All the Missing Pieces

by Catherine Cowles

“Law Man,” Ridley greeted. “Chaos,” I returned. Those eyes sparked. “Chaos?” “Can’t say you don’t bring that in your wake.”

“Don’t even think of laying hands on her.”

“News flash, Law Man. Life isn’t safe. Someone could hurt you crossing a busy street in broad daylight. We can’t protect ourselves from everything.”

Gratitude is a choice. Just like looking for the sun.”

Someone grabbed me by my hair and jerked me back. Shock hit my system, panic quick on its heels as a hand closed around my throat, cutting off my air supply.

“Go home, or I won’t let you off this easy next time.”

Colt didn’t look away for a single moment. “You can stay with me.”

But as my gaze settled on the abused skin again, the violence of the attack became all too clear.

“Law Man,” she started cautiously. “You okay?” “Who. The. Hell. Did. This. To. You?”

“I don’t have a home,” I murmured.

“You’ve got one for now, Chaos.”

I wanted to know what she hid in there. What she was feeling now and then. I wanted to know…everything.

“Law Man?” I turned. “Could you stay? Just until I fall asleep?” Ridley suddenly looked like she wanted to take back those words. “Sorry. That was stupid—”

“Sleep, Chaos. No one’s going to hurt you here.” I’d make damned sure of it.

“Don’t lie,” he ground out. “Tell me to mind my own business, but don’t lie.”

“It’s hard to build a community when you’re constantly moving from place to place.”

“Don’t be greedy, Chaos.” “I love being greedy,” I said, eyes dancing. “It’s how you get what you want.”

“Be safe, Chaos. It’s going to piss me the hell off if you end up dead.”

“Get the files, Chaos. We’ll work in the dining room.”

“I’ll help, Chaos. But you are going to stay safe. No more putting your ass on the line.” I opened my mouth to argue, but Colt shut me down with a single look. “We aren’t taking chances. Not with you. Not ever.”

“It’s a bad idea,” I rasped. “We’d be playing with fire.” Those ocean eyes sparked. “Then let’s watch it burn.”

“Should’ve told you before now. You look beautiful. A kind of beauty that would make any man stop in his tracks. But it’s only matched by your fierceness.” Those brown eyes sparked gold. “Show no mercy, Chaos.”

“It’s okay. It’s just me. You’re having a bad dream.” Ridley didn’t wake, too caught up in the throes of unconsciousness. I squeezed her shoulders a little harder. “You’re safe. Come back to me, Chaos.”

“Colt, you helped me find all the missing pieces. Even the ones I didn’t realize I needed.”