He sighed. He’d told himself he wouldn’t lie to her. Not ever. Not about anything. But why the hell did she have to ask the complicated questions? “My leopard would definitely kill his if he persisted in tryin’ to get to you. So, yes, he’d be dead.” He had skirted the issue, blaming his cat, but he’d told the truth. His leopard would kill Robert’s in a heartbeat if it found the golden leopard anywhere near Bijou’s female.

“That’s just a little scary.”

“I know, Blue. I know this all must not only be shockin’ but very frightenin’ as well. I’ve got to go after this murderer, but I swore to you I’d get you through this and I will. Just please stay put for me. Don’ go off anywhere alone. I need to ask you a few questions though, about some things pertainin’ to the murders, just because the victim was at your club and harassin’ you.”

“Would it help if I come there?” Bijou asked. “I wouldn’t mind gettin’ away from here. If you don’ want me to come alone, I can ask one of your brothers to drive me there. My car’s a wreck anyway.”

“That might be a good idea,” Remy said. He knew it wasn’t, not with all the suspects there, and all the work he had to do, but he wanted to see her. It was definitely want, not need. He’d never admit to needing to see her. His leopard was all growly because he was worried, that was all. “Have Mahieu drive you. He’s got a brain and isn’t crazy in a car.”

“I’ll be there as soon as I can,” Bijou said.

There was relief in her voice. Was she glad to get away from Robert and Dion, or did she want to see him?

“Just wait for me in my office. I’ll come out when I’m able.”

“Sounds good to me. I’ve gotten a couple of text messages from my manager. He wants to meet with me and discuss some business. I’ve been puttin’ him off for a couple of weeks now and I’ve got to do it.”

“Not yet, no way.” He nearly snapped it. As it was it came out as an order.

There was a small silence. “Remy, if you know somethin’ about my manager, and you must to have a reaction like that, please tell me.”

He cursed again under his breath. This time, blistering, hot Cajun French, directed at himself. “Listen, chere, I’m still investigatin’ him, but I’ve discovered a few things that worry me. I was waitin’ until I had all the information before I said anythin’ to you one way or the other.” He paused. “The thing is, Bijou, I know you care about Rob Butterfield. I didn’t want you hurt again.”