Page 96 of Blackstone's Heart

Chapter 27

The event was going perfectly. Lunch had been served, Krista did her Q & A session and now she was sitting at a table doing her signing. During the Q & A, she was surprised at how few questions there were about her big reveal and the events around Jerry's death. What questions were asked about those things was done so by the members of the media in attendance. Her fans were there for her writing and that was about it.

The event was winding down when Ethan met with his guys near Krista's signing table. "Well?"

"If he was here, he's one cool cat." Tony said.

"I agree. During the whole thing I didn't spot a single person who was acting out of character." Grant added, his voice sounding frustrated at that.

Ethan rubbed the back of his neck. "Dammit. Okay, we've still got another half hour before we start clearing people..."

Ethan was interrupted by two sounds. The first he heard were a series of rapid pops. The next were the screams. His men immediately jumped into action. He saw Lance turn toward Krista. The last thing Ethan saw was Lance grabbing Krista and pulling her toward the back exit. Knowing his woman was safe for the moment, Ethan and Blackout went to work.

“Everyone move toward the exits!” Wilson ordered.

“Wilson!” Ethan called out.

“The shots came from the left exit over there. My men have blocked it off and some of your boys have already gave chase.” Wilson informed him.

Ethan nodded and jerked his head toward the exit. He, Grant and Tony ran for the doors. The policemen guarding the door moved out of their way and the three barged through the double doors. Ethan saw members of Bravo team at the end of the hall. He caught up to them and found Morton.

“What’s the situation?” Ethan demanded.

“The mother fucker gave us the slip boss.” Morton hissed.

“God dammit!” Ethan growled. “How?”

“It looks like he had just enough of a lead on us to make it to the doors mere seconds before we could catch up to him, sir. I did catch the glimpse of a black sedan peeling out and rounding the corner.” One of the team members answered.

“You said a black sedan?” Grant asked, looking at Ethan.

“Yes sir. I caught the last two numbers of the plates. Texas plates the last two numbers were 07. Two guys from Charlie pursued him. They were heading for I-35.” The man stated.

“Shit, the same car as the one that chased me and Krista two weeks ago.” Ethan stated.

“He had this whole thing planned. He had to have had the car waiting.” Tony added.

“Morton, take your team and see what you can find outside. Tony, you and Grant grab the surveillance footage and meet me at the SUV. I’m going to go grab Gage and I’ll meet you there. Keep me posted on the pursuit.” Ethan instructed.

He barely acknowledged his men’s nods before he turned on his heel and stalked back to the main room. He quickly found Gage standing with Nick, Debbie and Stacey. Nick and Debbie rushed to him.

“Is Krista safe?” Nick asked.

“Yes sir, Lance took her out of here the second we heard the shots. Are you guys okay?” Ethan nodded.

“We’re fine Ethan. At least Krista’s safe.” Stacey spoke up as she and Gage stepped over. “What do you need me to do?”

“Can you take Nick and Debbie home? I’ll send two of my men to stay with you. Gage, go help Tony and Grant get the footage and meet me at the SUV.” Ethan stated.

“You got it boss.” Gage replied.

Stacey stepped up to Ethan. “I want the truth. Is Krista safe right now?”

Ethan placed a hand on her shoulder. “She’s safe. Lance is with her and he will protect her till I get there.”

Stacey released a slow breath. “Good enough for me. Okay, I’ll get her parents’ home and we’ll wait to hear from you.”

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