Holiday Defenders: Mission: Christmas Rescue / Special Ops Christmas / Homefront Holiday Hero
Holiday Defenders: Mission: Christmas Rescue / Special Ops Christmas / Homefront Holiday Hero
Debby Giusti
Susan Sleeman
Jodie Bailey
This holiday season, three military men of honor must do everything they can to save ChristmasMission: Christmas Rescue by Debby GiustiOn the run from a killer, Elizabeth Tate must accept U.S. Army captain Nick Fontaine's protection for the sake of her young niece and nephew. Now her life is in the hands of the very man who broke her heart years ago.Special Ops Christmas by Susan SleemanResearcher Claire Reed's top secret project is stolen, putting her at risk of being kidnapped to unlock it. Her undercover bodyguard–her former love, Green Beret Travis Chapman–is on his most dangerous mission yet.Homefront Holiday Hero by Jodie BaileyWhen someone tries to kill the daughter of a military official, U.S. Army major Tyler Rainey must keep Kelly Walters from harm…while guarding his own heart against very unexpected feelings.
This holiday season, three military men of honor must do everything they can to save Christmas
Mission: Christmas Rescue by Debby Giusti
On the run from a killer, Elizabeth Tate must accept U.S. Army captain Nick Fontaine’s protection for the sake of her young niece and nephew. Now her life is in the hands of the very man who broke her heart years ago.
Special Ops Christmas by Susan Sleeman
Researcher Claire Reed’s top secret project is stolen, putting her at risk of being kidnapped to unlock it. Her undercover bodyguard—her former love, Green Beret Travis Chapman—is on his most dangerous mission yet.
Homefront Holiday Hero by Jodie Bailey
When someone tries to kill the daughter of a military official, U.S. Army major Tyler Rainey must keep Kelly Walters from harm…while guarding his own heart against very unexpected feelings.
Praise for Debby Giusti
“This story stirs the heart for the real soldiers serving our country today and presents a good mystery while doing so.”
—RT Book Reviews on The Officer’s Secret
“Quite suspenseful with a good mystery and well-defined characters.”
—RT Book Reviews on The Captain’s Mission
Praise for Susan Sleeman
“Sleeman’s intriguing plot proves that it’s possible to meet life’s challenges.”
—RT Book Reviews on Double Exposure
“The mystery will keep you involved until the end.”
—RT Book Reviews on The Christmas Witness
Praise for Jodie Bailey
“As a military wife, Bailey generates characters and a plot that are multi-layered and wonderfully unpredictable.”
—RT Book Reviews on Crossfire
“Bailey creates strong characters and palpable suspense in this tale that will keep you guessing.”
—RT Book Reviews on Freefall
DEBBY GIUSTI
is a medical technologist who loves working with test tubes and petri dishes almost as much as she loves to write. Growing up as an army brat, Debby met and married her husband—then a captain in the army—at Fort Knox, Kentucky. Together they traveled the world, raised three wonderful army brats of their own and have now settled in Atlanta, Georgia, where Debby spins tales of suspense that touch the heart and soul. Contact Debby through her website, www.debbygiusti.com (http://www.debbygiusti.com), email debby@debbygiusti.com, or write c/o Love Inspired Suspense, 233 Broadway, Suite 1001, New York, NY 10279.
SUSAN SLEEMAN
grew up in a small Wisconsin town, where she spent her summers reading Nancy Drew and developing a love of mystery and suspense books. Today she channels this enthusiasm into hosting the popular internet website TheSuspenseZone.com (http://TheSuspenseZone.com)and writing romantic-suspense and mystery novels.
Much to her husband’s chagrin, Susan loves to look at everyday situations and turn them into murder-and-mayhem scenarios for future novels. If you’ve met Susan, she has probably figured out a plausible way to kill you and get away with it.
Susan currently lives in Oregon, but has had the pleasure of living in nine states. Her husband is a church music director and they have two beautiful daughters, a very special son-in-law and an adorable grandson. To learn more about Susan, please visit www.susansleeman.com (http://www.susansleeman.com).
JODIE BAILEY
has been weaving stories since she learned how to hold a pencil. It was only recently she learned that everyone doesn’t make up whole other lives for fun in their spare time. She is an army wife, a mom and a teacher who believes chocolate and a trip to the Outer Banks will cure all ills. In her spare time, she reads cookbooks, rides motorcycles and searches for the perfect cup of coffee. Jodie lives in North Carolina with her husband and her daughter.
