Issue Of Trust

An Ellora’s Cave Romantica Publication

www.ellorascave.com

Issue of Trust ISBN # 1-4199-0530-9 ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. Issue of Trust Copyright© 2006 Lorie O’Clare Edited by Sue-Ellen Gower. Cover art by Syneca. Electronic book Publication: February 2006

This book may not be reproduced or used in whole or in part by any means existing without written permission from the publisher, Ellora’s Cave Publishing, Inc.® 1056 Home Avenue, Akron OH 443103502. This book is a work of fiction and any resemblance to persons, living or dead, or places, events or locales is purely coincidental. The characters are productions of the authors’ imagination and used fictitiously.

Warning: The following material contains graphic sexual content meant for mature readers. This book has been rated S-ensuous by a minimum of three independent reviewers. Ellora’s Cave Publishing offers three levels of Romantica™ reading entertainment: S (S-ensuous), E (Erotic), and X (X-treme). S-ensuous love scenes are explicit and leave nothing to the imagination. E-rotic love scenes are explicit, leave nothing to the imagination, and are high in volume per the overall word count. In addition, some E-rated titles might contain fantasy material that some readers find objectionable, such as bondage, submission, same sex encounters, forced seductions, and so forth. E-rated titles are the most graphic titles we carry; it is common, for instance, for an author to use words such as “fucking”, “cock”, “pussy”, and such within their work of literature. X-treme titles differ from E-rated titles only in plot premise and storyline execution. Unlike E-rated titles, stories designated with the letter X tend to contain controversial subject matter not for the faint of heart.

ISSUE OF TRUST Lorie O’Clare

Trademarks Acknowledgement The author acknowledges the trademarked status and trademark owners of the following wordmarks mentioned in this work of fiction: Batman: DC Comics, Inc Camaro: General Motors Corporation Chevy: General Motors Corporation Coke: The Coca-Cola Company Dodge Ram: Chrysler Corporation Dr Pepper: Dr Pepper/Seven Up, Inc. Jaguar: Jaguar Cars Limited Jeep Cherokee: DaimlerChrysler Corporation M& M’s: Mars, Incorporated Marlboro Lights: Phillip Morris Inc. Remington: Remington Arms Company, Inc Sears: Sears, Roebuck and Co. Toyota: Toyota Corporation Tupperware: Dart Industries, Inc.

Issue of Trust

Chapter One “How much longer?” Alex whined for about the fifth time that hour. “We’ll be there soon.” Joanna studied her son’s intent expression. His hands were clasped behind his head and he had the passenger seat reclined. Black curls bounced around his face from the wind that flooded the inside of her Dodge Ram truck from his open window, slapping his young face. Alex closed his eyes and let his head collapse backwards. She was as worn out as he was. After an hour and a half of one steep curve after another, Joanna couldn’t wait to be out of the truck. The roads curved around giant boulders that were much larger than her truck. All she saw, if she looked out her side window, was the tops of evergreens growing along the incredibly steep decline from the road. She’d never seen such elaborate side rails along the curves. They were obviously there for good reason. A car would roll for a good mile down the side of the mountain if it went off the road. Oh, Colorado! Joanna couldn’t believe they were here. Let alone back in the United States! Alex had never been in this country, although he’d been to many countries in his five and a half years. Waterford, Ireland, off the Suir River, had been their last stop, after jumping from city to city for the first three years of Alex’s life. The two of them needed a home…and the chance to lead their lives like everyone else. Two years had gone by in Waterford. It was a beautiful city, peaceful and for a while she’d considered them building a life there. But it wasn’t America. Her son had a right to grow up in this country. The only person she’d trusted there was her next-door neighbor. That was a new one—trust that is. It wasn’t a concept she’d ever been exposed to before. Growing up on the streets, her mother not caring where she was, and then learning how to kill for money by the time she was eighteen, didn’t offer lessons in trust. Jonathan had been the only man who’d earned her trust. And just like her neighbor, she’d lost him too. Put the man out of your head, damn it. Talk about dysfunctional. Joanna laughed to herself, shaking her head, although her expression showed no humor. Born and raised—if that’s what you wanted to call it—on the streets of Detroit, and then being “rescued” by Alpha Corp at the ripe age of sixteen, and turned into one of the world’s most deadly weapons, didn’t help her qualify as too functional.

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The road straightened and headed down into a valley in the mountain. The brakes squeaked softly as she tapped them. Twelve miles to Ouray. They were almost there! Joanna reached over and grabbed an apple out of the brown grocery bag on the seat between her and her son. Taking a bite, wishing for peanut butter, she enjoyed the scenery, while briefing herself. Jennifer Shaughnessy—she needed to get accustomed to the name. After all, it would be her name now. Officially, with all the necessary papers, even a social security number, she was no longer Joanna Hopkins, but Jennifer. Death was no stranger in Joanna’s life. She found Jennifer Shaughnessy, her nextdoor neighbor, dead in her bathtub one morning, with so much blood it was impossible to tell the tub had been white. Jennifer had been scared of life and spent most of her time in her apartment on her computer. Joanna didn’t blame her. There were plenty of reasons to be scared of life. She’d found all of Jennifer’s American papers, even a Kansas driver’s license and a social security card. Although Jennifer was twenty-seven and Joanna was twenty-eight, it would work. It was that one break Joanna had been looking for, her and Alex’s way out of Waterford and back into the United States. She wondered if Jennifer knew she’d given Joanna the chance to live and see her son’s next birthday. They stopped in Ouray for lunch, and the local newspaper. Alex stood next to her, eating a hotdog, while she used a pay phone and a stack of quarters to respond to ads about places to live. The elevated wooden sidewalk they stood on made moaning noises while Alex rocked back and forth on it with his feet. He smiled up at her, his cheek bulging from the food he’d never tried before. His chocolate eyes still made her think of Jonathan. Jonathan Estevez, the only man who’d claimed her heart and the reason she hid her existence and that of her son. Don’t think about him, she ordered herself. Jagged mountains surrounded the small town, keeping it cool and breezy. She watched her son’s face while he studied the incredible cliffs and caves visible high up among the rocks. A young woman answered the phone number that was listed with the ad for a twobedroom cabin for rent. They agreed to meet in an hour so they could see the place described as “very charming and secluded”. “Mama, I think we should live here.” Alex ran around the large log cabin nestled along the side of a mountain.

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“Do you, now? Let me talk to Susie for a minute.” She grinned at his enthusiasm, although cringing inwardly at the Celtic accent coming out of her son. It would raise questions, folks would wonder where they were from. Too many questions caused trouble. They’d have to work on Alex sounding more American. “He’s absolutely adorable.” Susie Morris touched Jennifer’s arm when she spoke. The touchy-feely type. She would have to get accustomed to that. Susie seemed to be the model citizen for a small town. Her outfit consisted of straight-cut blue jeans with a pale green T-shirt tucked in and a narrow belt showing off her slim figure. Blonde hair looked silky and fell halfway down her back. Susie wore enough makeup to show she wanted to be noticed. The large diamond on her silver wedding band showed someone else wanted to make sure it was noticed. Valley View wasn’t on the map, had no web sites, and was the quaintest town she had ever seen. Lodged deep in the Rocky Mountains, it had little contact with the outside world. Its sources of entertainment were the small towns surrounding it, the closest ones being Ouray and Telluride. She could only imagine what these people did for entertainment when winter arrived. This woman looked like she required a fair amount of entertainment. “Yes, he is adorable,” Joanna agreed. “And he’s so excited about this move, especially starting kindergarten.” “Kindergarten?” Susie sounded astonished. “He looks like he’s seven or eight.” “He’s big for his age.” “Obviously he takes after his dad.” Susie gave Joanna the once-over. No. She was Jennifer now. Think Jennifer. Be Jennifer. Joanna no longer exists. “I guess,” she said distantly, instinctively beginning to twist a strand of her shoulder-length mousy brown hair—her natural color for a change. It was the color of Jennifer Shaughnessy’s hair. “I’m sorry, sore subject, huh?” Susie reached out and patted her arm again. She used her other arm to gesture toward the small cabin. “So, what do you think? It might need some repairs. It’s been empty for a while. But, if you make a list…” “Don’t worry about that.” Joanna thought about the shacks she’d lived in with Alex. She couldn’t see the sky when she was inside this cabin. That was an improvement in itself. It had indoor plumbing and best yet no neighbors. “We’ll take it.” Joanna paid the first two months of rent and a full security deposit. That was good enough to keep Susie from asking for a rental application to be filled out.

***** “How many days now?” Alex ran down the short hallway into the open kitchen area.

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“You tell me.” Joanna smiled at the boy as she sliced apples to add to the plate of toast. After they’d settled into their new home, their first American home, the first week was spent scrubbing every room. Alex worked right alongside her, scrubbing wooden floors, cleaning the tile in the kitchen and bathroom, and all the windows. They’d dusted every room, cleaned the fireplace, and wiped out all the cabinets. He’d never complained of boredom or begged to do anything else. She’d thought about this as he’d helped her unload the cord of wood she’d picked up the night before. He’d carried two logs with each trip, one under each arm. They’d hauled the wood around to the back of the house and stacked it outside the screened-in back porch. A small amount of it was put on the back porch, so it would be dry for their first fire. Alex had no idea how a five-year-old should act. He’d never really been around other children. They’d lived in so many isolated areas his entire life. Ireland had been his closest exposure to city life. But he’d been so young, too young to interact with other children. And if the wrong person saw either one of them—the life they enjoyed together would be over forever. He’d end up as dysfunctional as she was—the thought biting at her while Alex barely glanced at the calendar that marked the days until kindergarten started. Worry tore through her the moment the umbilical cord was cut that her days with Alex were numbered. Staring at the back of his thick, black curly hair, she thanked God he was still with her. Alpha Corp had gone to some trouble making her conceive without her knowledge. She’d escaped with her life and the life inside her that Alpha Corp considered theirs. Leaving the only existence she’d known since she was sixteen wasn’t an option, and she’d done it anyway. And so far, she’d managed to remain free for almost six years. If freedom counted continual daydreams of Jonathan. Seeing him in her sleep. Feeling him caress her, strong hands gliding over her body. Too many nights she’d woken up, crying out, missing out on an orgasm because her dream had ended before she could come. For six years, Jonathan made love to her nightly. If only it were real. She was sixteen when she’d met him—Jonathan eighteen. Twelve years later he still owned her thoughts. But Jonathan was gone. He was one of the highest-ranking officers in Alpha Corp. They owned him. They had owned her. Not one day went by when she didn’t question where Jonathan might be—why he hadn’t found her. Maybe his love for her faded years ago. Alpha Corp controlled their agents, their every breath. Jonathan practically ran the covert agency. Her heart broke all over again every time she tried to accept that he’d put her out of his head. Running from Alpha Corp, seeking her freedom, probably made her less of a woman to him.

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Every morning she wondered if today would be the day. The day someone recognized her on the street, recognized her as Joanna Hopkins, special agent for Alpha Corp. Trained killer. General Jonathan Estevez’s personal property. That would be the day her and Alex’s life would end. A nasty shiver raced through her, as it did every time she allowed the morbid thought. There was no turning back now. With Alex, freedom was imperative. There could be no more Alpha Corp. There could be no more Jonathan. Live for today and be happy. Be happy without Jonathan. When would the pain go away? “Mom, only three more days,” Alex cried out with joy. “I can’t wait.” This had to be the right decision, moving here. His little face glowed in anticipation. It was a major risk coming back to the United States, a country controlled by computers. But could it be that bad if they were living in such a remote spot? Besides, maybe here she’d quit thinking about him. Almost six years later, one would think feelings she had for Jonathan Estevez would die—fade—be a soft pang of loss instead of a sword-stabbing wound that refused to heal. One of these days he’d quit haunting her dreams. She lived for the moment when she could be alone and swear he didn’t stand right behind her, breathing into her hair, running gentle fingertips down her spine. And soon, real soon, she’d walk down the street and not look twice at every tall, good-looking, broad-shouldered Hispanic-looking man she passed on the street. “Should we take a trip into town after breakfast and visit your school?” Venturing into town still twisted her stomach in knots with nervous displeasure, but she had to do this. Her son deserved a normal life. Alex grinned from ear to ear.

***** “So, you’re Alex Shaughnessy?” A young woman with black wavy hair and gray eyes smiled from behind her desk in the school office. “I’ve got your records right here. Everything seems to be in order, Mrs. Shaughnessy. I’m Dora Sloan, Valley View Grade School’s secretary.” Jennifer, no longer Joanna, smiled politely and shook the young woman’s hand. Thank God, the records were in order. That was a job well done, she told herself. She prayed the school was small enough simply to file the records and not enter them on some computer. The screen on the woman’s desk seemed only to support a word processing program—no Internet. Damn good thing. Alex had created his own records. It bothered her that he thought nothing of forgery and lying. It was part of his life. Part of her life. A tool used to survive. A far cry from normal.

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And he was a natural on a computer. The first time he’d seen one was in Waterford, and within hours had learned all that slow old machine could offer him. He’d learned to use it before he’d learn to write. He read programs before he’d ever seen a picture book. No way would she make a big deal out of this. He was smart, that’s all. A small wave of excitement surged through her at the thought of showing him the Internet. It would be risky. They could be exposed. Regular people didn’t have thoughts of living so dangerously. “We’d like to know if it’s okay to see the kindergarten classroom?” Miss Sloan smiled at Alex. “I think we could arrange that. Are you excited for school to start?” “Yes, ma’am.” Alex stood straight with his hands behind his back. “What manners,” she smiled at Jennifer, sizing her up. “And quite the handsome young man.” If one more stranger mentioned that he must look like his father—it just wasn’t fair. Alex didn’t need to hear that. There was no father, plain and simple. But Dora Sloan didn’t say anything. She didn’t have to. One look at Jennifer’s small features and creamy white skin said it all. Alex didn’t get his dark curls and caramel-colored skin from her. His deep chocolate eyes looked nothing like her royal blue ones. And they looked even less like the pale green eyes that she hid from the world behind her blue colored contact lenses. The two women stood next to each other in the doorway while Alex explored the books on the shelves and the toys and musical instruments spread across several tables. “So, what brings you to Valley View?” Dora turned and looked Jennifer over once again. “My work in Waterford was done,” Jennifer said offhandedly. With Alex’s Celtic accent, there was no denying he’d been raised in Ireland. “Your file says you’re a computer consultant.” Now Dora watched Alex. Good grief, small town people were nosy. “Yes, I thought this would be a good town to work on a textbook I’m writing.” Chatting about her personal business seemed so odd. But the story she and Alex had contrived came out easily as she chatted. “I need a quiet place.” Dora Sloan smiled and waved after walking Jennifer and Alex to the double glass doors that led to the curved driveway in front of the school. She turned toward the office as the phone began ringing, her smile quickly fading. “Grade school,” she answered. Her expression turned to a disparaging scowl. “Hunter, you’re never home when I get home. Why should today be any different?”

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She inspected her fingernails and then glanced back toward the front doors where she could see the pretty mother helping her dark-skinned boy into his seat belt. “You know, I just met the Morrises’ new tenant. She brought her son here to see his new classroom. The paperwork says there’s no father. The boy’s pretty good-looking. He looks a lot like you around the eyes and mouth. Different nose though. And he’s dark. No denying the father isn’t white. You weren’t messing around with some woman in Ireland six years ago, were you?” Dora Sloan laughed at her own wit.

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Chapter Two A long line of cars, some parked, some dropping off screaming children with flying backpacks, filled the circular drive in front of the school when Jennifer and Alex arrived the first day of school. What a transformation from the last time they’d been here. Alex suddenly looked very small sitting next to her in the truck. She parked and took her son’s sweaty hand while they walked toward the school. “Jennifer!” Susie walked out of the school, waving. “Stop by the house for a cup of coffee before you go home.” Jennifer wanted to object but Susie was intercepted by another mom and immediately fell into a lively conversation. Focusing on Alex, she fought the urge to grab him and run. No one would steal her son away while in this small school buried in the mountains. “Will you be okay while I’m here?” Alex looked up, concerned. Her heart burst with pride as she stared down into milk chocolate eyes. “I’ll be fine.” She wouldn’t let him see her worry over him being here. “Don’t worry, I won’t let them know that I know all the answers.” He gave her hand a squeeze. That bothered her, too. Maybe she should have him homeschooled, but she feared that would draw too much attention to them. She’d considered lying about Alex’s age but that would only put him with children more emotionally developed than he was. It wasn’t Alex’s fault he was so damned smart. God only knows where he got it. The best solution was to put him in school, give him a normal upbringing, and hope he wasn’t singled out for being so damned intelligent. It was wrong. Not fair. She couldn’t think of any other option. So here they were. “Go do mommy things and I’ll tell you all about it in a few hours. Don’t forget to pick me up at noon.” Shaking her head at his crooked smile, she tousled his dark curls. “Behave yourself,” she told him, then watched him walk toward the school, fighting the sinking trepidation that wouldn’t leave her alone.

***** “It’s always hard on their first day.” Susie smiled while sipping hot coffee. “You’ll learn to love the time to yourself while he’s in school, trust me.”

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Unable to get away from Susie when she’d reminded her about coming over for coffee, Jennifer sat at her kitchen table, fingering the warm mug in her hand. “He was so excited.” Somehow she’d ensure his going to school didn’t backfire on them. Alex wanted this so much. She wasn’t glad to have time to herself, although she kept that thought to herself. All she had was Alex, and she already felt very alone without him. With too much time alone, Jonathan crept into her thoughts, kindled the fire that still burned for him to life. “He’ll be fine.” The screen door slammed, and footsteps in the hallway interrupted the two women. She gripped her coffee mug at the sound. Nerves were clipped so close that she was sure she’d be sick if she didn’t get control of herself soon. This small town buried in the mountains had to be safe. Alex had a right to be happy. “Susie?” A tall man appeared in the doorway, and looked at Jennifer. “I’m sorry. I didn’t know we had company.” “Jimmy. This is our new tenant, Jennifer Shaughnessy.” A small amount of satisfaction trickled through her veins when her hand appeared dry and didn’t shake with the jitters she felt. She returned Jimmy’s firm handshake. Jimmy wore a sheriff’s uniform and his nametag said “Sergeant Morris”. Jennifer had no clue she’d rented a house from the local law enforcement. Strawlike hair stuck out from underneath a blue-rimmed hat. His green eyes studied her while he smiled. He had that outdoor lumberjack look about him. Not bad looking. A good match for the sweet and perky Susie. “How do you like the place?” “Very nice, thank you.” Jennifer sat down and sipped her coffee, suddenly wishing she were home. Already, the little cabin felt like home. What a strange sensation that was. “Need anything done?” Jimmy Morris grabbed a couple of mugs out of the cabinet and reached for the coffeepot. “We’re headed up that way.” “Is Hunter with you?” Susie leaned forward, looking down the hallway toward the screen door. “You might as well meet him,” she smiled over at Jennifer. “Jimmy and Hunter are attached at the hip. Besides, Hunter’s a good man to have around.” Jennifer caught Jimmy pause while pouring coffee and stare at his wife. His stare was blank and he looked as if there weren’t a thought in his head. “He acts as a deputy from time to time. We go hunting. Hardly attached at the hip.” Jennifer finished her coffee and smiled at the couple. “I’d really love to, but I need to get home. I’m still organizing and I figured I’d get as much as possible done before Alex needs to be picked up.” The last thing she needed to do was meet more of the town.

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How long are you going to play hermit? Small towns were accustomed to getting to know everyone who lived there. Susie and Jimmy followed her out the back door. Jimmy got into the driver’s side of a dark green mud-splattered Jeep Cherokee. Susie walked alongside her to her truck and held the door as Jennifer climbed in. “Tomorrow, I’ll come to your house for coffee,” Susie suggested. Turning to look at the Cherokee, Jennifer nodded but hardly heard what was said. A well-built, dark-skinned, curly black-haired man, sat waiting in the passenger seat of the Cherokee. Dark silver sunglasses covered his eyes. A ball cap covered his forehead and shadowed his face, which was unshaven. Nerve endings tingled to life. Teasing fingers pranced down her spine just like in her dreams. In spite of the chilly mountain air, it was suddenly way too warm in the cab of her truck. Jonathan! No. Not Jonathan. Just another dark-skinned man who happened to be better built, from what she could see, than any man she’d laid eyes on in a long time. His nose was narrow, straight. And a firm jawline. His lips pursed in a thin line. Dark, jet-black hair, curled easily past his collar. He was fucking gorgeous! “Hunter’s quite the hunk, huh.” Susie leaned forward, whispering, pulling Jennifer’s gaze away from the compelling sunglasses that were staring back at her. “Hmm? Uh, yeah, he is.” Jennifer started her truck. “You should see him when he’s not sitting in a truck. Jimmy could take lessons.” Jennifer couldn’t help stealing one last glance while pulling around the Cherokee. The man captured her gaze, refusing to let go of it, while those sunglasses stole the brightness of the day and almost hypnotized her. Prickles of desire dripped inside her, settling in her pussy, making her squirm in her seat. No man made you want him simply by looking at you—except one. His shoulders were broad, his muscular arm leaning against the rolled down window. He was a big man. The corner of his mouth moved slightly, almost a grin. He turned his head further, holding her gaze, while she began to pull out of the drive. She entered the gravel road, which led up the mountain to her cabin. Her neck almost snapped when she forced herself to focus on the road, but his face had burned into her mental vision. Her heart swelled painfully while memories of Jonathan suddenly overwhelmed her. Go away, she ordered. That was not Jonathan. How many times had she scolded herself for doing a double take when she saw a good-looking, dark-skinned man? Jonathan was a general in Alpha Corp. He was stationed in South America, controlling missions, communicating with governments around the world, devising plots to head attacks and run tactical rendezvous, sending his agents into war zones. At 14

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least he had been six years ago. He wouldn’t be in some small town buried in the Rockies in America.

***** “This one kid named Mikey said I can come over to his house tomorrow.” Alex waited for Jennifer to apply the green and purple sparkled toothpaste onto the twisted blue toothbrush he held tightly in his fist. “And so I told him he could come over to my house the next day. Is that okay, Mama?” It hadn’t crossed her mind that Alex would make friends, let alone so quickly. She’d wanted him to develop American social skills and this was part of it. Jennifer looked at her reflection, and the strange face staring back at her. After all this time, she still didn’t recognize her own reflection in a mirror. One of the first things she’d done when she thought she’d kicked the trail of Alpha Corp. A nose job and breast implants. Enough to change her appearance and throw any agents who might have recognized her off her trail. At the time, using money she’d helped herself to from several of Jonathan’s personal accounts, seemed only fair. She ran from agents he more than likely sent out after her. Too bad he wasn’t around to enjoy her new figure. Being with Jonathan meant losing her freedom and, more than likely, Alex. “Ask Mikey to have his mommy call me and we’ll see what we can work out.” That should slow the process down a little bit. She needed to learn how to trust people again. Or more likely learn to trust for the first time. She put a finger up to her eye to remove her royal blue contact lenses when a large sound outside caused her to jump. She almost stabbed her eye with her fingernail. A howling sound filled the air. Placing the contact lens holder on the sink, she moved quickly down the short hall to the living room. The cabin windows were open and most lights on. Grabbing Alex and keeping him behind her, she pulled her Remington out of her living room closet. Always smart to have protection within hands’ reach. “What is it, Mama?” Alex’s eyes were large but not as large as most children’s would be under similar circumstances. It wasn’t the first time his mama had pulled him to her and reached for her gun. “An animal of some kind, probably hungry.” The kitchen window and back door were open, releasing the smell of the broiled trout they’d had for supper. Every muscle in her body tensed when a scratching sound vibrated against the outside of her screen door. A dull throb began in her right inner thigh from destroyed muscles she’d been given by a bullet as a going-away present from Alpha Corp. It was the first bullet she’d taken that she was forced to remove herself. Going to a hospital would have given her whereabouts away to Alpha Corp. She’d kept it wrapped tightly at all times and had 15

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used wine to keep infection down. Treating it had grown harder to do while her belly grew bigger during her pregnancy. As a result, the muscle in her leg was deformed and atrophied. A small price to pay for freedom, she’d told herself time and time again. A low growl and snorted breathing sent shivers through her body. Not now, she ordered the leg muscles that had started to cramp, while checking the rifle to ensure it was loaded. “Stay behind me.” She put a protective arm over Alex. “I will, Mama. Don’t worry, you can handle it.” He held onto her shirt while they moved toward the back door. She groaned inwardly. Her son took care of her as much as she took care of him. Reaching the wall where the open door led to the screened-in back porch, Jennifer flipped off the light switch. Carefully the two of them moved through the back door onto the porch. She aimed the Remington, focusing on glowing eyes and bright, very large, sharp white teeth. The large cat howled, making her heart pound painfully in her chest. She pulled the trigger. Alex tightened his grip on her clothing as the explosion of the rifle, and the screen door leading outside flying into the night, caused an incredibly loud clattering sound. Her eyes adjusted and she saw the wild cat lying with the screen door mangled over it. “I sure hope you weren’t an endangered species.” She put the stock of the Remington on the ground and held onto the barrel. “Well, Alex, let me get you to bed and then I’ll clean this mess up.” “Oh, Mama, I want to help.” Alex whined like the young child that he was. Ten minutes later, after tucking Alex in, Jennifer found herself staring at the dead animal outside her back door, or where her door once was. She finished off an apple slice that had been dunked in peanut butter, her all-time favorite weakness, while deciding the best method to get rid of the cat. She wheeled around at the sound of tires driving over the rocks in her front driveway. No one should be here at this hour. Grabbing her large flashlight and the rifle, she walked around the side of the house, careful to stay in the dark shadows by her cabin. Headlights blinded her but a familiar voice caused her to lower the rifle. “Are you okay?” It was Jimmy Morris. She heard his footsteps and then he appeared through the headlights. A tall man with broad shoulders and long strides came up behind him. His dark curls and unshaven face were barely visible under a Broncos ball cap. The whites of his eyes glowed around deep chocolate. He stared at her in the darkness. Her stomach flipped while her mouth went dry. Suddenly her heart pounded loud enough that the two men had to be able to hear it. Hunter was just about the sexiest man she’d ever laid eyes on. “My gosh, you’re bleeding. What happened?”

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She forced her eyes away from the silent stranger and looked absently at Jimmy as he moved next to her quickly. Frowning, she looked down at the blood on her clothes. “It’s not mine.” She shrugged, but when she looked up Hunter had cocked his head, studying her. His expression changed, frowning, pulling her into those dark eyes that scrutinized her as if trying to figure something out. A swelling pressure started in her abdomen, sinking lower quickly, her pussy throbbing harder than her leg had moments before. Jimmy’s friend seemed able to turn her into a molten pile of lust whenever she was near him. Which didn’t make a damned bit of sense. Many men she’d seen before were physically distracting. None of them made her want to beg them to fuck her, relieve the sudden pressure they’d created. His gaze traveled down her, and then locked with hers. Dark eyebrows narrowed over his eyes. It was the same look Jonathan had used when trying to determine if she was lying to him or not. God. He was just like Jonathan. Jonathan had a broad, flat nose, like a black man. His melting-pot ancestry had allowed him to fit easily into many different cultures. This man’s nose was narrow. And he had a thicker build. Roped muscle strained against his pullover shirt. He wasn’t as slender as Jonathan, but dear Lord, he was sexy as hell. She forced herself to look away first. Gesturing with the Remington, she turned toward the backyard. “I’ll show you.” And her walk turned into a limp as they followed her around the cabin. “My God!” It was Susie’s voice. She’d obviously gotten out of the Cherokee once she felt there was no pending danger. “I’ll pay for the screen door.” Jennifer turned, looking at the three adults who stared back at her. “I’m sorry to have worried you. I put Alex to bed before starting to clean it up.” “You shot that mountain lion by yourself?” Susie sounded aghast. “And you killed it? I can’t believe it.” It suddenly dawned on Jennifer why they were all staring at her. They weren’t upset with the mess, or the destroyed screen door. They were shocked that she was able to kill the wild animal all by herself, put her son to bed, and then come back outside to clean it up as if it were no more trivial than a dog getting into the trash. This wasn’t how normal people acted. “It was a lucky shot,” she blurted out quickly, and suddenly felt the muscles in her leg start to spasm. “You’re in shock.” Susie quickly moved to Jennifer’s side and then stared up at her husband. “Look, she’s starting to shake.” “Take her inside,” Jimmy said. “We’ll clean this up.” 17

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Jennifer hesitated when Susie tried to escort her through the screened-in back porch. She glanced up at Hunter, who looked away from the dead animal to meet her gaze, and then let it travel down her slowly. Fire ignited inside her. One side of his mouth went up forming a small crooked smile. Never in her life would she have believed there was a better-looking man than Jonathan. Jennifer sat at the long wooden kitchen table stuffing apple slices into a jar of peanut butter before eating them and watching Susie who marveled at the interior of the cabin. Susie turned around grinning. “I don’t think this cabin has looked this clean in over fifty years. You’ve turned it into quite a cozy home.” Susie laughed, running a finger across the frame of a print Jennifer purchased while driving across country to Colorado. “Bullet went straight through the heart,” a baritone voice said from behind her. “Impressive shot.” Jennifer choked on the peanut butter in her mouth and grabbed her hot tea. The voice was thick, deep, with just a slight Hispanic accent. It sounded just like… It couldn’t be. Why the hell would Jonathan, the general of the South American section of Alpha Corp, be in a small town buried in the Rockies? She turned quickly to see Hunter looking down at her. No. He wasn’t looking at her. He stared at the plate of slightly browned apple slices next to the opened jar of peanut butter. She took advantage of his distracted look to study his face in the light. He wasn’t Jonathan. There was no way. But damn, if he didn’t sound just like him. His jaw was more squared, his lips thinner. He was unshaven. He didn’t have a beard, just that dark shadow over the jawline. There were one or two white facial hairs but for the most part, the hair on his face was black. Inky black loose curls fell past his ears, sticking out randomly where the ball cap ended. His hair was long, but not too long, ending at the base of his neck. But when his dark chocolate eyes returned their gaze to her, panic rose inside her. They probed deeply into her and then the small crooked smile appeared again. That was Jonathan’s smile. It was Alex’s smile. But it couldn’t be. It wasn’t his face. Jonathan didn’t have an accent. Jonathan was thinner. A lot can happen to a man in six years. “Did you get rid of it?” Susie asked. “Yeah, we threw it in the back of the truck. We’ll dump it when we leave here.” Jimmy looked at Jennifer. She remembered the food in her mouth and began chewing again. “I didn’t see a hose,” Jimmy said. “Do you have a bucket or anything to rinse away the blood?”

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“I think so.” She limped over to the shelves above the washer and dryer in the kitchen, grabbing the bucket she’d just purchased. Hunter moved toward her and her pulse quickened to a dangerous speed. A fading hint of aftershave, and something more manly, almost carnal, filled her senses when he stood behind her. His breath was in her hair just as Jonathan’s had been through so many dream-filled nights. Trying to slow her crazed heart, sucking in a breath, her breasts stretched against her shirt, her nipples hardening painfully. God, she would be a babbling fool in front of these people if she didn’t get a grip on herself. Moving so he stood next to her, he took the bucket and filled it with water. Certainly those weren’t Jonathan’s hands. Her mind raced. What did Jonathan’s hands look like? She couldn’t remember. “You’re limping.” That rich baritone sent chills rushing through her. She couldn’t look up. “Are you sure you’re okay?” “It’s an old injury,” she heard herself say. Now why did she tell him that? The next morning she found a bag of red apples and a large container of chunky peanut butter sitting outside her front door.

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Chapter Three “I can’t believe it.” Susie sipped at her coffee in Jennifer’s kitchen. Two weeks had passed since the two of them had started meeting for coffee. It had become a morning routine. Jennifer never felt like she’d had a friend before. It had pretty much been each to his own when she grew up on the streets of Detroit. There was no way to trust anyone long enough to become friends with them when she’d been in Alpha Corp, and since then all she’d focused on was Alex. Now, he was enjoying kindergarten and she’d found a kindred spirit in Susie. Maybe this was friendship. “Hunter just up and told her to get out.” Susie looked up at Jennifer. Her eyes danced while she shared her gossip. “How long had they been together?” Jennifer wiped down the kitchen counter and then brought more coffee over to the table. Why did it feel good knowing Hunter was suddenly available? She hardly knew the man. Unless he was Jonathan. “Well, pretty much as long as Hunter’s lived here. Dora chased him down as soon as he came to town. I guess that was almost two years ago, maybe longer.” Susie reached for another apple slice, dunked it in peanut butter, and popped it into her mouth. “I can’t believe you’ve got me eating this stuff now.” Jennifer smiled. Hot flames had burst to life deep in her womb though. The fire sank between her legs while images of Hunter took over her thoughts. Tall, dark and well built—the powerful, silent type. What if Hunter really was Jonathan? His face looked different, but then so did hers. If he was really Jonathan, and he had given her the apples and peanut butter then he knew who she was. She hadn’t seen him since and hadn’t mentioned the surprise at her door to anyone. Jonathan wouldn’t be in Valley View, Colorado for two years. Generals didn’t just retire. And they didn’t walk away. No one walked away from Alpha Corp. You not only walked away, you ran! She reached for an apple slice, one of the apples from the bag she’d received, and scooped out some peanut butter. Her fingers shook, and she sucked peanut butter from her fingernail, hoping Susie didn’t notice the sudden attack of nerves that surged through her. Nerves and a deeply ingrained desire that burned hotter daily. Susie kept chatting, not even looking at her.

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“Jimmy told me this morning that when he went up there last night all her stuff was gone. He said Hunter actually seemed happy.” “Doesn’t he usually seem happy?” “You’d have to know Hunter.” Susie smiled, shrugging. “He doesn’t show how he feels, even Dora complained about that.” “Huh.” A million questions popped into her head, things she could ask to help determine if her suspicions were valid. Maybe it was best to be patient and wait for the information to be offered. And maybe knowing the truth might be too terrifying to accept. If Hunter were Jonathan, then what? What she wouldn’t do to have Jonathan back in her life. There were so many unanswered questions. Foremost was how the hell did she end up two months pregnant when she hadn’t had sex in almost three months. That was the one kicker that brewed anger in her every time she thought about it. Alex looked so much like Jonathan it was uncanny. Somehow Alpha Corp had impregnated her, and Jonathan had been party to it. But why? “Are you okay?” Realizing her thoughts had her scowling, she managed a smile. “I’m fine. Just thinking. I thought I’d do some hiking this morning. Want to go?” “No thanks.” Susie slammed down the remainder of her second cup of coffee and jumped up. “I’ve got a million things to do this morning. Besides, I want to make sure Heidi went to school today.” Jennifer pursed her lips understandingly and then headed over to her washer and dryer. Keeping busy might help. The tingling that traced a path down her spine and settled between her legs wouldn’t go away. Forcing thoughts of Jonathan, and Hunter, out of her mind, she tried to pay attention to Susie. Heidi, their fourteen-year-old daughter, had created worry lines in Susie’s pretty face just in the time she’d known her. “Has she already missed school?” Jennifer pulled her old jeans out of the dryer and shook a sock loose from them. “Yeah, she missed Monday, or part of it. I don’t know what we’re going to do with her.” Susie grabbed her purse and headed for the front door. She turned and grinned mischievously. “You know, if you hike straight up the mountain you’ll run into Hunter’s place.” Jennifer almost dropped the shirt she folded. “Why should I want to go there?” “I don’t know.” Susie’s smile inched across her face. “You know, Jimmy said Hunter asked about you and then just a few days later gave Dora her walking papers. I just thought there might be some kind of attraction. You’ve got to admit he’s absolutely gorgeous.” She paused and then added slyly, “I’d go after him if I could.” 21

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Jennifer laughed. “Oh, he’s good-looking but like you said, I don’t even know him.” She opened the door and stood there while Susie headed for the Cherokee. “So, what did he ask about me?” Susie turned and grinned, appreciating Jennifer’s sense of curiosity. “Well, he asked about Alex and he wanted to know where you lived before here.” “He asked about Alex?” Jennifer’s face fell. A knot formed in her stomach. Grab Alex from school and get the hell out of here. In her six years of freedom, trouble had never lingered so close. The possibility that Hunter could very well be Jonathan made her ache to learn more—not run. Foolish thinking like that would get her in trouble. Jonathan is out of your life. He can’t be part of it. He’s part of Alpha Corp. “Don’t worry, it was nothing bad, he just wanted to know where his father was.” Susie waved a hand, dismissing the subject like it was no big deal. Damn good question. There isn’t a father. If she only knew how big of a deal it really was. But Susie would never know, no one would know. The trepidation that seeped through Jennifer was her own private torture that she would live with for the rest of her life. Susie hopped into her car and then rolled down her window. “I think Jimmy told him all we knew is that you were obviously single.” She smiled, waving while she backed up and then turned to go down the drive. All enjoyment of the morning disappeared. Hunter had asked about Alex. Alex’s appearance strongly suggested that Jonathan was his father. Was Hunter really Jonathan? None of it made any sense. If Jonathan had wanted to make a child with her he certainly wouldn’t have needed to artificially inseminate her. And what would Jonathan be doing here, in the middle of nowhere? Generals in Alpha Corp didn’t just walk away. Jennifer finished tying her boots and then slipped her gun into her fanny pack. She couldn’t think of any reason why she’d need it, but going anywhere without it made her feel too vulnerable. There wouldn’t be any animals on this side of the mountain so close to the road. And she planned on staying close to the road. Nonetheless, better safe than sorry. The thought of Hunter living on the same mountain she did somehow unnerved her. It wouldn’t hurt to see what his house looked like, if she found it. She wasn’t sure she wanted to chance running into him or not. But maybe she could figure out if he was Jonathan or not if she could explore his house. Talk about a fucking invitation to trouble! Hunter’s house was easy enough to find. Woods surrounded a nicely cleared lot a quarter mile up the road from her cabin. An A-frame log home was visible through the trees. There was no reason to guess if it was Hunter’s house or not. The man in question stood not twenty feet away from her, his back to her, chopping wood.

