Page 62 of Chain Reaction

The blast had blown them off their feet.

But they appeared to be relatively unscathed.

Jake released the breath he’d been holding.

That situation could have turned out so much worse.

He’d been determined to find answers about this before.

But now that determination solidified even more.

Had someone at Blackout done this? Otherwise, how had this person gotten into their headquarters? The grounds were heavily guarded.

He didn’t want to believe one of his colleagues could be working with the bad guy. Could have sold their soul and their loyalties for a cash payout.

But it was a possibility, and he’d be foolish not to consider it.

Right now, he needed to get back to Raven and start picking up the pieces after what had happened.

CHAPTER 29

Everything that happened after the bomb went off felt like a blur to Raven.

Medics had examined her for any injuries. She’d given a statement to Cassidy. Jake had been on patrol, watching for more danger, checking for any more bombs.

The important thing was no one was hurt. Things could have turned out so much differently.

She couldn’t stop thanking God for that.

Finally, she and Jake were cleared to leave the site. She lingered near the Tahoe, waiting for Jake to come back outside.

She thought for sure he’d ask her to stay at Blackout tonight, but to her surprise he hadn’t.

Instead, he stepped outside, an overnight bag slung over his shoulder.

He met her at the Tahoe and tossed it in the back.

“No way am I letting you stay alone, not after everything that’s happened. I’m sleeping on your couch again.” He didn’t sound apologetic in the slightest.

Part of her wanted to argue out of principle. But she didn’t.

Because another part of her was truly terrified and hated the thought of staying alone right now.

She needed someone to have her back.

Jake had stepped up to the plate, so she wouldn’t argue with that answered prayer.

She was curious, however, if he knew anything more than she did.

She waited until they were back in his SUV before she asked any questions. “What are you thinking? Is there something I need to know?”

His jaw tightened, and she knew there was more to the story. She wasn’t sure exactly what he might tell her.

Finally, with his gaze still on the road and his hands firmly gripping the steering wheel, he said, “They messed with our communications. Blocked our calls. Someone breached the Blackout headquarters. Planted a live IED on our campus . . .”

“You think someone affiliated with Blackout may be responsible?” Her throat burned as the question left her lips.

“It’s the only thing that makes sense.” Jake scowled.