Holiday Defenders
Mission: Christmas Rescue
Debby Giusti
Special Ops Christmas
Susan Sleeman
Homefront Holiday Hero
Jodie Bailey
www.millsandboon.co.uk (http://www.millsandboon.co.uk)
Contents
Cover (#ub52d1990-fb91-5960-8732-6ba0d14d0e1a)
Back Cover Text (#u7e77e264-a4f4-5673-9b2e-77bf397f9388)
Praise (#udb1867f5-6fe8-5194-82ca-0adb7be5acc8)
About the Author (#u0f6c4d9b-b472-51ca-8dd0-af0bf6f3b65c)
Title Page (#u87b65144-9dbc-50e5-90f4-a7d5fe0b25d5)
Mission: Christmas Rescue (#ulink_c2e235f0-9702-512b-9b3c-e5eae27222ba)
Bible Verse (#u8a4cc0a4-cb44-5f7b-8b65-2951e6543096)
Dedication (#u47e37498-acd3-5cdb-b195-8d340a4c7c2a)
ONE (#ufcb41a1a-a704-5e7e-9a0c-b0b8e695e33f)
TWO (#uf2a785fa-3c93-59ac-bb85-1a3843521ca4)
THREE (#uaf030dc7-1cd2-5965-a183-8c8f166d5565)
FOUR (#udee06886-002b-5516-aaa7-2ad57002287e)
FIVE (#u8811db8c-5c13-555c-8f6b-4339cbbca986)
SIX (#uaaad227e-2e5d-5899-a840-9aa9f38fd9e2)
SEVEN (#u1e0c215f-9f04-54c9-857d-ba1a007c105c)
EIGHT (#u475eeca6-1de2-523e-836f-624c4083464d)
NINE (#u81d6961a-5f1c-5fa1-a65b-7931a2fdf143)
TEN (#u431dd1e4-07b5-570b-b920-fc0879270534)
ELEVEN (#litres_trial_promo)
TWELVE (#litres_trial_promo)
THIRTEEN (#litres_trial_promo)
FOURTEEN (#litres_trial_promo)
Special Ops Christmas (#litres_trial_promo)
Bible Verse (#litres_trial_promo)
Dedication (#litres_trial_promo)
Acknowledgments (#litres_trial_promo)
ONE (#litres_trial_promo)
TWO (#litres_trial_promo)
THREE (#litres_trial_promo)
FOUR (#litres_trial_promo)
FIVE (#litres_trial_promo)
SIX (#litres_trial_promo)
SEVEN (#litres_trial_promo)
EIGHT (#litres_trial_promo)
NINE (#litres_trial_promo)
TEN (#litres_trial_promo)
ELEVEN (#litres_trial_promo)
Homefront Holiday Hero (#litres_trial_promo)
Bible Verse (#litres_trial_promo)
Dedication (#litres_trial_promo)
ONE (#litres_trial_promo)
TWO (#litres_trial_promo)
THREE (#litres_trial_promo)
FOUR (#litres_trial_promo)
FIVE (#litres_trial_promo)
SIX (#litres_trial_promo)
EPILOGUE (#litres_trial_promo)
Extract (#litres_trial_promo)
Copyright (#litres_trial_promo)
Mission: Christmas Rescue (#ulink_d7efb447-a19e-5524-87ce-ad5a8e50b1b6)
Debby Giusti
For God so loved the world that He gave His Only Begotten Son, so that all who believe in Him may not perish but may have eternal life.
—John 3:16
To my own Mary, Joseph and Elizabeth.
Remember when you acted out the Nativity as children?
Those sweet memories inspired this story.
Merry Christmas.
ONE (#ulink_9ae922a2-b2de-52c5-beb6-7ed08e34fc26)
Elizabeth Tate pulled back the living-room curtain and stared into the night. All she saw in the windowpane was her own reflection and the twinkling lights from the Christmas tree.
Unable to shrug off her unease, she dropped the curtain into place and headed down the hallway to check on Joey and Mary Grace.
Ever since her sister-in-law had died thirteen months earlier, Liz frequently stayed overnight at her brother’s house to babysit his four-and six-year-old children when he was on assignment for a story. His job as a newspaper investigative reporter often took him out of town. Tonight he was working on something closer to home, although he hadn’t shared the details with Elizabeth. All she knew was that it involved the rather controversial “Z” Notes whistleblower blog he wrote on the side to bring public attention to unethical or illegal corporate practices. Normally, Liz treasured the time she could spend with Zack’s little ones. Tonight she was anxious and worried.
