Crap. Novak was about to give him a lecture on not getting involved with people from work although he was a fine one to talk—

“Be careful. I’ve already lost two friends this month and I don’t want to lose another. And this UNSUB does not mess around.”

The words hit him like a blow to the chest. “I hear you.” He checked his mirrors and took a few extra turns because rushing was when people made mistakes. The last thing he wanted to do was lead this freak to Yael’s door.

He drove back to the guard post and he’d become such a frequent visitor that whoever was inside didn’t even make him slow down or lower his window to gain access.

Tomorrow he’d have a word with their superior but tonight he didn’t want to waste time or give anyone a reason to turn him away, especially when Yael might not be too happy to see him.

But he didn’t even have to wake her. Earlier, he’d “borrowed” a spare set of keys and a garage door opener he’d found in the utility room. He knew the alarm code.

If it hadn’t been so cold out, he might have stretched out on the backseat of the truck but it was below freezing and all he had for warmth was a bloody raincoat.

He sent a text to warn her he was there then let himself into her house, turning off the alarm before re-arming all the exits and entrances.

A few seconds later his phone buzzed and he looked down, expecting a text from Yael to tell him to get lost. Instead, it was Alex Parker.

“Trouble?” the text asked.

Shane thumbed in a reply. “I’m watching her six from the comfort of the couch.”

“Let me know if you think she needs a full-time bodyguard,” Alex replied.

He was shocked that Alex Parker trusted his opinion. And unexpectedly pleased.

“Will do.” The thought of other people guarding her darkened Shane’s mood, even though Yael’s safety was paramount, not his fragile male ego.

They were spending most of their time together anyway so it was hardly putting himself out by doubling as a protection detail. It seemed redundant to involve anyone else when he was right here. He doubted Evi1Geni-us would attack her in her own home but who knew what this psycho was capable of.

There was a short pause in communication followed by, “She’s a loner by habit. Go easy on her.”

What did that mean?

Shane sent the guy a thumbs up emoji because it seemed the most appropriate response and he doubted Alex would reveal any deep dark secrets to a guy he barely knew.