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All blood drained straight through her body, leaving her numb, breathless, her jaw dropping while staring at the magnificent man through the trees. Hunter wasn’t wearing a shirt and his back muscles rippled like steel cords under his flesh while he lifted and swung the ax with ease, slicing logs as if they were carrots. Every muscle she could see bulged, his caramel-colored skin shiny with sweat in spite of the cool mountain air. The chill around her did little to extinguish an unbearable heat surging through her. God. What she wouldn’t do to run her fingers over that powerful and deadly looking body. The muscles she couldn’t see appeared to be fine-tuned and well-developed, bulging against his jeans. And that ass! Talk about buns of steel! Her mouth watered, while her heart kicked out an erratic beat that was dangerous in the thin altitude. She’d pass out right there on the road if she didn’t get a grip on herself. His black curly hair glistened in the sunlight. He didn’t wear a ball cap this time. Waves of thick hair hung almost to his shoulders. And damn, if those weren’t the broadest shoulders she’d ever laid eyes on. She licked her lips. What a sight! Faded jeans hugged his ass and wrapped around thick, incredibly long, powerfullooking legs. He swung the ax with little effort, displaying extreme strength while slicing the wood. Her heart thudded heavily, making it harder to breathe in the thin air. Even when he didn’t know she watched him, somehow he turned her insides into a liquid state of carnal, raw need. He had to be Jonathan. But how could he be? Hunter had lived here for two years. She hadn’t known they would live in Valley View until she answered the ad in the paper for the cabin. Coming here had been a spur of the moment decision. The two of them ending up in the same remote town buried in the mountains was too unbelievable to be true. She almost drooled watching muscles glide under his skin as he moved. His black curls would be like raw silk, the thin spread of body hair downy and made to tantalize every inch of her as he moved over her. Strength like that would make it easy for him to do anything he pleased with her. She imagined he would be demanding. Quiet, yet making it clear with a look what he would do to her, and then doing it very thoroughly. Just as he meticulously tended to his task, he would tend to her body, touching her everywhere, bringing her to a boiling point with just the graze of his large capable hands. Her hand brushed over her tummy, feeling her heart pound throughout her body as her damp palm glided over her outer thigh. The throbbing ache between her legs begged to be soothed. Even if she just rubbed herself, pressed her jeans to her crotch, anything to appease the pain that watching him brought on. God! She would come just standing there. 23

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Refusing to look around her, knowing that no one else was near or they would alert Hunter, she pressed her fingers to her crotch. The hard seam of her jeans stroked her clit, taking her over the edge. Standing on the edge of the narrow mountain road, staring between trees at the most gorgeous man God had ever created, she came in her pants. Lightheaded and panting, she stroked harder while Hunter kept his back to her, raising the deadly sharp ax over his head and then driving it into thick logs, slicing them in two. What power. What raw strength. In control and in charge. Every attribute about a man that turned her on. And all of those qualities in a man made them almost impossible to live with. She should know that by now. Sighing, she held her fingers pressed to her clit for another moment, riding out the frustrated, small orgasm that left her craving more than she had before she’d touched herself. Masturbating often just made her hornier. Especially when the real thing was right there in front of her, glistening with sweat, bulging muscles, and incredible strength. Then she noticed something. Jonathan had a serpent pointing an arrow tattooed on his right shoulder blade. This man had no tattoos! Hunter wasn’t Jonathan. Excitement mixed with disappointment. But this had to be the truth. Her mind and body ached so desperately for the only man she’d ever loved that she’d imagined Hunter met all qualifications. In truth, it just wasn’t the case. Jennifer smiled to herself, a rush of relief hitting her as hard as the growing need inside her. One of these days she would get her crazy past out of her system. Hunter was just a man who’d asked questions about her. It made sense that he’d want to know about Alex’s father. If he was interested, and no one said he was, he’d want to know if he had any competition. Jennifer got back to the cabin after hiking along the side of her mountain, just in time to clean up and go to Alex’s school. Today, Alex was going over to Mikey’s for the afternoon. His mother, Janine Rofsky, had called and introduced herself over the phone. “All Mikey does is talk about Alex. We’d love to have him over for some playtime,” Janine said cheerfully. Not being able to think of a reason why not, Jennifer reluctantly agreed. She wasn’t comfortable with him getting out of school and her not being there, however. She’d drive down to the school and give him a hug and a kiss before he drove home with Mikey and his mother.

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Susie sat in her Cherokee when Jennifer walked back to her truck after giving Alex several hugs and kisses. Jennifer noticed that Susie continued to stare straight ahead out her windshield, not appearing to be aware of anything around her. “Hey you.” Jennifer smiled as she walked up to the passenger door. Susie glanced over but her blank expression didn’t change. Something was wrong. “Susie?” Jennifer leaned into the open passenger window. “What’s up?” Susie broke into tears. “Oh, Jennifer. I can’t take this anymore.” Her friend opened her door and was in Jennifer’s arms sobbing heavily before Jennifer knew what happened. The display of emotions was such a new concept that all Jennifer could do was pat her back and feel the shoulder of her shirt slowly dampen. Not knowing what to say, she held her quietly. Emotional outbreaks like this were frowned upon as long as Jennifer could remember. Emotions were kept in check. They had been all her life. But Susie held on for dear life and Jennifer wouldn’t force her to let go. “Do you want to tell me what’s wrong?” she asked quietly after a minute or two passed. Susie pulled away and wiped her face with the back of her hand. “I can’t find Heidi.” “Did she go to school this morning?” Gather data. Figure out where she’d last been seen and go from there. “She never showed up.” “But she left the house to go to school?” Susie nodded. “How does she get to school?” Now figure out who saw her last. “She walks down the mountain and meets with some of her friends who give her a ride to school each day.” Susie sighed, as if this information wouldn’t help them in any way. “Do you know who picked her up this morning?” Susie looked forlorn and shook her head apologetically. “Isn’t that awful? She got mad if I asked about anything she was doing.” She dropped her face into her hands and started to cry again. “Jimmy is going to be so pissed. A good parent should know where their child is and who they are with. I’m such a lousy mother.” “This isn’t your fault. You’re a great mother.” Jennifer thought of her mother. She’d been an alcoholic and a whore. A flashback of walking in on her mother once when she’d been about eight came to her. Jennifer had come home after school and her mom had been in her room, lying naked on her bed, and a naked man was on top of her. She’d willingly signed her over to the state. Like she’d had it any better with foster homes. Then there were the streets. Heidi didn’t have a clue how great she had it.

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“So you haven’t told Jimmy you can’t find her?” “Are you kidding? He’ll go off the deep end!” Susie looked up with bloodshot, puffy eyes. “She’s my responsibility. I’ve got to find her.” If a man and a woman had a child, that child should be both of their responsibility. But Jennifer kept her opinion to herself. She had no room to talk. Alex only had her, and she had no husband to help raise him. For all she knew, a covert agency killing to maintain world peace was the father of her child. Nope. Definitely no room to talk. “Have you been to the high school to ask if anyone’s seen her today?” “I just came from there.” Another desperate sigh. “No one saw her come to school today. I asked some of the students but no one’s seen her today. She just walked down the mountain and disappeared.” Heavy tears drew damp paths down Susie’s cheeks. “Let’s go back to your house and look through her bedroom. We might figure out what plans she had, if any.” Hesitantly, she placed her hand on Susie’s shoulder. She’d successfully tracked professional killers for years, entered war zones and tracked renegades who knew how to avoid being found. Finding Heidi shouldn’t be too difficult.

***** Heidi’s bedroom was unbelievable. Posters of rock bands covered the wall. Nine Inch Nails and Limp Bizkit seemed to dominate. A large doily draped across the top of her dressers and different-shaped and colored crystals were spread across the top. Tiny bags tied with silk threads bulged in between the crystals. The air was thick with the smell of incense, and Jennifer wasn’t sure, but she thought she detected a slight marijuana aroma. There was a small glass picture frame on the dresser. A yellowed piece of paper with black inky calligraphy was inside. The gothic print read, “An It Harm None, Do As Ye Will”. “What’s this?” Jennifer picked up a folded piece of notebook paper that lay on Heidi’s unmade bed. It appeared to be handwritten directions and a map to somewhere. There was a date at the bottom of the page and long capital letters spelled “BE THERE OR BE SQUARE”. “Directions to somewhere,” Susie said while turning the piece of paper and squinting to better see in the dimly lit room. Heidi had taken the regular light bulb out of her ceiling light and replaced it with a purple bulb. Susie finally gave up and walked out of the room. “You can’t see a thing in there,” she grumbled. “Do you think she went there?” Susie sat on a quilt-covered barstool and leaned over the kitchen counter. The folded loose-leaf paper lay in between her elbows. She’d determined it was a map to a house just outside of town. The drawing was rough and there were a few scribbled out lines, like someone drew a road longer than it should have been. They all appeared to be small county roads leading to Red Mountain Pass.

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“Can we find out if any other children are missing from school today?” Jennifer asked and Susie immediately grabbed the phone. Susie worried a loose strand of blonde hair while speaking to the school secretary like she was an old friend, calling her Polly, and blaming her mothering skills for her daughter’s disappearance. Obviously, the school secretary agreed with Jennifer as to the quality of mother Susie was. Susie finally hung the phone up triumphantly. “There are five other children missing, all from Heidi’s class. I bet they’re all here.” She took her finger and poked at the paper. “I’ll find out where this map goes.” Jennifer slid her chair back and grabbed her keys. She’d found more isolated places with less clear directions. The map looked pretty clear. Susie bit her lower lip, considering the suggestion. “Come on, remember? I’m the one who killed the mountain lion single-handedly.” She raised her fist and made a show of flexing her biceps, grinning, trying to cheer Susie up. “Don’t worry. I’m sure they’re not doing anything as bad as your imagination is conjuring.” She glanced down at the map and then added, “I’ll have her back before you know it. Then you can yell at her.” “That will be quite the showdown,” Susie muttered.

***** The county roads weren’t marked on the map and Jennifer read it as, take your first right, your third left, then right again. Susie’s car phone sat on the seat next to her. The map next to it. She marked on a scrap piece of paper the names of the roads with each turn. At the end of the scribbles on the map she found herself at a secluded ranch-style, log home, nestled back in the trees. Several fixed up hot rods were parked in front of the house. Everything seemed quiet. She saw no one. Parking next to a 1968 Camaro covered with primer, she noticed the view surrounding the country home was breathtaking. An incredibly nice home, well landscaped yard, surrounded by the magnificent Rockies—not a neighbor in sight. Peaceful surroundings could be misleading. A sensation of hominess a cover for something darker. A quick glance at the old cars parked in a haphazard fashion in front of the elegant home was indication of just that. Her .45 nudged against her rear end, stuffed into her back pocket. Walking up to the house, she rang the doorbell. After several minutes and pushing the doorbell more than twice, which led out a loud ding-dong inside the house, she heard the dead bolt click. The door opened slowly and a tall teenage boy, with no shirt and a concave stomach, opened the door. “Yeah?” He looked rather annoyed.

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“Is Heidi Morris here?” She cocked her head, trying a cheerful smile on the boy. “I’m here to take her home.” The smell of marijuana lingered in the air. Muffled music drifted from a remote room. The boy just stared at her for a moment as if she spoke a language he didn’t understand. His straight brown hair was pulled back and from the angle he stood she couldn’t tell if it was long or not. A cross was tattooed on the top of his right arm, which almost looked atrophied. Stringy long underarm hair appeared to be the only body hair visible on him. “Who are you?” he finally asked. “I’m the Morrises’ next-door neighbor. Is she here?” “Why would she be here?” “Sheriff Morris has been called out to look for her. I can take her home and call to let him know she’s okay, or…” and she paused just to make sure the skinny kid was paying attention. “Or what?” He was listening. “The sheriff will show up and probably want to check the house to make sure she isn’t here.” Jennifer shrugged, knowing her words would trigger panic. The boy’s eyes widened and he quit leaning against the door. Well, she’d gotten his attention. He turned quickly and yelled into the house as he slammed the door in Jennifer’s face. “Sheriff and Hunter are coming!” Her heart lunged into her throat with his words. Jennifer hadn’t said anything about Hunter. The sound of a phone ringing almost made her jump. Hurrying to her truck while the cell phone chirped on her passenger seat, she reached it just as the front door opened up. A handful of kids came running out toward the parked cars. Heidi came out last, struggling to put a sandal on her foot. She hesitated at the sight of Jennifer, looking like she’d prefer to join two skinny, longhaired, tattooed boys who were jumping into the Camaro. “Hello?” Jennifer spoke into the cell phone as she gestured for Heidi to come to her. “Jennifer?” A deep male voice spoke into her ear. “Yes?” “Where are you? This is Jimmy.” “I’ve got Heidi.” The young girl dragged her feet over to Jennifer’s car. Alcohol and pot stunk up the air around her when Heidi approached with bloodshot eyes and a pissed-off expression. Moving so Heidi could slump into the passenger seat, she moved around the front of the car, quickly telling him how she’d gotten out here. “That’s the Jenson place,” Jimmy said excitedly. “We’re just about five minutes away.”

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“Is this the Jenson place?” Jennifer looked down into her truck to see Heidi’s face. The girl looked straight ahead, nodding slightly. “You’re right.” Jennifer looked around at the gravel area in front of the house. “There are three cars leaving full of kids who might need an escort back into town.” The Camaro took off down the road, followed by two pickup trucks, one Chevy and one Dodge, both with very loud engines. Clouds of smoke from the gravel road filled the air and made the vehicles appear to disappear faster. “Take Heidi home. We’ll meet you there.” Heidi jumped out of the car before Jennifer completely came to a stop outside the Morris home. The girl hadn’t said a word the entire drive back and Jennifer didn’t encourage any conversation. She’d brought her friend’s daughter home. Her mission was complete. Except in this world, there was no debriefing. She pulled the parking brake and entered the house behind the angry teenager. The Cherokee skidded into the driveway as the screen door slapped her backside. She turned to see Jimmy and Hunter jump out and come toward her. “Heidi!” Susie yelled from the living room. “Don’t walk away from me.” Jimmy stormed past her without a word. This was a family matter. Turning toward the back door, she noticed Hunter stood several feet behind her, once again wearing the dark sunglasses. He had a shirt on now, a dark maroon plaid shirt. The sleeves rolled up over incredible biceps while the top button remained unbuttoned revealing dark curly chest hair. Heat rushed through her with enough intensity it almost made her stagger backward. What she wouldn’t do to learn how hard that body was. Run her fingernails over the ripples in his chest, the bulges in his arms, discover how hard his cock could get. What the hell was wrong with her? She knew nothing about this man, yet the urge to pull him out the back door, beg him to fuck her, had her convinced being in his presence made her a candidate for the loony farm. “You’re either incredibly foolish or very brave,” he said, almost whispering. “That easily could have been a dangerous situation. Kids on drugs are unpredictable.” The tone in his voice gave her chills. Fighting for control of her senses seemed an impossible task in front of this man. “I didn’t know they were all on drugs.” She couldn’t look at him. If she did she wouldn’t be able to form a sentence. “I guess ignorance is bliss.” “Not always.” She did look up at him then. There was no smile and she couldn’t see his eyes. Why did he remind her so much of Jonathan? She’d known other dark-complexioned men before. They didn’t remind her of Jonathan. “I need to get my son.” Jennifer walked passed him quickly, needing fresh air. 29

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She reached her truck and then turned around pulling the scrap paper she’d used in the truck out of her pocket. Her nose almost hit Hunter’s chest. She put her hand on his chest, acting before thinking. God, his body was harder than steel. A strong, solid heartbeat pulsed against her palm while she inhaled his masculine scent. Her mouth went dry staring at her fingers. More than anything she wanted to move her hand, explore, learn every inch of his body. She didn’t dare move. “I…I wrote down the tag numbers.” She would make a fool out of herself trying to talk to him. And for the life of her she couldn’t move her hand. “Good thinking.” “Thanks.” Muscles flexed, bulging when his arm moved. Strong determined fingers pressed under her chin, forcing her head to move. Not that she fought him. Her heart had moved to her throat, pounding out a beat too intense to allow her to speak. He had to feel it. Staring at her own reflection in those damnable sunglasses, she ached to yank them from his face. Seeing herself, the image that didn’t look like her, distracted her even more. Not only did every inch of her throb, a pounding erratic beat that she was sure surged through his fingers, but she couldn’t speak, couldn’t form a single thought. His mouth moved—barely. Indication enough that he knew he dominated the situation. Something told her that pleased him, that knowing he’d rendered her useless, one large throbbing mass of out of control sensual need, brought him intense satisfaction. His lips brushed over hers. Full and moist, barely touching her, made her knees go weak. He must have realized she was about to collapse, turn into a puddle at his feet. Grabbing the back of her head, he tangled his hand through her hair, holding her so she couldn’t move. His tongue darted over her mouth. He probed past her lips, not asking but demanding she open to him. She tasted his masculinity, drowned in the power that swam from him. Her nipples puckered painfully against her bra, the pressure that had swarmed through her dipping to her pussy, soaking her. A whimper escaped her, longing so raw, so intense that he could have fucked her right there outside Susie’s house and she would have been willing and eager. God, she was fucking nuts. Digging her fingers into roped muscle, she gripped his shirt in her hand, wanting it gone, needing flesh, to feel, to learn every inch of him. Hunter released her, but the spell he’d placed her under left her in a fog when he straightened. Struggling to focus on his face, the intense, satisfied expression he wore sent nervous energy rushing through her, warring with the lust that continued to smolder. He gave her that crooked smile and then adjusted his sunglasses over his eyes. “Next time you walk up the mountain, I’ll go with you.”

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Her jaw dropped, heat tearing over her cheeks too fast to control, or look away before he noticed. He’d known she’d watched him earlier. Her heart pounded so hard she couldn’t breathe. She’d touched herself, come while standing there watching him chop wood. Hunter moved too quickly for her to react. He cupped her pussy, his hand moving between her legs before she could stop him. “And you can come for me again,” he whispered, looking incredibly triumphant. She stumbled backward, raw lust consuming her, tearing at her. Reaching behind her, she was all thumbs when she fought to open her car door. Her legs shook while she struggled to maneuver her truck and drive away without slamming it into a tree or something.

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Chapter Four Jennifer woke up to her phone ringing at the crack of dawn. It was the first of October and Jimmy wanted to know if she’d be able to pay her rent today. He didn’t say why he needed the money so quickly, but she knew the answer. Susie had told her over coffee earlier that week. They were sending Heidi to a rehabilitation center in Colorado Springs. As soon as they had the money together, their daughter would spend thirty days in one of the best rehabs in the state. They didn’t want to send her so far away but the school counselor suggested it as one of the best. Jennifer’s heart had gone out to Susie. Memories of how Alpha Corp would use rehab centers to find new recruits twisted her stomach, distracting her and making her sick. She fought to pay attention while she followed Alex, who pushed the grocery cart through the store later that morning. Too many times they’d pull young people, addicted on drugs, homeless, and eager to do anything to get out of the institutionalized life they’d found themselves in. She’d never forgive herself if Alpha Corp found Heidi. “Mama, we should buy this peanut butter.” Alex held up the jar. “It’s a better deal, even though that other brand is on sale.” She’d grown accustomed to Alex’s knack for math. He could come up with answers often faster than she could push the buttons on a calculator. “Well then, we should definitely buy that brand.” “Okay. What’s next on the list?” Alex took her grocery list from her, walking ahead of the cart. Jennifer had taken the four hundred dollars out of her small safe, which was buried behind summer clothes—clothes that would never be appropriate in this environment—in the back of her bedroom closet and paid rent before coming into town. She’d taken another hundred-dollar bill so they could do their grocery shopping. The cash in that safe was enough to last her a lifetime, if she was careful. The money was the result of depleting several of Jonathan’s personal accounts within the first few days of being free from Alpha. She’d made it look like it was an internal job hoping to keep him preoccupied so he wouldn’t find her. It had worked. She’d walked away with over ten million dollars. It was money he’d taken from Alpha Corp and put in his own private accounts. Money that she used to raise the boy who looked just like him. And if she’d fucked him, and not been busy with missions the last few months she’d been with Alpha Corp, she wouldn’t question who Alex’s father was. Jonathan, you’ve got to be the father, Alex looks just like you. But why didn’t he get her pregnant the normal way?

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“Look, Mom.” Alex pointed to the community bulletin board hanging on the wall by the double electronic glass doors. “There’s going to be a circus. Do you think we could go?” Her son pulled her out of her reminiscing, and she searched the cluttered bulletin board until she saw the notice Alex pointed to. “Well now, I’ve heard your son was smart but to read so well at such a young age…” a man spoke behind her. “I taught him at home.” She smiled graciously at the redheaded man leaning over his shopping cart behind her. “How have you heard about my son?” Over the past two months, she’d grown accustomed to everyone knowing everyone’s business in Valley View. But this was an unfamiliar face. His hair was light red, thick and wavy but neat. He had a clean-shaven, freckly face, and crow’s feet that appeared magically when he smiled. There were none of Hunter’s incredible good looks, but he was attractive, in a safe kind of way. Nothing haunting about this man. “My sister-in-law teaches third grade at the grade school.” Matching crow’s feet grew with a warm smile. She’d noticed the locals didn’t refer to their grade school as Valley View Grade School as its sign suggested. They dropped the town’s name and just called it the grade school. Valley View High School was across the street. The only other school in the town. “I know Mrs. McCarthy,” Alex piped up. “She’s cool!” Her son was already talking like a local. Jennifer never ceased to be amazed by his ability to quickly adjust to his environment. “She likes you too.” The man gave Jennifer his attention. “I’m Dudley McCarthy.” He offered a large freckled hand. “I run a lumber yard just south of town.” He didn’t need to tell her that. Susie had educated her on every citizen in town over their morning coffee chats. He’d inherited the successful lumber business from his grandfather who’d raised him after his father’s accidental death. Susie had gone to school with Dudley, along with most of the people in town. She’d jokingly referred to him as the oldest virgin in town, implying his polite personality never got him past a goodnight kiss on a date. “It’s nice to meet you.” Jennifer shook his hand. He gave her a warm, solid shake in return. “I’m…” “You’re Jennifer Shaughnessy, from Ireland. I know.” He smiled a perfect smile with beautiful, white teeth…probably not one cavity in his entire mouth. “And this is Alex Shaughnessy. My sister-in-law, um, Mrs. McCarthy, is pushing to have Alex promoted to the first grade.” Jennifer finished putting the bagged groceries into her cart and then moved it so Dudley could push his cart up to the register. “Mom, it’s next Saturday,” Alex said, catching her attention.

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“It was nice to meet you.” She smiled politely and pushed the cart toward the double glass doors. “The circus is in Telluride. I don’t know, Alex.” The thought of a large crowd was discouraging, but his pleading face tugged at her heart. He’d never been to a circus and American children went to circuses. They walked out to her truck and Alex talked the entire time of the many wonders he’d see if he could go to the circus. “Miss Shaughnessy?” It took her a minute to realize it was her name that was being called. “I was wondering…” Dudley McCarthy leaned on his cart with the bagged groceries inside. The sun behind her made him squint, squishing his crow’s feet. He probably never wore sunglasses. “What I mean is I’ve been meaning to…” He paused again. She’d heard this before. He was getting ready to ask her out on a date. Did she want to go out with a safe virgin? She wouldn’t know what to do with herself, she thought, and suppressed a smile. More than likely he wouldn’t inform her how she’d come for him while they were together. “Well, would you and Alex like me to escort you to the circus next Saturday night? They have one every year. It should be pretty fun.” She had to fight images of Hunter out of her head in order to focus on Dudley. A black Jaguar pulled into the stall behind Dudley. Hunter pulled his massive body out of the compact car with amazing ease. So, that’s what he drove. He looked at the three of them through his dark sunglasses and nodded at Jennifer. It was the first time she’d seen him since he’d kissed her senseless and left her with an ache that had only grown since then. Susie told her when he was working with Jimmy, but he hadn’t come around. She smiled back but then turned her attention to Dudley. “I’ll give it some thought,” she said, and turned to load the groceries into the back of the truck. “May I call you?” She glanced up, unaccustomed to such chivalry. Hunter crossed thick muscular arms over his chest, making no qualms about listening to their conversation. “I guess so.” She finished loading the groceries and then walked Alex around to the other side of the truck. “Mr. Hunter,” Dudley said, and nodded as he pushed his cart across the lot to his car. Hunter gave Dudley a punishing look. Now that was a look Jonathan would have used if any other man ever spoke to her. It seemed to her that Dudley pushed his cart a little bit faster. “What was that all about?” He turned his punishing look on her but it faded quickly.

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“Alex noticed a flyer for the circus and Dudley offered to take us.” She waved her hand as if to indicate it was no big deal, then immediately wondered why she made light of it. No one owned her. Not anymore. She could do what she wanted. “It looks like a good day for a hike up the mountain, if you’re up for it.” He walked around his car and put a hand on her opened door, trapping her next to the car. Her mouth went dry and she made a very unladylike choking sound. Alex had climbed into the truck so couldn’t see her suddenly frazzled manner. Managing something she hoped looked like a scolding glare, she glanced up at the very pleased expression on his face. “Mom, can we go?” Alex asked from the cab of the truck. “Please?” “We’ll all go.” Hunter obviously took that as a yes. “I’ve got to pick up a few things.” He gestured toward the store. “But then I’ll be by in about an hour.” “I guess it’s settled then.” She shrugged, then sat down in the truck, a warm pleasure surging through her that Hunter would want to include Alex. Although she didn’t think for a minute he took lightly his comment about her coming for him. He shut her door for her and then rested his large dark hand over her arm as he leaned to look into the cab. She looked from Hunter to Alex as they looked at each other. The looks of curiosity they gave each other made her realize they hadn’t seen each other before. “What’s your favorite snack?” Hunter asked Alex. “M&M’s.” Alex sounded excited. “Really?” Hunter wrinkled his brow, but then relaxed it and smiled. “Mine too.” “See you in an hour.” He squeezed her arm and then left for the store. His touch burned through her skin, and she fought the tingling craving that settled between her legs. “I bet I look like he does when I grow up,” was all Alex said as they pulled out of the stall.

***** October in Valley View wasn’t the typical chilly fall weather as in other parts of the world. At over nine thousand feet above sea level, the first of October was a “coat and gloves” kind of day. They’d already received four or five inches of snow and there was more than that up in the mountains. Some of the snow, in the higher elevations, stayed there year round. Jennifer had just finished zipping and snapping Alex’s brand-new winter coat and helping him into gloves, not mittens—those were for babies—when Hunter showed up at the front door.

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She fumbled with her own jacket, grateful that Alex had run out the front door, keeping Hunter outside. “Come on, Mama.” Alex hurried back to her, grabbing her arm. “Let’s go!” “There’s a pretty wide trail with no real surprises that starts up here a-ways.” Hunter pointed up the road, which led toward his place. The three of them stood at the end of her driveway while Hunter pointed toward the trees. “There’s a waterfall about a mile up. I thought we’d go there for today.” She nodded and they began their walk with Alex running ahead and then running back to hold his mother’s hand, then running ahead again. She noted Hunter’s impressed expression when Alex identified the dormant foliage around them. He pointed to the hookless cactus and milkvetch. “Are these Utah junipers?” He walked in front of them, pointing at the fat pine trees spread around the mountainside. “You learn things very quickly, don’t you, Alex?” Hunter asked instead of answering the boy’s question. Jennifer wondered if maybe he didn’t know the official name of the trees. “I guess so.” Alex shrugged and kicked at the loose rocks on the ground. “I always figured everybody could do it until I started getting all this attention.” “You figured everybody could do what?” Hunter seemed sincerely interested. Jennifer glanced up at his face but Hunter was focused on the back of Alex’s head. “Read things and know them. Hear things and remember them. Look at stuff and know how it works.” Alex looked up at his mother and then poked her in the stomach. “Mom can’t do any of that, though. I don’t know why I can.” “Does he have a photographic memory?” Jennifer suddenly felt guarded. Taking him on sexually wasn’t as dangerous as discussing her son’s unique qualities. Alpha Corp had ears and eyes everywhere, and if word got out about Alex, if any news traveled… “He likes to learn.” She shrugged, and reached forward to run her fingers through her son’s curly black hair. “Don’t you, Alex?” “I like to hike, too.” Alex turned and looked up at Hunter. “Did you bring any M&M’s?” “I’ll show you what I brought when we get to the waterfall,” Hunter said, and then took the back of Jennifer’s arm to guide her up a rocky incline. She could have navigated the rocky terrain better if she had use of both of her arms but as it was, Hunter held on tightly while they hiked up the incline. Alex went up the rocky hill on all fours, not slipping once. He reached the top first. “Oh, Mama, you’ll love this.” Alex sucked his breath in and let it out as he spoke, his breath forming a cloud in front of his face. “This is cool. Can we go down there?”

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Jennifer reached the top of the hill, feeling Hunter’s gaze burn down her back as she admired the secluded waterfall. Having Alex with them was a perfect way to enjoy this hike. She doubted she would have noticed the scenery if she’d come here alone with Hunter. The fall itself was only about twenty feet long, dropping into a crystal-clear pond with beautifully colored rocks displayed at the bottom of the water. She returned her attention to the top of the waterfall. A larger pool of water glistened from rays of sunlight managing through the trees. Another waterfall, over fifty feet long, she guessed, fell down a mountain that appeared to reach toward heaven. “Come on.” Hunter led this time, leaving Jennifer to fend for himself. He reached the bottom of the small hill and turned to help Alex come down. Jennifer took the decline easily, ignoring the hand he extended to her. She stopped next to him and focused on the beautifully clear water. The thick grassy ground served as a wonderful resting spot and Hunter pulled his backpack off his shoulders while Alex watched eagerly. “What did you bring?” Alex hopped from one foot to the other, looking like he wanted to take the backpack from Hunter and discover for himself what was inside. Jennifer leaned her head back and stared up at the large wall of mountain that faced them. Her thoughts went to the Andes, and the many times she and Jonathan had gone rock climbing. These mountains would serve well for a day of rock climbing. She wondered if Hunter ever climbed them. There was a store right in Valley View that sold camping and recreational equipment. She would definitely make a trip there real soon and buy what she needed to climb these mountains. “All right!” Alex’s Irish accent seemed to get thicker and thicker with his growing excitement. “Look at what Hunter brought, Mama. He knows your favorite, too.” Jennifer glanced at the contents now spread around on the ground. Alex tore open a large bag of plain M&M’s and poured a handful into his hand. Hunter produced a pocketknife and had already begun slicing an apple. He handed her several slices. He then pulled out a small jar of chunky peanut butter and twisted off the lid. Gallantly, he held the jar so she could dunk a slice. Staring into his chocolate eyes, she stabbed the apple into the peanut butter, while apprehension sliced through her. His expression was relaxed, controlled, his gaze never leaving hers. If she allowed her imagination to stray just a bit, she’d swear he was sending her some private message. I know it’s you, and you know it’s me. She reminded herself he’d seen her eating them when he’d come over the night she’d shot the mountain lion. Susie always made a fuss over her fondness for the snack. It was more than probable that she would have said something to her husband and Hunter. His bringing the snack had to prove that he’d been the one who sent her the apples and peanut butter that morning after she’d first moved here. All it proved other than that was that he was observant.

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“Do you like it here?” Hunter looked at Alex’s chocolate-stained face and grinned, whatever intense emotion he’d harbored while watching her fading quickly when he focused on her son. “Oh yeah, this is great.” Alex smiled, showing chocolate-stained teeth as well. “How does it compare to Ireland?” “Waterford was boring. I already have friends here, and I get to go to school.” “Waterford?” “Yeah, by the Suir River.” Alex shrugged. “We didn’t have a house though. We lived in an apartment complex.” “You should be proud of your Irish roots, Alex. It’s a country with quite a heritage.” Hunter took a bite out of a whole apple and leaned back on his elbows. “Oh, we’re not Irish. We just lived there.” Okay, this had gone far enough. She needed a way to stop this conversation. The last thing she wanted Hunter to know was all the different places she and Alex had lived. It was no way to raise a boy, and she didn’t want him thinking she was a bad parent. Or questioning why they’d hopped all over most of Europe through most of Alex’s life. “Have you ever done any rock climbing?” she asked abruptly. He stared at her, almost startled. She wasn’t trying to sound rude, the conversation wasn’t really going anywhere anyway. Trying for a pleasant smile, she worried instead she grinned like a fool. His captivating good looks proved too much of a distraction. She licked her lips and his crooked smile slowly appeared. “I’ll take you up there,” he said quietly. “I should have gear you can use at the house.” The gold specks in his eyes danced while his gaze burrowed into hers. It was as if he asked a question with his eyes and only her eyes could answer. Haven’t we rock climbed many times together in the past, my dear? Only if Hunter was in fact Jonathan. God. There had to be a way to know for sure, beyond any doubt, put all her curiosity to rest. Not knowing made her crazy. The way his features suddenly softened, compassion riding over the hard muscles in his face, twisted her tummy into knots. He sensed her dilemma. He had to be Jonathan. Plastic surgery, having a tattoo removed—all of it was possible. And if he was Jonathan then what was he doing living here? “Is there another way we can go back down?” she asked, once again changing the course of the conversation. They walked around the pond and then descended down that piece of the mountain. There was no real trail, but Hunter must have been convinced Jennifer and Alex could handle a little overgrown leaves and larger rocks. She loved it. Now this was a walk in the wilderness. Down the side of a mountain, no less. The air was cold and

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magnificent. The sky, what she could see of it, was an incredible pale blue. Everything seemed so clean. Clean and in order. Everything except the haunting thought that Hunter could be Jonathan. “Mama, I got to go pee,” Alex said when they were within view of her cabin. “Go on ahead then.” She pulled out her house key and handed it to him. “We don’t want any accidents.” “I don’t do that anymore.” He looked at her scornfully before running off toward their home. “So, is Hunter your first name or your last name?” Jennifer focused on the ground in front of her while they walked alongside each other toward her driveway. He snorted, like a chuckle with his mouth closed. “I don’t usually tell women that until the second date.” “This is a date?” She looked up at him, sincerely surprised. He did chuckle now. “Well then, I guess you’ve got to do something with me two more times before you get that information.” “I’ve got to do something?” He slowed his pace until he stood next to her. It took a moment for her to realize she’d stopped walking, and simply stared up at him. “And I have a feeling you’d be very good at it,” he murmured, a husky edge to his tone, while his finger tapped her chin and then strolled down her front. Her nipples hardened instantly and the chilled air around them attacked her suddenly feverish skin. He didn’t touch her breasts but created a line between them. There couldn’t be any worse torture. “Possibly half as good as you?” His grin turned full-fledged, a triumphant, possessive look that almost matched the way Jonathan used to look at her. Or maybe he was looking at her. Having sex with him, making love to Jonathan again after all these years, pulsed excited energy through her, forcing a dam of need to rupture inside her. Cum coated her flesh between her legs. Hunter lowered his head, brushing his lips over hers. “I told you that you’d come for me again.” How the hell did he know? Sucking in air, fighting to catch her breath, get oxygen to her suddenly deprived brain, she stumbled backward. He took her hand, saying nothing more, but guiding her to the cabin. Damn good thing too. Her world had fogged over with lust. At the moment, she’d probably get lost in her own front yard. Alex had left the front door wide open and Hunter stopped in the doorway, while she entered the living room and pulled off her gloves.