Perhaps it was Zack’s warning to remain vigilant that had her conjuring up all types of scenarios. None of them good.
Ever since he’d launched “Z” Notes, she’d been concerned about her brother’s safety. Exposing corruption at any level wasn’t for the faint of heart. Usually Elizabeth could overlook the downside of his work by reminding herself of the good he was doing. And besides, his dedication to his work meant that she had the joy of being deeply involved in her niece and nephew’s lives. As an elementary school teacher, she loved all children, but Mary Grace and Joey held a special place in her heart.
Slipping into their bedrooms, she sighed with relief, feeling both comforted and reassured that they were nestled in their beds, fast asleep. From the looks of contentment on their sweet faces, they were probably dreaming of Christmas, only two days away. By then, her nervous unrest would be a memory and another reason for Zack to poke fun at her concern for his well-being.
Called back to the living room by the shrill trill of her cell, she reached for her BlackBerry and smiled at her brother’s picture on the screen.
“Hey, bro. What’s up?”
“Lizzie, listen to me carefully and do exactly what I tell you. Pack a bag for the children. A couple outfits each. Some underwear. Extra warm clothes. Don’t forget Mary Grace’s toy Nativity set and Joey’s lamb.”
“But—”
“You have to leave the house and go somewhere safe. Hide out until I contact you.”
She pushed the cell closer to her ear. “Is this a joke?”
“I wish it were.”
The urgency in her brother’s voice brought a renewed volley of concern.
“What happened, Zack?”
“An ambush. The guy I was supposed to meet—” He hesitated. “The whistleblower’s dead.”
Liz gasped. “Where are you?”
“On the run. There’re four of them. They want information I’ve uncovered. Grab my laptop and take it with you. Be careful, Liz. Don’t let them find you or the kids.”
“Where can we meet up?”
“We can’t. They’re on my tail. You’ve got to hurry. Take the children and escape.”
A roar filled her head. She tried to think. “But where should we go?”
Zack hesitated. “I...I’m not sure.”
“The Lassiter police can help, Zack. I’ll call them.”
“No.” His firm reply frightened her even more. “You can’t trust them. You can’t trust anyone, except—“
“You’re scaring me, Zack.”
“As much as you won’t like it, sis, there is one person you can trust. Nick Fontaine’s back from his military deployment. I’ll call him. He’s the only person I can depend on.”
She shook her head, vehemently opposed to her brother’s suggestion. “I don’t want Nick’s help.”
“There’s no one else.”
“Then I’ll handle this myself.”
“You’ll need Nick. Hurry. You don’t have much time.”
“Zack—”
“Stay safe, and take care of my babies.”
The connection ended.
Her hands trembled. She stared down at the now-blank screen and tried to comprehend what her brother had just said.
A man murdered? Zack on the run?
She needed to notify the authorities, except he’d been adamant about not telling the very people she wanted to call.
Her stomach churned. Tears stung her eyes. Blinking them back, she glanced at her watch: 10:00 p.m.
How long had she been standing there, stalled, unable to grasp the reality of the moment?
“Oh, God, help me,” she moaned. “Help Zack.”
Knowing she didn’t have a minute to spare, Elizabeth ran into Mary Grace’s bedroom and started packing things into a canvas bag. The Nativity set—a gift Zack’s wife had stitched for their baby girl’s first Christmas—sat on the nightstand. Liz shoved the plump, hand-sewn figures of Mary, Joseph, Baby Jesus and a donkey and camel into the quilted carrier designed as a stable, complete with a Star of Bethlehem appliqué. Closing the Velcro fasteners, she dropped the entire set into the larger, canvas tote before she raced to Joey’s room. The lamb he slept with—another bit of her sister-in-law’s handiwork—was still clenched in his arms.
The serene calm on the child’s face contrasted sharply with the surge of adrenaline that made Liz light-headed. Raking a hand through her hair, she pulled in a lungful of air. Surely she was dreaming.
The memory of Zack’s fear-laced voice echoed in her head. “Hurry,” he had warned.
Glancing again at her watch, she groaned. Twenty minutes had passed. Why was she moving so slowly when time was passing so quickly?
