Ben’s jaw—very similar to Eric’s—tightened. “The hell you aren’t.” He glared at Eric. “Why would you say that shit to her? You know I’ve never been closer to anyone than I am to her—”

“Piper isn’t my family.” Eric’s words were growled. “But you can bet I’ll protect her as if she is.” He inclined his head toward his waiting Benz. “I want to take you to my office, Piper. Get you started talking with my team. Attacks like this…they aren’t random. He didn’t just see you on the street and decide to ruin your life.”

Her stomach clenched.

“It’s possible you know him.” Eric shook his head. “No, not possible. You do know him. There are two options for that. One, he’s in your life, maybe a primary player like an ex-lover or co-worker, someone who was set off when you rejected him.”

That was a terrible option.

“Or, two, he’s on the periphery of your world—someone who wants more attention. Either way, in most cases like this, he’s connected to you, and we have to find that connection.”

She needed to do something. Not just stand in the street and stare at the blackened side of her house. “I-I need to call my insurance agent—”

“We’ll take care it,” Eric assured her. His gaze slid around the street. A few of her neighbors were out, watching. “Let’s go.”

Ben moved into her path. “I’ve got a court hearing with a client at nine.” He glanced at his watch, then back up at Piper. “But I’ll be free the rest of the day. I’ll come to you as soon as I’m done. We can get you settled for tonight. With your home like this, you’re definitely going to need a longer-term housing situation.”

Yes, she would. Because the repairs wouldn’t magically be finished in a day or two.

“She’s staying at my place. It’s already taken care of.” Eric’s gaze was still raking the scene. “I’m having clothes and essentials brought in for her today. By the time we’re done with my team, everything will be waiting for her at home.”

Her brows rose. “You’re getting me clothes?” Since when? “No, thanks, I can take care of my own stuff.” Arrogant much.

“Piper,” Eric sighed her name. “I told you last night that I was going to take care of things for you. Most of your clothes were slashed. Those that weren’t slashed, I’m sorry but they’re probably covered in ash, if they weren’t burned.”