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“You’re mighty sure of yourself.” Some semblance of self-control managed to seep through her when she put distance between them. “Only with certain situations.” He smiled now and leaned against the doorframe, contentedly studying her. Her stomach twisted in knots under his gaze, the throbbing and swelling between her legs slowly moving through the rest of her body. “Are you going to go to the circus with McCarthy?” he asked, breaking the silence. “I might.” Why did she always find the possessive ones? “I wouldn’t advise it,” he said, his expression unreadable. “Mom, can I go online?” Alex appeared down the hallway. His coat and gloves no longer on him, his shoes missing, and his shirt now untucked. “Honey, we still have to hook up the satellite.” She scowled, worried Alex would hint that Hunter should help them set up the satellite she’d purchased so they could have the Internet. “I think I’ve got it figured out.” He grinned, and looked up at Hunter. “I can’t attach it to the house, but I hooked it up. Might as well see if it works, right?” “Maybe I should look at it,” Hunter said. Alex shrugged. “If you want. I’ll show you what I did. Let me get my coat and I’ll take you outside.” The pulse in her inner thigh muscle turned to a distracting throb, and she limped back to the rocking chair, while Alex stormed back down the hallway to the computer that was set up in her room. Hunter looked like he would say something about her leg, ask again why she limped, but he didn’t. “Alex is incredibly intelligent for his age.” He didn’t sound stunned like most people did when they saw her son’s true colors surface. “Yes, he is.” Jennifer glanced toward his silhouetted figure in the doorway. She needed to put heat on her leg. “And I don’t want a big deal made out of it.” “That won’t happen.” He sounded so sure of that fact that all she could do was stare at him. “Taking him out in the company of strangers would allow for more talk. You don’t want that.” No. She didn’t. But they’d been in his company. Obviously Hunter didn’t feel he fell under the rank of stranger. She would have readily agreed with him, except doing so would give him fuel to tighten a leash around her. Dominating men needed to be trained carefully. Keeping the group of people they associated with to a bare minimum would always be imperative. If Alpha Corp found them, they would definitely make a big deal out of Alex’s intelligence, turning him into a laboratory rat, analyzing him until they’d learned everything they could. Then they’d turn Alex into one of them. It was a life he’d never know—not as long as she was alive and breathing. 40

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“Mama, stay here and rest your leg.” Alex rushed into the living room again, his coat half on him, and planted a wet kiss on her cheek. “I can show Hunter everything.”

***** Jennifer soaked in a hot tub later that night and lost herself in thoughts of Jonathan and Hunter. Jonathan was taller, larger than life, and always in control. Hunter seemed more relaxed. He smiled a lot, something Jonathan never did. Hunter seemed softer, more interested in what she thought. He wasn’t as one-sided as Jonathan. Night after night she’d fought the memories that wouldn’t leave her while she lay aching for Jonathan. Now with Hunter closing in around her, slowly marking his territory, she wanted him so desperately he distracted her dreams. Did she need to justify wanting him by telling herself he really was Jonathan? Maybe guilt plagued her that falling for another guy would truly be putting Jonathan out of her life. Jonathan had been out of her life for six years.

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Chapter Five Alex wanted to go to church the next morning. Valley View housed a small Methodist church set up in the mountains. White-painted wood with a tall steeple in the front. The bell tower stood separately. It was the church Jimmy and Susie went to every Sunday. There were several other people she recognized in the congregation. The principal of Valley View School that she’d met briefly was there with his wife. Mr. and Mrs. John Hamilton she assumed, they looked like a stately couple. She saw Dora Sloan also. Although she tried to smile at her, Dora didn’t appear to notice. Hunter wasn’t there. Alex ran ahead of her after church in the big, open, grassy yard out front. The blue sky of yesterday was gone, and dark, heavy gray clouds threatened snow. She watched her son as he ran up to one of the children in his kindergarten class. Immediately, he and the other little boy were jumping around, gesturing, giggling and talking loudly. It was a tight community and at that moment she almost felt like she was part of it. She hadn’t been there for quite three months. How would things be in a year? The thought made her nervous. It struck her that she’d never looked at life like that before, always lived simply to get through the day. Here she was thinking about the following year. “Jennifer, I’m so glad you came today.” Susie nudged up against her in the chilly morning air. “I think it’s going to snow.” Jennifer looked up at the sky, and then back at Alex. “Jimmy wants you two to come over. We always have a big lunch after service. He made chili. You guys like chili, don’t you?” Susie sounded hopeful, but when Jennifer looked at her she saw a gleam in her eye. “Who else is going to be there?” She watched Susie’s face break into a smile. Then, her friend nudged her into walking toward the cars. “I’m not supposed to tell you this part.” She glanced around, assumedly to see where her husband was. “Hunter and Jimmy planned this. He really likes you, Jennifer. He thinks a lot of Alex, too. I heard some of their conversation last night. Hunter made the chili but I’m supposed to tell you Jimmy made it.” It was on the tip of her tongue to ask what Hunter said about her. Jimmy hollered at Susie to hurry up. Jennifer quickly agreed to meet over at Susie’s for chili and then went to gather up Alex.

*****

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“I can’t believe you know how to do this.” Heidi actually seemed to be enjoying herself. “I didn’t.” Alex sat at the computer in Jimmy and Susie’s living room with Heidi sitting cross-legged in a chair next to him. “I just figured it out.” Heidi threw her arms up in exasperation, and turned to look at her mother and Jennifer, who were clearing the table. Jennifer tried not to bat an eye as she noticed Heidi had shaved her head to a close buzz and had dyed the remaining hair purple. The stud earrings going up either side of her earlobes stood out now, with no hair to cover them. In spite of it all, Heidi had a pretty face. Jennifer understood Susie’s fears of her only child turning so wild. As cute as she was, a smaller version of her mother, she’d go through a lot of abuse in the wrong crowd. “This is a total drag,” Heidi exclaimed. “This little brat sits down at the computer, and within ten minutes manages to put us online by coming up with a code so we don’t have to pay for it.” Jimmy had walked out from the kitchen, wearing one of Susie’s frilly aprons. He had a wet dishrag in his hand, and had obviously run a wet hand through his blond hair, because one side lay flat to his head while the other stood tousled. “That’s not legal, son,” Jimmy said, giving Hunter a side-glance. “How’d you do that?” “Well, this little brat,” Alex said, making a face at Heidi, “borrowed the phone cord from your phone, hooked it into the back of your computer, and then linked it with our computer, which I, um, accidentally left on.” He grinned at the adults staring at him, shrugged his shoulders, and giggled. “It wasn’t really that hard.” “Pretty impressive, Alex,” Hunter said. “Why don’t you pull up a local weather report for us.” “Okay.” And he turned back to the computer, after giving Hunter the same crooked smile the man had given him. Jennifer helped Susie carry the last of the items on the table to the kitchen counter. “Just put them anywhere.” Jimmy waved his dishrag. “We’ll clean this mess up.” Hunter busied himself scraping the leftover chili into a Tupperware container while Jimmy started lathering up dishwater with his hand. “Cool, come on Jennifer. Let’s go get some wood and get a big old fire going.” Susie grabbed her arm and marched out the kitchen. Snowflakes the size of quarters were just starting to greet the ground when they reached the woodshed. “So much for needing that weather report.” She returned from their second trip of hauling the chopped logs inside the back door. “We probably should head home soon. I’m not accustomed to driving in this stuff anymore.” “It doesn’t snow in Ireland?” Susie asked. “Not like it does here, and we never had cold weather in Waterford.” 43

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“But you’ve driven in snow before.” “I grew up in Detroit.” “I didn’t know that.” Jennifer could tell by the excitement in Susie’s response that this little bit of news wouldn’t be kept to herself. Oh shit. You’re not Joanna anymore. Jennifer was from Kansas. “Well, you won’t have any problem getting home. We’ll make sure of it.” They stacked the last of the wood they planned on hauling in and then each carried several logs into the living room by the fireplace. “Besides, Heidi may actually enjoy showing Alex how to roast marshmallows.” “You don’t know how to roast marshmallows?” Heidi and Alex were playing a computer game using the up and down arrow keys to shoot space ships out of the sky. “I’ve read about it in stories, but I’ve never actually done it.” Alex didn’t look away from the computer screen. “You shouldn’t act so smart all the time.” Heidi crossed her arms and frowned. It looked like she was actually doing some deep thinking herself. “Kids will start making fun of you.” “Yeah, well, you shouldn’t do so many drugs,” Alex retorted, and four adults stopped doing what they were doing, creating a silence that neither child seemed to notice. “People will start pretending to be your friend when they don’t really like you.” “Well, I’d rather have people pretend to be my friend than have everyone think I’m some kind of freak.” Heidi leaned back in her chair and curled her lip up at Alex. “Who are you calling the freak?” Alex violently pushed some of the keys on the computer. “There! You get yourself back online, if you haven’t fried too many brain cells to figure it out.” Alex threw the chair so that it fell in the middle of the living room and balled his fists against his hips. Jennifer groaned when she realized he was about to show her new friends how nasty a tantrum he could throw. “You know, at the rate you’re going, you’ll be dead by the time you’re twenty. At the rate I’m going, I’ll be a millionaire.” “Alex, that’s enough!” Jennifer reached for her son. “You won’t be anything but some brainy freak with no friends!” Heidi shouted and ran up to her room. “Let go of me.” Alex ran out of the room. She heard the back door slam and immediately started after him. “I can’t wait until she’s thirty,” Jimmy groaned from the fireplace. “I’ll go talk to her,” Susie offered, putting the chair Alex had thrown back at the computer. “Good luck.” Her husband grimaced.

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“Oh God, it’s really snowing,” Jennifer said to no one in particular as she turned back from the back door to grab her coat. Hunter was right behind her and she stubbed her nose against his iron chest. He handed her coat to her and held Alex’s in his other hand. “The snow will make it harder for him to move quickly,” he said as he helped her slip into her coat. “We’ll find him.” She bit her lip, feeling awful about what had just transpired. He lifted her face to his, stroking her cheek with his thumb, then stealing a quick kiss. The scalding heat from his mouth, matched with the triumphant smile that made his deep brown eyes glow, about knocked her off her feet. “Don’t worry, a walk in this stuff would cool any temper. We’ll have him inside in a minute.” He zipped her coat up for her, brushing his knuckles over her breasts. They swelled eagerly, wanting more attention. But Hunter turned her, and marched her out of the door in front of him. Alex didn’t go far. Either verifying the accusations toward his intelligence or just stunned by the amount of snow that had fallen in such a short time, he stood out by the tool shed, his small arms crossed over his chest while he looked down at his shoes. Hunter reached him first and Alex didn’t fight as the strong hands secured him inside his coat. Alex was crying, and she scooped him up in her arms without any protest. He reminded her of his age, which she as well as everyone else too quickly forgot. He wrapped his arms around her neck and sobbed into her shoulder. Hunter placed one hand on her back and the other on the boy’s curly black locks. “Since we’re out here, why don’t we walk back to your house,” he said, stroking the back of Alex’s head while using a tone so gentle and almost fatherly. “It’s really a lot of fun to walk in this stuff. Have you ever done that before?” Alex shook his head, but kept it buried in Jennifer’s neck. She stared up at Hunter, amazed at this new side of him. Every time he revealed more of his personality to her, she simply wanted him more. “We’ll come get your mom’s truck later.” Without asking, Hunter lifted Alex out of her arms and placed him on the ground. He squatted down in front of him and placed his large hands on the boy’s shoulders. “What you said in there was true. Every word of it. Sometimes the truth hurts, saying it and hearing it. It’s people like you who will rule this world. You’ve got common sense, a great personality, and yes, you’re incredibly intelligent. You’re also very good-looking.” Hunter smiled and laughed while messing up Alex’s hair. Alex laughed too, much to Jennifer’s delight. “Yeah, I look like you,” he said. “You look like your mom, too,” was all Hunter said. “Have you ever tested his IQ?” Hunter asked when Jennifer had provided all the necessary toys for Alex to take a warm, not hot, bath.

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He’d come inside her cabin with them and, while she’d stripped Alex out of his wet clothes, Hunter had called Jimmy to let him know where they’d gone. Then he’d brought in some of her firewood and started a fire. It roared nicely and he looked absolutely gorgeous, sitting on the brick extension in front of it. “No, I haven’t. I want him to lead a normal life.” She set her jaw and pulled one of the chairs out from the table to remove her own wet shoes and socks. She’d noticed Hunter had already removed his and laid his socks over his shoes in front of the fire. Obviously, he planned on staying for a while. Her heart skipped a beat at the thought. Although never, as long as Alex had been alive, had another man ever stayed overnight with them. Not like there had been any other men. She’d never let go of Jonathan. Hunter seemed to be moving into his place nicely though. “You can be really smart and lead a normal life. He’s a likeable kid. He’ll always have friends.” Her leg began aching while she leaned forward and ripped off her boot. Instinctively, she pushed both her hands down on her right inner thigh. “I guess I’m scared he might be really intelligent, you know, like off the scales. People make a big deal out of children like that.” She pulled the second shoe off and noticed Hunter staring at her feet. “Mom, I want my blue horse.” Alex called from the bathroom. Jennifer jumped up and the sharp pain that ran down her leg about sent her to the floor. Hunter was there in a second, literally lifting her with strong hands that scorched her skin under her arms. He eased her back in the chair. “Just a minute, Alex,” she managed, and returned to massaging the damaged muscle. “I’ll take care of it.” Hunter was down the hallway before she could object. “Hunter, can you get the soldier that goes with my horse?” Jennifer heard Hunter rustling around in Alex’s bedroom as Alex directed from the bathtub as to the toy’s specific location. Alex was comfortable with Hunter. He’d never shown affection to anyone else other than her. She wasn’t sure she wanted to share him. He was all she had. The only unconditional love she’d ever known. She stood up slowly to test the muscle when Hunter came back down the hallway. He stopped in front of her and looked down at her leg as if he’d be able to tell if she was all right just by looking. “Why isn’t he circumcised?” Hunter asked, as he stood solidly in front of her. She looked up quickly and felt another spasm. He looked aggravated, although seconds ago he’d laughed and joked with Alex. She ignored the spasm. “Because they don’t circumcise newborn babies where he was born.” She was ready to take him on if he made any reference to the type of mother she was. “I just wondered.” All hostility left him.

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He rubbed his large hand through his long curls while his gaze traveled up her slowly. It was the way Jonathan looked at her right before he’d start an interrogation if he thought any detail was left out concerning a mission. This isn’t Jonathan and you don’t have to tell him a thing. “Would you like some coffee?” She had to get out from under that gaze. Turning her back to him, she fought to focus on the simple task of pouring water into the pot. “Where was he born?” Here comes the interrogation. She reached for the jar of coffee. “The Middle East. Coffee?” He moved in behind her. Putting his thick arms on either side of her, he rested his hands on the counter, trapping her in the small space. She looked down at the incredibly large hands, fingernails cut short, and a couple of small scars visible through dark hair on his knuckles. He lowered his head so that his cheek nestled next to hers and then turned his head so that his lips almost brushed her cheek. Fire scorched her insides. The yearning that had smoldered for days now broke out into a huge, full-blown fire. Need pulsed through her, his smell, his strength, his dominating power wrapping around her. She licked her upper lip, sucked in a breath, and held it. There was no way she could move, even if he didn’t have her trapped. Her heart pounded in her chest. Blood rushed through her. He’d filled her space, her thoughts, and she ached, no…craved, for him to fill her pussy. Pressure swelled inside her. It wasn’t right to want someone this bad. Want him yet not be able to have him. Alex was splashing happily in the tub in the other room. “Someone burned you pretty badly once,” he began, and she could feel his jawbone move against her cheek, the roughness of his unshaven face, while his lips brushed against her face as he spoke. “I’m really sorry about that, but I can’t change the past.” His hands left the counter and rose up her arms. An uncontrollable chill ran over her skin. He was strong enough to crush her, yet his touch was gentle enough to kindle desires that pulsed so hard between her legs she could hardly stand. She wanted him inside her, filling that void that cried for relief. More than anything she needed to touch him, explore that virile body, kiss and caress every inch of him. Never in her life had she wanted to beg to be fucked. There had to be a way. Maybe after Alex went to bed. They could be quiet. Damn. What was she thinking? He turned her around. “You’ll learn to trust me. I won’t hurt you or Alex, I promise.” His lips were on hers so suddenly she didn’t have time to react. He was gentle, just a brush, as if to seal his promise with a kiss. He pulled away just as suddenly, watching her. “No one will ever hurt you again.”

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Daring to meet his gaze, smoldering milk chocolate melted with demanding, unleashed desire. Excitement exploded inside her at the passion she saw. The gold flecks that surrounded his black pupils danced out at her, glowing. Fuck. She was in trouble. Thoughts of him bending her over the counter, impaling her and fucking her hard and quick stole her breath. He massaged her arms and looked down into her eyes, again that powerful gaze that could hypnotize her into doing or saying anything he wished. “Mom!” Alex’s yell made her jump right out of her skin. “I’m done.” She turned to go to him but Hunter held her arms tightly. “I’m not going to give up on you.” Words wouldn’t form in her mouth. Her tongue seemed stuck to the roof of her mouth. And her heart wedged in her throat. Asking for trust was like asking for the moon. She wasn’t sure she knew what the word meant. Her silence didn’t seem to annoy him. He pulled her to him, smashing her swollen, tender breasts against his brick-solid chest. One hand moved through her hair, pulling her head back quickly. Impaling her mouth with his tongue, he growled, the sound vibrating through her while his cock lengthened, growing rock-hard between them. She almost panted when he released her, and turned her toward the hallway and her son. “Is Hunter still here?” She couldn’t believe how Alex’s eyes danced just like Hunter’s had a moment ago. “He’s still here, honey.” “Cool. He’ll stay with us for a while, won’t he? It’s snowing too hard for him to go home. It wouldn’t be safe, right, Mama?” She attempted to dry him off but he squirmed free, and pulled a T-shirt over his wet body. He ran to his room and pulled a clean pair of jeans from the new dresser Jennifer had purchased with the rest of the furniture that filled their home. Well, Jonathan, at least your money has helped me provide a life for my son. “Hunter?” Alex ran down the hallway before she’d finished straightening the bathroom. “Will you stay for a while, please? I’ve got a chess and checkers board. Or, we could throw snowballs, if you’ll show me how.” He’d grabbed Hunter’s large hand with his two small ones when Jennifer joined them. Hunter looked down at the child’s hand and then covered them with his two hands. Alex looked at him imploringly. “That’s up to your mom,” Hunter said, looking up at her, allowing her to see the need that still pulsed through him. She looked at the two faces, both of them watching her eagerly. It was uncanny how much they looked alike. They didn’t have the same nose. Alex had Jonathan’s nose. Plastic surgery can change noses.

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Alex was the spitting image of Hunter. The shade of their skin, the way their hair fell, the shade of their eyes—all identical. Hunter noticed her eyes traveling back and forth between them. He looked at Alex then back at her. Trust me. I won’t hurt you.

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Chapter Six After walking Alex to his classroom, Jennifer left the building to find Jimmy and Hunter across the street talking to the driver of a large flatbed truck. The truck was loaded with cut wood. It was a wide load, apparently trying to get through the town. She guessed Jimmy and Hunter were there to direct traffic. She hadn’t seen Hunter since he’d spent the day at their house over the weekend. Standing at the edge of the school grounds, she found it hard to take her gaze from him now. A sense of excitement tightened her stomach, making her feel as giddy as a schoolgirl, falling in love for the first time. He was so tall and well built. And damned sexy in that brown leather jacket he sported so nicely. Every man in town paled next to him. His aura, his dominating nature and presence, called out to her, distracting her even when he was almost a block away. Remembering his hands on her, the way he’d yanked her head back, silently demanding she give herself to him, unbridled heat burned between her legs, pulsing, her fluids breaking free, soaking her. Hunter glanced her way. Across the street, his features partially blocked from the glare of the sun, an overwhelming sensation that he knew she’d just come while staring at him made her blush. She didn’t look away, didn’t lower her gaze. His cock had been harder than steel in her kitchen. For hours after he’d held her, fucked her mouth with his tongue, a craving too strong to control had pulsed through her. The driver of the flatbed said something to Hunter and Jimmy, and headed toward his truck. Her legs were like jelly when the men turned from her, walking toward Jimmy’s car. What thick solid legs he had, and buns of fucking steel. Had she ever drooled over Jonathan like this? “Jennifer, over here.” Susie waved from the corner. She had no idea if it was the first time Susie had tried to get her attention or not. They were planning to walk downtown and go shopping for Halloween costumes at the small Sears Valley View proudly claimed. If Susie noticed her gawking at Hunter, practically masturbating in the front of the school grounds, she had the decency not to say anything. Her friend had taken it upon herself to keep Jennifer informed in all matters concerning Hunter. Susie had told her that just the other day, Jimmy and Hunter got into a real heated argument outside her house. Susie hadn’t been able to hear most of it from the house and when she’d gone outside to find out what they were yelling about, they’d both sternly told her to get back inside.

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Of course, her curiosity had driven her nuts, and she’d strained to hear as much of what they were saying to each other as she could. She’d told Jennifer she was sure they were arguing about her. Apparently Hunter wanted to do something and Jimmy didn’t think he should. She couldn’t imagine what Hunter possibly could want to do that would upset Jimmy so. Especially if it had something to do with Jennifer. After all, Susie had said, it was none of Jimmy’s business what Hunter and Jennifer did. Jennifer had agreed. It was nobody’s business. She couldn’t imagine what they might have been arguing about. Whatever it had been, they’d obviously gotten over it. They seemed to be working well together at the moment. Jennifer waved to Susie and started toward her. She felt pretty in her new outfit. She wore a long cream-colored sweater with a white cotton turtleneck underneath. She’d picked up a pair of light blue wool stockings and they kept her legs nice and warm underneath the long, thin flowery skirt she wore with flat-heeled ankle-high boots. Her new outfit was warm enough that she didn’t wear a coat. The moment Hunter noticed her walking across the school ground toward Susie, she was aware of those chocolate eyes watching her. She glanced over her shoulder. He’d stopped on the passenger side of Jimmy’s Jeep, not getting in, the distance between them making it impossible for her to see his expression. He finally looked away when a car turned the corner and slowed behind Jennifer. The car parked and she swore Hunter frowned. “Jennifer, wait up a moment.” Dudley climbed out of the car and waved to her. She waved back and stopped, and fought a grin when Susie picked up her pace until she stood next to Jennifer, waiting expectantly to hear what Dudley had to say. “You provide a lot of entertainment for an old married woman,” Susie said as she nudged Jennifer in the arm. “You’re not old.” Jennifer smiled back. “Jennifer, look.” Susie didn’t point but instead pulled on Jennifer’s sweater. Hunter moved across the street, his long legs taking the entire road in what appeared to be only several strides. Jimmy stood on the opposite side of the street, his hands on his hips, not appearing to be pleased that his “attached at the hip” friend had left him. Hunter stopped Dudley as he walked toward Jennifer by politely touching his arm. Dudley stood and listened as Hunter spoke to him. “He better not be telling Dudley not to ask me to the circus.” Jennifer crossed her arms and scowled. Nervous excitement made her antsy while the two men spoke to each other quietly. Jonathan would do something like this, and in fact had, now that she thought about it. More than once he’d stopped any admirer, speaking to them quietly, never letting her know what was said, but seeing to it that whoever the poor guy was, he never spoke to Jennifer again. “How do you know Dudley is going to ask you to the circus?” 51

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“He already did. I told him I’d think about it.” She still glared at the two men. “And Hunter knows this?” “Yeah. He was at the grocery store when Dudley asked if we’d go.” “Ooh. Hunter’s getting possessive with you already.” Susie rubbed her gloved hands together, enjoying the show. “Maybe that’s not what they are talking about.” Jennifer scowled at Susie, not believing it herself. “Besides, I don’t want possessive. I can think for myself.” “It’s all I’ve ever known. You can get around it.” Susie shrugged. Jennifer looked across the street at Jimmy standing there and guessed he probably would be a “takecharge” kind of guy in all circumstances. “Come on.” Jennifer pulled Susie by the arm. “Let’s go. I don’t think I want to talk to either one of them right now.” Susie begrudgingly allowed Jennifer to guide her down the shoveled walk in the direction of the Sears store. Jennifer fumed inside. He’d moved in and claimed his territory without her consent. That was a Jonathan trick and Hunter wasn’t Jonathan. She wouldn’t let him get away with it. Only Jonathan got away with stunts like that and he was gone from her life. Hunter wanted trust. But trust meant that he would know she’d tell Dudley no. She’d already decided going to the circus with him wouldn’t be a good idea. It wouldn’t be fair to let the guy think she might be interested in him. And Hunter had been right. Too many people getting to know Alex really well could be dangerous for him. She didn’t want her son talked about, strangers approaching her, encouraging her to have him tested. And God forbid, Alpha Corp learning where he was. If they were searching for a child, and suspected in any way that he might be of superior intelligence, they would be keeping an eye out for recorded IQ testing. But Hunter hadn’t given her the trust that he’d demanded from her. His confidence in her wasn’t high enough to allow her to make her own decisions. That pissed her off. And he’d hear about it too. “A normal life should be where two people have equal control of a relationship,” she muttered, almost more to herself than Susie. “There’s got to be a man out there who cares about what I want and what I think. I want someone who trusts me, not simply demands that I trust them.” “You wanted to go to the circus with Dudley?” Susie turned and looked over her shoulder as she spoke. Jennifer found herself glancing too. Dudley had returned to his car and Hunter stood next to Jimmy watching the two women walk away. Jimmy was saying something to him. “Dudley is leaving. You must have been right. Hunter sent him packing. I think it’s romantic.” She smiled at Jennifer and squeezed her arm. “It’s not romantic if he tries to control where I go and who I see,” Jennifer argued.

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“Well, we don’t know that’s what he did for sure.” Susie tried to make light of the situation. “Come on. Let’s go spend Jimmy’s money.” Jennifer thought about the one hundred-dollar bill she’d stuck in her billfold that morning. It was Jonathan’s money and she had no problem spending it. He’d been supporting her for the past six years. Maybe that was why she couldn’t get him out of her head. She’d never let go of him. Maybe she should let Hunter have some room in her life. It might help to get rid of Jonathan. But damn if he didn’t need a hell of a lot of training. Her cell phone rang in her purse, pulling her away from her thoughts. “I bet that’s Hunter,” Susie said, and stopped so Jennifer could answer it. She assumed it was too and answered the phone coolly. “Jennifer, this is Dora Sloan,” an equally cool voice said on the other end of the line. “Dora?” Her heart skipped a beat painfully in her chest. She looked at Susie whose smile quickly disappeared. “What does she want?” Susie whispered. “I’m calling about your son, Alex.” Dora’s voice sounded venomous. “He’s been in a fight. Mr. Hamilton asked to have you come in.” Jennifer felt a sudden urge to reach through the phone and strangle Dora for the indifferent tone in her voice toward Alex. If she said one word to her boy… “I’m less than two blocks away. I’ll be right there.” She pushed the off button without saying good-bye. “What’s wrong?” Susie almost ran alongside Jennifer as she did an about face and marched back toward the school. “Alex got into a fight.” “Is he okay?” She hadn’t thought to ask. She’d only worried about what damage he’d done to another child. And what had been said to him to provoke his temper. She could imagine it was one of two topics. He was either teased for being too smart or he was teased for having no father. God, why did he have to go through this? All she wanted was for him to be saved from the pain her entire life had been. She never should have enrolled him in this school. She should have home-schooled him. She’d thought about it. In fact, she’d spent the past two years teaching him to read and write and add and subtract and do fractions. He’d learned it all so quickly. Most of the time he just read the page, looked at the example, and then did the work. She’d sent him to school to learn social skills. Some social skills he’d learned! Once again at the corner of the school lot, she stopped and met Susie’s worried expression. “I guess I need to take a rain check on shopping. I’ll call you as soon as I know what happened.”

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Alex looked so tiny with his legs hanging off the wooden chair that sat up against the wall in the school office. She gasped when she saw the large black and blue bruise swelling alongside his left eye. “I’m sorry, Mama.” His voice cracked and she saw his eyes fill with tears. “Mr. Hamilton would like to talk to you.” Dora Sloan sat smugly behind her desk, tapping a perfectly manicured fingernail against the top of her pen. She wore way too much makeup, Jennifer thought, and the room smelled of sweet perfume. “I’ll deal with you in a minute.” She glared at her son, letting him know that whatever verbal reprimand the school might have inflicted, it wouldn’t hold a flame to what he was going to receive from her. The tears fell out of Alex’s eyes. Her heart broke. Mr. Hamilton sat in an office not much larger than Dora Sloan’s. The room smelled faintly of cigar smoke, although she knew the school had a no smoking policy. Mr. Hamilton was probably from the old school, those people who interpreted the “no smoking in public buildings” laws as meaning “during business hours”. She sat down across from Mr. Hamilton in a wooden chair matching the one her son sat in out in the outer office. Mr. Hamilton reclined in a larger, swivel, clothcovered chair. His elbows rested on the armrests and his two index fingers formed a steeple as his other fingers rested interlocked together. He smiled as she sat down across from him, and breathed deeply before beginning. “Ms. Shaughnessy, I’m so sorry that your son is hurt like this at school,” he began. “What happened?” She fought to maintain control in her voice, wanting to scream, to grab her son and run, to yell at these people for allowing her son to fight. He leaned forward and sighed. “Your son is absolutely outstanding in every ability. I want you to know that. We’re only getting to know him right now but he’s already finished all first-grade work we have to offer.” He smiled showing he was proud of Alex too. None of this had anything to do with fighting. She held her breath, doing her best not to interrupt and demand he explain how her son could be out there bruised and crying. “I know you two are new in town.” He opened a file sitting on his desk and observed its contents. “And you may not be familiar with the way small town people can act.” “Mr. Hamilton, why did my son get into a fight?” If she didn’t get answers soon, her son wouldn’t be the only one in a fight today. “Ms. Shaughnessy,” he took a deep breath, “in the morning, the kindergartners go to recess with the first and second graders. A couple of the older children began teasing him.” 54

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He lowered his voice as if nervous that someone else might actually hear them through the thick brick walls. “There are rumors, I’m sure you’ve heard them.” He chewed on his lower lip and studied her with pale blue eyes that looked like they’d turned gray along with his hair. “Mr. Hamilton, I have no idea what you’re talking about. My son is out there with a huge bruise on his face. Would you mind explaining to me how you allowed that to happen?” “Yes, yes, I know, and I’m very sorry. One of the teachers overheard. Alex was teased for being the illegitimate son of Mr. Hunter.” Jennifer’s heart stopped beating. “Oh my God.” She stood up, the room starting to spin. “Miss Shaughnessy.” Mr. Hamilton stood up also. “I know there’s no truth to any of this. The townspeople will accept you soon enough. Alex is a wonderful boy.” Run, Joanna. She hurried from the office, ignoring whatever the principal said after that. Taking Alex by the hand, she marched out of the school. If she had a lick of sense in her head, she’d march them right out of town. How dare anyone talk about her son that way! Children teased him, said those cruel words to him, to a boy who already endured life not having a clue who his father was. Hell, she didn’t have a clue how she got pregnant. Like anyone on the planet would believe that one. Artificially inseminated. Why Jonathan? Why didn’t you just fuck me and get me pregnant? At least then she’d be able to give her son an idea of what his father was like. “Mama, it wasn’t my fault.” Alex ran alongside her while she walked quickly toward her truck parked down the street. “The other kid hit me first. You said it was okay to fight in self-defense.” “You knew what they were saying was vindictive gossip.” She looked down at her son’s chocolate eyes. Hunter’s eyes. Jonathan’s eyes. Probably many men’s eyes. “You should have just walked away.” “I did. They followed me.” Alex pulled his hand away from her, balling his fists at his side. “Hunter does look just like me. Is there any chance he could be my father?” God. That was the truth. It was unnerving how much the two of them looked alike. As if Alex were a small clone of Hunter. Other than the nose, their features were suspiciously similar. At least to anyone who didn’t know the facts. “Alex, that question is preposterous. You know how children are made.” She remembered the scientific explanation he’d demanded from her less than a year ago. “He acts like he’s my father,” Alex argued. Jennifer licked her lips and inhaled in frustration. All these people interacting in her life was unbearable. She exhaled with a large sigh, her heart breaking over what her son

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had endured. Defending himself against idle, vindictive gossip, and people jealous of his intelligence wasn’t why she’d enrolled him in school. These weren’t the social skills she’d wanted him to learn. Glancing up, searching for the right words for her son, she stopped dead in her tracks when she spotted Hunter leaning against the hood of her truck. His arms were crossed and he was frowning. Thanks a lot, Susie. Hunter didn’t look pleased—not at all. Alex saw Hunter too. Although she tried to grab him, Alex got away from her and ran to Hunter. Her heart contracted when Hunter bent down with open arms and let Alex run into them. She could almost guarantee that at least one person from the school saw that little scene. By the time she reached her truck, Alex had finished with his frantic explanation of what had happened and was sobbing hysterically into Hunter’s shirt. He opened her passenger door and gently placed the child into the seat and pulled down the seat belt. “Don’t worry, everything will be okay.” When he looked up he had a look on his face like he would disassemble the school single-handedly. “I’ll follow you home,” he said quietly. “No,” she said quickly. “We can handle this ourselves.” Hunter straightened, all emotion draining from his face. Shutting Alex’s door quietly, his chocolate eyes turned almost black while his gaze burrowed deep into her. Silent yet with a look that was deadly, his lips formed a thin line. “Mama, no.” Alex started crying loudly inside the truck. “Why can’t Hunter come over?” Years of harsh training were the only thing that allowed her to keep her expression blank while she opened her car door and slid in with her hysterical son. “I want to know who my father is.” Alex yelled at her as he stood in the middle of the living room. “I don’t know who your father is.” She was tired. They’d been through all of this before. She’d been pretty honest with him about his conception, stating what she guessed to be true—that an organization she worked for at the time had artificially inseminated her, although she’d never mentioned Alpha Corp. “You’ve got to have some idea.” Alex was being so persistent. Her nerves were racked. “And why do Hunter and I look like twins?” “Enough of this, Alex.” She had no answers and the only direction she saw this going was heartbreak for Alex and her. “There are many children who don’t have a father, or a mother, and you’ve just got to accept the fact that you’re one of them.” “That’s not good enough, Mama.” His hands went to his hips and he looked like a smaller version of Hunter, his eyes dark with anger. “Where were you when you got pregnant with me?” 56

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“You know the answer to that,” she said, and dropped her head into her hands as she sat at the kitchen table. “Tell me.” “Don’t talk to me like that.” She didn’t raise her head from her hands. “Tell me. I’m too mad to remember.” “Bogotá.” Silence. She didn’t look up. She jumped when the front door slammed shut. “Alex!” she screamed, but when she took off running her leg stabbed its pain through her body and she went to the ground. “Damn it! Alex!” It took her a minute to grab her coat and handgun out of her purse and then limp out the front door after her son. There were days when she almost felt safe enough to be unarmed. But this was about Alex. Too much attention was centering in on him. And no one—not a damned soul—would take him away from her. His small footprints were easy to follow. They led her out to the main road and then turned right. He’d gone up the mountain. Oh God! He was going to Hunter’s house. And he’d wanted to know where she’d been when she’d gotten pregnant. Bile rose in her throat while panic swarmed through her entire body. “Alex, stop!” she yelled when she had in him sight. “You can’t do this. It’s rude.” The young boy ignored her and ran even faster up the cleared road toward the ranch-style house set alongside a dangerous looking cliff. “Alex, please. Be careful!” Her cries brought Hunter to his front door. “Hunter!” she heard Alex call from ahead of her. “Hunter!” She slowed, unaccustomed to running uphill in high altitude. Breathing deeply, she limped heavily but maintained speed, arriving in Hunter’s front yard just as Alex reached him. “Hunter, have you ever been to Bogotá?” There was a sense of excitement in Alex’s voice like he was ready to solve a puzzle. She cringed. Run away. Run away. “Why haven’t you taught him how to fight?” She froze at his words. Obviously, he’d been up here doing some stewing of his own. He was a grown-up version of the child who had yelled at her in the living room minutes before. “Hunter, he’s upset. Please don’t be offended.” She smiled, trying to simmer him down. Alex had enough for one day. He didn’t need to see this man tell them to get out of his life if he thought he was being pressured into being a father. And Hunter looked really angry.