She shoved Joey’s outfits in the bag and added his favorite storybook. It was sitting on top of a craft box filled with crayons and paper, so she threw that in, too. Zipping the bag shut en route, she raced back to the kitchen and grabbed Zack’s laptop, along with the small tote she had packed for herself in case she decided to spend the night at her brother’s house. Her hands shook, and she struggled to unlatch the back door, then stumbled into the adjoining rear garage where she’d parked her SUV.
A December storm had dumped four inches of snow earlier today. The weatherman promised a white Christmas for this part of Tennessee, but right now survival was her only concern. Keep the children safe.
If only she knew where to take them.
She plopped the totes and computer in the rear between the kids’ car seats, grateful Zack had loaded them in her car earlier. Just in case, he’d mentioned. Had he known there might be trouble?
Why, Zack?
Why tonight?
Why this close to Christmas?
Why, when the children have already lost their mother, would you do anything this dangerously foolish?
Anger swelled within her and mixed with frustration and fear that left her gasping for air.
She shook her head. She needed to focus on getting away. From whom, she wasn’t even sure.
Racing back into the house, she yanked heavy winter coats from the closet, along with fleece hats, mittens and boots that could be pulled on over the children’s flannel, footy pajamas.
What else?
Lights from the tree twinkled in the living room.
She unplugged the cord and shivered in the darkness. The only illumination was a small band of light, spilling from the hallway.
Footsteps sounded on the front porch.
Her blood chilled.
She stared at the door, paralyzed with fear. Why had she delayed so long?
Two knocks.
“Lizzie?”
A voice she knew. Her inner resolve to be independent crumbled, and relief flooded over her.
She pulled open the door. Nick Fontaine stood before her, tall, muscular and even more handsome than she remembered.
In spite of her best intentions, her knees went weak, and her heart skidded to a stop.
Ten years. She hadn’t seen him in all that time, yet she’d never forgotten him. How could she forget her first and only teenage love—not to mention the first boy to break her heart?
“Zack called.” He pushed past her into the house, the scent of his aftershave and the cold outdoors coming with him. He closed the door, locked the dead bolt and turned to stare at her with unfairly beautiful dark eyes.
Overpowered by the bulk of him, she took a step back.
“My truck’s parked on the next block,” he said matter-of-factly. They weren’t exactly the first words she’d expected to hear from him after ten years with no contact. But then, she should have known better than to expect anything from him ever since he’d walked out of her life the night of her high school prom.
Even after all these years, she couldn’t cast off the feeling of betrayal. Going to prom with Nick had been a dream come true, and when he’d stood on her front porch and said he loved her, her heart had soared with joy. It had broken the next day, when she learned that he’d left town without even saying goodbye, never to return again.
“I don’t need your help, Nick.”
“Zack thinks you do.”
“What do brothers know about kid sisters?”
“You’re in danger, Lizzie.”
She bristled, hearing the name he’d whispered between kisses the night he’d left her.
“It’s Elizabeth, and I think you should go.”
“Not until you and the children are in your car, headed for safety.”
Why was he so determined?
She reached for the door. He didn’t need her ten years ago, and she didn’t need him now. End of discussion.
A car engine sounded outside. Nick stepped to the window and tugged back the curtain ever so slightly. She peered past him, and her heart froze as four men crawled from a utility van parked in front of the house.
In a blur of motion, Nick hurried her out of the living area. She pointed him to her nephew’s room. “Joey’s a sound sleeper. He won’t wake up and be frightened seeing you like his sister might be. Make sure you bring his lamb.”
Hurrying into the other room, she scooped Mary Grace from her bed and met Nick in the hallway, with Joey in his arms. Leading the way into the kitchen, Nick grabbed the pile of coats and pointed to the back door. “Garage?”
She nodded.
Leaving the warmth of the kitchen, Mary Grace blinked open sleepy eyes.
“We’re going for a ride,” Elizabeth reassured the child as she woke Joey and helped both of them into their coats. Once bundled up, Liz placed them in their car seats and climbed into the rear between them.
“Keys are in the ignition,” she told Nick as he slipped behind the wheel.
He started the engine and glanced back at her before he hit the garage remote control. The panel door lumbered open. Shouts sounded from the side of the house.
“Dear God, protect us,” Liz prayed as she covered the children’s heads with her arms and pulled them close.
