“I’ll find him later, if Officer Baumer doesn’t nail him first.” That was the chief’s deep, masculine voice. Slow and even and calm. “Julie, where are you hurt?”

Julie. That was her name now. He was talking to her.

Before she could answer, warm fingers under her chin lifted her head. “Look at me, Goldilocks.”

The command couldn’t be ignored. Her eyes were so filled with tears he was only a blur.

He was down on his haunches in front of her. His dark brows were pulled into a frown, his hard jaw tight.

An unfamiliar feeling seeped into her. Safe. She was safe.

She tried to smile. “I’m fine.”

“Bullshit. I’ve collected fists to the face. I never called it fine.”

“Can you take her home, Gabe?” Bull walked up behind the chief.

“No.” Still holding her ribs, she shook her head frantically, increasing the ache in her cheek. She needed the job. “I have customers… I need to—”

“If anyone complains about the lack of service, I’ll give them a few truths about how women should be treated.” Bull’s voice silenced the bar.

“Am I fired?” she whispered.

“Not a chance.” Bending over, he patted her shoulder with a huge hand. “I’m damned sorry this happened. I’ll try to make sure it never happens again, but there are no guarantees. I’ll understand if you want to quit.”

She gave a sigh of relief. The work wasn’t that bad; she just needed to dodge better. “I’ll be back tomorrow night.”

“You’re too brave for your own good.” Gabe scooped her up and cradled her against a rock-hard chest.

How had he managed to rise with her in his arms?

“Bull, call in a report to Baumer, would you? He’s on duty tonight.”

“Will do.”

“Here, MacNair. Got your stuff.” Someone laid his black jacket and her own coat over her.

“Thanks, Tucker.” With her still in his arms, Gabe strolled out of the bar.

It was past nine o’clock. Expecting full dark, she blinked at the soft twilight.

The parking lot was full. On the adjacent road, a car went past, heading for the resort. Gabe stopped beside an unfamiliar Jeep. He intended to drive her home?

“I’m fine. I don’t need a ride.”

“I need to see how much damage you took.” He set her on her feet and gave her a look. “Unless you want me to check you in the bar?”

“No.” Her answer came before she thought.

“Then, I’m taking you home,” he reiterated.

Even as she frowned at him, relief swept her. She wouldn’t be alone. Not yet. “Yes, sir.”

Her answer made a corner of his mouth curve up.

After putting her in the passenger seat—and fastening her seatbelt for her—he drove down Sweetgale Street and turned left onto the gravel road leading to the lake.