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“Hunter, have you ever been to Bogotá?” Alex tugged on Hunter’s untucked plaid shirt. “You know how incredibly unique he is. He’s going to need to know how to defend himself.” Hunter didn’t seem to hear Alex. “You don’t know what the other child looks like,” she spat back, refusing to let this man challenge her parenting methods. “He shouldn’t have fought at all, though.” Hunter looked absolutely enraged. Muscles threatened to rip right through his shirt. Dark curls tousled around his face, giving him an almost deranged look. She swore she stared directly at Jonathan. The fury of the general of the South American region of Alpha Corp was not something to mess with. Fear swept over her and she grabbed Alex, pulling him back. Her leg hurt too badly to defend him if this man went into a rage on them. Pressing her son against her, the hard metal of her gun poked at her side. She’d just preached no violence. Yet her son didn’t know a mother who would go anywhere unarmed. Before them, a man stood looking ready to explode, demons plaguing him that she didn’t understand. What she did know was that she’d defend her son to the death. Alex tugged at her but she maintained her grip and continued to back up. Hunter turned his back on them and ran his hand through his dark curly hair, showing her the action that made him look so frazzled. For a moment she thought he’d enter his home, leave them. But when he turned slowly, his face had completely transformed. He smiled sheepishly at her and held his hands out in front of him, helplessly. “I’m sorry, Jen. Don’t look at me like that. I don’t want to scare you.” He spoke so quietly and soothingly she felt a compulsive urge to run to his arms. “You shut me out. It hurt.” He smiled, and gold flakes danced out at her from his eyes. Then he looked down at Alex. “You’ve got quite a shiner there, sport.” His calm smile turned into an impish grin. “I bet your mother’s right. I’d hate to see what the other guy looks like.” Jennifer couldn’t see Alex’s face and so didn’t realize that he was still angry. She looked down at the top of his head, astonished, when he spoke. “Quit avoiding my question,” Alex yelled. “If you don’t tell me, I’ll just find out for myself. I want to know if you were in Bogotá when my mother got pregnant!” Jennifer froze. She glanced up at Hunter, almost afraid to see the expression on his face. Was she afraid of the answer? “Alex, don’t ever take that tone with me again.” Her eyes widened as she looked back up at Hunter for a longer glance. His face was calm, peaceful. His eyes looked stern though, fatherly. “You’ll never get the answers you’re looking for if you get upset and lose your rational thinking.” “Were you?” Alex asked quietly, almost whimpering.

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“No, Alex. I wasn’t.” Jennifer felt Alex’s shoulders fall. His head drooped and Hunter went to his knees. “Alex.” Hunter lifted the boy’s face. “I’m sorry you were picked on in school today. You’re a smart boy. They’re jealous of you, and looking for a point of attack. You’ll have to learn to live with this one. I’ll help you…” he paused and looked up into Jennifer’s eyes, “that is, if your mom will let me.” She looked back at him, her mouth frozen, partially open. She’d seen that look before—an incredible poker face. Something froze solid inside her and refused to soften. He was lying! She looked directly into those beautiful eyes and saw clearly that he was lying. He must have seen some recognition of her thoughts because his expression changed slightly. Questioning. Challenging. Prove me wrong, his eyes seemed to say to her. She needed to get out of this town. You’re not safe here. If Hunter was Jonathan and intentionally not telling her—terror gripped her so hard that she could hardly breathe.

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Chapter Seven Hunter took Alex to school the next morning. She didn’t like the idea. It would only confirm the gossip already flying around town. Alex had begged and pleaded until she was so exasperated she’d given in. Hunter had simply given her a triumphant smile. Jennifer walked Alex outside when Hunter showed up. She’d thought his Jaguar was black but upon closer inspection realized it was a very dark green with metallic specks catching the sunlight. The engine purred as he reached over and opened the passenger door to let Alex in. She could see that the space between the two leather bucket seats housed a cell phone and a CD holder. Hunter had money. The terror that had yet to leave her crept up inside her while Hunter pulled out of the driveway. She remembered the lying eyes she’d seen the day before. What made her feel so sure he’d been lying about Bogotá? The poker face. Interrogations. She always could tell when Jonathan lied. Jennifer fought the urge to run after the Jaguar and yank her grinning son out of the passenger seat. The phone rang inside, startling her. Reluctantly, she turned to go back inside. “Jennifer?” It was Susie. “Are you alone?” “How’d you know I’d be here?” “I overheard them talking. This time I fought to listen.” “You heard them talking and that’s how you knew I’d be here?” Jennifer asked, confused. Was her life being manipulated and she didn’t even know it? “Hunter said he wanted to take Alex to school,” she answered simply. Oh God. She’d thought it had been Alex’s idea. What should she do? “What else did you hear?” “That’s why I called. Jimmy’s taking Heidi to school and I thought we’d have a minute to talk.” Susie sounded excited. This was all a wild game to her. Jennifer was losing control of her life. A drowning sensation consumed her. Would Alex forgive her if she took him out of school before he finished the year out? She was protecting his right to be free, damn it! “Jimmy and Hunter were outside early this morning. I think Jimmy thought I was still asleep. Jimmy kept telling Hunter he wasn’t thinking right. He said something about all the danger involved and that he had to protect us.” Susie spoke quickly. “Jennifer, Hunter got really angry with Jimmy. I never saw him act like that before you 60

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moved here. He looks really scary. I forget how big he is. Anyway, Hunter got mad and said he was calling the shots and Jimmy could back out and walk away if he wanted. He promised Jimmy he’d see to our protection but that he was going to do whatever it is that Jimmy didn’t want him to do.” Susie paused. “I don’t know what he meant by that. Does any of that make any sense to you?” The room spun around her. Hunter called the shots. Jonathan called the shots. No matter what she tried to do, the similarities kept mounting. Having Jonathan back in her life, without Alpha Corp, would be an answer to a dream she’d been afraid to dream. Her love for him had never faded. Not one day since she’d been away from him had she stopped thinking about him. But if Hunter were Jonathan, why wouldn’t he come out and say so? And then lying about Bogotá. He didn’t want her to know he was Jonathan. That hurt more than any pain inflicted on her in her entire life. If Jonathan didn’t want her aware of something then it was really bad. And she’d just let the man leave with her son. “Jennifer, are you there?” “Yeah, I’m here. No it doesn’t make any sense to me but something’s not right.” Jennifer stood in her kitchen plastering peanut butter onto an apple slice. “Susie, do you know Hunter’s first name?” “John. I can’t believe you don’t know the first name of the man who is slowly taking you under his wing,” she said, and giggled. “He wouldn’t tell me.” Jennifer didn’t find any of this funny. “He acted like it was a game. Told me he never tells a lady his first name before their second date.” “Men are so dorky.” Susie giggled again. “I need to do some work on the computer, Susie. Are you still up to doing that shopping in about an hour?” “You betcha.” Jennifer made a large plate of sliced apples and grabbed the jar of peanut butter and a butter knife. She got cozy in her bedroom in front of her large modern computer table. As she stared at her screen saver it dawned on her what Susie had said. Hunter’s first name was John. It was common enough of a name but a little too close to Jonathan to satisfy her comfort zone. Jonathan could have assumed some poor soul’s identity and altered his physical appearance. She’d done it. If he had, the question that plagued her mind was why? Why would a high-ranking officer in Alpha Corp be doing something like that? The locals would verify Hunter, the man she knew as Hunter, had been in this town for two years. If he was after her, or worse yet, if he was after Alex, why had he been in this town for that long? Two years ago it never crossed her mind to come here. It had been a split-second decision. Scattered information clogged her thoughts.

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Get yourself in order. She heard Jonathan’s voice yell at her. You’ll never get through this if you don’t think clearly. Jennifer moved her mouse, cleared the flying fish off the screen, and went to work. John Hunter, huh? She’d start with the Motor Vehicle Records for Ouray County. Surely, John Hunter had a driver’s license. And the population of Ouray County wasn’t that large. How many John Hunters could there be? Two. Father and son. Both deceased. That shouldn’t surprise you, Joanna. Just for kicks, she looked up Jonathan Hunter. Nothing. She held her hand up to move the mouse and realized she was shaking. She held both hands in front of her and watched them shake ever so slightly. You’ve been in denial this whole time and you know it. The first time you heard him speak you recognized Jonathan’s voice. Tears burned her eyes, blurring her vision, and she slapped at them with annoyance. All she’d wanted for years was Jonathan. Seeing Hunter without his shirt, without a tattoo, had made her believe she was falling for a man she’d never met before. That and the simple fact that he’d acted like they were strangers, meeting for the first time. Jonathan would have confided in her the first chance he had, taken her in, made her his woman all over again. Shy of telling her the truth, Hunter was doing just that. You never asked him if he was Jonathan. But the town knew him as Hunter. She’d accepted that. Maybe she didn’t want to accept that this handsome man who was seducing her, claiming her, making her his woman, was Jonathan. Maybe she didn’t want to accept the fact that this man was responsible for impregnating her without her knowing it. Maybe the only one insane here was her. For God’s sake, the entire town was whispering the truth yet she denied it. Alex and Hunter look too much alike for it to be a coincidence, Joanna. Someone opened her front door. She’d forgotten to lock it. Now that’s not like you, she thought. “Jennifer?” Her heart flip-flopped at the sound of Hunter’s voice. She should just ask him. She should demand to know why he’d lied about Bogotá. Clear the table right now, get answers, and figure out what the hell was going on. If he wanted you to know he was Jonathan, he would have told you. “In here,” she called out, her heart suddenly pounding in her throat.

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Every inch of her shook when she stood and moved to the end of her bed. She wasn’t able to get out of her bedroom before Hunter stood in the doorway. She sucked in a breath, staring up at dark chocolate eyes. Jonathan’s eyes. No matter the different nose, the altered face. Plastic surgery could do wonders. The way he held himself, the way he looked at her—Jonathan stood before her, tall, sexy, and with lust engraved deep in his expression. “Thank you.” His voice was deep, sultry, burning. “For what?” She blinked and focused her thoughts. Damn it. She should be terrified. Something was terribly wrong here and Alex’s life could be in danger. Standing so close to that virile body, feeling his strength even though he hadn’t touched her, turned every inch of her into one oversized, throbbing, exposed nerve ending. In spite of the fear rushing through her, she wanted him, ached to be in his arms, prayed he’d say something—anything—to assure her that she had nothing to worry about. He held his hand behind his back. Grinning, he pulled out something, holding it in front of her. She jumped, her heart almost exploding, before her jaw fell open. One long-stemmed red rose appeared in front of her face. Its scent was overwhelming. “Oh.” She gasped, swallowing, forcing the lump in her throat back down. Stay focused. “For letting me take him to school. He’s one hell of a kid.” Jonathan never did anything this sappy. But damn. She loved it. Maybe its because he’s not Jonathan. Yeah right, and maybe you weren’t artificially inseminated. Maybe you never had plastic surgery. Maybe the man who stands before you always had the face that he has now. And maybe pigs could fly. The flower’s scent was intoxicating. Using it as a shield against him she pushed past him in the doorway. Limping down the hallway, she put the rose in water…and got it away from her. Without turning around, his gaze burned through her back. Those damn eyes interfered with her thoughts even when she wasn’t gazing into them. He wasn’t moving, and it made her nuts standing with her back to him. Staring at the rose just confused the issues in her head. She turned around. Hunter simply leaned against the doorway, arms crossed, smiling that crooked smile at her. “Why didn’t you tell me Alex’s birthday was in a couple of weeks?” Because you already knew that, she wanted to say. “It’s on the eighteenth. I haven’t decided what to do about it yet.” She cocked her head and studied his face. “What does he want for his birthday?”

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She laughed in spite of herself. “His own computer,” she said. “His tastes are so cheap and typical of a child his age.” Hunter rolled his eyes and laughed with her. “There’s nothing typical about Alex. That’s what I like about him. He’s a breath of fresh air.” “I’d like to keep him that way,” she said without thinking. “You can’t protect him forever.” Hunter moved toward her like a deadly cat silently stalking its prey. “He’s a smart kid. He can handle the big bad world.” Without hesitating, she put her hands on his firm chest and pushed him away from her. “I know he can. I just want him to enjoy his childhood and be a child. If I make a big issue out of how smart he is he’ll never have the opportunity to just be a kid.” “You’re a smart woman.” He allowed her to push him away from her, but then grabbed the back of her neck and pulled her to him. Passion overwhelmed her as his mouth closed over hers, letting her feel his needs as well as taste them when his tongue parted her lips. Hard corded muscle pressed over every inch of her. The length of his cock, stretching against her soft flesh, sent heat rushing through her that she couldn’t control. He wasn’t aggressive as much as simply in charge. The kiss was dominating, his mouth overpowering hers, parting her lips without asking, controlling her passions without hesitation. It was at that point she felt sure, beyond a shadow of a doubt, that she was being kissed by Jonathan. Hunger ripped through her, her tongue greeting his like a long-lost friend. Unlike their previous kiss, Hunter didn’t hesitate, didn’t hold back. His hands stretched over her ass, cupping her, lifting her against his cock, showing her what he had in store for her. Fuck me, Jonathan. It’s been too damned long. Fuck me and then tell me why you’re hiding from me. Need swarmed through her, her pussy flaring with a pulsing craving, knowing what that cock could do for her. What she needed from him. Her fingers brushed over his shoulders, feeling raw strength. It tingled through her, like powerful electricity, stealing her breath. He pulled her closer, groaning into her mouth, while her breasts ached and swelled against powerful hard muscle. He’d turned every inch of her into smoldering heat, aching and willing to do anything for him to appease the need he’d created. Thoughts swarmed through her mind, the good and the bad, everything Jonathan had been, and all he’d shown her he could be now. Lowering her head, breaking the kiss took all of her strength. “I’ve got to go.” Her breath came in pants. Pressing her palms flat against his chest, she pushed away. He let her step back but kept his arms resting against her lower back. Heat from his touch continued to torment her senses.

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He smiled down at her. Taking ownership. You’re mine forever. The words she’d heard so many years ago came at her like an explosion. “Where are you going?” “Susie and I are going shopping for Halloween costumes.” She licked her lips and looked at the floor. “That reminds me.” He took a strand of her hair in his hand and began twisting it. “There’s a costume party in Telluride on Halloween night. Would you like to go? I’m sure you could get Susie to watch Alex.” “He’s really looking forward to trick or treating.” “We’ll go after we take him trick or treating.” He looked down into her face and again she lowered her gaze to the floor. Gentle fingers so unlike the touch she remembered from Jonathan stroked her hair, keeping the fire kindling deep within her. Her heart pounded, forcing blood through her veins at an irregular pace. She felt the throbbing in her leg as well. Every sensation was magnified. Her mind…her thoughts…raced. Too many memories. Too many hopes. It would be so easy to submit to him. All she’d ever wanted was Jonathan. Now, almost positive he stood inches before her, she hesitated. The only way to find out is to ask him. His fingers moved to her chin and he raised her head to meet his gaze. Cocking his head, he studied her eyes, her nose, and her mouth. She felt tears start to well up and closed them to fight off the fear that enveloped her. He didn’t want her to know the truth. He wanted her to believe he was Hunter. It made no sense. Unless there was a plot at play that would terrify her, cause him to fight over it with Jimmy, make him work hard to pull her and Alex into his life. His touch softened and he pulled her into his arms, not sexually but passionately. Strong arms wrapped around her and he simply held her, not speaking for a minute. When he did finally speak, it was a soothing whisper. “I wish more than anything that I could take the nightmare that is haunting you and put it to rest.” One of his hands cuddled her lower back while the other stroked the back of her head. “You need to trust me yet you’re scared to. You and Alex will never have to worry about any past fears that haunt you if you’re with me.” His lips reached down and brushed the top of her head. She closed her eyes tighter and several tears ran down her face. “I’m sorry,” he whispered into her hair. “There is no John Hunter,” she whispered, her voice cracking. He pulled back and looked at her surprised. “Try Juan Santos.” He smiled gently. “Is that what this is all about? You think I’m trying to mislead you in some way?” 65

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She didn’t answer, not able to think of a single thing to say other than, “Hell yes.” Pulling away further, he reached into his back pocket and pulled out a flat cloth wallet. She watched as he opened it and pulled out a small laminated card. “My ID, ma’am.” And he handed the card to her. It was a Colorado driver’s license with Hunter’s picture in the corner. The card said he was six feet two inches tall and two hundred and ten pounds. His eyes were brown, his hair was black, and he was born December 1, 1968. “Juan Pedro Santos?” She questioned the name she saw on the card and looked up at him with drying eyes. “Hunter is my nickname.” He smiled so gently and soothingly she about melted. “After high school I traveled with my uncle to hunt big game. I liked it and took up hunting when I returned to the States. My English wasn’t very good at the time and people confused what I was saying. Hunter just kind of stuck.” “Where are you from?” All fear and aggression melted instantly. God, she wanted to believe him. He looked at her guiltily and bit his lower lip. “I grew up in Bogotá, Columbia.” He then added quickly. “Alex took me so off guard I couldn’t think fast enough to know whether I was there when you got pregnant or not. I’ll tell him the truth. He’s a sharp kid and he’s got a sharp mother. I could tell by the looks on your faces that both of you could tell I was holding something back. I’ve never been too good at lying. Just wait until Christmastime gets here. I’m the worst at secrets.” Her fears were fleeing from her and being replaced by a deep yearning. He continued, “Alex seemed so convinced I could be his father. It’s unbelievable how much we look alike. God, Jennifer. I wish I was his father.” His face looked so concerned toward her feelings and reaction to his brief history that she couldn’t help smiling and he swooped her up into his arms, literally taking her off her feet. “I don’t know if you’ll ever be able to share the terrors that you’ve experienced, but I want you to know that I’m a good listener.” He brushed his lips over hers. When she responded, he lowered her back to the ground, deepening the kiss. His arms wrapping around her, pulling her tightly to him. They explored each other’s mouths with their tongues. He started a burning trail of kisses down her neck when the phone rang. Gasping for breath, she pulled away gently and reached for the phone. “Hey, you ready to shop ‘til you drop?” Susie sounded cheerful. “Yeah, I’ll be down in a few minutes.” She managed to match the cheeriness in her own voice. “A few minutes?” Hunter pouted when she’d hung up the phone and pulled at her sweater.

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She licked her lips and smiled mischievously at him. “Yes, in a few minutes. I need to get ready.” His hand moved under her sweater, brushing over her flesh. “I want more than a few minutes.” “Me too,” she admitted, allowing the wall around her heart to drop. It was uncanny how much his eyes reminded her of Jonathan. He didn’t keep his gaze on her though, but took her hand, walking to the front door. Clicking the lock to the door, he then turned and pulled her to him. “I could give you better if you gave me more than a few minutes,” he complained. He wanted her. Now. And God, she couldn’t get the word no to come out of her mouth. Moving toward the couch, he reached for her sweater, pushing it up over her bra. His fingers worked their way underneath the stretchy material, cupping her breast, sending pressure skyrocketing inside her as he cupped her aching swollen flesh. When he lowered his mouth, suckled her hard nipple, her legs almost gave way underneath her. She ran her hands through his hair, thick and coarse, like raw silk, so black against her fingers. Damn. She’d done this a million times before. Ignoring the thought, focusing on what he did to her body, she held on tightly, collapsing against him while he successfully unzipped her jeans. All the while torturing her nipples with an expert mouth, lips and teeth. When his fingers reached between her legs, stroked her soaked flesh, she cried out. “God—” She almost said Jonathan. And bit her lip, tasting blood. Her pants pooled around her ankles, making it impossible for her to move, while talented strong fingers buried themselves deep inside her heat. Such strength, with the ability to hit her just where it counted. Her pussy muscles crushed against his fingers, and she exploded with the first seriously hard orgasm she’d had in years. And not just from watching him, but feeling him, experiencing what she’d dreamed about for years now. “I need to fuck you now,” he told her, saying out loud what she craved in her mind. “Yes.” It’s been years—too many long, lonely years. Moving around her with an ease that seemed impossible with his cock pressing so hard against his jeans, he bent her over her couch. Grabbing the back of it, closing her eyes, sensations rippled through her when suddenly his swollen cock slid down her ass, sinking into her soaked flesh. Hunter moved quickly, thrusting inside her hard and fast. “Shit. Oh God.” She dug into the back of the couch, almost falling forward with the intensity of his cock diving deep inside her. “Damn, woman. You’re so fucking tight.” His fingers dug into her ass, holding her in place, while he impaled her with a cock so large it nearly split her in two. Streaks of white light flashed before her closed eyes. The pressure inside her built clear up to her throat. The way his cock stroked her pussy, tantalized the quivering 67

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soaked muscles inside her, she wouldn’t be able to handle more than a couple minutes of this. Nothing had ever felt so damned good. Nothing. Ever. He glided deep inside her, easing against swollen and tormented muscles. They fit like a perfect glove, his cock shaped just right so that he hit every part of her that craved his touch, needed his attention. Release attacked her, her body convulsing as wave after wave of pent-up desire tore through her, exploding after years of dormancy. It had been too long since she’d had sex. Alex had always been with her. When he wasn’t by her side, she worked, doing whatever it took to keep them safe, protect them. That was all that had been on her mind. Wave after wave of desire, raw uncontrollable lust, tore through her, doing more than explode, but ripping at her senses. Her arms gave out, her cheek hitting the back of the couch. Hunter rode her hard and fast, giving her more than she’d thought a man could ever give her. When he exploded, pumped everything he had into her, a growl rose from him, building with intensity while his cock spasmed inside her. Her heart exploded. No one growled like that when making love to her. So primal, a dominating, controlling growl that she’d heard millions of times, but not once in almost six years. Jonathan. Her heart forgot to beat. After all these years of craving him, dreaming of him, crying night after lonely night to have him by her side, he’d just fucked her. She’d swear her life on it. Yet Hunter claimed not to be Jonathan. No matter how quick it had been, sex had never felt better, brought her to such a high so quickly, fulfilled her physically. Yet an emptiness filled her, burned through her. Why did he deny being Jonathan? Almost too dizzy to stand, she allowed Hunter to pull her up. He wrapped his arms around her stomach. “I’m going to need that again real soon,” he whispered into her hair, the growl still vibrating through his voice. She slipped around him, pulling her jeans up, and hurried to the bathroom to regain composure. Staring at her flustered expression in the mirror, she did a quick job of putting herself back in order. It was pretty damned sad when she just had the best sex she’d had in years, it took only minutes, they hadn’t completely undressed, and her mind tore at her for the true identity of the man who’d just gotten her off. “What are you doing this weekend?” Hunter asked from the other room. “I thought Friday night I’d cook supper for you. I’m not bad in the kitchen.”

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“Well, we’re not going to the circus,” she said and came out of the bathroom brushing her hair. Hunter stood in the living room and she walked down the hallway toward him. He stared at a picture of an angel she’d hung over her doorway, but had a smug look on his face. “I’ve decided it will be Alex’s punishment for fighting in school. However,” she added and he turned to look at her, “if you start trying to control who I spend time with, you’ll chase me away faster than anything.” He gave her puppy-dog eyes and held his hands out toward her. “I guess I didn’t want any competition.” She scowled at him but walked into his arms like he was a magnet. Damn her body, her response to him. No matter who he claimed to be, she wanted him. And that was a problem. But it was a matter she was willing to take on. She’d discover the truth of this situation. Meanwhile, his arms were like her favorite coat wrapped around her, secure and comfortable, like she was meant to be there. There were reasons he kept his identity from her. Although he had to know she was intelligent enough to wonder. The looks he gave her, those dark brown eyes probing, questioning. Something was going on here that she didn’t know. But she’d figure it out. Jonathan didn’t do something without a reason. And what that reason might be terrified her to death. Play it cool. Her heart was right where it belonged, with the man who was her soul mate. Now her head needed to learn what was in his head. And for whatever reasons, he wasn’t going to come out and tell her. “Go do whatever it is you do all day,” she said when he started to a chew on her neck. “I’m going shopping.” Fucking Hunter had convinced her of one thing. The ID he’d shown her was as fake as her own. But why? Why didn’t Jonathan want her to know it was him? And knowing he’d lied to her, why did she ache to fuck him again, and soon?

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Chapter Eight Every inch of her still tingled when she picked Susie up to drive downtown. They drove directly to Sears, talking the entire time. Never had she been more at ease with a person, more relaxed. Women had lived alongside each other for centuries, taking care of their families, shopping and working together. It had been a way of life she’d never been able to fathom. Never had she risked getting close enough to another person, other than Jonathan, to share her daily life with them. Now, for the first time, Jennifer experienced that contentment. Their conversation didn’t entail trying to figure out where their next meal would come from. There was no mention of where they’d sleep that night. And they didn’t discuss whether or not they’d be alive the next day. All her life, those topics had been foremost on her mind over any others. Susie took on the obligation of sharing every little detail she knew about Hunter. “He bought the land above ours on the mountain almost three years ago while he still lived in Denver. That was when Jimmy was in Denver.” She didn’t mention why Jimmy had been in Denver. “I met him a little over two years ago when he started showing up in town. He and Jimmy started working together the winter before last. We had an avalanche and Jimmy and Hunter unburied several homes.” “And ever since then, they’ve been really tight,” she added. “I think there’s a lot more about Hunter I don’t know. He and Jimmy go off in the evenings into the mountain and talk. I’d throw a fit if they were at the bar every night, but they just climb the mountain or sit out in the backyard. Oh Jennifer, wouldn’t it be grand if you two got married and you moved into his house with him? We’d be neighbors for life.” Jennifer couldn’t imagine being anything for life. “Now don’t go planning a wedding or anything,” she said as they walked out of the department store. She swung the plastic bag with the Batman Halloween costume she’d picked up for Alex. “I hardly know the man.” “The way you sounded on the phone earlier it seems like you’re working pretty hard to get to know him.” Susie elbowed her in the chest. “You’ve had sex with him. I can tell. You’re glowing.” Blushing, she looked down at the ground. “He’s a hard man to say no to…” “And he’s absolutely adorable, completely irresistible and you can’t wait to get away from me so you can fuck his brains out again.” Susie strutted in front of her, shaking her hips, while they walked down the street toward her truck. “Susie!” Jennifer broke out giggling.

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She was high from hot quick sex and needed to come down to Earth. Feeling this good, this at home with her surroundings—it was all so foreign to her. She breathed deeply and sobered her thoughts. If only she could figure out what Hunter was up to— or should she call him Jonathan. “I need to stop into the bank and fax this order for Alex’s birthday present.” “I swear, I wish I could write a book and make gobs of money to spend on whatever I wanted.” Susie pointed at the courthouse where Jimmy worked. “Well, I’m going to walk down to the jail. I think Jimmy’s doing some paperwork this morning. Might as well go flirt with my hunk.” She stood in front of Jennifer and batted her eyelashes. For a woman who had to be thirty-something years old, Susie’s teenage behavior was a breath of fresh air. “Oh, I was wondering if you could baby-sit,” Jennifer asked. A wave of desire rushed through her. Alone with Hunter Friday night, at his home, they would have hours for sex. God, she wanted him again more than she wanted to breathe. “I know, this Friday and Halloween night. I already told Hunter I would.” She waved good-bye to her friend. He’d already arranged for a sitter? Had he been that sure she would say yes? She didn’t know whether to feel angry or flattered. The fax didn’t take longer than a few minutes. Walking toward her truck, she imagined ways she and Hunter might fuck while alone together for hours. Wearing her black jeans and a light yellow knit sweater made her feel sexy, appealing. Her pussy still tingled, her breasts full and her nipples puckered against her bra. Coats were so confining and the warmth that spread through her made it easy to endure the chilly breeze with a scarf and gloves. Need pulsed inside her, every nerve ending in her body seeming to be on overdrive, while she idly glanced at shop windows. She welcomed the cold mountain air that wrapped around her. A familiar figure caught her eye. Oh God, this is just great! Heidi leaned against a brick building down the alley. The two noticed each other and Heidi froze, looking like she would run. For a moment, it was herself leaning against that building, scared someone would see her, hiding in shadows so she could carry out whatever assignment she’d been given. Her heart picked up pace, memories hitting her hard of days when her life consisted of dark alleys, of panic and fear. Then later in life when the calm knowledge that she was a professional, an expert at killing, of controlling and manipulating any situation had numbed her to the world around her. The day she’d learned she was almost two months pregnant, so busy jumping from mission to mission that she hadn’t had sex in three months, stole that numbness. From

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that moment on the emotions, the pain that hit her made it impossible to continue leading the life she led. Heidi looked incredibly preoccupied, and she decided the only approach that would prevent the girl from a panicked run was the friendly, it’s cool, attitude. A twinge of pain in her leg reminded her that her life was more realistic in this alley than in the strong arms of a man like Hunter. “Don’t run, please.” She held her hand up to Heidi. Heidi wrinkled her brow and curled her upper lip. “Why would I run from you?” “I don’t know. You just looked like you were going to.” Jennifer shrugged indifferently as she walked up to the teenager. “Don’t you have to go get your kid, or fuck Hunter, or something?” Heidi widened her eyes and tossed her head, looking tough. She showed no reaction to the brat kid’s smart mouth. “No. I just finished some shopping. What are you doing?” “None of your fucking business.” She glared at her. “Why don’t you just go away?” “Bet I can guess what you’re doing.” Jennifer showed the same tough look Heidi had used on her. Heidi gave her an odd look. “Oh yeah?” “The way you’re shaking, I’d guess you’re waiting for a fix.” Heidi looked at her, horrified. “You’re panicked, terrified, scared to death you won’t be able to pull off whatever it is you’re about to do. It sucks.” “It doesn’t suck, and you’re wrong.” Heidi licked her lips, sizing Jennifer up with her eyes. “I’m waiting for this new guy I met.” “New guy, huh. Is he cute?” “Yeah, and he talks to me, you know, like he wants to know what’s in my head.” Heidi leaned her head at an angle and wrinkled her brow, pulling her penciled eyebrows together. “You’re not going to tell my parents about this, are you?” “Nah. They’d just worry.” That was an understatement. “You’re pretty cool, you know?” Heidi crossed her arms. “You’ve got balls too. You know, the way you came and got me that one day?” “I grew up on the streets.” Jennifer shrugged, showing it wasn’t that big of a deal. “You did?” Heidi actually smiled. What did she possibly see to smile about? Jennifer pictured cold nights when the only way she knew to stay warm was to allow someone to have sex with her. She cringed. “That’s cool, Jennifer. I always figured you grew up rich the way you throw around money.”

