up my call. That’s not like you.”

“Numb? That’s your imagination.”

“Is it? I hope so. But you can be sure I’ll be in touch. Good night, Jane.”