by Cara Carnes
“That’s a story for another time.” He motioned to Hillary and Luke. “You take Luke on Peanut. Hillary’s on Midnight.”
“That’s not going to happen,” Riley said. “She doesn’t even know you.”
Anger flashed across Dom’s face. “She’s on Midnight with Lars. A child’s first ride should be important, with a parent or someone they love. Luke’s been on a mount with Lars. Don’t spoil her day with whatever you’re thinking.”
Riley paled. “That’s not what I meant.”
“Maybe you should. I warned you princesses shouldn’t goad the hired help,” Dom said, his voice low. “I’m done playing your little games.” His fingers glided along her glittered hair. “Love the new look, though. It suits you.”
Riley squeezed her eyes shut. “I’ll get you back for that.”
“Tap out while you still can,” Dom warned. “It’s not smart playing with a man like me. You should listen to your brothers.”
“They don’t tell me what to do. No one does.” Fire ignited within the woman’s gaze. “Midnight’s really yours?”
“He is.” Dom took a step back. He looked at Nolan. “Thanks for offering him a home here. He’ll be happier. We both will be.”
“What?” Riley whirled to face both her brothers. “You can’t…He can’t…”
“It’s happening, Riles,” Dallas whispered. “They were separated too long as it is. He spends too many hours out here working for us to keep that divide. Midnight is Arsenal because Dom is.”
“But Peanut…”
“This isn’t about Peanut,” Nolan said. He touched Riley’s hair. A smirk appeared on his face. “Dom’s held back from responding to what all you’ve done so far. I’m not sure why you’ve been goading him, but you need to back down like he’s asked.”
“That’s none of your business,” Riley said. Arms crossed she glared up at her brother. “He’s not going to be happy here.”
Bree wasn’t sure if Riley was talking about Midnight, Dom, or both. Although she wanted to help her friend navigate whatever this was, Riley hadn’t ever shared anything about why she taunted Dom.
“They’ll work it out,” Ram whispered in Bree’s ear.
Yeah. They would. Bree just hoped the compound was still standing after they did.
“This doesn’t have to be a war,” Dom said. “There’s plenty of room for both Peanut and Midnight. You won’t even know he’s here.”
“Fine. Whatever. There are gonna be rules.” She glared up at Dom. “That barn is my domain. The minute you step out of line, he’s gone.”
“That’s not happening,” Nolan said, his voice firm. “Midnight’s here to stay. You two play nice.”
“Sure, bro. Whatever you say.” Riley smirked up at Dom. “You just started a war you won’t ever win.”
“I already have, princess. The sooner you accept that and forget about me, the better.” Dom took Midnight’s reins and pulled the horse toward the barn.
“Yay! I get to ride a horsie!” Hillary jumped up and down. Her excitement blasted through the area.
Nolan’s gaze cut to Dallas. Neither brother seemed happy about the war declaration. Riley was a hurricane Bree doubted anyone could contain.
“Oh boy,” Bree whispered.
“Things are about to get interesting around here.” Ram chuckled. “Come on, let’s go see how we can help. Then you’re all mine tonight.”
Yes, please. Bree couldn’t help but smile. She loved her new life at The Arsenal. “I love you. Tonight I’ll give you a real ride.”
“I love you, too.” Ram kissed her softly, then took her hand. Together they headed into the massive barn. He swatted her ass. “Don’t think I’m not thinking about what you just said, sweetheart. I can’t wait.”
* * *
~THE END
Thank you for reading Lethal Echo. If you enjoyed it, please consider leaving a review so others can find it. Stay tuned for the next book in The Arsenal series. Riley is about to give Dom the race of his life.
Preorder your copy of Shock Tactics now. Release date November 23rd
About the Author
Born in small-town Texas, Cara Carnes was a princess, a pirate, fashion model, actress, rock star and Jon Bon Jovi’s wife all before the age of 13.
In reality, her fascination for enthralling worlds took seed somewhere amidst a somewhat dull day job and a wonderful life filled with family and friends. When she’s not cemented to her chair, Cara loves travelling, photography and reading.
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* * *
THE ARSENAL SERIES
Jagged Edge
Sight Lines
Blood Vows
Zero Trace
Battle Scars
Impact Zone
Hostile Ground
Lethal Echo
Shock Tactics – November 23rd
* * *
THE COUNTERSTRIKE SERIES
Protecting Mari
Justice For Angie
Avenging Victoria
Loving Bea
Fighting For Jen
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Want more of The Arsenal Series? Did you know there are free reads between all the Arsenal releases? Subscribe to my newsletter or join my Facebook group for the first peek at exclusive bonus content. Links to free short stories in the series can be found on my website at www.caracarnes.com
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