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Heidi seemed to survey her in new light. She needed to use this opportunity to show the teenager the life she was glamorizing really sucked. “It’s not cool. I didn’t have a home, or a bedroom, or parents that cared.” “My parents totally cramp my style,” she groaned. “I just want to be on my own, no rules, no one telling me what to do.” “Oh, wait a minute there,” Jennifer interrupted. “You’ll have someone telling you what to do. If your parents aren’t breathing down your throat, then it’s the cops. If it’s not them, then it’s a boyfriend. If you’re lucky, you’ll get a guy who has some clout on the streets. That way you’re guaranteed to be safe. But if he’s got clout, then he’s moving something, and guys like that like to think they own their women. Your parents love you enough not to beat the crap out of you and kick you out into the cold night air if you say no to sex or, worse yet, to fucking some guy they want to impress.” Heidi’s jaw dropped. “Man, you’ve really been there.” “Yeah, and you act like you’re heading down the same road.” Jennifer shook her head. “It’s not the way it seems. You hook up with some guy selling dope and before you know it you’ll be so strung out, you’ll need him just to get your fix. You’ll do anything. A lot of girls don’t make it. The lucky ones end up in jail or rehab.” “Is that what happened to you?” “Something like that.” She didn’t want to go any further with her life story. “My parents want me to go into rehab.” “I know.” She thought about the many times Jonathan sent her out with a team to bring in selected candidates for Alpha Corp from different rehabs. Heidi would be a perfect candidate. She shuddered at the thought. “You don’t really want to go that far away from them, do you?” Heidi looked at her like she would say something but then looked down at her chewed fingernails that she’d painted black. “Do you?” Jennifer probed cautiously. “Not really, but…” She looked down the alley and sighed. “It’s just that…” She bit her lip hard enough that it turned white. Jennifer watched her. “Well, I think I’m already there,” she said quickly, and looked up at Jennifer’s face. “Look, never mind. Thanks for the education, you know?” She started to walk off and Jennifer gently took her arm. “Wait. I know what you’re saying.” She held Heidi’s arm and the teenager turned on her rebelliously. “Man, you know what I’m saying? It’s a bitch. Okay? I mean, I don’t feel good if I’m sober, and I get pissed on if I’m fucked up. You know what I’m saying? I don’t think so.” “Yeah, I do.” Jennifer’s voice was almost a whisper. She let go of Heidi’s arm but Heidi didn’t move. She just stared at her, like she was trying to focus on her. Like she

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was trying to digest how this pretty lady could possibly understand what it was like to party. “I can help you if you want.” “Help me?” Heidi scoffed. “You gonna score for me? That’s how you can help me. It’s probably a blown deal now. That guy probably saw me talking to you and boogied. He can see you even if you don’t see him. He’s done it before. How can you help me?” Jennifer breathed in slowly and then let it out before speaking. This was her only chance. “I can help you get through this, if you’ll trust me.” She spoke slowly. “Trust me not to tell your parents anything you say to me.” “Yeah, right.” Heidi rolled her eyes but still didn’t leave. She looked at Jennifer quizzically and then smiled, showing off her pierced tongue. “Okay, then you got to trust me,” she challenged. “Like tell me why you limp all the time. Nobody knows. I heard Mom say that you don’t like to talk about your past.” Jennifer looked at Heidi, who stared back. The teenager pushed her tongue to the inside of her cheek and gave her a cocky smile. “Turned the table on you, huh? You got everybody thinking you’re pretty classy. Can you handle chancing they find out otherwise?” “Okay, I’ll trust you.” Jennifer looked hard into Heidi’s eyes, bloodshot as they were, deciding trusting the child might do Heidi some good. “I got shot.” She put her palm on her right inner thigh, just inches from her crotch. “I couldn’t go to a doctor. I got the bullet out myself and had to take care of the wound by myself. The muscles didn’t heal right. Now I’m damaged goods.” “When did it happen?” Heidi studied her leg, like she could see any difference through the jeans. Jennifer looked at her watch. “It’s time to get Alex. Let’s see if you can handle that much.” She smiled at Heidi. “Now, I’m trusting you.” She reached into her purse and hunted for paper and pen. “Here. My number. Call anytime—for any reason.” She smiled and turned to leave, hoping at least a few of the stories she shared might make the girl think about her actions. “Hey,” Heidi said as Jennifer started to walk off. “If I come over sometime, I mean when no one else is there, will you show me the scar?” “I can show you several scars.” Hunter didn’t come by that evening and they didn’t hear from him the following morning. Alex threw a fit when she wouldn’t call him and even threatened to call him if she didn’t. To appease him, she told her son what Hunter had told her about himself. Alex told her he knew Hunter lied about Bogotá too, but he was quiet by the time she’d finished. She took him to school the next morning and by then he seemed focused on telling his friends he was going to be Batman for Halloween. He would be able to wear his

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costume to school on Halloween, which fell on a Friday this year. She’d barely made it to her truck when her phone rang. “Jennifer, can you talk?” Heidi didn’t sound good. She wondered if Jimmy and Susie knew that their daughter wasn’t going to school. Susie hadn’t mentioned it to her but she felt sure the principal was keeping them posted on their daughter’s attendance. “Yeah, where are you?” “Can I come over to your house? Will anyone else be there?” “No. If someone shows up you can always take off out the back door.” A guilty twinge struck her for keeping this from Susie, but she’d made a deal. Besides, Heidi wasn’t going to school one way or the other. She might as well be at her house than on the streets. Heidi showed up looking worse than she had the other day. No wonder her parents wanted her in rehab. She smelled of beer and it wasn’t even nine o’clock in the morning. Her face was chalky with perspiration beading on her forehead even though it was close to thirty degrees outside. She had terrible shakes and her hipbones were too visible through the torn and faded blue jeans she wore. She smiled as Jennifer let her in then closed and locked the front door. She held up a brown paper lunch sack that had the opening rolled over several times and smiled. “What’s this?” Jennifer asked when Heidi handed it to her. “Some stuff for your leg.” Heidi shrugged. “My leg?” She pulled out two brown plastic bottles with white labels on them and a baggie with a chunky powder in it. “Astragalus and Capsicum? What’s in the bag?” Heidi smiled, showing her eagerness to share her knowledge on natural healing remedies. The baggie held Solomon’s Seal Root, but she didn’t let on knowing. Heidi wanted to help. This was a good sign of trust possibly developing. “Astragalus is an excellent energizer. You need to work your leg muscle to bring it back up to strength, right?” Heidi walked over to the kitchen table and opened the brown bottle. “Take one of these every day,” she instructed. Jennifer smiled, plopping down at one of the kitchen chairs to hear further instructions. Self-importance formed on Heidi’s not quite sober face. “This is the Capsicum.” Heidi sat down opposite Jennifer and took the other brown bottle. “I got both of them in capsules. It’s easier to take that way. This stuff will help stimulate your veins and arteries and stuff. Eventually your leg will regain elasticity.” She reached inside her coat pocket and pulled out a pack of Marlboro Lights. “The baggie has Solomon’s Seal Root in it,” she said, nodding to it while tapping the pack on the table. “Do you know how to make a poultice?” “You can show me,” she said and nodded toward the cigarettes. “Those things make you look ugly.” 75

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She cringed, remembering how Jonathan told her that again and again when she’d first been pulled off the streets and they’d first met. “Man, I’m here, aren’t I?” Heidi rotated the pack in her fingers. She was testing Jennifer’s limits. “I blew off running with some guys to get some stuff to come over here and bring you these. Besides, I figured I’d quit things one at a time. I already feel like shit.” Dropping the smokes, Heidi pulled a small silver flask out of another pocket, putting it on the table next to the pack. The child wanted to see how far she could push Jennifer. “Quit however you want.” Jennifer shrugged. “I’ll tell you straight up, it won’t work unless you quit everything all at once, but you figure that out for yourself. When you’re in my house though, you don’t drink, you don’t do drugs, and you smoke outside.” “That’s cool.” Heidi smiled. “Can I see your scar?” Jennifer went into her bedroom and put on a pair of shorts so she could show off the several inch long deep purple indention on the inside of her right thigh. Heidi went into the kitchen after shuddering at the ugly scar and let the tap run until the water steamed. “You mix the Solomon’s Seal Root with hot water to make a paste.” Heidi applied the poultice to Jennifer’s leg and then covered it with a steaming hot dish towel. They sat out on the back porch and Jennifer threw a quilt over her legs to stay warm. She watched Heidi light her cigarette and exhale the smoke into the cold morning air. “You promise you won’t tell anyone if I tell you something?” Heidi suddenly sounded like the young girl she was instead of the tough persona she usually displayed. “As long as you don’t tell anyone my secrets,” Jennifer prompted. Heidi flipped a large log upright and used it as a stool. “Well, there’s this guy. His name’s Todd. He’s not a kid. I mean he’s over twenty and he likes me, you know? He likes me for me. He tells me I’m pretty and he makes me feel…” Heidi bit her lip, glancing her way quickly, then up toward the mountain. “Well, anyway, he says he’ll take me away from this hellhole.” “He’s not from around here?” Suddenly Jennifer was very interested. Heidi was well developed for her age and definitely as pretty as her mother. A grown man with no morals or ethics would be breaking several laws if he got involved with her. “No way. The guys around here have no balls, you know? Todd moves around. He’s been everywhere. He says he’ll take me away from here when he hits the road again.” She narrowed her eyes at Jennifer. “I’m going to go with him.” “When are you leaving?” Jennifer wouldn’t dare allow concern to enter her tone. “I don’t know. He wants to go to Gunnison for a while. He’s got some friends there. We can work for a while until we get the money to move on.” “What are you going to do?”

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“One of his friends owns a bar. The girls dance there.” She smiled shyly and lit another cigarette. “I tried out for him, you know, a private dance? Todd says I’m good enough to make over a thousand dollars a week.” She stood up and spun around in her baggy coat. “My dad doesn’t make that kind of money.” “You’re not scared to get up in front of a bunch of guys and take your clothes off?” She wrapped the quilt around her legs tighter to stop a cold breeze that had managed to reach her bare legs. “I figured I could get accustomed to it for that kind of money.” Heidi sounded indifferent, but turned her head away so Jennifer couldn’t see the look on her face. Several knocks on her front door caused both of them to jump. Before Jennifer could get the twisted quilt off her legs, Heidi bolted through her backyard and up the side of the mountain. She knew if she yelled after her it would alert whoever was at the door. And she felt pretty sure she knew who was at the door, and Heidi probably knew too. By the time she’d managed to free her legs from the blanket Hunter had walked around the side of the house. He looked at her in her shorts with the wet towel plastered to the inside of her leg, then at the footprints in the snow leading up the mountain, and finally at the crushed cigarette butt on the ground. “Hi there.” She smiled impishly, knowing it wouldn’t take too much detective work to figure out at least part of what had just transpired. He reached down and picked up the cigarette butt. “Were you smoking?” “I told you I don’t smoke.” She got up, wrapping the blanket around her and walked inside. Hunter followed her inside and shut the back door behind him. She walked over to the kitchen counter to clean up the mess Heidi left after making the poultice. Rinsing out a washcloth, she wiped the leftover Solomon’s Seal root off her leg. Hunter watched silently and she offered no explanation. When she’d turned around to face him, once again wrapping the blanket around her to cover her bare legs, he was holding one of the brown bottles in his hand. “Who was here?” She studied his face and didn’t answer for a minute. He didn’t look mad. An intent, serious expression hardened his dark features, showing he was a man not to take lightly. And he’d only accept the truth. “Hunter, I can’t tell you that.” Sighing, she took the bottle from him and grabbed the other one from the counter. “Let’s just say I’ve offered sanctuary.” She paused and looked into his eyes. “And my silence.” He studied her, his gaze dropping to her mouth, and then lower. Heat pierced through her wherever he looked. The chill from being outside left her quickly and the large blanket she held around her suddenly felt cumbersome.

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She turned and put the bottles up in her cabinet. No matter that he stood at the other side of the kitchen, his presence wrapped around her, promises of his cock inside her again soon suddenly distracting her, stealing her breath. Her heart raced too hard for her to breathe. And when she folded the blanket she’d had around her over the back of the kitchen chair, her hands shook. Sitting at her kitchen table, her insides quickly overcharged with a heady pulse that beat through her, settling between her legs. Hunter moved like a deadly cat, the predator, silent, his powerful legs carrying him with quick agility. “What?” she blurted, his action surprising her when he knelt. Squatting in front of her, his powerful hands gripping her knees, she reacted without thought, grabbing his hands, defending the damaged part of her. They were almost eye to eye but his gaze dropped quickly. Strong warm fingers pressed into her flesh. She shivered, hating that he felt the tremble rush through her. “Show me,” he said, his voice as dark as his expression. He pushed her legs apart. A surge of panic ripped through her. Sooner or later, he’d see the ugly scar on her inner thigh. Questions would be asked. She needed time to determine what answers to give him. And just as ugly as the scar, the reality of how she got it. Not wanting to remember, squeezing her eyes shut, she fought the unwelcome memory. Joanna! Don’t you dare run! And then the gunshot. The explosion in her memory made her jump. That terrible night. A mission gone bad. Intel had been tampered with. They were surrounded—all of them going to die. And she’d just learned, just found out she was pregnant. Like hell Alpha Corp would end her life. She’d broken formation, bolted across the field. No one should have been there. Leaping toward the chain-link fence, his voice had ripped through her right before the bullet did. You’ll never leave me! She’d just straddled the fence when the bullet hit her inner thigh. Adrenaline and panic had to have been all that kept her going. A tear threatened to fall. Her emotions weren’t as well hidden as they’d once been. “Show me,” he whispered, and his fingers trailed paths up her legs. Stroking her bare flesh, brushing over her inner thighs, he forced her legs apart and her body temperature soared from his rather intimate touch. She tugged on the material of her shorts, preventing him from seeing too far up her legs. He let his right hand travel up her right leg and fingers stopped within inches of her crotch. He pushed her leg further to the side. “Hunter,” she begged, but he’d seen what he wanted to see. “Is that why you limp?” He relaxed his grip and she forced her legs shut.

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Fearful of breaking out in tears, she didn’t say anything, just breathed deeply, bit her lip, staring at him. She should have it in her to shut down. God knows she’d put a clamp on all emotions, all feelings, many times in the past. Chocolate eyes swarmed with concern, with compassion. She wasn’t imagining it. Jonathan’s face, slightly altered but nonetheless the face she’d stared into a million times before, had never displayed such open emotion. Pain. She saw his pain. How many times had she prayed, pleaded, begged to see what went on in his mind. And here he was, kneeling in front of her, his brow wrinkled, his hands on her, offering her everything she’d wanted for so long. Everything but the truth as to who he was. A lone tear slid down her cheek. He reached for her and she closed her eyes, allowing more tears to fall. Brushing her cheek with the back of his hand, she knew she’d never felt stronger, more raw and uncontrolled emotion than she did at that moment. Such a gentle touch, full of concern, while his strong fingers stroked her leg. “You were shot, weren’t you?” His voice sounded dangerously calm, and she feared he was hiding his true reaction to the ugly scar. “A long time ago,” she whispered. He stood, turning his back to her while running his hand through his black curls. She’d hoped the first time he saw it they would be in a dark room and his attentions would have been preoccupied elsewhere. But in the brightness of her kitchen, with all of his senses obviously on alert, he’d seen her scar in all its ugliness. “This stuff is supposed to make the scar fade.” She tried to sound hopeful. He turned quickly and she couldn’t read what she saw on his face. Outrage appeared to brush through his expression. His lips pursed. For a moment he simply studied her, his eyes narrowing. So damned sexy, and so like Jonathan with every action. Her heart sank and she couldn’t stop the tears from streaming down her face. “Oh, baby,” he whispered, back down on his knees in an instant, wiping the tears from her face. “Goddammit. If I could only take away the pain.” “It’s all in the past now. I just wish you hadn’t seen it.” He raised an eyebrow while his expression softened. She blushed. “At least, not like that,” she managed to say. “I wonder,” he said slowly, raising the heat in the room with a single stroke of his thumb against her cheek. “I wonder if there will come a time when we have no secrets.” She hadn’t expected that out of him and was grateful that his hooded gaze seemed more focused on her breasts instead of her face. Years ago, keeping her expression blank, no matter what she heard, had come so naturally. Maybe she was getting older. Possibly years out of Alpha Corp had allowed her to lower her guard. Or it could be that she simply didn’t want to be devoid of feelings any longer. 79

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Her lips parted, sincerely surprised he’d mentioned secrets. “I’m sure anything’s possible.” “I’ll pay for the surgery to get that fixed. We’ll get you looked at soon.” Again she was shocked, and this time did look up. The pain in his expression hadn’t faded. He really meant it. He wasn’t mocking her. “Okay,” she whispered, searching his face while trying to learn his thoughts. He ran his hand down her hair, stroking her brown strands until his fingers tangled and he pulled her head back. Cupping the side of her head, he took her arm and pulled her up, until she stood against him. Those strong arms bulged with muscle when he wrapped them around her. His heart beat steadily against her while his warmth surged through her. Instantly his cock hardened, and her pussy overheated, her heart pounding, unlike the solid steady beat that pulsed against her fingers when she stroked his chest. “It’s the least I can do,” she thought she heard him whisper. But his words were lost in her hair. Maybe she imagined that’s what he said. She tried pulling back, tried looking up at him, but apparently he was content to let the conversation die. He didn’t let her go. She wondered where it would have headed if they’d continued it. Discussing the past would sooner or later bring light to her confusion about him. But his lips covered hers, hot and wet, and he made love to her mouth. Possibly he liked keeping her in the dark. But the fact that she wasn’t convinced of his identity, still held on to shreds of doubt, made it impossible to reveal all of her secrets to him. Baring her soul took trust. And maybe she’d lost the ability—or never had it—to completely trust anyone. She liked Hunter though—liked him a lot. And physically their bodies were a perfect match. His hands brushed over her arms, making her nerve endings spark to life. Suddenly extremely sensitive wherever he touched her, a shiver rushed through her and he growled. “I want you out of your clothes,” he said into her mouth. Which sounded like a damned good idea to her. They didn’t have to rush today. At least she had an hour or so before she needed to get Alex. And he’d know that. Know what time could be taken for them to explore further, get to know each other better, work toward that more intimate level of no secrets that he’d just mentioned. “I want to see all of you too,” she whispered, opening her eyes to see those dark eyes of his already watching her. Loose falling black curls bordered his tan skin, making the gold flecks in his eyes seem to glow. He took a step backward and pulled his shirt off while she watched. Her mouth went dry at the incredible display of roped muscle, perfectly covered by black coarse hair that appeared before her.

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He moved so easily, removing his jeans next with what seemed like a single, fluid movement. She, on the other hand, trembled, her palms too damp, her fingers klutzy, as she managed to slide out of her shorts then struggle with her shirt. Pulling it over her head, her hair fell over her face and she shoved it out of the way. Hunter sat in the chair where she’d been, his cock jetting upward, hard and swollen. Black kinky hair was thick at the base of his shaft. Smooth skin, almost black stretched over the hardened muscle. And his cock, swollen and bulging, round and smooth, glistened at the top with droplets of precum. “Hunter. You are beautiful.” She licked her lips, amazed how easy it was to praise him. Hard and erect, his cock jerked, appreciating her praise, and rested against his flat, hard abdomen. The dark hair that coursed up his body, spread over his broad chest, fading and giving way to broad shoulders that curved and tapered perfectly enough they could have been carved from stone, had her almost drooling. He chuckled, a rich baritone sound that vibrated through him. “Come here.” She didn’t need to be told twice. Stepping barefoot on her cool kitchen floor, needing the cold sensation to keep the fever from burning through her mind, she moved to him, brushing her fingers over the muscles that rippled in his arms. “I want your mouth on me.” She met his gaze quickly, and then watched when his fingers wrapped around his cock. He stroked it, moving the flesh that sheathed his shaft. She trembled, kneeling before him, so much excitement and anticipation rushing through her that it was hard to keep herself from falling over. Her knees and shins pressed against cold tile. Her hands held on to hot flesh, feeling his muscles twitch wherever she touched him. “That’s it,” he said on a breath. Her lips moved over his cock, stretching as she slowly took him into her mouth. The taste of him was like a drug to her senses. As she ran her tongue over him, he jerked in her mouth, a salty sensation making her needy. Her pussy ached. Taking him deep into her mouth, almost gagging from the size of him, she wanted him inside her, stretching her, hitting that spot that craved attention. The way her lips tingled, her mouth growing more soaked, she wanted those feelings in her pussy. She wanted that strength, that powerful hardness, stroking her insides until she screamed. No longer did it matter who this man might have been. What she knew was that right now, in her life today, she wanted Hunter. She wanted him by her side, in her life, with her and Alex. His confidence, his ability to take on a situation, and his desire to be by her side, had her aching for him as much as his intense sex appeal. There was a warmth about him that Jonathan never had, a level of compassion and concern that Jonathan never expressed. And he cared about Alex. Or at least that’s how she read him. That took precedence over her sexual needs. If Hunter showed any signs of going 81

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after Alex, no matter how damned good he was to her, she and Alex were out of there. God. More than anything she prayed Hunter cared about the two of them. Her lips tingled and she swore they were swollen when she allowed him to glide out of her mouth and looked up through blurred vision. Hunter had let his head fall back, his Adam apple protruding in his thick muscular neck. Slowly he raised his head, looked down at her with eyes filled with lust, and gave her that adorable crooked smile. “I can’t wait any longer,” she admitted, moving slowly up him. He wrapped his hands around her breasts, tugging on them slightly while she straddled his lap. Pulling them to his mouth, he nibbled and tortured her nipples as she moved until his cock pressed against her soaked flesh. Without warning, he thrust upward, quickly impaling her. “God. Shit.” She dug into his shoulders, barely able to keep her feet on the ground while he fucked her. Moving his mouth from one breast to the other, he caressed and kneaded them with strong, skilled fingers. She held on to his shoulders, closing her eyes, enjoying every sensation that ripped through her body. Almost on tiptoe, she worked to take some form of control and began gliding her pussy up and down over his cock. “Hell yeah, baby. Fuck me,” he growled into her chest. His body hair tickled every inch of her, her tummy, her legs, her breasts. And his cock stroked her inner muscles, while she soaked both of them. Building the momentum, loving how well he fit inside her, she brought the heat level between them to a boiling point. Sinking over him, filling her pussy with that hard, engorged cock, he broke the dam inside her. “Damn it,” she cried, her hair falling over her face as his arms wrapped around her tightly. He held on to her hard enough she could barely breathe and thrust upward. Building speed until she swore he’d burn her alive, her pussy throbbed while everything inside her exploded. And the growl that ripped through him reminded her once again of the man she’d loved with all her heart for so many years.

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Chapter Nine Friday morning she woke, realizing tonight she would have hours alone with Hunter. Her heart lurched while fire burned passionately deep within her. Her breasts swelled, her pussy throbbing with eager anticipation. Hunter’s strong, knowing eyes appeared in her thoughts. It seemed he was falling in love with her. She wasn’t chasing him or making herself conveniently available. If anything, she felt she’d done just the opposite. He’d pursued her. Her thoughts drifted from his beautiful brown eyes down his luscious body. Not an inch of fat on him. His shoulders and arms were stronger than any man she’d ever known, his stomach flat and rippled. His dark skin and black coarse hair added to the gorgeous figure she’d summed up in her mind. My God! She’d made herself wet just lying there thinking about him. Man, Joanna, at this rate you’ll beg him to fuck you the second you walk in his door! She rolled over and looked at the sleeping beauty lying next to her. At some point she needed to break Alex of crawling into bed with her every night. The child had a built-in alarm clock, except his went off every morning two hours before hers did. No matter what time she set the alarm, her son always crawled into bed with her two hours before it went off. He lay next to her, wrapped up in just the sheet, his mouth open and black curls standing on end. She stroked his cheek and his mouth shut. “Alex, honey. It’s time to wake up.” She pulled him into her arms and he snuggled his thin body next to hers. “I love you, Mama,” he murmured and she pulled him closer. The floor felt colder than usual when they finally crawled out of bed and she quickly pulled on her thick mukluks, the knee-high cloth boot perfect for walking around on her cold floors. She’d slept in sweats and wool socks the night before and had dressed Alex similarly. It concerned her that it was so cold in the little cabin, and still early October. There were quite a few months of much colder weather ahead of them. “Hey, Mama, come here!” The urgency in Alex’s voice grabbed her attention. Before she reached the end of the hallway, she realized she could see her breath. “Look!” He pointed. “What is it?” Alex had pulled open the curtain that covered the large window in the living room. All they could see was white. Instinctively, she pulled open the front door and a wall of white at least three feet high stood on the other side. 83

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“Wow! We’re snowed in.” Alex jumped with joy as she shut the front door quickly. He then turned to her and frowned. “Do you think I’ll have school today?” “I don’t know, honey.” She too frowned, her muckluks making a shuffling sound across the floor when she headed to the kitchen to make coffee. That’s when she realized they had no power. No wonder it was so cold, the heater ran off electricity. She picked up her cell phone and called Susie. “The whole mountain has lost power. Start a fire and boil water. The steam will help heat your place faster.” Susie’s calm instructions showed how accustomed she was to this kind of weather. “I assume there’s no school?” Jennifer showed her ignorance of Colorado winters, and Susie laughed. “The whole town is buried, girlfriend. Jimmy and Hunter have been out most of the night. They’ve recruited some of the other men, and they’re working on digging us out. We used to call these kind of storms ‘quality family time’.” Her voice seemed strangely quiet. “Is everything okay?” Jennifer feared the worst. “Heidi didn’t come home last night.” “Oh God,” Jennifer whispered, guilt riding her hard for agreeing to keep secret the news Heidi had shared with her. “Jimmy’s been looking for her since about four this morning, but when he realized how badly the snow was coming down, he called some of the guys around town to start moving the snowplows.” Susie’s monotone bothered her. “Do you want us to come down there?” Damn it. Why did she think her conversations with Heidi would have prevented the child from doing something stupid? If anything happened to Heidi out in this weather… “Good grief! Have you ever lived in a place where there was a real winter?” Susie sounded mad. “Don’t leave your house!” she almost shouted. Jennifer didn’t know how to respond. There was silence on the line for a minute. It was unbearable. “Susie, I’m…” “Oh, forget it, Jennifer.” She sounded calmer. “I’m sorry. I’ve been up all night and I’m here all by myself going crazy.” “Let me get dressed and we’ll…” “No. It’s not safe. The men will have us dug out soon enough. Don’t worry about me.” Her voice faded. Yeah, worry about Heidi. Joanna wanted to kick herself. Sharing with Susie what Heidi had told her would just make Susie go nuts. She reluctantly hung up the phone then turned her attention to the curious expression on her son’s face. “Well, let’s get some firewood and get a fire going.”

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“Hey, Mama, where’s that little generator we used to have?” Alex asked after they’d successfully started the fire in the woodstove and in the fireplace. “It would work to get the power going in this place.” “It’s in the shed.” She looked out the back door. She couldn’t even see the shed. It was more like a lean-to, but she’d housed the few items that could endure the weather in it. Alex followed her gaze. “We’ll need some rope.” The two of them got busy. First they put on dry clothes, several layers of it. Then, Jennifer found some clothesline that had been on the shelf above the washer and dryer. After putting on coats, scarves, hats and gloves, they went out to the back porch. The snow had drifted down the mountain, and it was difficult to see how deep it was in different places. She regretted for the first time not buying a snow shovel. What had she been thinking? “I weigh less than you do,” Alex said unnecessarily. “I’ll go first and you follow.” He looked up into his mom’s concerned eyes, adding, “We tie the rope around each of us. That way if we end up surrounded by snow, we won’t lose our bearings. We just follow the rope back to the house.” It had been a while since she’d shared one of her “adventures”, one of the missions she had been on, with Alex. But he remembered the details she’d shared on how they’d used rope to travel through blizzard conditions to get from one building to another at an isolated Siberian camp. But she hadn’t performed that rescue operation with a notquite six-year-old. “Don’t worry. You’ll be right behind me and I’ll hold onto the rope. You want power, don’t you? I bet you’re jonesing for a cup of coffee.” “Alex, where’d you learn to talk like that?” “Give me a break, Mama. I wasn’t born yesterday.” It was hard to remember sometimes how young he was. “And I bet you’re jonesing to get on the computer,” she teased, and helped the boy climb onto what she hoped was packed snow. The snow had formed a three to four foot fence around their back porch. As they climbed onto the snow she could hear large cracking sounds underneath her. The surface of the snow was beautiful in all its sparkling glory, but it was also blinding. She could see the trees that bordered the backyard and the angled top of the shed. The top of the snow wasn’t flat but in small mounds, with plastered waves from where the wind had blown. As captivating as it all looked, she knew that sections of the snow were deeper than she was tall. They needed to be careful! “Mama, this is cool!” Alex said, mouthing her thoughts. “Keep your thoughts on what you’re doing,” she instructed. They started crawling and a large crack in the ice alerted her. Her hand fell into the snow up to her elbow. She redirected herself and they crawled around the small canyon 85

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she’d just created in the perfect picture. Another crack sounded, but this time she didn’t feel any snow give way. “Be careful,” she said, as her son crawled ahead of her. A rumbling sounded beneath them and snow collapsed, creating white powder that blinded her. She held on firmly to the rope. “Mama! I can’t see!” Alex’s voice screeched. “Where’s the rope?” A large dark object appeared from behind her so quickly she couldn’t identify what it was. She tried yelling to calm Alex’s fears, when a strong arm reached around her waist, forcing all air from her lungs while she was pulled backward. At the same time, the dark shape took the form of a body as Hunter’s other arm reached through the snow and pulled a coughing child out from nowhere. “What in the hell were you doing?” Hunter yelled, as he placed both of them in the safety of the back porch. “We have a generator in the shed.” There was snow all over them and she kicked her feet against the floor, shaking it off her legs. Alex brushed snow from his clothes and she squatted down to help him. “Are you nuts?” his voice bellowed over her. “If I hadn’t shown up—” “I would have pulled him out myself.” She straightened, confronting his outraged glare. “You would have fallen in with him,” he barked. “I’m okay,” Alex said, defending his mother. “Get in the house, both of you!” He pointed and she found herself obeying. Where was the man she’d fantasized about just a little over an hour ago? How dare he yell at them like this! She knew what she was doing. For crying out loud, they’d used a rope. Even though Alex had momentarily panicked, he’d only been a foot or two away from her. They would have been fine. Hunter was acting worse than a mother hen. Once inside, she finished brushing Alex off in front of the blazing fire. Pains in her leg made it hard to bend over in the position she was in, but the last thing she wanted to do at the moment was bring up the fact that her leg might have been a handicap. “You should know better than to go out in weather like this,” he continued lecturing but his voice didn’t bark as loudly. “We don’t have any power.” She unwrapped her scarf from around her neck. “No one has power.” He reached down and helped Alex out of his wet coat then hung it over the mantel to dry. “Do you know how long it takes before you could freeze to death, or suffocate?” “We’re fine.” She looked up, trying to reason with his anger. “Because I showed up in the nick of time,” he bellowed.

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She wouldn’t be talked to like that. Giving him what she hoped was a look to kill, she turned to march back to her bedroom. And there went her leg. What lousy timing! Damn it to hell, she thought as she reached for the floor when her leg refused to hold her. Once again the strong arm was around her waist but this time she was lifted into the air. “Go change your clothes.” Hunter spoke quietly to Alex but with a firmness that made the boy jump into action. “Put me down.” She straightened her body but he snapped her knees to her chest, closing his arms around her and pulling her to his chest. “Why? So you can limp down the hallway?” His breath tickled the side of her head. For some reason, sparring with him fueled sparks into flames deep inside her womb. Damn. His arms pinning her against that virile body had her suddenly tingling with need. Carrying her like she weighed nothing, he moved down the hallway with long silent strides to her room. He let her down, her body sliding over roped muscle until her feet hit the ground. She wasn’t sure she could stand, and it didn’t have a damn thing to do with an old injury. Keeping her gaze down, fighting the attraction to him, she crossed her arms and willed her heart to beat at a normal pace. Hunter needed to learn right here and now that she wouldn’t be treated like some dimwit. “Look, I appreciate your concern. We would have been fine. I’ve been in situations like this before.” The leather in his brown jacket creaked when he crossed his thick arms over his massive chest. He didn’t say a word. Nor did he move. She dared look up at his face and noticed his jaw grind. He had no right to be angry. “You know I did manage to take care of us fine before we met you.” “Oh, you did, did you?” Now he put his hands on his hips. “Did your rich daddy die and leave you all that money?” What? Her mouth fell open. “I never knew my father,” she hissed and turned around to limp over to her dresser. Grabbing her top drawer, she yanked it out, almost pulling the whole thing out altogether. No one talked to her like this. He had no clue what she’d lived through. If he were Jonathan he would know bringing up parents, caretakers neither of them ever had, was a low blow. And if he were Jonathan, he had no fucking clue what she’d endured the past six years.

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Anger pumped inside her hard enough that she ached to throw something. Of all the gall! Yanking a clean sweater out of her drawer, she shoved the drawer shut, opened the third drawer down, grabbed a clean pair of jeans and then forced it shut too. At that moment all she wanted to do was find something to say that would strike as low as he just had. He didn’t seem to show any remorse about what he’d just said. “Get out of here.” She waved her hand at him. “You have no right. You have no clue. Now get the hell out.” For a moment, he looked ready to pounce. He walked over to the door and then turned slowly, meeting her gaze with eyes almost as dark as onyx. “I’m not going anywhere,” he said and leaned against the doorway. “You’re not staying in here while I change clothes.” “Yet,” he challenged, and then walked out of the room, shutting the door behind him. Hunter and Alex spoke quietly in the other room while she hurriedly pulled off her wet clothes and pulled on dry ones. With the door shut, it was incredibly chilly in her room and she began shaking uncontrollably. Partially because of the cold, but partially because of her anger. It was impossible to hear what they were saying but she swore they were laughing. Alex was falling hard for this guy. Was she? “Everything is okay here,” Hunter said into his phone when she walked out into the living room. “Sounds good. I’ll be ready.” He paused and she looked over at Alex. He smiled at her but then looked back up at Hunter. Alex stood the same way Hunter was standing. Did he want a father that badly? “I handled it,” she heard Hunter say and then he ended the call and shoved the phone in his shirt pocket. He turned and stared at them. “So, how are we going to get that generator?” Alex asked, and both adults glared at him. “I want power,” he whined and plopped down on the couch. Hunter stared at the pouting child and then looked up to Jennifer. “Several men are working their way up the road with snow plows. I’m going out front to start shoveling you out.” He zipped up his coat. “Stay inside.” She wouldn’t back down. “I’ll help you.” “I only have one shovel.” He had a way of moving across the room with a single stride, dwarfing everything around him with his powerful presence, and was in front of her before she could back away. Cupping her chin, his thumb stroked her flesh while he spoke quietly. “The colder you get, the more that leg will cramp. Go sit by the fire.”

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His lips brushed over hers, hot, demanding, yet barely touching her before he turned and walked out the front door. She let out a sigh of exasperation and looked down at her son. “It’s okay, Mama. He got mad at us because he cares. And he’s sorry he got you upset.” Alex stood, giving her hand a squeeze. “Why don’t you go get a book and read to me?” she suggested and went to sit by the fire. Hunter had successfully managed to win her son over. In spite of his outbreak, he was winning her over too. Unfortunately, wondering why Hunter wouldn’t admit he was Jonathan wasn’t something she could talk over with her son. Jennifer managed to pop popcorn in a pot over the wood burning stove and then impressed her son with her camping skills even further by producing two wonderfully warm cups of hot chocolate by warming milk and adding cocoa and sugar. They’d just started getting into Pet Sematary, the Stephen King book Alex had chosen to read to her, when Hunter and Jimmy walked through the front door. “My God, he reads better than I do,” Jimmy gasped, while the two men successfully traipsed mud and melting snow all over her floor as they joined them in front of the fire. Hunter beamed at the comment. Now why would you be so proud of how intelligent Alex is, my dear? “Is that hot chocolate?” Hunter asked, glancing at their cups. “Would you like some?” She didn’t smile, nor make a move to wait on him. “Help yourself.” “If there’s enough.” Jimmy declined anything to drink and instead used Hunter’s phone to call Susie. He soon walked into the other room although it was clear he was trying to calm her by his reassuring tone. Chewing her lip, guilt plagued her while she wondered where Heidi was. Damn all this snow. If Alex were in school she’d scour the area until she found the kid. The tiny hairs on her arm and shoulder prickled to attention. Hunter stared at her, reading her thoughts. She’d never told him who’d been there when he’d shown up the other day, and he hadn’t pressed the subject. It didn’t take a rocket scientist to figure it out. She chewed her lip, losing herself in those milk chocolate eyes. He knew. Alex sat next to her reading to himself now. The fire cracked and popped in the fireplace. The quiet, stable surroundings faded while she lost herself studying his dark features. There was worry and concern hardening his jaw. Hard cheekbones accented his broad face. Thick dark curls, slightly damp, tapered around his face, disappearing under the collar of his jacket. He didn’t look away. A connection had formed, a bonding. Just as it had before. Jonathan would do this to her in the past. Stare at her while the two of them quietly tried to figure out the best

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way to handle a mission, both of them thinking, and their silent communication allowing her mind to relax, help form a plan of attack. This wasn’t a mission against some haywire government though. This was someone’s little girl. Somehow she had to find and bring her back. Hunter’s gaze told her he understood her worry. She moved to stand, to walk into those powerful arms. Somehow she’d figure out why he kept his true identity from her. Because that was all he held back. Looking into that brooding expression, his gaze holding her captive, what they’d had before, their love for each other, had rekindled and burned stronger than ever. “Well folks, are you ready to head out?” Jimmy came back into the room and handed Hunter his phone. “Where are we going?” Alex jumped up, his small hand gripping her shoulder before she could stand. She stood as well, breaking the mental connection when she looked away from Hunter. “Where are we going?” she repeated. “We’re taking you two over to hang out with Susie while we finish unburying the town.” Hunter reached for Alex’s coat. “I’m not going to sit around and twiddle my thumbs.” She grabbed her own coat. “I can help you two.” “Oh Mama, give it a break.” Alex rolled his eyes as he shoved his arm into his coat, which Hunter held for him. “She tries to act like she’s in charge sometimes,” he said in way too grown-up a tone to the two men standing there. “Usually, I can keep her out of trouble.” She looked at her son, horrified. “Out of the mouth of babes,” Hunter mumbled and grabbed her coat before she could put it on herself.

***** Susie’s face looked swollen and pale from crying when Jennifer entered the back door into her kitchen. Jimmy and Hunter dropped them off and Susie attempted to smile when Jennifer and Alex walked in from the cold. “Well, you two, welcome to Colorado in the winter,” she said and took their coats. “Alex, I pulled out some puzzles and some books that might keep you entertained.” She hesitated at his quizzical look. “I’m not too sure what age is appropriate for you, but I set them in by the fire.” When he’d left the room she let her smile fade. “Oh, Jennifer, I can’t stand this.” Tears rolled down her face.

