Two ATVs came into view, roaring up the path. I recognized Everett on one and Caden on the other.

They pulled to a stop on the other side of the deer.

“Everyone okay?” Everett asked, his gaze moving to Tessa.

“Yes, although poor Bambi isn’t.” She looked down at the animal, sorrow on her face.

Caden took in the deer with a swift glance, then met my gaze.

“It was fresh,” I said. “Whoever did it, did it fast and left it for Tessa and me to find.”

Everett was frowning. “You think it’s all related? The basement, the railing, this?”

I nodded. “I do.”

“I’m looking into it,” my head of security said. “I’m running searches on all Ro’s rivals and anyone who has a beef with Langston Hotels. Plus going through the hate mail that started when the sale of the Windward was finalized.”

Everett scraped a hand through his hair. “Fuck.”

“No one is getting hurt.” My gaze flicked to Tessa and back. “I will ensure this person is stopped before things get out of hand. Everett, keep an eye out. Your team sees all areas of the hotel. Tell them to watch out for anything or anyone that looks off.”

The man nodded.

“I want to get Tessa back to the hotel.” I didn’t want her out here in the trees with a person who’d happily slit the throat of a living animal.

“Take my ATV,” Caden said. “I’ll help Murray dispose of the deer.”

And no doubt poke around the area for any signs of our deer-killing saboteur.

“Caden, I want this asshole found,” I murmured. “Before he kills someone.”

My head of security gave me a swift nod.

I swung my leg over the four-wheeled vehicle, and settled on the seat. I patted the space behind me.

“Do you know how to drive this?” she asked, looking dubious.

“I won’t crash.”

“Famous last words.” She climbed on behind me, her body pushing up against mine. I took a second to absorb the feel of her.

Damn. I liked it.

“Hold on.” I pulled her arms securely around my middle.

Her breath hitched. I flicked a finger to the men, then gunned the engine and we set off down the hillside. I didn’t go very fast. I wouldn’t risk an accident with Tessa on the back.

Soon, she snuggled into me, holding tight. I suspected she was enjoying the ride. I was. I liked the feel of being outdoors as much as I enjoyed having Tessa close.

When we pulled up at the resort, one of Everett’s team raced over to take the keys.

“Thanks, Carlos,” Tessa said.

The young man nodded. “Chef is rampaging around the kitchen.”

She winced. “So I heard.” She turned to me. “I need to go.”