Nick backed the SUV out of the garage and turned onto the rear access road before he shifted into Drive and floored the accelerator. Four men with drawn weapons ran toward the car.
Elizabeth wanted to scream. Instead, she whispered words of comfort to the children and tried to shield them with her body.
A shot rang out.
“Keep the kids down,” Nick warned.
The SUV screeched onto the main road. The force of acceleration threw her head against the seat. Hot tears stung her eyes, and she struggled to keep the nervousness from her voice as she soothed the children.
Nick’s hands gripped the wheel so tightly his knuckles had gone white. A muscle twitched on the side of his neck. She saw him glance at her reflection in the rearview mirror and then turn his focus back to the road.
The SUV tore through the neighborhood of white lights and evergreen wreaths. An inflatable Santa Claus and Jolly Snowman nodded in passing. After a series of sharp turns, they left the subdivision and sped away into the night.
Everything had changed seemingly in the blink of an eye. An informant was dead. Zack was in danger, and she had to depend on Nick Fontaine—a man she’d never wanted to see again—in order to save her niece and nephew and herself. Elizabeth hadn’t been able to trust Nick ten years ago. Why should she think she could trust him now?
TWO (#ulink_588c79bb-20ea-54e7-b37d-6406ce857d5b)
Nick could barely take his eyes off Lizzie’s reflection in the rearview mirror. She’d grown even more beautiful over the years, but it hadn’t been her pretty face that took him by surprise earlier.
Rather it had been the look in her blue eyes that cut him to the core when she’d opened the door at Zack’s house. Betrayal and abandonment flashed across her face for an instant before she’d raised her chin and glared at him with accusation.
As much as he wanted to explain what had happened ten years ago, he had to focus on the children’s and Lizzie’s safety first. They could delve into past issues after the danger was over.
When Zack called, he’d been on the run and worried about his family. Without a moment’s hesitation, Nick had raced down the mountain to his old friend’s house.
The two guys had reconnected a number of times over the years when Nick came back to Tennessee on leave, always meeting at Nick’s mountain cabin, on Nick’s turf. He’d never gone back to Lassiter. Never would have, if not for Zack’s plea for help.
Nick couldn’t say no to his old friend, especially when he’d learned Lizzie was in danger along with two adorable kids. The promise Nick had made to Lizzie’s father, Judge Tate, years earlier, that he would never step foot in Lassiter again—a promise that Lizzie never knew about, made under duress—wasn’t as important as keeping the three of them safe.
“Where are you taking us?” she asked from the rear.
He glanced again at her reflection. Long honey-brown hair, arched brows, full lips and crystalline eyes he’d seen too many times in his dreams.
“We’re going someplace safe.”
“I need to know where,” she insisted, her voice raised ever so slightly.
He lowered his gaze to the little guy strapped in beside her who still clutched the stuffed lamb in his arms. Long, thick lashes drooped over his full cheeks.
Nick raised a finger to his lips. “Shhh. Someone’s falling asleep.”
Lizzie glanced at the boy. The strain that furrowed her brow eased, and a hint of a smile teased her lips.
“His name’s Joey,” she said, her voice thick with emotion.
“I seem to recall Nick telling me that big sister is named Mary.”
Turning to her niece, Lizzie stroked her fingers through the child’s curly hair and gave her a reassuring smile.
The little one smiled back. With her bow-shaped mouth, upturned nose, golden hair and blue eyes, she’d steal many a boy’s heart when she grew up.
“My name’s Mary Grace,” she informed him without hesitation. “Aunt Lizzie calls me Sunshine ’cause I brighten her day. I’m six years old.”
Nick inwardly chuckled. Little Miss Sunshine was cute as a button. “You’re so grown up. I’m sure you help your dad around the house.”
“Daddy says I need to help take care of Joey, too.”
“Because he’s younger or because he’s your brother?” Nick played along and paired his seriousness to hers.
“No.” She shook her head emphatically. “’Cause he doesn’t talk.”
Nick threw a questioning glance at Lizzie, who remained silent.
“Joey hasn’t talked since Mama died,” Mary Grace explained.
Nick felt a stab of remorse at the children’s pain. How could a so-called loving God allow their mother to be taken?
Nick’s own dad had died some years earlier. After three deployments with the military, Nick had been up close and personal with death, but what rocked him to the core was senseless loss of life, like Zack’s wife.
And Jeff.