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Susie collapsed in her arms, crying on her shoulder. There wasn’t anything to say to cheer her up. If the men had let her help, possibly she would have been able to search for Heidi. Her thoughts tormented, she prayed Heidi would see that her fantasy of freedom wasn’t all it was cracked up to be and return home soon. Susie had pulled out some mending and although Jennifer tried to help her, she found the only thing she could do, without Susie having to stop her own work and give constant instruction, was to sew a missing button back on to one of Jimmy’s shirts. Domestic life was foreign to her. She felt edgy. Odd, she thought, this was the life she’d dreamed of having, yet here it was, and she didn’t know what to do with herself. Could she lead a life like this? “They’re back!” Susie jumped up with excitement as a car pulled up out front. The two men brought the cold in with them as they entered the living room. “We should have power within the hour,” Jimmy announced and then went into news of their morning. Susie cheered up noticeably with Jimmy there, immediately getting coffee ready and hanging on every word as he shared what was going on in town. Walking into the living room, glad to be away from the menial task of sewing, she plopped down next to Alex and watched him methodically put together a onethousand-piece puzzle. When her phone rang, the only one who noticed was Hunter. He’d positioned himself in the kitchen doorway, listening to Jimmy and Susie talk, but able to keep an eye on her as well. He looked her way when she answered. “Jennifer?” a quiet voice on the other end of the line asked. “Can you come get me?” “Where are you?” Sudden excitement in her voice alerted Hunter and he walked toward her with questioning eyes. “I’m on the edge of town, at the diner.” Heidi’s voice cracked. “Jennifer, I’m scared.” “It’s okay, baby, I know you are.” Thank God she was okay. “Heidi, I’m at your folks’ house. Do you want me to bring you back here?” “I might as well get it over with.” Relief almost crushed through her. She hoped that was Heidi’s way of saying she’d had her fill of “freedom”. Hunter said something to the two in the kitchen and then moved to stand over her. Susie let out a hysterical cry and ran to the living room with Jimmy right behind her. “Jennifer?” Heidi sounded worn out, defeated. “Maybe you should come get me and give them some time to prepare themselves.” “Okay. I haven’t driven in this stuff for awhile.” She stood and rested her hand on Hunter’s chest. His strong heartbeat throbbed against her palm. “Is it all right if Hunter drives?”

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Susie wrapped her arms around her husband’s waist, her eyes hopeful as she tried to understand the conversation transpiring. “Yeah, whatever.” “Heidi, are you okay?” She couldn’t help but ask, even though she knew she wasn’t. “I’m pretty badly beat up.” She cringed and Hunter squeezed her shoulder.

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Chapter Ten Hot water pounded her back while Jennifer struggled with unpleasant memories. She replayed the story Heidi had shared with her when they’d picked her up outside the diner on the edge of town. Heidi had been reluctant to speak in Hunter’s presence. His sober expression at the sight of her blackened eye and bruised arms didn’t help. Heidi had collapsed into Jennifer’s arms, trembling like the terrified child she was. Jennifer had held her throughout the drive back to her home. Hunter drove her truck, while she sat in the middle, constantly aware of his strong hand resting on her leg. Heidi had confided that she’d left with Todd the night before but when they’d reached Gunnison he’d left her with some other guys she didn’t know. They’d partied for a while and she guessed she’d passed out after that. She’d closed her eyes to block out flooding memories when Heidi told them she’d come to with no clothes on. Heidi was lucky. She’d gotten away from those assholes and was back home where she had parents who loved her. Too many times she’d seen kids abandoned, lost in the system, strung out on drugs. During the many times they’d pulled the homeless off the streets, brought them in to Alpha Corp, she’d seen the lost and angry emotions on their faces. Many were excited to become part of Alpha Corp. It was a common reaction at first. Suddenly their life had purpose, they had a home, a direction. Heidi wasn’t lost though. She wasn’t homeless. She had love, people who cared about her. God willing, she’d see that and not run toward a life where she’d lose all of that. Laughter pulled her away from her thoughts when she climbed out of the shower. Alex was at the computer in her bedroom when she toweled dry. His little fingers pounded away at the keys, and every so often she heard him chuckle. Curiosity bested her and she pushed the door open, filling her bedroom with steam from the bathroom. “What’s so funny?” Alex squealed, leaning back in the chair and grinning from ear to ear. “I’m talking to Hunter.” He waved his hand in front of the computer screen. “He was trying to do something and I did it for him. I instant-messaged him to show him it was done and surprised him.” He continued to laugh. She wrapped her towel around her and pulled on thick wool socks. Even though the heater blew warm air into each room, it was still cold. She walked to her bed where she’d left her clothes and watched her son lean back in his chair and stare at the computer screen. In the short time he’d been exposed to the Internet, he’d become a natural. Studying the screen, she tried to make sense of the HTML code displayed behind his chat box.

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Hunter sent a message that appeared in the box. His bold black print matched his personality. How did you do it? the message asked. “Ha! It was easy!” Alex spoke to the computer as he frantically typed a response. “The firewalls they’d set up around their program followed a simple maze pattern. A child could break it,” he said out loud, typing the words as quickly as he spoke them. He found his joke funny and laughed hysterically as he looked up at her. “Oops!” He quit laughing but still smiled as he hit the X in the corner of the instant message box and then opened a new box to continue his conversation. “What did you do that for?” She wrinkled her brow at her son. She watched him type with incredible accuracy and speed that he was no longer alone. She watched a new message appear under the one Alex just sent. Hi beautiful, it said. She smiled and rolled her eyes for Alex’s benefit and he rolled his eyes too. “What was so funny?” she asked her son, still smiling from the typed compliment she’d just received. “What were you two talking about?” “Oh, nothing.” Alex shrugged and turned back to stare at the computer. “You were helping him do something,” she prodded curiously. He didn’t answer but instead typed the word “help” and clicked send. Within seconds her phone began ringing in the other room. “You’re not telling me something.” She re-secured her towel and walked out to get the phone. “What?” she said, instead of hello, showing her frustration at being left out. Not to mention the jealousy that was creeping up inside of her. She’d never had to share Alex before. “Well, hello to you too.” Hunter’s baritone made her heart pick up speed instantly. “What were you two doing?” “The kid’s amazing, Jen.” “I know.” She stressed the words. “I just don’t like being left out.” “You don’t have to be.” “What’s that supposed to mean?” “He just accepts what you aren’t ready to accept yet.” She didn’t like the way that sounded. “And what’s that?” Her stomach tied in knots while she second-guessed the many things his words could mean. “That I’m part of your life now.” Silence. She wasn’t sure what to say and he offered no help by patiently waiting on the other end of the line for her response. She chose her words carefully.

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“I don’t deny that you’re part of our life…for today.” She took a deep breath. “I’m just not good at planning long-term.” “Fine. No pressure here, babe.” There was a smile in his voice. Pure satisfaction and contentment came through in his words. “And since we’re just focusing on today, I’ll pick you two up in an hour.” “What for?” They wouldn’t still keep their date tonight if they didn’t have a sitter. And she doubted Susie would be in any shape to watch Alex with Heidi having just been brought home. “Alex wants to go pick out some pumpkins. I can drive you two into town to get some and we’ll bring them home and carve them. Sound good?” “I guess so.” She hung up the phone and it dawned on her that he’d conveniently diverted her attention away from whatever it was the two of them had been doing on the computer. The traps had been set up around a program? She’d broken into other people’s networks before. What were the two of them doing?

***** Alex insisted on lighting the candles that they’d put in the carved pumpkins several hours later even though it was still light out. Three thirty-pound pumpkins rested on a wooden bench outside her front door where the snow had been cleared to make room for them, with ugly, sinister faces carved into them. The wall of snow, parted to make a path to her truck, made her place look almost like a maze with paths leading to places unknown. Alex had been full of questions through the entire process of drawing the faces on the pumpkins, pulling the insides out of them, and then finally carving the faces into them. He’d wanted to know why Halloween was celebrated. Why did children go trick or treating? Why did they carve the pumpkins? Hunter had finally exhausted his knowledge and said with obvious exasperation that Alex should go look it up. “While you’re back there,” Hunter added as Alex went down the hallway to the computer, “get yourself ready to go.” “Go?” Alex whined the word. “You don’t still think Susie and Jimmy will want to watch him, do you?” Jennifer asked quietly, thinking of how their day must be going. “I’ve already talked to them,” he said. “So, how’s it going?” “They took Heidi to the doctor and other than some bruises and scrapes she’ll be fine.” She might be all right physically, but emotionally she’s scarred for a very long time.

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“Anyway, the doctor gave her something to help her relax. She’ll probably sleep until tomorrow.” Jennifer didn’t say anything but instead rested her head on her hands at the kitchen table. He came up behind her and rubbed her shoulders. His fingers worked magic on her muscles and she closed her eyes. “Life isn’t always pretty. You know that,” he said quietly. “If you’re strong you pick up the pieces and go on.” She kept her eyes closed. Tell me something I don’t already know.

***** Hunter’s house was not what she expected. The long ranch-style house she’d seen through the trees while admiring Hunter that one day, looked much larger on the inside. A large loft overlooked the spacious living room, with vaulted ceilings giving the appearance of even more space. The room was longer than it was wide with a fireplace emitting warmth at one end, and a large domed doorway leading into a formal dining room at the other end. She walked toward the center of the room, turning slowly to take in the surroundings. Everything looked very clean, surprising, she thought, for a bachelor. Remembering that Dora Sloan lived with him up until several months ago, she suddenly felt less impressed. Had he chosen the long black leather couch with matching reclining chairs that sat on either side of the fireplace, or had she? The oblong, glass top coffee table had matching end tables on either side of the couch. A large, dark mauve Persian carpet spread within feet of the wall where varnished wooden floor was visible. “What do you think?” He placed his hand on her back to guide her toward the dining room. “It’s nice,” she said, hoping she sounded sincere. “I brought all the furniture with me when I moved up here several years ago. It’s old but it’s well broken in and comfortable.” “I like it,” she added, hoping he hadn’t just read her thoughts. “Oh my!” Hunter’s arm on her back slid around her waist as she stood and admired the beautiful glass chandelier hanging over the dining room table. Teardrop-shaped crystal hung from a creamy oval-shaped fixture. She stood with her head back and mouth slightly opened in admiration. “That was definitely one of the selling points with the house. I bought this dining room table at a rummage sale last spring. Stripped and revarnished it myself.” He rubbed his hand across the tabletop, showing pride in his workmanship. “You did a good job.” The rectangular table sat six and had two long, wooden salt and pepper shakers as a centerpiece. “I know I did.” And he leaned down and kissed her gently. Gently but with a fire that scalded her lips. 96

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When he pulled back, ownership glowed in his eyes. The words he’d said to her earlier on the phone rang through her ears. He accepts what you’re not ready to accept yet. Everything had been decided for her. His look was possessive when he leaned down and kissed her again. Controlling and dominating, he crushed her against his steely body while devouring her mouth. In a matter of months, he’d moved into their lives, laid claim to both of them, and now successfully stolen her heart. And at the moment, she wasn’t sure she wanted to do anything about it. Well, maybe fuck the shit out of him. She didn’t need the glass of wine he handed her once they arrived in the kitchen. Dark green Berm carpet covered the floor, adding coziness to the large room. An island with a cutting board surface provided the stability she needed to steady herself while her heart raced. He was overpowering her and he knew it. Just like he knew they were already a couple and she was determined to view this simply as a dinner date. Hunter moved comfortably around his kitchen as he pulled two dark green plates that were the same color as the carpet from one of the long, glass-covered cabinets. A tossed salad was produced from the refrigerator and a wicker basket with a dishtowel thrown over it turned out to be bread sticks. But when he pulled a long, glass casserole dish out of the oven she gasped. The long, stuffed noodles bubbling in seasoned tomato sauce and mozzarella smelled beyond wonderful and her tummy growled with appreciation. “Alex told you, didn’t he?” She couldn’t take her eyes off the dish, and he turned and looked at her innocently. “Told me what?” Triumph danced in his eyes. “Manicotti is my absolute favorite meal in the whole wide world.” She sipped at her wine that she seriously didn’t need. Just being in his presence intoxicated her. For such a large man he moved with incredible grace preparing their meal. And this room, as well as the other parts of his home she’d seen so far, held that same grace and relaxed comfortable air to it. Just like him. Everything in its spot. She wasn’t surprised to learn his home was so perfect. Finding fault with Hunter had proven close to an impossible task. Once again she wondered if paranoia simply wouldn’t leave her alone. Everything she saw here showed a home well lived in. It was no secret Hunter had been in Valley View for several years. He’d shown her his driver’s license. Why did she want him to be Jonathan so badly? Maybe it was time to just accept the fact that there was more than one perfect man on this planet. “What can I do to help?” “Enjoy the evening,” he winked, and put on two mitten potholders and then held his arms up as if preparing for surgery. God, she giggled like a schoolgirl.

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She hadn’t had manicotti that tasted so wonderful in years. Hunter watched her lazily as she scooped up her last bite and then leaned back in her chair showing him she could eat no more. “Want to see the rest of the house?” he asked playfully. Her heart skipped a beat. She definitely had room for the dessert she knew he would offer. “Sure. Show me.” He stood and then held her chair so she could get up. Wrapping strong, warm fingers around her hand, he led her back through the kitchen and toward a hallway that opened up to the living room on one side and displayed a wide, wooden staircase on the other. She was actually surprised when they walked past the staircase and into a dark room on the other end of the hallway. He flipped on the light switch and a large billiard table stood in front of her. The room was paneled and a long bar, completely stocked, lined the opposite wall. “I used to be good once upon a time,” he commented and rolled the cue stick that lay across the table back and forth. “So did I,” she said absently while studying the head of an elk that was mounted on the wall. She walked around the pool table slowly, allowing her fingers to run across the green cloth. “Looks like I’m not the only one who had a rich daddy die.” For a moment he looked like she’d caught him in the act, but then he smiled. “We do what we do,” he said, and she wondered what he meant by that. Next, he showed her the basement. Two large glass doors revealed a large wooden deck, currently covered in drifting snow and glistening beautifully from the floodlight attached to the back of the house. She turned from the glass doors and admired the overstuffed, green leather couch. Simple rocking chairs were on either side and they all faced the wall opposite the glass doors, which was wall–to-wall shelves. Old books dominated, but odd items were shelved here and there. A miniature replica of The Thinker, and two carved Golden Retrievers caught her attention. A wood-burning stove was at the end of the room and next to it a large mahogany desk housed his computer. She turned to walk toward the computer and he grabbed her hand pulling her to him. “Mi casa, su casa,” he whispered as his arms wrapped around her. She looked up into his eyes and noticed something familiar. It was a look of victory. Her stomach, full as it was, still managed to make room for some butterflies. He allowed one hand to travel down her back while the other one traveled to the back of her head. His eyes never left hers as he lowered his lips onto hers. His kiss was like fire. He pulled her closer and fire pumped through her veins. It was minutes before he let her come up for air. Her fingers trembled when she touched her lips, and slowly pulled away from him. He looked pleased.

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She felt flushed. “How’re you doing?” He looked down, searching her face. She couldn’t think of a thing to say that wouldn’t sound tacky so she answered by going up on her tiptoes and kissing him again. Being in his arms was like coming home from a long, rocky journey. She ran her fingers through his thick curls. As she explored his neck and broad shoulders with her fingertips, she knew she’d stroked them a million times before. She relaxed, letting her head fall back when he kissed her cheek, her jawbone, and then her neck. His hands moved underneath her sweater. She gasped as his powerful hands brushed over her skin, torturing her, leaving her inflamed wherever he stroked. He smiled against the sensitive part of her neck. “I’m going to make love to you right here on the floor if we don’t go upstairs,” he whispered, tickling her flesh. She’d have him in any room of the house. In spite of his possessive nature, she needed him more than she needed to breathe. In time he’d see what she would accept and not accept. She wasn’t a child any longer. Letting a man rule her life was no longer an option. But she didn’t expect him to change any more than she could change for him. They would simply learn each other’s limits, what was acceptable and what wasn’t. “Like I told you earlier today, I’m part of your life. Some people were just meant to be together.” His fingers traced her lips and she automatically opened her mouth to them. “You’re mine, lady.” She opened her eyes quickly and caught his chocolate eyes devouring her. The line she’d heard a million times in the past rushed through her like a chilly winter wind. You are mine, lady. Body and soul. She waited for the all too familiar phrase to be finished. But he didn’t say anything else, just smiled at her. His smile said it all. “I have a feeling we’re going to create a hell of a lot of body heat. But it gets cold down here. Sit. Let me build a fire.” He led her by the hand to the couch. She sat and he stacked wood in the fireplace and had flames dancing within minutes. It was a nice view watching his back muscles ripple through his tucked-in cotton shirt. When he turned, he caught her admiring him and grinned. “You can sure make a guy feel sexy when you drool like that.” “Pompous ass,” she muttered, grinning in spite of herself. He chuckled, a deep baritone that sent chills to her toes even though her insides burned with pulsing need. Instead of sitting next to her, she raised her eyebrows questioningly when he walked over toward the bar. “Oh, I don’t know if I should have any wine.” She leaned forward on the edge of the couch while he produced two wineglasses and a bottle of wine from underneath the counter. 99

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“I’ve been saving this bottle of wine for a number of years now.” He ignored her plea, and poured the golden liquid into the glasses and then carried them to her. “I wanted it to be for a very special occasion.” “This is a special occasion?” She frowned, trying to guess what occasion he might suggest. He sat down next to her. She pulled her legs up, willingly cuddling into him while his arm went around her, drawing her under his wing. “I think you know it is.” Suddenly her fingers trembled, and she sipped the chilled wine quickly, hesitating to put meaning to his words. If he was about to admit he was Jonathan, then she needed to be sober to hear it. The rim of the wineglass cooled her knee and she held it there, staring at the golden fluid and waited for him to say more. Hunter laughed quietly and she looked up at his dark profile. “I can’t begin to tell you how impressed I am with Alex.” She wasn’t ready for the change of conversation and a twinge of disappointment hit her. “Alex?” she asked, fighting to get her mind to switch gears. “He blows me away with how intelligent he is.” “It’s just how he is.” She remembered her son chatting with Hunter earlier that day about some program. “What was it you two were doing on the computer?” He laughed as his finger teased the inside of her leg. “We weren’t doing anything. He did it all.” “Don’t make my son do things without telling me.” Her guard went up. Alex was intelligent. But he also was trusting. She hadn’t raised him any other way. “You’re just going to have to get accustomed to sharing him,” he said, turning so he looked down at her, his hand moving and tracing a small circle around her nipple. His seductions were effective, but she was being left out. “You’re awfully dominating, Hunter. I want the truth, please.” She leaned her head back in order to see his eyes. She was asking for more than just to know what Alex was doing on the computer. It wouldn’t take too much effort to get her son to explain what Hunter had him doing. “You’re just going to have to trust me,” he whispered, undaunted by her words. There was no change in his expression, or his actions. Confident and cool, completely in control, and very content that she’d not push him, his hand again moved under her sweater. Once, early in her relationship with Jonathan, she would have accepted being left in the dark, given up on questioning him and submitted to his irresistible seductions. But this wasn’t a game, she was no longer a teenager, or in her early adulthood. Life was serious, and no one would run it for her. “Just remember, he’s my son. The time you spend with him is a privilege, not a right.” 100

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His gaze shot from her breasts to her face and one eyebrow shot up. Every muscle in his body hardened to stone. It was all she could do to not let him stare her down. He stared at her for a long minute, silent, while her heart began pounding in her chest. “I’ll work hard for the day when you change your mind about that.” His voice sounded throaty but his muscles relaxed noticeably throughout his body. She chewed on the inside of her mouth and continued to look at him. There was more. She sensed it. He almost said something else and held it back. She knew the look. He looked so much like Alex he could probably make anyone believe he was the father. The attachment growing between Alex and Hunter was more noticeable daily. And if Hunter loved her, she would want him also to love her son. Alex suddenly seemed to want a father. He’d asked her more questions about it since they’d moved here than he had his entire life. Like any mother, she wanted her son happy, wanted to give him what he wanted. Hunter was holding something back from her. She sensed it. She saw it. “What is it?” she whispered, drowning in those milk chocolate pools of lust and concern. He let go of her gaze and stared into the fire. She studied his strong jawbone. It would be easy to let him into her life just because of his love for Alex, but he reminded her so much of Jonathan. When the man set his mind to something, it was impossible to change it. This jawbone was different though. She slowly ran her finger across it and he lowered his face without notice and sucked her finger inside his mouth aggressively. She gasped and her blood boiled. All guards she held up against him collapsed and she knew he saw his opportunity when he looked into her eyes. He turned on her and the arm that had wrapped around her lowered to her waist and lifted her onto him. He cradled her at the end of the couch, stroking her lips with his, and then kissing her passionately. Running her hands through his coarse curly hair, the beat of his heart pounded slowly against her palm when she pressed her hands against his temples. His hand moved slowly up her knit skirt while his other hand branded the middle of her back while he pressed her to him. Their mouths made passionate love to each other. Chills rushed over her skin when he pulled her sweater up. She opened her eyes and she saw how heavy his eyes were with desire. He was making her crazy. “Hunter, please,” she whispered with his mouth still on hers, and she pushed gently against his chest. As she adjusted herself on his lap, his hard cock throbbed against her. She suddenly remembered the glass of wine in her hand…as it spilled all over the back of his shirt. “Oh God!” he hissed, as the chilled wine soaked him. He jumped up quickly, putting her down on the couch none too gently. “I’m so sorry.” She jumped up just as quickly. 101

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The expression on his face was one of pure shock as he pulled the wet material away from his skin. Something in his expression suddenly struck her as comical and she suppressed a giggle. “I really didn’t mean to do that.” She quickly put her hand to her mouth as another giggle forced its way out. “That’s okay.” He shook his head, peeling the shirt from his body, and giving her a cocky grin. Light from the fire danced over his bulging muscles. He rippled everywhere and his stomach was flat and hard. Black hair covered his chest and then streamed into a line, disappearing into his pants. Her mouth went dry and she put her wineglass to her lips before realizing it was empty. Jonathan had been muscular and lean. Hunter was thicker, more filled out. Damn, you sure have improved with age, my dear. He turned and walked toward a washer and dryer that were along the staircase. Throwing his wet shirt into one basket, he reached into another, pulling out a clean shirt. She watched his body move, strong and confident, roped muscle flexing and stretching under his dark skin. As he turned his back to her, horror hit her so hard her dinner almost came up. She choked, gasping and coughing at the same time. On his right shoulder blade was the outline of a serpent, pointing an arrow across his back. The remnants of a tattoo that someone had tried to remove. She thought about the day she and Jonathan went out and got matching tattoos, hers on the left shoulder, his on the right. When they stood next to each other, the arrows pointed to each other. A sign of their love for each other. It had never crossed her mind to have hers removed. “Tell me what ideas you have for Alex’s birthday,” he said, while pulling a snug white T-shirt over his head. “There’s a variety of birthday party invitations at the Corner Drugstore.” He walked toward her, extending his hand to pull her back down on the couch with him. But he moved toward her almost as if he were in a dream. His voice traveled toward her slowly, coming through a long narrow tunnel. Everything began spinning around her. The warmth from the wine turned into smothering humidity. She couldn’t breathe. “Jonathan,” she whispered. If he heard her, he said nothing. Hunter was Jonathan. There was no doubt about it. He’d removed the tattoo. He didn’t love her. He’d denied to her who he was. Yet he was trying to seduce her. Why? She couldn’t look him in the face. “I’ve got to go.” She sounded a lot calmer than she felt.

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“No. Don’t leave.” He sincerely sounded surprised that she’d want to. “It’s late.” She backed away from him and didn’t stop when she reached the stairs. “Thank you for a nice evening,” she said over her shoulder. There was no way she’d look at him. Walk. Don’t run. If you run, he’ll chase you. If you walk, he’ll just watch you leave. She was right.

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Chapter Eleven The nightmares wouldn’t go away. The first night she lay in a field of flowers with Hunter on top of her. Then, suddenly, Jonathan would lift his head and laugh hysterically. A disturbing, eerie laugh. The surrealism made her blood curdle. In another dream she would run. Running as fast as she could through a huge maze that appeared to simply go in a circle. She could hear Hunter’s voice…no, Jonathan’s voice…calling her. “There’s nowhere to run, Joanna. You’re mine, body and soul.” She’d run even faster, and the words continued to repeat themselves in her head over and over again until the two voices became one. Hunter is Jonathan. Jonathan is Hunter. Hunter is Jonathan. The words chanted at her in a singsong voice. One morning she woke up cold and clammy. This was the worst nightmare yet. Something had to be done about this. She was completely exhausted. In her dream, she held hands with Hunter, or was it Jonathan, on one side and Alex on the other. The man and boy also held hands and the three were spinning in a circle. Faster and faster. She was so dizzy. She begged them to stop, afraid to let go of their hands. “Stop! Stop!” she’d screamed. “This is going too fast. Please stop.” “You’re just not willing to accept it,” they both whispered to her. Their faces were far away from her, one big face, one small face, both the same face, but their whispers were in her ear. Lack of sleep made her grouchy. Knowing he’d denied being Jonathan, showed her identification to support some ridiculous story, made her pissed. “Don’t do this.” Those words echoed in her head. They were his parting words to her. She wasn’t the one who’d done it. He had lied, withheld information. She wouldn’t have anything to do with him, wouldn’t talk to him, wouldn’t return his calls. When she dropped Alex off at school Monday morning, there he was, across the street, leaning next to the Jeep, talking to Jimmy. She’d tried not to look. He can’t be Jonathan. I’ll never see Jonathan again. It had taken her years to come to terms with that. It was a decision she’d made to run, to save the life that grew within her at the time, and she had to live with it. She’d rather be alive without being in love, than in love and dead. Jonathan was gone. There was no Jonathan.

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But Hunter was Jonathan. And he’d lied to her about it. He’d gone to great efforts to keep her from knowing the truth. And failed. Jonathan stopped talking to Jimmy and looked her in direction. She’d seen that look before. In her dreams at night for years. It was the look she’d seen in his eyes when she ran the opposite direction of the rest of the team the night the mission had gone desperately wrong. It was the last time she’d ever seen Jonathan. She glared at both of them, tossed her hair over her shoulder and climbed in her truck, not looking their way again as she drove off. One question plagued her more than anything. What was he doing here? That was the thought going through her head Wednesday morning when she pulled up in front of her cabin. Why would Jonathan be living in a tiny town for almost three years now? He certainly wasn’t looking for her. Try as she would, she couldn’t find any justifications for his being there to hurt her. He’d been there first. And he removed his tattoo. The tattoo they had to show a symbol of their love for each other. Had Jonathan run from Alpha too? No general had ever done that…and lived. Movement in front of her paused the tormented thoughts. “Hi there.” Heidi had been sitting on the stoop in front of her door and stood to wave. She’d re-dyed her purple hair. It clashed with the red leggings she wore that disappeared into army boots. Her face had a healthy glow to it though. At least someone was sleeping. “Hi yourself,” she answered, and Heidi stood behind her as she unlocked the door. “What are you doing this morning?” Heidi followed her into the kitchen. “I’m supposed to go over to your mom’s in a minute.” “Oh.” Heidi looked down at her feet and twisted one of her boots on the floor. Jennifer pulled out a chair at the kitchen table and plopped down. “What’s up?” Heidi smiled shyly. “I’m sure I’m being paranoid.” Jennifer looked up, waiting for her to continue. Heidi played with her tongue ring. “I think the guys that raped me are here in town.” She looked into Jennifer’s eyes quickly, and then focused again on her boot. “Have you told your dad?” Fear rushed across Heidi’s face. “No. Like I said, I’m sure I’m just being paranoid. They were just some guys I didn’t know. I saw them at the parking lot last night.” The parking lot was the Sears parking lot where all the local teenage kids hung out on the weekends and some of the more audacious ones on the weeknights. “What did they look like?”

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“They were older for one thing. I don’t know why they’d be there and not at the bar.” This was a valid concern. Once kids came of age, they proudly accepted their right to go to The Goldpan, the only bar in town. “There were three of them, one tall and blond. He’s the one I remember,” and she shuddered, “and a shorter dark-haired one and then a fat one.” For a second she looked like she would puke. “Never mind,” she continued, waving her hand, as if erasing all the unpleasant thoughts. If only it could be that easy. “I’ll get over this. Forget I said anything.” She looked up and smiled and her eyes glowed as if she had successfully wiped all concern from her mind. “Tell me about you and Hunter. The way the women all hung all over him…” she paused, “before you came to town, that is, I figured he was a pretty good fuck. What went wrong?” Was this girl only fourteen? “That has nothing to do with it.” She focused on her fingernails so Heidi couldn’t see her blush. “There were just some issues. I don’t know if I should start something that could be disastrous.” “Disastrous?” “That’s probably not the right word.” What was the right word? “I get it.” She leaned the chair back on two legs. “You got cold feet.” Heidi smiled, feeling she’d learned the secret everyone in town was dying to learn. “No, I didn’t.” The words came out way too quickly. “Ah ha! So you did fuck him.” “Heidi!” “Come on. We’re doing girl-talk here,” the teenager whined. “You can tell me.” Jennifer got up and started the process of making coffee. “I need to get over to your mom’s.” “Why? So you can start this entire conversation over again?” Good point. “Look. Let’s just say that as I got to know him…” She hesitated, looking for the words she hadn’t been able to put together for herself yet. “I mean, as I see him for who he really is…I just don’t know if it would work out.” Heidi didn’t have a quick response for the somewhat accurate confession. And then the phone rang. “I thought you were coming over.” Susie’s voice sounded worried. “Everything okay?” “Yeah, I had company show up.” Jennifer mouthed the words “your mother” to Heidi. “I’m on my way over.”

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“Let me guess. My daughter succeeded in beating me to the punch on the hottest gossip in town.” Did anyone in this town care about her feelings? Everyone in the town viewed them as a couple. To them, this was a lover’s quarrel. You’re the only one who hasn’t accepted it, Joanna. “You know, you two are more alike than either one of you care to admit.” Jennifer smiled as Heidi stuck her finger in her mouth like she would throw up and Susie let out a snort in her ear. “Actually, I’m glad she’s there,” Susie went on. “I’ve got a favor to ask. My mom called and asked if I was free for lunch. Would you kind of baby-sit Heidi? I mean, don’t let her know that’s what you’re doing. Just keep an eye on her.” “I think I can do that.” Jennifer smiled, knowing her friend could use some motherly advice on her teenage daughter. “Guess what?” She smiled after hanging up the phone. “We get to spend the day together.” Hanging out with Heidi wasn’t a bad thing. And the way her thoughts had been making her nuts lately, she admitted she didn’t want to be alone. Heidi did act a lot like her mother as the two of them walked slowly through the small downtown. She giggled and bounced around Jennifer while talking about what she would do when she got out of this “godforsaken town”. They’d walked through all the stores that were open. During the week, other than Sears, most of the stores didn’t open until one. Heidi had insisted Jennifer would feel better if she found some trivial little item she didn’t need and bought it for herself. Jennifer settled for a bottle of lavender bath foam. The only thing she could think of that it would be good for was teasing Hunter—wait— make that Jonathan. “Let’s go in here. I’ll buy you a Coke.” Jennifer pointed to The Coffeehaus across the street. “Can I order some food, too?” One thing about Heidi, she wasn’t shy. “Sure, if you’re hungry.” They sat down at one of the three tables toward the front of the long narrow café. The large glass window that covered the front of the store had the word Coffeehaus painted in cursive at an angle and a steaming cup of coffee painted under it. The place was quite quaint with the dining area full of square tables, matching checkered tablecloths, and large fern plants in clay pots along the wall. Heidi ordered a cheeseburger with fries and a large Diet Dr. Pepper. Jennifer ordered the hot chocolate she’d mentioned earlier, and then found herself staring out the window at the street, wondering if she’d see Hunter, or whatever she was supposed to call him. “I know what you’re thinking,” Heidi said in a singsong voice. “Am not,” she smiled, but wished she wasn’t so obvious.

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What had happened to her ability to hide her true feelings? Maybe this was the real world—a normal life. People knowing and caring about what you thought. What a concept. “Shit. Jennifer. There they are!” Heidi whispered, although there was no one else other than the cook in the entire café. “Huh?” Jennifer looked up and down the street, and then her eye caught three men getting out of a parked car across the street. “The guys I saw the other night.” Heidi cocked her head and studied the three men. “Shit, man. I really think it’s them.” “I’ll be right back.” Jennifer jumped up from the table right as the food was being delivered. “Where are you going?” There was panic in Heidi’s voice. The cook looked uninterested. “Don’t worry.” She looked quickly at Heidi and then at the cook who busied himself behind the counter. Reaching into her front jeans pocket, she pulled out a wad of wrinkled bills and loosened a twenty. “Here,” she handed the twenty to Heidi, encouraging the cook to go away and not worry about his bill. “I promise. I’ll be right back. Stay here.” Jennifer ran out the door and slowed to a walk quickly, so as not to look obvious. Strolling toward the car and the three men, she quickly memorized the tag number and then walked into the corner drugstore, conveniently called The Corner Drugstore. There was a pen on the counter and she picked it up to write the tag number on one of the cards sitting on the counter advertising manicures. “Can I help you?” An older woman with blue hair walked slowly toward her from the other side of the counter. “Um, do you sell cameras?” She calmed her voice and smiled politely, trying to look like she had all the time in the world. “I need film, too.” Jennifer loaded the film in the doorway to the drugstore. She wasn’t sure where the three men had gone, but she decided to break her new camera in on the car that was still parked across the street. The camera buzzed as it automatically advanced with each shot. She was trying out the zoom lens, when the guys walked out of the liquor store. Jennifer pretended not to notice but walked slowly into the street. The tall building across the street that housed the liquor store as well as the local newspaper, became the focus of her camera. The three men walked to their car talking cheerfully, seemingly unaware of her presence. She focused her eye to the camera and waited until all three were in focus. The third guy, the heavy-set one, seemed to take forever to reach the car. Snap! Gotcha.

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The blond-haired man noticed her first. He might be able to tempt a young lady with his wild look and that angry expression that mellowed a bit when he met her gaze. She lowered the camera and squinted up at the building, trying to appear very interested in its architectural structure. Tilting her head, she raised the camera to her eye. She lowered it a minute later and chanced a glance at the blond-haired man. He’d looked back at his buddies but she couldn’t hear what they were saying. The other two were getting into the car but he hesitated, like he might say something to her. “You from around here?” She decided to speak first and threw out an impressive Southern accent. Thank God, no one she knew was downtown. “No, but I kind of know the place.” He put his hand on the top of the door and cocked his hips to the side. And just to make sure she knew how much of a stud he was, he crossed one booted foot across the other and flashed a toothy smile at her. “What can I do for you, pretty lady?” “My papa built this building. He just died and I’m trying to put together kind of a scrapbook, you know?” “That’s real nice of you.” Another toothy smile and slight gyration of the hips. “Was he your only family?” “I’m all that’s left.” She shrugged her shoulders and held out her arms. If he was Heidi’s rapist, he probably preyed on women, and girls, who didn’t have a lot of family. Less people to come looking for him. “I don’t know anything about that building,” he said, taking the opportunity to take a good look at her wool sweater and black jeans. “Well, thanks anyway.” She turned, and headed back toward the Coffeehaus. She hadn’t made it across the street when a Jeep came toward her from the alley. Inside were two men. The one in the passenger seat, with black curly hair and very dark chocolate eyes, looked very angry. As their eyes met she sucked in her breath, and at the same time, a hand grabbed her arm. “Hey, darling.” Jennifer turned around quickly as the blond-haired man spoke to her. He had a faint smell of beer and pot on him. “You going to be here for a few days?” Her gut reaction was to take the camera that she held in her free hand and clobber him upside the head with it. She didn’t answer and just looked down at his hand. He let go of her arm. Two car doors shut behind her. “Since you’re here in town maybe you need someone to have a good time with.” Oh, this guy had some really good pick-up lines. She didn’t know if she wanted to hit him or puke on him. “I was just wondering if you might be at the bar tonight.” He snorted and her stomach turned. “There’s only one in this town.”

