“I’m afraid I can’t share a list of who we’ve talked to, but we’re working our way around to some classmates of Vi’s, plus teachers, coaches, anyone who had a relationship with her that still lives on the island.”

My jaw hardened. “And what the hell are we supposed to do in the meantime? Just wait around like sitting ducks?”

“Ford.” Bell placed a hand on my chest, trying to calm me. But not even her touch could ease me right now.

“Tell me, Parker. How am I supposed to keep Bell safe when I have no idea who’s coming at us? When it could be someone we trust? Tell me.”

A muscle in Parker’s cheek flickered. “Trust me, Ford. I know how you feel. It’s the worst feeling in the world when you can’t protect the ones you love. But we’re doing everything we can. I’ve got two deputies on the island ’round the clock, and they’re doing regular drive-bys.” He paused for a moment. “You know how to shoot?”

Bell bristled. “Oh no. No guns.”

I quirked a brow at her. “Trouble, there’s a Glock in a gun safe in my bedroom.”

She sighed, rubbing her temples. “At least it’s in a freaking safe.”

Parker met my gaze. “Good. You might look into getting a concealed carry permit. I’ll do what I can to fast-track it for you. In the meantime, get both of you Tasers.”

“I already have one in my purse.”

I glanced at Bell. “Really?” It surprised me. Bell had always been a bit of a pacifist. Hated guns and violence of any kind. I couldn’t picture her picking up a Taser.

She grinned at me. “Your mom gave it to me before I went away to college. She didn’t want me without protection in a big city.”

God, my mom was the best. I pressed a kiss to the top of Bell’s head, soaking in the way her body fit perfectly against mine, trying to grab hold of that peace she gave me. Bell would be safe. There was no other option.

37

BELL

My head thrummed in a steady beat as Ford pulled out a chair. “Sit.” I scowled at him. He glowered right back. “Please.” It sounded like the word pained him. I sat.

Caelyn’s eyes jumped back and forth between the two of us as if she were watching a tennis match. “Soooooo…Anything you want to tell us?”

I turned my scowl on her. “Oh, you know, the usual. Vi’s gravesite being vandalized, threatening notes being left calling Ford and me betrayers.”

Caelyn winced. “Sorry.”

“Bell,” Kenna chastised.