His army buddy shouldn’t have died. If only Nick hadn’t—
“Aunt Lizzie, where’s Baby Jesus?” Mary Grace asked, her eyes suddenly wide with concern.
“Here, honey.” Lizzie unzipped the tote she’d packed for the children and removed the Nativity play set.
Mary Grace tugged on the Velcro fasteners and pulled out Mary, Joseph and the infant babe, along with a lopsided donkey and a two-humped camel. With a contented sigh, she rested her head on the back of her car seat.
Once the child was asleep, Elizabeth glanced over her shoulder at the road behind them. “Any chance we’re being followed?”
Nick studied the darkness. “I’ve kept to the side roads and doubled back a few times. So far I haven’t seen anyone on our tail.”
Seemingly satisfied, Lizzie settled into the seat and glanced at Joey to ensure he was asleep, before she lifted her gaze. “I’m worried about Zack.”
Nick was, as well, but he wouldn’t tell her. She needed something to hold on to, something that provided hope.
“Your brother’s been snooping into other people’s business since before we graduated high school. He’ll be okay.”
She rubbed her arms and stared out the passenger-side window. “You don’t understand. He’s placed himself in danger too many times since Annabelle died. Sometimes I think he’s running away from her death, trying to overfill his life so he doesn’t have time to remember how good it was when she was alive.”
Nick could relate. He’d run away from Lassiter and the townsfolk who never let him forget his father was a failure, and who seemed convinced that Nick was following in his dad’s footsteps. Back then, no one believed in Nick. No one except Zack and Lizzie.
“Your brother has never worried about danger,” Nick said, unwilling to dwell on his own past failures. The army had changed him, thankfully for the better.
“Maybe not, but Zack needs to be careful, especially with two young children.”
She was right, of course. “Tough break to lose a spouse. Cancer, right?”
She nodded. “Thirteen months ago. Everything happened fast. Annabelle was fine one minute and gone the next.”
A weight settled on Nick’s shoulders. He knew too well how quickly life could change.
“But then...” Lizzie stared at him from the backseat. “I’m sure you understand about leaving without notice.”
Her words were a stab to his heart. His gaze locked on hers for a long moment but then broke away. They both knew the history of their past. No reason to bring it up again. She’d moved on. So had he.
Headlights pulled his focus to the road behind them. A vehicle moving quickly. He swallowed down a rise of concern.
“We’re being followed.”
She glanced over her shoulder.
“Get down, Lizzie,” he warned.
Slipping lower in her seat, she placed her hands protectively on the children.
“Is it a van?”
He shook his head. “I can’t tell.”
They crested a hill. On the far side of the ridge, he cut the lights and made a sharp turn onto a smaller two-lane that led into a warehouse parking area. Doyle Manufacturing. The largest employer in the county. Nick braked to a stop behind a tractor trailer and killed the engine.
“What are we doing?” she whispered.
“Hiding.” He peered past the semi to the main road. “I want to see who’s behind us.”
Headlights crested the hill at a rapid speed. The vehicle came into view. A utility van.
Nick’s gut tightened.
“It’s them, isn’t it?” Lizzie had unbuckled her seat belt and scooted forward in her seat.
Her closeness affected him. For a long moment, he closed his eyes and tried to shrug off the sensations playing havoc with his emotions. Steeling himself, he blinked his eyes open and started the engine.
“At least we know which direction they’re headed,” he said, hoping to reassure her.
With a sigh, Lizzie buckled her seat belt. “I don’t like this, Nick.”
“Everything’s going to be okay.” Of course, he hoped it would be, but his internal warning radar was on high alert. Something very wrong was happening in Lassiter, Tennessee.
Pulling onto the two-lane, he steered away from the main road the van had traveled. Staring into the darkness, he saw the faint outline of the mountain ahead in the distance.
The killers wouldn’t follow them there, especially not on a snowy night. At least, that’s what Nick hoped.
If he were a praying man, he’d ask for the Lord’s protection. Regrettably, he couldn’t rely on God. He couldn’t rely on anyone or anything except his own instincts to keep Liz and the children safe.
He glanced back. Her head rested on the seat, and her eyes were downcast. Perhaps she was praying.
Lizzie didn’t realize the pain he had endured when he’d left Lassiter. In hindsight, her father had been right years ago. Lizzie deserved better than a nineteen-year-old punk aimlessly drifting through life. Nick may have done well in the military, but she still deserved more than he could offer. When this was over, he’d remove himself from her life once again. But in the meantime, he’d do whatever it took to keep her safe.