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She pretended to give him the once-over. Then looked up at him and gave him a slight smile. “I might,” she said, and then turned and walked toward the café. She heard some muffled whoops as the guy returned to his car. The Jeep was parked at the end of the alley and Jimmy and Hunter stood in front of it watching her. There was no way to get to the Coffeehaus without walking past them. Car doors slammed behind her and the car spun its wheels as it drove away. Dust from the road filled the air around her. She sucked in her breath and approached the two men. “Who the hell were those guys?” Jimmy asked the question. She shot Hunter a glance. He watched the car drive down the street. His expression was masked, but muscles bulged throughout his body and his eyes were black with fire. “Just some guys,” she shrugged, and started to walk toward the café. She doubted she’d get off that easily. She was right. A large hand grabbed her elbow in an iron grip and spun her around. “A high-school girl was raped last night.” Hunter looked at her with Jonathan’s eyes. Eyes that said, I’m sick of your crap. Shape up now. “She got beat up pretty badly. It’s not something that happens around here too often. Now, who were those guys?” “I don’t know who they were.” She looked down at her arm where he had his death grip. “You’re hurting me.” Instead of letting her go, he pulled her closer to him. “Then why were you talking to them?” “Heidi thinks they’re the guys that raped her.” She looked quickly from one to the other. “I got their tag number and pictures so I can do a trace and see if they have records.” Jimmy turned around and slammed the top of his Jeep with his fist so hard she jumped. He turned around just as quickly and came at her so fast she stepped back. Hunter let go of her and straightened and Jimmy stopped, but his hands clenched into fists. “Around here, I’m the law.” Now he looked like he wanted to kill her. “You got information like that, you tell me.” He was starting to yell, but then lowered his voice and almost growled, “I don’t care what kind of promise you made.” He turned around and hit the Jeep again. “Damn it!” he yelled, and then threw his arms up in the air. He looked at Hunter as if searching for an explanation for her behavior. “What were you going to do? You think you were going to go after these guys on your own?” Jimmy demanded. She looked from one face to the other. They were both glaring at her and she’d been doing just fine. Once she knew something she would have told them.

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“I was doing just fine.” Both men’s mouths fell open. She held up the camera. “I have tag numbers. I can ID them. I can do this. They’ll be at the bar tonight, and I’ll find out more about what they’re up to then.” “And then what?” Hunter raised his hands in exasperation. “You going to go off with them to see where they go? You think you can hold off three men?” She held her ground. “Heidi isn’t positive it’s them. You can’t arrest them without some kind of proof. Even if that tag number has a history, or if they have criminal records, you don’t know they’re your rapists.” Hunter grabbed her by the arms and literally lifted her off the ground. “You’re not in charge here.” He stressed each word. “What was your plan? What were you going to do with your proof? Limp on your other leg for the rest of your life?” Her eyes welled with tears at the reminder that she was damaged goods. She hated him for that, and she ached to punch him right in the middle of those chocolate eyes that devoured her. He put her down, and released her arms but lifted her hand that held the camera. “Get this developed. Go home and do your search. We’ll be there in an hour.” Nice of him to invite himself over. “I won’t be there in an hour.” She yanked her hand away from him and backed up from both of them. “I’ll be picking Alex up from school.” “Then we’ll be waiting when you get back,” Jimmy said emphatically. Something dawned on him then. “Aren’t you supposed to be with Heidi this morning?” “She’s down at the Coffeehaus.” Jennifer felt for the teenager as Jimmy pushed in between them and marched down the street. Hunter stared at her. She looked back defiantly, determined this man would know she wouldn’t tolerate this treatment. His eyes softened briefly but locked onto hers. “Don’t ever manhandle me like that again.” She narrowed her gaze on him, staring into his hardening dark eyes. “And you will not tell me what to do.” He stepped forward and grabbed the back of her neck, using his fingers to lift her face to his. “Do you like being raped?” His whisper cut through the air. “No.” “Then do as you’re told so you don’t get hurt.” He pulled her to him and kissed her solidly and forcefully on the lips. Her hands went to his chest and she pushed against him but wasn’t released until he pulled her head back. “Maybe if you kept me informed I wouldn’t get hurt.” She looked up into his eyes and saw pain. It was just there for a second, and then he covered it quickly. She searched to find it again, to identify its source.

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A mask quickly covered his expression, blocking his emotions from her. She straightened, scowling. It didn’t faze him. “Go take care of that film,” he said quietly, and let her go. She looked at him a second longer than she should have. Fire grew in his gaze. The same fire sparked deep inside her. She fought it. He knew she knew he was Jonathan. She’d caught him in his lie. Yet he wouldn’t admit it. Jonathan was the general of the most deadly covert agency in the world. And she would never go back to that life. Even if it meant doing her best to stifle every emotion and sensation that rippled through her when he touched her, looked at her. She turned and hurried down the street making sure she didn’t limp once. She knew he was watching.

***** “Where’s Alex?” Hunter confronted her the second she walked into her living room. “Is this a search program running?” Jimmy walked down the hallway and joined Hunter, standing in the middle of her living room staring at her. Wow, they sure made themselves at home. She walked around her coffee table toward her kitchen. Grabbing an apple out of the clear plastic bag on her counter, she reached for her cutting board and a steak knife. Focusing on the two men, she gestured with the knife. “Alex is with Susie and, yes, that’s a search program running. It should be conclusive,” she looked at her watch, “in about thirty minutes.” She turned back around and then opened her corner cabinet and went onto tiptoe to reach for her peanut butter. Opening the silverware drawer, she pulled out a large serving spoon and scooped a generous pile of peanut butter onto a blue plastic plate she pulled out of the dish strainer. Apples and peanut butter…good for what ailed you. After adding chopped apples to the plate she turned to head to her table, and almost ran into an iron chest. “Why didn’t you bring Alex home?” He ran his hand through her hair and she realized Jimmy had disappeared. The front door opened and closed, and the hunger in her stomach was replaced with a large rock. “He doesn’t need to be part of this.” She didn’t look at him but stepped around him to go to the table. The other side of the table. “You aren’t going to let me see him, are you?”

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She looked up at him like she didn’t know what he was talking about. “I just don’t want him to be exposed to talk of rapists and such. He’s a child.” “A child that could make that program run twice as fast,” he pointed out. “I’m his parent,” she reminded him. “I call the shots. I don’t want him around this.” “There is no reason for you to be doing this.” He spoke quietly. My God, he almost sounded like he was pleading. “Doing what?” Her look challenged him. “What are you talking about? Is there something I don’t know here? Something you aren’t sharing with me?” She let a little too much sarcasm drip. His face turned to stone. She wasn’t referring to their individual identities. He knew beyond a shadow of a doubt who she was, and she’d be willing to bet he knew the second he saw her. No, she wanted to know something else. Who was Alex’s father? Hunter disappeared. She’d pushed him too far. A masked stare, hard as stone, burned holes through the wall of resistance she had firmly in place. He resumed the look of a man with secrets, a man who wouldn’t share them, the look of a general. This was Jonathan. No one yelled at or confronted Jonathan about any decision he made. Well she wasn’t one of his agents anymore. But you’re still his woman—and he’s always been your man. The deadly silence was interrupted with the beep-beeping of the computer in the other room. It might as well have been a bullhorn in her ear. She didn’t look up into those dreadfully penetrating eyes, but instead grabbed her plate and chomped on an apple indifferently as she walked past him down the hall. He followed right behind her. The Federal Bureau of Investigation had firewalls set around the program they used to store criminal records. She’d successfully broken through them and the traps set were easily maneuvered around. Child’s play! She fought a smile as she thought of her son’s comment. Hunter’s glowering presence over her shoulder brought back memories to a distraction. Her head swam with incident after incident where she’d sat at a computer giving data to Jonathan so he could create strategies. They were a good team and knew each other’s thoughts before they were spoken. No one accomplished a profile faster than they did. But she couldn’t stop shaking while she printed off the criminal record for each of the identified men. He had to notice. Her head was spinning. The man she’d feared running into for the past six and a half years was right behind her. And the secrets he refused to share with her terrified her. The apples and peanut butter turned in her stomach. “Do any of them have current warrants out?” His voice sounded so far away. “Joanna, check for current warrants.” The instruction came simply enough. Her hands froze in midair. The apples and peanut butter churned slowly in a circle, building, building… 113

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“Are you okay?” “I’m going to be sick.” She literally pushed him out of the way as she ran past him to the bathroom. You just called me Joanna. Several minutes later a cold washcloth caressed her mouth and a strong but gentle hand was lifting her from her knees. She stood obediently while he wiped her face then handed her a cup of water and bottle of mouthwash that was conveniently already on the bathroom counter. “You’re afraid of something that doesn’t exist.” He spoke soothingly, his face a little bit too close to hers. “It looks like it exists to me.” She swallowed the mouthwash instead of spitting. Hunter’s hands moved to either side of her head and there was no way around him in the small bathroom. “There is nothing here for you to be afraid of.” There was no way she could move her head away from his kiss. His lips were hot and soothing and something churned inside, but it wasn’t nausea, and she couldn’t make it go away. There is something to be deathly afraid of…you’re Jonathan! “I’ll run this stuff up to Jimmy. You stay here and relax. I’ll bring Alex back.” He brushed his lips over her forehead. “We’ll be back in a minute.” The man had managed to take control of the entire situation and see Alex. That was Jonathan.

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Chapter Twelve Fifteen minutes passed and Jonathan, or should she call him Hunter, hadn’t returned with Alex. Jennifer refused to allow doubts to enter her mind. They would be there any second and in the meantime she would busy herself at the computer. She sat down and stared at the screen saver. Lava bubbles came at her three-dimensionally. Where did Alex find these things? Her thoughts drifted to her son and the life she’d made for him in this town. Alex seemed happier than ever. All he talked about was school, the friends he was making, and Hunter. She leaned on the probability that Jonathan was truly the boy’s father. But why? Jonathan made an extended effort for Alex to like him. He’d seemed visibly upset when she’d implied he couldn’t see him. Why would Jonathan have her artificially inseminated? Jennifer tapped the space bar, and the FBI screen appeared in front of her. She didn’t like staring at that any more than the screen saver. She looked at her watch. Jonathan left twenty minutes ago. Waiting could be the worst form of torture. Picking up her phone she decided to see how Heidi was doing. The teenager answered on the first ring. “Yo,” the feminine voice said. “Heidi, how you doing?” “Better now, but you squealed on me.” “No, I got busted too…caught in the act.” She hoped the bond still existed. “I’ve got a real big favor to ask you?” “Lay it on me.” She popped gum loudly in Jennifer’s ear. “I need to do something tonight and I’d get a little resistance if some people found out about it. Do you think you could come over and watch Alex tonight for an hour or so?” “Yeah, I’ll do that for you.” She paused. “Hey, you’re not going around behind Hunter’s back, are you?” Jennifer blinked in shock at the suggestion. One, that it had been implied and, two, that the thought never crossed her mind. There is no one else for you. “No. But there’s nothing to cheat on, just for the record.” “That’s not what Hunter says.” Heidi’s voice suggested she believed Hunter over her. “But, whatever. What time do you want me there?”

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“How about seven.” Then she added quickly, “And don’t tell anyone you’re doing this.” “I won’t.” Jonathan walked in with Alex as she hung up the phone. She took a minute to clear the website and empty cookies, then shut down the computer. The two of them were in the living room when she reached the end of the hallway. “Hi, Mom.” The boy walked in surrounded by a cold breeze. His rosy cheeks, tousled curls, and coat hanging crookedly on him had her smiling. Without notice, Alex crawled on top of her when she sat on the couch, holding something she couldn’t recognize, in his hand. “Look what I got.” His grin was in her face, and she couldn’t help but kiss his cold cheek. “What do you have?” Jonathan stood in the doorway watching them. Alex held up a dark blue mutated-looking action figure, with bulging muscles that didn’t quite work into the human anatomy. “What’s that?” She held her head back to focus better on the action figure that had just been stuck in her face. “It’s Batman Avenger, Mom.” He almost sounded disappointed that she didn’t know the action figure’s name. Surprised, she looked at the doll and then at the happy child who was already sliding off her to walk his new toy across the coffee table. “All the guys at school have him.” He then jumped up, and ran over to Jonathan, who had been watching her closely. She caught his gaze right before he looked down at the boy who’d wrapped his thin arms around Jonathan’s waist. “Do you think next time we could get Robin and Ice Man and Riddler?” Jonathan had bought the toy for Alex. She met his gaze, reading contentment in his expression, but there was something else. Worry, fear? She couldn’t place it, and neither emotion fit Jonathan’s nature. At least not the man she’d known six years ago. “I didn’t know you wanted these things.” She frowned, fighting the intense jealousy she suddenly felt. Alex shrugged. “I guess I told Hunter.” “Well, tell him thank you, and let him get back to work, honey.” She managed a polite tone, but she feared Jonathan saw the jealousy that churned inside her, a very unpleasant feeling. “Your mom’s right,” Jonathan said, ruffling the boy’s hair. “Enjoy your toy, and I’ll see you tomorrow.” Tomorrow? All she could do was stare when Jonathan lifted Alex up, planted a kiss on his forehead, then lowered him and opened the door. He gave her a parting look that

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annoyed her with the captivating effect it had on her. Then he was gone, and the door closed. “So how was school?” She decided not to make an issue out of the toy. Alex adored Hunter, and until she could prove whether he was Alex’s father or not, she wouldn’t belittle the man. What other black-haired, dark-skinned man did you know six years ago? “It was good. Mom, can we get the rest of the guys that go with this one?” His chocolate, gold-speckled eyes pleaded with her. “Then when we go on our field trip tomorrow, I can show the other guys what I got.” “You’ve never acted like you were interested in what the other guys in your class played with.” She wanted to know her son’s thoughts, this almost-six-year-old child, who could act like an adult one minute, and then be the perfect child the next. “It’s all they talk about.” He turned serious, his expression sobering. “I just want to be part of it all.” He then made a silly face. “It’s not like they’d understand how to rewrite a graphics program.” “You take the challenges of your intelligence so well.” Her heart swelled painfully and she fought the sudden sensation to cry. She’d do anything to keep this life for her son. “I just wish you wouldn’t ask Hunter to buy you toys.” “I didn’t. He showed up at the Morrises’ and surprised me with it. He said he wanted me to enjoy being a child.” He gave her an odd look, and then came over and rubbed her knee. “You know Mom, Hunter says so many wonderful things about you, but then when he walked me up here, he said you were mad at him. I just don’t understand why you can’t love him too. He’s so cool, and he says he would take care of us and you wouldn’t ever have to worry again. He loves us, Mom. You should love him too.” “He told you to say that, didn’t he?” She managed to fight back tears with a shrewd look. Alex smiled. “Well, sorta. He said to work on you for him, but it’s only because you won’t let him talk to you.” “Because I won’t…” She forced the impulsive comment to a stop. “Honey, I just don’t want you to get hurt.” “He’s pretty open about how he feels, Mom.” Alex turned to go toward his room. “Wait a minute.” She scooped herself off the couch and handed him his backpack. “I just noticed you’re saying Mom now, instead of Mama.” “Hunter says it sounds more American.” Hunter says, Hunter says, she was sick of Hunter says. And why was Hunter so open about his feelings toward Alex? She stewed quietly for the next few hours, occupying her time by scrubbing her floors and vacuuming the other rooms. Alex was lost on the computer, as usual, and

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after looking over his shoulder once or twice, she determined his activities were innocent and not Hunter-related. It was ten after seven when a quiet knock was barely noticed at the front door. “I owe you one for this,” Jennifer said as she shut the door behind Heidi. “Yeah, you do.” Heidi turned, looking serious. “I expect to be paid.” “Okay, how much?” “Twenty bucks.” “For an hour?” “Your kid’s high-maintenance.” Heidi’s expression didn’t change. “By the way, you look nice.” Heidi nodded her approval of the light-colored slacks Jennifer wore with a matching pale pink sweater. She wore white flats, showing panty hose on the top of her feet. Not conducive clothes for the elements outside. She wore clothes for an evening on the town. She’d applied mascara and a touch of blush and her light brown hair had just been taken out of hot rollers. Heidi eyed her suspiciously. “You’re going to get yourself in trouble. It doesn’t matter if you don’t tell me where you’re going, Hunter will find out.” She shrugged. “It’s a small town.” “What makes you think Hunter doesn’t know?” She smiled mysteriously, and tapped her finger on Alex’s nose when he came out to inspect her. “Be good for Heidi.” “It’s more like she better be good for me.” Alex rolled his eyes and stuck his tongue out at the army fatigue-attired teenager. “How long you going to be gone?” “I’ll be back in an hour. Be nice.” She pointed her finger at Alex and then walked out into the cold. When she bought her black Toyota truck she’d relished in how small the cab was. Having been initiated in Alpha Corp at the ripe age of sixteen, they’d taught her to drive. She’d driven on occasion before but she never questioned the order to attend Driver’s Education. The most common vehicles used by Alpha Corp were nondescript dark gray vans. She grew accustomed to large amounts of space inside the vehicles, which made it easy to change into proper attire needed for whatever mission she’d been assigned to. As she struggled inside her small cab to change her clothes, she wished for just a little more room. She’d wanted to give Heidi the impression she was going out on a social event of some kind. She knew Jonathan was busy, more than likely down at The Goldpan with Jimmy, trying to arrest Blondie and his cronies. But if for any reason, he or anyone else questioned her whereabouts, all Heidi and Alex would be able to tell them was how she’d dressed. Placing a black ski mask and a pair of black leather gloves on the seat next to her, she backed out of the driveway. She had to scoot herself around in her seat for a few

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minutes while she drove, before her black jeans felt comfortable. She straightened her black turtleneck and entered the main road. She’d overheard some women talking at the grocery store about how the gravel road that led up her side of the mountain actually went up past Jonathan’s house and around to the other side. It only took a few minutes to drive to the other entrance of the same road. She’d driven by it before getting Alex earlier that day, to confirm where it was in the daylight. Now as darkness settled in, she found her way easily enough. The road was narrow and winding. Her heart began beating harder when finally the road began curving downward again. She had to remind herself to breathe when she got her first glimpse of Jonathan’s home sitting through the trees, the floodlight out back giving the woods a surreal appearance. It looked quiet and empty. She pulled her truck off the road once it became level and parked in the camouflage of the trees. There were two things she needed to find out. She was beginning to accept the fact that Jonathan was probably Alex’s father and he seemed to know it. But why had she been artificially inseminated? Why would he not admit any of this to her? And most important, was Jonathan still connected with Alpha Corp? Somehow, the answers to these questions had to be inside that house. Pulling the ski mask over her head and sliding on the gloves, she slid out into the cold night air. She wore a leather harness underneath the black leather coat she’d zipped up to block the stinging wind. Of course, it had to be a colder night tonight than it had been the last few nights. Nonetheless, her palms were sweaty inside her gloves. The deck leading into the basement had been shoveled and swept. Salt had been put down and she appreciated his hard work to keep his house in order when she left no footprints while walking up to the door. She’d noticed the security system installed in his house when she’d been there last. Old habits died hard. Unzipping her coat, she pulled a flat disc with a silver button pad on it out of the leather harness she wore. She placed the disarmer up against the wall of the house and pushed several buttons. Her heart pounded during the few minutes that seemed like an eternity, until a green light flashed and she exhaled. The coldness of the doorknob seeped through her leather gloves. She turned it carefully. The door opened into the basement. She entered and shut the door quietly behind her. There was no sound of an alarm. She’d done it. It had been a long time since she’d entered a house like this. She impressed herself with a clear head. Stay focused, do what you need to do, and then get the hell out of here. A small lamp burned on the computer desk across the room. It provided enough light to prevent her from tripping over a size fourteen pair of house shoes at the bottom of the stairs. Jonathan was a big man. She hoped the answers to her questions would be found on his computer. Pulling out the comfortable office chair that had been pushed under the large mahogany desk, she sat down and booted up the computer. His desktop appeared in front of her within a minute, and she clicked to take a look at his files. Very few files appeared and as she 119

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opened each one she found itemizations of monthly bills, total expenses but no income column. She knew where his money came from. The same place hers did. The last file she opened appeared to be poetry. Each group of stanzas had a date above it but no titles. She didn’t know Jonathan wrote poetry. She caught herself reading a couple of stanzas and made herself stop. It was a love sonnet, describing the loss of a loved one. She needed to stay focused. Think with your head, not your heart. He must keep files on disc, she concluded, and started looking around the computer. A squeaking sound somewhere in the house froze her hand in midair. She listened to the following silence for a minute, refusing to move until she was satisfied she was still alone in the house. It was just a branch hitting a window. Once again, she surveyed her immediate surroundings for discs. Several small clear plastic containers sat on the corner of the desk. She looked at one after the other. The discs inside were no more than programs he’d probably downloaded onto his computer. In the corner of the room she saw a small filing cabinet. She reached inside her coat and pulled a small flashlight out of the leather harness as well as the disarmer. Squatting in front of the top cabinet, she wasn’t surprised to see it was locked. The disarmer only took a few seconds to unlock the cabinet and she pulled it open. Inside was a small handheld safe. It was the identical brand to the one she used to store her money. Surprisingly, the disarmer took longer to unlock the safe than it did the filing cabinet. “Bingo!” she whispered when she recognized Alpha Corp letterhead on a pile of papers lying flat inside the safe. A rubber band secured about twenty unmarked black discs. She pulled the safe over to the desk and set it on her lap while she inserted the first disc. It was her personal profile, all the information ever obtained about Joanna Hopkins. This was highly confidential information. Did Jonathan have access to this kind of stuff? Was it a copy or the original? If it were the original then Alpha Corp wouldn’t have a history on her. Don’t get your hopes up, she thought to herself as she glanced down at the papers she’d picked up out of the safe. She looked at the plain black print on the paper. It was dated January 20, 1999. That was the day she’d escaped form Alpha Corp. Her stomach tied into knots. She looked around the room, listened to the silence of the house, and then continued reading. The next words she read made her so furious the papers wrinkled from her grip. Mission status: Elimination; Probable Outcome: 100%; Imperative Factors: Alpha Procreation Compromised. Alpha Procreation? That must have been the name of the project that impregnated her. The status of the mission was to eliminate someone, probably her.

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Triumph rushed through her. They’d assumed by their 100% probable outcome that she’d be an easy target. She’d shown them. She glanced down the rest of the paper and read the typed notes at the bottom. Her breath grew louder through her ski mask while she quickly scanned over the words more than once. Subject has been properly stimulated through pharmaceutical injections. Subject’s chemical reproductive hormones have successfully been modified. Impregnation has been attempted. Results of chemical modifications in fetus yet to be determined. General Estevez will personally be in charge of the project and oversee the gestation period. She snorted. You didn’t get to do that, did you, Jonathan? Jonathan’s signature was at the bottom of the page. Flipping through the rest of the papers, her hour quickly disappeared and she hadn’t found out everything she needed to know. The next page itemized a list of drugs and the dosages that were used. They were genetic enhancement drugs. This explained Alex’s intelligence. He was the product of a laboratory experiment. Nausea ripped through her. She and Alex were nothing more than guinea pigs. When had they given her these drugs? She froze when she saw the last piece of paper in the stack. It was an order from High Command, the central unit that oversaw the production levels of the different generals posted around the world. Its location was not privileged information, but the letterhead on the paper indicated a Switzerland address. The orders were directed to General Estevez. They read simply, Alpha Procreation will be returned to High Command without incident. All resources may be implemented. Incubation subject is expendable. She saw with horror the first five cities listed were where she’d lived after fleeing Alpha Corp. They’d been very close to capturing her! As she reread the brief order, cold sweat spread across her skin. They wanted Alex. They didn’t want her—just Alex. No wonder Jonathan was working so hard to develop a relationship with her son. It wasn’t to win her heart. All he wanted was Alex. Quickly, she put the papers back into the safe and then wrapped the rubber band around the black discs and placed them on top of the papers. She restored the safe to its spot in the top drawer of the safe and closed the filing cabinet, making sure it locked. Then shutting down the computer seemed to take twice as long as it had to boot up. She reached around the computer to flip off the switch and noticed something on the back of the desk. A quartz formation sat on top of a pile of papers. She hadn’t noticed it before. Picking it up, she observed the two large quartzes fused together by nature forming a heart shape. The quartz was a pale red. She couldn’t tell that in the dark, but she knew

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what it looked like in the light. She’d given the heart-shaped quartz to Jonathan on his twenty-first birthday. Why did he still have it? It probably served well as a paper holder. Seducing her had only been a fringe benefit to getting her son. Jonathan was following orders. Then why had he been here for three years before you arrived? A sudden clicking noise caused her to freeze. The front door upstairs had just opened. Quickly, she turned off the computer, zipped up her coat, then, glancing at the desk to make sure all was in order, she made a quick escape to the glass doors. Footsteps sounded through the house upstairs. The alarm being off triggered Jonathan that someone was still in the house. The footsteps increased in speed. She opened the back door and shut it as quietly as she could as the cold wind slapped her in the face.

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Chapter Thirteen There was barely time to make it off the deck and to the edge of the woods when she heard the back door open. She broke into a full-fledged run, but not in the direction of her truck. Jonathan was following her, and if he knew she was “breaking and entering”, that she’d learned the reason why he’d refused to confess the truth, he’d kill her before she could get to Alex. She’d have to backtrack into the woods until she was far enough away from the other houses. Then she would have to shoot and kill Jonathan. Would it have been better not to know what she’d just found out? No. There was no contest. She’d choose Alex’s life over Jonathan’s life any day. Grabbing the side of a tree instinctively, she held on for dear life when she realized the ground dropped off by about eight feet directly in front of her. That was a close call. She held the tree and watched as snow fell to the ground below. Looking back she could see a dark figure running toward her through the trees. She looked back down the steep decline. Eight feet or so. You won’t make it far if you break your leg, Joanna. She turned and ran along the edge of the cliff, cursing the half moon for providing too little light for her to see well, and enough light to clearly silhouette her body, a perfect target for Jonathan. Just ahead, the decline lessened and she shimmied her way down the cliff. As she took off running, she heard a loud thud behind her, and knew Jonathan had jumped off the cliff. He was gaining on her. She threw everything she had into her speed. Trees became obstacles to dodge around. Branches scraped through the knitted material of her ski mask. She literally jumped over a large rock protruding from the ground. Her breathing was deafening. Loud footsteps pounded through the trees behind her, gaining still. A distraction—God, anything—something to slow him down. Her mind raced. She’d never get away from him this way. He’d simply run her into exhaustion, or her leg would give out. Perish the thought. Frantically searching her surroundings, her breathing echoed in her ears like a steam engine through her mask. There were too many rocks. Large rocks. The side of the mountain would be coming up soon. She diverted to the left. She leaned hard on her right leg to avoid rocky ground. A sharp pain hit. First her inner thigh, then her hands through the leather gloves when she fell to the ground. Footsteps pounded right behind her. She scurried to her feet with the help of a strong hand grabbing the back of her leather jacket. 123

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“No!” she screamed while flipping around to confront her aggressor. Jonathan’s eyes glowed black with rage. He literally lifted her off the ground as his hand went to her neck. Her legs swung through the air like a rag doll’s. He swung her through the air and she stumbled to land on the ground on all fours. Her leg went out from under her again. As she struggled to regain her footing, she realized suddenly that the heart-shaped quartz was in her coat pocket and her gun was on the inside of her jacket. When had she pocketed the quartz? Jonathan pulled a gun on her and walked toward her like a giant predator. She could see the white of his eyes surrounding the black fury that glared at her. It was all she could do to maintain her standing position from the pain in her leg. Backing up wasn’t an option. He pointed his gun directly at her heart with one hand and reached up with the other and pulled off her ski mask. His entire body relaxed and he lowered the gun. “You!” The fury in his eyes disappeared and was replaced by something else. “Damn it.” She took her hand out of her coat pocket with the quartz in it. Fire burned through her and without blinking, drinking in the gaze of powerfully dark eyes, she swung out, aiming for his head. Equally as fast, his arm went up, grabbed hers, and slammed it back. The quartz flew from her hand and hit the rocks on the ground, mere feet from where they stood. It shattered into several smaller quartz. Her love gift to him destroyed. “No,” he whispered. With her head still turned toward the destroyed heart, she shot a look at him out of the corner of her eye. “I managed to save that through everything I’ve been through.” She turned her head to face his and relaxed her facial muscles. She could still do it. A blank look, tell no secrets, give no information. She stared at him. The wind attacked them. She didn’t flinch. “Why did you make me chase you out this far? Can you walk?” He looked down at her leg. She didn’t move. He looked up at her. “Come on.” His hand still held her wrist, and he pulled her while he started to walk in the direction of his house. He left her no options and so she allowed him to lead her silently. The crunching of the hard snow under their feet grew louder and louder. How was she going to get out of this one? Alex was safe, for now. She had to make sure Jonathan didn’t leave her until she could figure out how to protect Alex from him. Her son had no clue who Hunter really was.

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“Why were you on my computer?” His voice broke the night stillness around them and she almost jumped. “You did a good job of buying yourself enough time to find whatever you were looking for. Alex called me right after you left.” Her muscles tensed. Her own son turned her in. Jonathan must feel awfully satisfied that he’d won him over in just a few months. “I never guessed your true motives. He assumed you were meeting me somewhere and didn’t want him to know because you were being discreet. He was proud that you respected your reputation enough not to want the town to talk about you and me dating.” He paused and turned back to look at her. “Have you had many boyfriends around him before?” That’s none of your damn business. She glared at him, but said nothing. “It doesn’t sound like you have.” He turned his face from her view to pay attention to the forest around them, but he was pleased. She knew this man as well as she knew herself. Time hadn’t changed that. “You never showed up. An hour or so later I called your place and Heidi said you told them you’d be back in an hour. By the time I drove up to your place and your truck wasn’t there, I started to worry. When I opened my front door and the alarm was off…” he paused. “I got pissed.” They reached the ledge that he’d so easily jumped down. She saw his deep footprints in the snow where he’d landed and realized how well he must know these woods. He’d brought them back to the exact same point. He walked up the steep incline with several steps and literally dragged her up behind him. She struggled for her footing when they’d reached the ground on top. Spasms started in her right inner thigh. She made it a step or two further before stumbling. He kept walking and she limped to keep up, his grasp unrelenting. She tripped on a small rock and went down. He stopped, still holding her wrist, and waited while she attempted to stand. Pain shot through her leg. She fought stinging tears. Her exposed cheeks burned from the cold. He knows you’re damaged goods—that’s why you’re expendable. Don’t show emotion. Don’t say a word. “We’ve got to get that leg of yours looked at,” he sighed, and had arms wrapped around her waist before she could protest. “Don’t touch me,” she snarled but he picked her up anyway. She attempted to kick him, hard, so he wouldn’t be able to walk for a while. A hand came down, slapping her rear end. In the cold it stung twice as bad and she yelped. “Hold still, damn it!” He resituated her in both of his arms until he was cradling her like a baby. Those dark eyes were no longer angry, more like concerned, and warmth radiated from his chest. “You can’t walk, and I don’t feel like freezing to death. We’ll get home a lot faster this way.” Why don’t you just shoot me in the woods and get this over with.

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She lowered her head so he couldn’t see her face and relaxed her body. She didn’t need to be this close to him right now. Why, Jonathan? Why? He placed her down when they reached the deck. She took the first advantage she saw when he turned his back on her to open the glass door. Leaping over the railing she hit the cold ground and snow hard. She hit it harder when Jonathan landed on top of her. “Why won’t you trust me?” he asked while he pinned her to the frozen ground. “I’m not your enemy.” His face was inches from hers and she kept as neutral an expression as she could manage with his body crunched on top of hers. His breath was hot in her face, smelling faintly of beer. God. Please don’t be drunk. Memories of aggressive sex when Jonathan came home drunk slammed through her. Her skin suddenly tingled everywhere while a hot throbbing grew deep inside her. Shit, she didn’t need to think about that right now. “Juana, te amo.” His Spanish made him appear more like the native Colombian he’d professed to be for years, than a product of the American melting pot from Brooklyn. She had to turn her head away from him and shut her eyes so he wouldn’t see her pain. Tears burned her eyes. He must have. He yanked her up quickly. She didn’t touch the stairs when he lifted her onto the deck. With a shove, she flew through the open back door and stumbled into his basement, still only lit by the small lamp in the corner. He shut and locked the back door behind her. Her gun was still in her leather harness inside her coat. She turned around slowly and faced the man who had just told her he loved her. Words he’d never said to her before. It was always the unspoken truth. Why did she have to hear them now? Now, when she knew that he planned on stealing her child and killing her. Ignoring his profession of love brought the anger back in him. She saw it in his eyes. He reached into his inside coat pocket, pulled out his phone, then pulled his coat off and threw it on the couch. “Heidi?” Her eyes shot back up to his. What was he going to do? “I want you to take Alex and go over to your house.” He looked down at the phone. “Take his pajamas.” Oh, she could just imagine the teenager’s response to that. “Do as you’re told.” He folded the phone in half and dropped his arm.

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She bit her lip and looked at the ground. He was going to keep her here. They might end up here alone together all night. Don’t go there, Joanna. She slowly looked back up at him, desire making her too warm in her coat. This wasn’t fair. For years she’d ached for this man. Dreamed about him every night. Looked for him every day. His laugh startled her. “I made you, Joanna. Remember? I know what your best weapon is. That look won’t get you anywhere. Not right now. Not with me.” She glared at him, and he gestured to the fireplace. “Why don’t you make us a fire?” Obviously, he wasn’t going to turn his back on her again. “It’ll get rather nippy down here and we may be here for a while.” Her mouth opened to say something and she shut it again quickly. He leaned back in the rocking chair and crossed his feet, sticking his long legs out toward her. She allowed her eyes to stroll down his body before returning her gaze to his. His eyes burned. He licked his lips before talking and she felt her insides leap. He knew what his best weapon was too. “We are going to sit here and talk until I once again have your undivided trust.” That snapped her into reality. “I will answer any questions, explain any details, show proof if I can. Whatever it takes, Juana, to prevent you from trying to sabotage all our work. Maybe I should have done it sooner. But we will take the time now.” She walked over to the fireplace and pulled back the metal screen. There was nothing he could say to prevent her from trying to sabotage his efforts to take her son. “Alex called me right before I reached my house and told me my computer was on. He linked our computers together, did you know that?” Another blow to her heart. “He said you’d accessed your personal history disc. He’d never seen that before.” He quit talking but she refused to look at him. She heard him sigh. “He asked me why you had sex with so many different men. He downloaded the file once you brought it up. Even though you only looked at it for a minute, he saved it to disc, sat there and read about everything you’d ever done in Alpha Corp.” His words hit her harder than a fist to her face. Tears burned her cheeks while she froze, horrified. All she’d wanted was to keep Alex free of Alpha Corp, keep him from ever knowing about it. “He wanted to know if I was Jonathan Estevez.” Turning, she met his gaze through teary vision. She saw the pain etched on his face. “He said he understood why you were acting scared to be around me.” Wiping her wet hands across her face quickly, she resumed making the fire. Jonathan had brought on all this pain. He hadn’t let go of Alpha Corp. For all she knew, his entire house could be bugged and others were listening, observing, during this warped debriefing. “Damn it, Joanna, I was a stupid-ass punk kid given the power to play God. I don’t want you or Alex to be afraid of me.”

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There was no way she’d justify that meager plea with any reaction whatsoever. She continued to work as if she weren’t listening. His sigh sounded choked with emotion. She was dying to see the expression on his face. Don’t look at him! “I was walking down the mountain to Jimmy’s house the day Susie showed you the cabin. It was your voice that caught my attention. Then there was Alex, but I couldn’t see him well that day. Susie went on and on about you later that night. She made a point of telling me a beautiful, single mother was my new neighbor. Then Dora teased me about being in Ireland six years ago. When I saw you at Jimmy’s those blue eyes of yours didn’t add up, and there was the plastic surgery. Someone did a decent job of giving you bigger tits. I did like the old ones too, by the way.” She tossed a small log a bit too hard into the fireplace and it rolled back toward her. “But I knew it was you, just like you knew it was me. The second we looked at each other. I’d had my appearances altered too, but there was recognition in your eyes…and fear.” He paused, and it took all the strength she could muster not to turn and look at him. “The night Dora came home and told me how impressed all the teachers were with this genius kid that just moved to town, I broke up with her and she moved out.” He shuffled behind her, possibly rearranging that gorgeous body in the chair behind her. “But when we walked up to the waterfall and I realized how successful the project had been, I deleted all essential files from my hard drive and put them on disc.” He paused. “You can have them if it’ll make you feel better. I took them when I left. It didn’t matter if they discovered it was missing once they found out I was missing.” With that she turned around. Her jaw dropped before she could stop herself. Without permission, her heart swelled so much it grew painful. More than anything on this planet she wanted to believe he was no longer part of Alpha Corp. But dreams seldom came true, and she forced her heart to constrict. The pain inside her grew worse. “Yes, Juana. I left Alpha Corp too, exactly one year after you did. Right after I got word that you’d had a son.” She about fell over. “What?” she whispered, forgetting to remain quiet and show no emotion. “I left on orders.” His face became hard and she saw the demons that had haunted him over the years. “It was a test. I knew it, and it pissed me off.” Curses escaped under his breath. “They wanted me to bring back Alex and kill you.” He stopped to let her digest what he’d just said. Then he leaned forward in the rocking chair. “I can prove that to you if you’d like to see the orders.” She reached for the box of matches sitting on the mantel and lit the paper she’d stuffed in among the logs. The fire roared in the fireplace. She stood and walked several feet back from the heat. “I saw them,” she said casually.

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“You’ve seen them?” He sounded surprised. Then his eyes narrowed on her. “How?” She said nothing and he studied her face for an answer. Enlightenment appeared in his eyes. “You have a disarmer, don’t you? That explains how you disarmed my alarm system and you used it to break into the safe. Those things are so finicky, how have you managed—” But then he stopped and his eyes widened in understanding. “Alex maintains your equipment for you, doesn’t he?” He shook his head in astonishment. Without looking at her, he slapped his hands onto his legs, then stood up facing her. He held his hand out to her, palm up. “Let me have it.” “You want that along with my body and soul?” Her sarcasm dripped. “Your speech was beautiful, but just a bit too late. You’ve got a long way to go to earn my trust.” It was so hard to say those words. And even harder to keep her feet planted where they were and not walk into those strong arms that she knew would welcome her. Pain racked her body, it hurt so fucking bad. All she’d ever wanted was Jonathan. But he hadn’t trusted her. “You knew it was me the second you saw me—your words. But you wait until now to share all of this with me?” She slapped at the tear that stubbornly burned down her cheek. “You don’t think it would have mattered to me that you left Alpha Corp?” Every muscle in his body tensed. Rage enveloped him. She was pushing him too far. “I was protecting you,” he said through clenched teeth. “I’ve always protected you. And I will continue to do so—for life.” He reached for her and unzipped her coat with fierce energy. She flinched under his efforts. She breathed in deeply and slowly took off her coat so he wouldn’t rip it off of her. “Well, I’ll be.” He looked up at her and gave her a crooked smile. It was triumphant, not friendly. “You really cleaned house before you left, didn’t you?” “It’s what I had on me for my last mission.” She shrugged. She allowed him to help her out of the harness and he tossed it on the couch. Then he placed his hands on her and frisked her. She didn’t fight him. He flipped her around roughly although she did notice his fingers became gentle while they moved down her legs. Satisfied he’d thoroughly disarmed her, he turned her back around and smiled. “Would you like a drink?” She didn’t see anything to drink about. She stifled the comment. Best not to respond. Jonathan hadn’t changed that much in six years. He’d share with her what he wanted her to know when he was damned good and ready for her to know it. Only problem was she had changed in six years. Being left in the dark was no longer an option. Not when she had a child to look out for. His strong hand was warm around hers and she found herself wrapping her fingers around his thick palm when he led her over to the bar. Gallantly pulling out a barstool,

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he seated her. Walking around to the other side of the bar he assumed the role of bartender—a damned sexy bartender. He placed two glasses on the bar and poured whiskey for himself, on ice. For her, rum and coke. He remembered her favorite drink. Be careful, Joanna. “For the first year you were out, I managed to sabotage every mission that was sent out after you. It usually succeeded in giving you a day or two ahead of us and then some anxious lieutenant would inform me they’d found you.” She reached for her drink and took a small sip, looked up at him, then tipped the glass for a larger sip, setting down a half-full glass. Letting out a deep sigh she looked up at him again. “I tried so hard to get you out of my system but you were there the entire time.” The words just came out. There was too much history for them to catch up on. Too many stories she ached to share with him, to compare notes. To bring both of them up to date. She pulled the glass to her lips without thinking and slammed the rest of the drink. Don’t let him get to you. Without hesitating, he made her another drink. Setting it down in front of her he reached up and played with one of the curls she’d used as part of her ploy. “Why would you want me out of your system?” His voice was deep, throaty. “The way you’ve looked at me for the past few months, the way you’ve kissed me, the way we’ve made love, why would you think I’d do anything but protect you?” “Because you got me pregnant. The second I saw Alex I knew who his father was. Holy shit, Jonathan, all the other men in my unit were white. It was more than that though. You got me pregnant without me knowing.” Maybe the drink had helped. The burden she carried all these years weighed too heavy on her soul. A slow smile began on his face. He was so damn proud of his son. “I denied it to myself for years. It made no sense. But face it, you raped me, Jonathan.” “What?” he whispered in sincere disbelief, his eyes widening when he looked at her. “Artificial insemination, call it what you want. It was done without my consent. Why, Jonathan? Why did you do that to me?” There, the million-dollar question was lying on the table. “I was six weeks pregnant and hadn’t had sex for over three months.” For some reason, he seemed to find something she’d just said very funny. He slapped his hand on the top of the bar, grabbed his drink and gulped it down in one swallow, then let out a booming laugh. “I don’t see what you find so funny,” she said, crossing her arms and glaring at him. “Bosner swore he fucked you that night. None of us doubted him.”

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She watched his eyes as he spoke of their past and it came back to her with a flash. She’d been so mad at him for some reason or another, she couldn’t remember why. They were always one week on and one week off, both of them so stubborn. They’d returned after a mission and she’d flirted openly with Bosner just to make Jonathan mad. It had worked too. Later that night, while drinking in the mess hall and shooting pool, Jonathan tried to take Bosner on. She’d accused him of making a fool of himself and then had left with Bosner. God, she’d behaved like such a tramp. She’d been immature and spoiled, hurting Jonathan to get his attention. She realized now, looking back, that Bosner had black hair and, if memory served, his eyes were brown. If she had slept with him, she might possibly have wondered if Alex had been his. They couldn’t have known the child she’d eventually given birth to would be the spitting image of Jonathan. “He never touched me,” she said quietly. “I’m not that easy to win over.” He moved around the bar slowly, his chocolate eyes turning dark with emotion. All she could do was watch, her heart pounding in her throat—and between her legs. She almost jumped off her barstool when he walked right up to her. He held her captive with his actions though. Powerful, agile, so huge yet moving with the deadly ease of a dangerous predator. He stood over her, placing an arm on either side of her and resting his hands on the bar behind her. She was pinned under him and denim smashed against denim when he lowered some of his weight on her. His thick legs spread hers apart as he leaned closer. There was pure fire in his eyes. “Jonathan,” she whispered, the side of the bar pressing into her back. The mild discomfort barely affected her. Every drop of blood inside her turned to fire. “You mean to tell me if I wanted sex from you, I couldn’t make you want it too?” He whispered the words into her face, his mouth inches from hers. “You’ve already proved you can do that,” she muttered, not daring to move although she breathed so hard she worried she’d topple off the barstool. She wouldn’t get too far. Corded muscle rippled under dark flesh all around her. All heat in her body swarmed between her legs. Pressure built along with a throbbing that threatened to make her explode with every pulse. She wanted him so badly she couldn’t think about anything else. Muscles flexed and twitched underneath his shirt. Dark chest hair peeked out from the collar of his shirt. Round hard biceps bulged on either side of her. A dark shadow spread along his jaw. The unshaven hair would brush over her flesh. Every nerve ending in her body stood at attention, overly sensitive just imagining what he would do to her. “You said you weren’t that easy to win over.” Dark lashes hooded his gaze. “I didn’t mean with you.” He smiled, that crooked smile he’d passed on to his son. “And why is that?”

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She fought to concentrate, to keep the thick cloud of lust from settling over her brain. “I knew you were you—that you were Jonathan.” He thrust his hips into her crotch, forcing her legs further apart. He thrust again and his cock hardened. Steel. Long and thick. Moisture pooled between her legs. That cock would satisfy the growing pressure, appease the pain that tore through her. Trying to exhale, it sounded more like a whimper, and she bit her lip. One more thrust and her pussy exploded. Running her tongue over her lips, she’d do anything— anything—if he’d just fuck her. She managed to open her eyes and look up at him. If he’d lowered his head just another inch… Sighing deeply, she relaxed underneath him and let her head fall back. “Okay, you win,” she breathed. He pushed his hands away from the bar and lifted off her. She hopped off the stool and managed to walk to the other end of the bar, needing distance. His gaze was more intense than she’d ever remembered seeing it before. “All you’ve proved is we both knew you were lying.” “That’s not what I proved,” he said, the fire still smoldering in his eyes. “I think we both know that you still love me too.” He looked at her and the fire gained some momentum. It’s a ploy, Joanna. She was scared to lower her defenses and believe him. He could tell you anything, do anything to you. Don’t let him. Don’t let him. “I’ve spent the last six years trying to avoid you and Alpha Corp. I noticed you in some of those cities. That paperwork on those discs states you are to get Alex and kill me. You’ve lied to me. And you’ve won Alex over. I’m not a fool, Jonathan. Don’t get so big-headed to think I couldn’t have managed without your protection.” “You seemed to manage well enough with my money.” He spit the words at her and she cringed. A low blow. “That money barely covered the damages for all the services rendered. My God, how long do you think it will take Alex to overcome the file he just read?” She glared at him and crossed her arms. “For six years I’ve had you on the brain. And in less than six months you’ve destroyed everything by denying who you were. You even showed me that fake driver’s license, and then that story about Bogotá. Jonathan, you don’t know what love is.” His entire body tightened, muscles throughout his body almost doubling in size. But he’d hit her where it counted. “Like hell I don’t,” he hissed. “I’ve spent years trying to get you back. The world was in my hands to command and I gave it up for you—for Alex.” “Why should I believe you?” She fought the pain that now pulsed through every inch of her. Everything he said was all she’d wanted to hear for years. Tears welled in her eyes and it pissed her off. “Why, Jonathan? What gives you the right to stand there

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and demand my trust when you’ve lied to me? Not to mention you still haven’t told me why you got me pregnant without even telling me.” And he had no right. No right to ruin her son’s life. No right to take what he hadn’t worked with daily to raise, to nurture, to be there when he cried, when he laughed. Her anger overwhelmed her and she let her words fly. “You were right when you said you made me. I learned how to use people as well as you did. You got what you deserved and you may not have my son.” “He’s my son too.” His voice went flat. Standing there mere feet away from her, suddenly all energy seemed to drain from him. “I was under orders to have you artificially inseminated. We were running mission after mission, hardly ever alone. Alpha Corp believed the project would be more successful if the perfect combination was injected into you. I meant to tell you, but damn it we were never alone. There was never a time when what we said wasn’t recorded. You ran from me and took him with you. I’ve spent years looking for you two. I did what I had to do while you’ve been here, Joanna. There are still things you don’t know.” “Why wasn’t I supposed to know I was pregnant?” She waited for him to continue, to give her the missing puzzle pieces so she could repair her heart. The popping of the fire behind them grew louder as the silence built between them. He knew what she needed to hear. The truth. All of it. And nothing else would work. No more lies. No more stories. No more games. Her heart couldn’t handle it any longer. Her brain was overloaded with them. Crossing her arms, she waited out the silence, sadness weighing her down so heavily when he remained quiet, that she wasn’t sure she could handle another minute of the growing pain. He wasn’t going to tell her. His cell phone rang in his pocket. For a minute it looked like he’d ignore it. His gaze burned through her. God. Was it that hard for him to give her what she needed? The truth would free her heart. He claimed he wanted it. But he wouldn’t do the one thing needed in order to have it. Tears streamed down her face when he finally looked away and pulled out his cell and answered it. “What is it?” His voice was gruff. Instantly it softened as he listened to whoever was on the other line. In fact, every inch of him seemed to deflate. “No, sport, that’s fine. What do you need?” He ran his hands through his hair and walked over to the couch. “She’s fine, Alex. She’s right here.” He looked up at her and the pain she saw in his eyes made her heart explode. He managed a smile at something her son said to him. “No one is going to hurt her, I promise…” a pause, “yes, I promise you. Champ, that was another world. I’m not that person anymore. You’ve got to trust me on this one.” He collapsed onto the couch and lowered his head so all she saw was his hand wrapped through his black curls.

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Moving toward him, she forced herself to stop before reaching him. More than anything she wanted to comfort him, be there for him. But he’d created the burden he bore. Only he could release it and allow his small family who loved him into his life. “What’s that?” He straightened, tensing. “Okay, no, you did the right thing. I love you, too.” He threw the phone to the other end of the couch after hanging up and leaned his head back to look at the ceiling. Her heart exploded through her chest. “Alex told me to tell you that he loves you.” She nodded. There was silence for a minute. Frustrated need mixed with tormented memories. A past haunted both of them that truly could ruin their chance to have a normal future. Joanna straightened, sucking in a breath. Her past would take her down only if she let it. And she’d spent six years doing everything in her power to ensure that didn’t happen—for her and for Alex. Reading the files had confirmed the mystery around the birth of Alex. But there was more. So much more needed to be said. But she needed more than to know how the past had tortured him. She needed some answers. She stared at the fire, wanting to walk over and stir it with the poker, not daring to move. He finally raised his head from the back of the couch and looked at her. His eyes looked bloodshot. Had he been crying just now? Was he getting drunk? She wasn’t sure how much he drank at The Goldpan but he hadn’t seemed drunk, just mad. “Come here,” he said in a throaty whisper and her feet dug into the carpet. “Please.” That one word was the magnet that swept her across the room to his extended hand. He took her still gloved hand in his own. She was grateful for the material between them. He looked through the semi-darkness and his eyes softened once more when she looked back. Was that compassion? “Alpha Corp hadn’t meant for you to carry the fetus full term. They were going to take the child from you before you gave birth—to avoid attachment.” “What?” she whispered. Alpha Corp had always been a cold-hearted entity. But this was pushing it even for them. “I was so pissed off when you ran. When I learned the insemination was successful, I started plans for both of us to run together. You left me—you left me and my heart, my pride, couldn’t handle it. Alex is my son and you took him from me.” “I found myself pregnant—and hadn’t had sex, not in several months. We hadn’t been together.” “I didn’t like it either.” Jonathan ran his hand through his hair, turmoil and frustration showing when he frowned. “I had orders I had to follow. They threatened to take you away, relocate you to Amsterdam. Throughout our time in Alpha Corp I 134

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always managed to keep you with me. But this was something I couldn’t get around. The only way to keep them from taking you was to agree to the artificial insemination.” “I didn’t know any of this. How did you think I’d feel with what knowledge I had?” He didn’t say anything, just stared at her while rubbing her gloved hand. Maybe he searched for the right words. Emotions had always been harder for Jonathan. She’d wait it out, give him time to sort through his thoughts. Finally his mouth moved. He shut it, then slowly spoke to her. “The program I designed and Alex helped me perfect will be through running in four days. Alpha Corp will be destroyed.” That wasn’t what she’d thought he’d say. But then he dropped the bomb. “Alex understands all of this. As soon as the program completes—we leave.”

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Chapter Fourteen “You’re not taking my son anywhere,” she screamed, outrage exploding through her as she leapt toward her halter. God damn his pompous ass for thinking he could take Alex. Her fingers scraped over the leather holding her gun and the tools she’d used to get into his home and access his computer. There was barely time to register Jonathan moving when he landed on top of her, taking them both to the floor. All air left her lungs when he landed on her with his rock-hard chest. Strong arms wrapped around her, immobilizing her. Rippled muscle touched every inch of her body. Just as quickly as he’d taken her down, his fingers gripped her chin, turning her head. His lips scorched her mouth with a kiss so intoxicating she thought she’d pass out. Struggling against him became futile. One arm moved underneath her, lifting her. He held her to him, gripping her chin while deepening the kiss. She tasted the alcohol on his breath. His tongue impaled her mouth, branding her with his heat. His body hardened, pulling her tightly to him while he growled into her mouth, impaling her with his possessive kiss. Her lips tingled and seemed swollen when he pulled away. Staring down at her with his jaw set, hard lines around his eyes, his mouth, showed the determination she’d always known coursed through his blood. “We’re not going anywhere without you.” His voice was husky and authoritative. “I spent years looking for you. I’ve just met Alex and I’m definitely falling for the kid in a big way but…” He paused and searched her face, “Juana, te amo.” She closed her eyes, her thoughts suddenly jumbled into too many knots, while tears raced down her cheeks. He caught each tear with a kiss. “I know you love me too,” he whispered, and she turned to putty. All tension drained from her. She couldn’t fight this. She didn’t want to. The only man she’d ever loved, holding her, caressing her, telling her he loved her. Jonathan had never voiced those words before. And so recently she’d heard them repeatedly. His mouth returned to hers, hot and moist, claiming and exploring. Heat scoured through her without control. She didn’t want to control it, didn’t want to stop it. Her heart wouldn’t survive without him. Jonathan held her. Jonathan was here. She accepted that, accepted that he was Alex’s father. But loving her, offering her a life with

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him where they would be happy, content, a family. She wanted—needed all of that. Opening her heart too far would bring irreparable pain if she didn’t get those things. For now, for this moment, she wouldn’t dwell on where they were headed. Where this relationship would go. And her heart still had to be her own. Wanting Jonathan created a longing so painful it stole her breath. And for now, she would have him. But where it would lead? Where it would take them? If she got her hopes up, they would be crushed—or worse. Alex mattered too much to allow that to happen. Her heart mattered too much to let him have all of her. The way his hands caressed her body, his mouth tortured her lips, his teeth nipped at her, keeping her heart to herself would be the hardest thing she ever did. Need coursed through her. Too many sensations rippled through her, building a pressure, creating a painful longing. Her pussy swelled, throbbed. Her breasts were torturously heavy, aching. And then he let her go, ending the kiss, straightening and pulling her up with him. She longed for his body to be smashed against hers once again and looked up pleadingly. “God, I’ve missed that look, even with the new nose, it’s the same look.” He tapped his finger on her nose and smiled. “Is it possible to gain any of your trust back?” Her eyes focused and she breathed deeply. Releasing his neck, she backed off and tried to get her fingers through some of her tangled curls. “I want to trust you,” she said honestly. “What do you mean we’re leaving? And why?” He let out a long heavy sigh. “Come here and I’ll show you.” Not waiting for a response, he took her hand and guided her back to the computer. He booted it up and pressed some keys once his desktop appeared. The icons disappeared and a red screen showing mechanical engine parts slowly began turning in front of her. He left the puzzling screen for her to study and walked over to grab his phone, then returned to her side. “Jimmy, yeah, okay so far.” Men seemed to need no introduction on the phone. “I need you to make sure Alex gets to school okay in the morning.” She looked up at him quickly, her heart missing several beats. He focused on the ground as he spoke but looked up in time to see her reaction to his words. A slow seductive grin appeared, but then his face went hard and he looked away from her quickly, staring into the dark corners of his basement. “I’m going to do what I should have done the first day I saw her,” he snapped into the phone. “Maybe she would have, but I would have brought her back. It’s really messed with Alex’s head by waiting this long. And it’s destroyed all trust she might

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have had with me.” He paused again, listening. “I didn’t know he would be that damn smart, either.” Another pause. “She’s been out of it for awhile, it’s going to take some time. I told you, I’m going to tell her everything. Yeah, she does.” She saw him smile. What was he saying about her? “No, everything’s still on schedule.” She froze. Jimmy was in on this too. Was he part of Alpha Corp? No way. “Make sure you tell Alex that we’re doing okay, and he can call if he wants.” “It sounds like Jimmy knows a lot about you,” she said questioningly after he’d hung up the phone. Moving to her side, he played with a curl by her face that refused to lay with the others. An anxious sensation ran through her but it was mixed with raw uncontrollable lust. His touch made her crazy. Fucking him right now would be a really damned good thing. Fighting to keep her head clear was becoming more and more of an annoying chore—especially with his hands continually on her. But she needed these answers, needed the chance to rebuild that trust he’d just admitted on the phone that he’d destroyed. “I met Jimmy in Denver before I moved here,” he began. “We partied together up there for awhile and kinda got to know each other.” “What were they doing in Denver?” “They weren’t in Denver, just Jimmy.” Her eyebrow went up and he let out a sigh. “They were separated for a while.” He looked at her carefully. “I confided in Jimmy, Juana, something I’d kill another man for doing. He helped me out of a scrape one night. Alpha Corp had been right behind me for over six months. It was wearing me down and I’d completely lost you.” She wasn’t sure she’d ever seen him admit defeat before. “He told me about Valley View. The man is sharp. He’s served in the military, understands chain of command, how to handle orders, and he was willing to help me. Juana, I needed the help.” She was growing rather fond of hearing his old pet name for her. “We came to Valley View the next day. He had never mentioned a wife and child to me before. He drove me into town and dropped me off at The Goldpan…said he had some things to do and to wander around.” Leaning next to her against the desk, he looked down at her affectionately, his hand cupped her cheek and one finger went to trace her lips. She automatically opened her mouth. Running her tongue over the calloused skin, his thumb pressed against her lips. She sucked it in, closing her eyes while heat surged through her body. “I met this woman in the bar.”

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She opened her eyes. The dark curls surrounding his brooding expression made him look so damned sexy. “We got to talking and I told her I just got to town and needed a place to crash. She walked me over to the motel and I got a room.” He sighed, a tormented sound. “She stayed until the next morning. She was gone when I woke up but when I ran into Jimmy the next day he had the same woman at his side and introduced her as his wife.” She bit his thumb. Jonathan went down on one knee and slowly removed his finger from her mouth. She burned inside and impulsively wanted to smack him hard across the face. Clenching her fists together, she managed to keep her hands still. Jonathan had slept with Susie! Granted he hadn’t known she was Jimmy’s wife at the time. But Susie had never mentioned it. And how many times had Susie commented on how sexy Hunter was? That Jimmy could take lessons. Anger, frustration, and the pain Jonathan must have experienced when he learned the truth, gripped at her so hard she fought to catch her breath. His mouth formed an O and he exhaled loudly. “Joanna, Jimmy doesn’t know this.” Kneeling next to her while she sat at the computer, their faces were inches from each other. No matter the years that had gone by, the close bond they once shared wrapped around her while she stared at him. “There’s no reason for him ever to find out. When Susie looked at me her eyes begged me to keep quiet, and I always have. They married young. I don’t think she ever got the play out of her system. He has his work cut out for him married to her and it would only cause trouble.” She asked the only question that tore at her gut. “Have you had sex with her since then?” “No,” he said quickly, a hard edge in his tone. “And you know damned good and well I never would have if I’d known at that time that she was Jimmy’s wife.” Joanna nodded. She knew. Jonathan would kill a man who didn’t show strong loyalty. Knowing he’d shouldered that burden over these years made her heart bleed for him. He ran his hand up her leg, and she relaxed, aching for him to continue his travels, work his fingers between her legs. The throbbing pain in her pussy increased when his hand paused midway up her thigh. He pointed to the computer screen. “The program on the computer is a virus. It’s an incredible program.” A small smile crossed his face. Crow’s feet appeared next to his eyes simply making him more beautiful. Damn, he’d aged with grace. She turned her attention to the screen, fighting to concentrate on his words.

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“And I couldn’t have pulled it off without Alex. I didn’t plan for him, or you, to know anything about this. That’s why I wouldn’t tell you what you’d already guessed, what you knew in your heart the moment you saw me. If I confirmed who I was to you, then we’d immediately start discussing Alpha Corp. You and Alex needed the sanctuary and the peaceful life Valley View offered you.” He stroked the side of her head, smiling with a sadness in his expression. “After we hooked that satellite up to the side of your cabin, Alex managed within days to link to my computer. He did it only because he could, without any malicious intent. It was all playing to him. But when he discovered everything on my computer, all the efforts I’d made to create a virus to destroy a program that runs throughout the world, he was eager to show me where I’d gone wrong. How to do it properly just made sense to him.” “So you told him about Alpha Corp?” “No. God, Juana. No.” He shook his head hard. “All he saw was the program, and my errors. He instant-messaged me one day and was so excited to show me that he’d fixed it for me. He didn’t realize I’d wanted the program to destroy Alpha Corp.” “I knew he’d love the Internet once he discovered it. But I had no clue he’d be able to do everything he does so easily.” Jonathan didn’t comment but continued with his explanation, his fingers slowly stroking the inside of her leg by her knee. “The program is slowly infiltrating the entire Alpha Corp computer system. Nothing will activate until it’s done, however. Then, the virus automatically downloads and as they detect it and try to stop it.” He paused now and his grin looked absolutely evil. “It will immediately instigate a hybrid virus with new firewalls. Their entire system as well as all backup, memory, everything, should be destroyed worldwide before the day is out.” Her mouth fell open. “That would sever all communication and…” “And destroy Alpha Corp,” he finished triumphantly. “We will finally be free.” He squeezed her leg, his grin looking just like Alex. “I’ll believe it when it happens,” she said truthfully, unable to stop the sudden swarm of butterflies in her stomach. “And I’m not sure I’ll be able to believe it then.” Jonathan stood up, his eyes looking curiously into hers, and pulled her up into his arms. Her hands went to his chest, not to push away, but to feel the strength he fed her. One hand went to her chin and lifted her face until their eyes met. “I was the happiest man in the world when I first saw you and that little version of me walk into this town.” His voice was husky. “How can you explain your choosing the same backward town that I’d chosen several years before?” He paused and searched her face but she had no answer, so gave none. “We were meant to be together.” He ran his hands through her hair, gently pulling her face back. “Joanna, tell me you love me.” “Jonathan. I love you.”

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The words were out of her mouth before she could stop them. The smile he gave her was so triumphant he looked like he’d just secured a major battle zone. Victory danced in his eyes, sending a rushing pressure through her harder and faster than a full-fledged hurricane. His lips were so hot she gasped. She pressed her body against his and his hands were on her skin under her shirt within seconds. He cupped her breasts, tugging and caressing her swollen flesh while strong fingers worked nimbly underneath her bra. Everything spun around her, the world, their entire existence, becoming a blur while all that remained concrete was Jonathan in front of her. Reaching for him, feeling his strength, his never-ending confidence radiating through strong rippling muscle. She grabbed his shirt, wrinkling it in her hands, pulling him closer. “We’re going to make it,” he whispered into her mouth, then traced a scorching moist path toward her jaw, down her neck. Her head fell back. “Yes, we are.” Relaxing further, more than anything she wanted to make it with him, with Alex, as a family. “Together,” he added, reading her mind. And she knew they’d always been that way—together. No matter the distance, no matter the running, the fear, Jonathan had never been out of her thoughts. Her every action, her every breath, had been made with Jonathan in mind. His knuckles grazed over her skin, lifting her shirt, pulling it over her head. Raising her arms, she blinked a few times to focus, and met his powerful gaze. Desire and a craving strong enough that it matched the fire burning inside her steamed in those intense chocolate eyes. Before he could release her bra, she lifted his shirt, adoring the dark spray of coarse hair that spread over iron muscle. So perfect. She licked her lips, admiring the roped muscle that bulged under dark flesh. He resisted for a moment, his strong arms preventing her from bringing his shirt over his head. “I’m going to undress you,” she told him, her voice husky, when he wouldn’t let go of her, wouldn’t raise his arms. A glint in his eyes told her he liked that idea. Rising, straightening until he stood before her, his fingers combed through her hair. “You may. But first,” he instructed, lifting her face so she was forced to quit admiring his perfect torso and stare into his face, “take your clothes off.” Her mouth went dry. Feverish excitement coursed through her. And she almost trembled when she stood, and then fumbled with the clasp of her bra. He wouldn’t help her. Jonathan 141

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stood, inches from her, tall and silent. Her hair fanned around her face while she focused on his legs, yet she knew he watched her every move. A familiar sensation rushed through her. Jonathan watching, always close, keeping a careful eye on her every move. Not interfering, or stepping in to help, but always right there. As he was now. So close. Yet not touching her. As she’d experienced many times in the past years, a longing stretched through her, coursed through her veins, consumed her every thought. All she wanted to do was reach out to him. Finally managing to free the small clasps that held her bra to her, she slid the straps off her shoulders, allowing the material to float down her body. She reached for his pants. “No. Everything. Take everything off.” His baritone gave her chills. “I want you undressed too,” she told him, her mouth almost watering while she focused on the thick black hair that disappeared into the waistline of his jeans. Her mind was a muddled mess, need pumping through her so fast it stole her breath. “Oh, I will be. But first you will undress.” She wasn’t in the mood to argue. The sooner she got out of her clothes, then she’d be able to get him naked. Worked for her. There was nothing glamorous about the way she stripped out of her pants, plopping down on the chair while she slid out of her shoes and then quickly undressed. And this time, “no” wasn’t an option when she tugged at the top button of his jeans. Her pussy swelled, exposed and soaked, while she unzipped his jeans and then forced the material over solid muscle. His skin was so hot it singed her fingers. When his throbbing cock jerked free of its confinement, so close to her face, she almost came. Hard muscle sheathed with velvety-smooth skin. She let him step out of his jeans while running her fingers over the length of his shaft. Then brushing her tongue over his soft, swollen tip, she admired the moisture that glistened against the smooth flesh. “Damn it. Woman.” He tangled his hands into her hair, bringing her face closer to his cock. His entire body trembled when she closed her mouth over him, and then sucked him in gently. Power swelled through her, knowing she controlled him, had him at her mercy while stroking his shaft with her lips. He swelled inside her mouth, jerking, while his hands held her head firmly in place in front of him. He stroked her back, heat consuming her, while she sucked his cock, enjoying his rough hands on her body. Right here, with his hard shaft pressing against her tongue, she knew a strength and domination that could never be matched. Giving him head, stoking the fire she knew burned almost out of control through his body, she had the upper hand.

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This was her man, her cock. And she would take care of him like no one else could. Knowing him so well, even after being apart for years, her tongue lapped at his flesh. She fought the urge to smile when he growled, the deep carnal sound tearing through him when she took him in as far as she could. “More. I need more of you.” He pulled her to her feet so quickly it made her lightheaded. Her eyes moist, her vision blurring, she licked her swollen lips while he pressed her bare ass against the side of the desk. “Lean back,” he ordered, his voice deep and demanding. Words escaped her. Spreading her legs, trying to wrap them around him, he grabbed her, keeping her from supporting herself against him. Falling back on the desk, papers pressed against her back. She stopped herself with her elbows while he held her behind her knees and stretched her, opening her to him. “What a beautiful pussy,” he said through clenched teeth. “Just as I’ve dreamed so many nights.” He plunged into her, sliding her over the desk, while raising her legs higher. With his first thrust he hit the spot that broke the dam, threw her over the edge with so much intensity she saw white sparks before her eyes. Filling her, stroking her inner pussy walls, he gave her what she’d yearned for over the years, bringing her orgasm on so hard, and with so much force, all she could do was claw the desk and scream. “Jonathan.” She ached to tell him how good it felt, how he filled her so perfectly. His movement was quick, aggressive, fluid and confident, as was everything about him. And it was that assertiveness, that determination that Jonathan had always possessed, that turned her on even more than his compelling body, his sexual skills. Not that those were lacking. He stretched her legs further, his expression intent while he gritted his teeth, a dark vein pressing forward across his forehead while he fucked her faster. Dark curls flowed around his hardened features. With every movement, every deep plunge into her, he reclaimed her soul, her body, her heart. Feeling her breasts bounce, her body slide over his desk, her insides swelling and dripping with cum, she reached for him, needing something to hold on to while so many incredible sensations tore through her. “That’s it, Jonathan,” she managed to say, her voice so breathless, her ability to focus on the very edge. “I want everything, all that you have.” And she did. The good and the bad. Every bit of him. Life without Jonathan had been empty, mere actions in order to survive. As he filled her, stroked life back into her, taking the pressure that simmered and then brewed deep inside her to a new level, she was more than ready to take on every bit of the stubborn adorable man who swelled inside her.

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“Tell me you love me.” He’d closed his eyes, his tone harsh while every inch of him hardened, muscles bulging dangerously throughout his body. “Yes. Yes, Jonathan. I love you,” she cried out, her insides burning alive while she orgasmed harder than she knew she ever had in her life. The room flipped to the side. Her heart pounded so hard it felt as thought it would explode. And happiness swept through her as the pressure inside her once again spilled over him. A growl erupted deep inside him, growing, building, until he roared and came, his cock jerking fiercely while he unloaded everything he had, filling her pussy. Moisture dripped out of her cunt, soaking her ass, her inner thighs. Jonathan reached down, grabbing her, pulling her to him before collapsing into the chair. His still hard cock impaled her deeply when she straddled him. Her breasts pressed against his hairy, damp chest, feeling hard and protective muscle touch her oversensitive body. Her arms went around his neck. He pulled her close, their faces too close for her to focus on him. He smiled, flashing white teeth against his beautiful and content face. “I’m going to marry you, Juana.” Then he closed his mouth on top of hers, stealing her response with a kiss.

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About the Author All my life, I’ve wondered at how people fall into the routines of life. The paths we travel seemed to be well-trodden by society. We go to school, fall in love, find a line of work (and hope and pray it is one we like), have children and do our best to mold them into good people who will travel the same path. This is the path so commonly referred to as the “real world”. The characters in my books are destined to stray down a different path other than the one society suggests. Each story leads the reader into a world altered slightly from the one they know. For me, this is what good fiction is about, an opportunity to escape from the daily grind and wander down someone else’s path. Lorie O’Clare lives in Kansas with her three sons. Lorie welcomes mail from readers. You can write to her c/o Ellora’s Cave Publishing at 1056 Home Avenue, Akron, OH 44310-3502.

Also by Lorie O’Clare Cariboo Lunewulf 1: Taming Heather Cariboo Lunewulf 2: Pursuit Cariboo Lunewulf 3: Challenged Dead World Fallen Gods: Jaded Prey Fallen Gods: Lotus Blooming Fallen Gods: Tainted Purity Fallen Gods: Embracing Temptation Full Moon Rising Lunewulf 1: Pack Law Lunewulf 2: In Her Blood Lunewulf 3: In Her Dreams Lunewulf 4: In Her Nature Lunewulf 5: In Her Soul Sex Slaves 1: Sex Traders Sex Slaves 2: Waiting For Yesterday Sex Slaves 3: Waiting For Dawn Things That Go Bump in the Night 2004 anthology Torrid Love: After Dusk Torrid Love: Caught! Torrid Love: The First Time

Discover for yourself why readers can’t get enough of the multiple award-winning publisher Ellora’s Cave. Whether you prefer e-books or paperbacks, be sure to visit EC on the web at www.ellorascave.com for an erotic reading experience that will leave you breathless.

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