THREE (#ulink_c041f6c7-9705-58ba-8d3a-0df5d56e9958)
Liz’s eyes flew open when the car braked to a stop. She glanced first at Nick and then at the expansive A-frame rising up at the end of the driveway. How long had she been asleep?
Nick stepped from the car, opened the back door and leaned over Mary Grace, which put him much too close. Liz unbuckled her seat belt, needing to distance herself from the man who made her equilibrium falter.
Inwardly she chastised herself, ashamed at her own inability to stay awake earlier. Violent men were after them, yet she’d closed her eyes and drifted to sleep. What if Nick hadn’t been a trusted friend of Zack’s and someone suspect instead. Would she have dropped her guard then?
Nick unclasped the harness buckle on Mary Grace’s car seat and, with strong, powerful arms, lifted the sleeping child into his embrace. For half a second, Liz remembered after prom when they had stood on her front porch, saying good-night, wrapped in each other’s arms.
Enough nonsense. She hurriedly unlatched Joey’s harness and carried the child out the door Nick held open.
“Where are we?” she asked, breathing in the cold mountain air.
Her gaze fell again over the wooden A-frame with its expansive windows and welcoming front porch. The majestic valley spanned out below them, wrapped in snow that reflected the light of the moon.
Everything was clearly visible at this elevation—the constellations, the North Star and the moon shining down like a giant lamp in the night sky.
She turned back to Nick. “Is this where you grew up?”
He nodded. “My dad’s cabin.”
“But—” She glanced again at the sturdy structure, so pleasing to the eye and in perfect balance with the natural setting. Years earlier, she had visited Nick’s childhood home with Zack. In her mind, it would always remain a dilapidated shack, surrounded by clutter and as tired and listless as Nick’s father had been.
“You must have hired a builder.”
“I did the work myself, piecemeal, over the years, when I was home on leave.”
“Where did you get the building supplies?” It couldn’t have been in Lassiter. In all that time, she had never seen him, or even heard word of him coming to town.
“I found what I needed in Cambridge, on the other side of the mountain.”
She glanced again at the fine craftsmanship of the structure, marveling at Nick’s ability. “I...I didn’t know you were a builder.”
He laughed, the sound filling the night. “There’s a lot you don’t know about me, Lizzie.”
It’s Elizabeth now, she thought, but she failed to correct him. For some reason, Lizzie sounded right coming from Nick.
A cold wind blew, and she cuddled Joey closer. “We need to get the children inside.”
Nick reached for the totes and laptop before heading toward the house. After climbing the stairs, he stamped his feet and keyed open the door.
“Watch your step.” He took her elbow and helped her up the slippery stairs.
“Will they follow us here?”
“I hope not, but we still need to be cautious. Let’s get the children settled and then try to uncover who your brother was meeting. That might help us determine who’s after us and why. Once we get information, we can contact the authorities outside the local area. Zack told me not to trust the Lassiter police. If there are dirty cops, there’s no telling how they’ll manipulate our story to make it fit their own needs.”
“Zack called the guy a whistleblower.”
“Good to know. Our job is to find out what secrets he planned to share that got him killed.”
Nick held open the door. She slipped inside, noting the massive stone fireplace on the far side of the room. The faint scent of tomatoes and green peppers hung in the air as if he’d cooked Italian hours earlier.
She glanced down at her watch. Quarter past midnight.
Nick must have driven around on back roads for some time, trying to elude the killers. He had remained vigilant while she snoozed.
Shame on her for not staying alert to protect the children, yet nothing gave her pause to worry about her own safety where Nick was concerned. Quite the opposite; she’d felt an immediate sense of relief when he’d touched her arm and guided her away from the window after they’d spotted the van parked in front of Zack’s house.
She shivered inadvertently, thinking of what could have happened if Nick hadn’t arrived in time. He’d left her hanging in the past, but he’d come back at the perfect moment.
To protect Zack’s kids. No reason to think it had anything to do with her. And even if it did, she’d never be foolish enough to trust him with her heart again. He would keep them safe, and that was all.
“Cold?” he asked. Concern filled his gaze. “I’ll turn up the heat.” After adjusting the thermostat, he pointed to the overhead loft. “My bedroom’s upstairs. The kids can sleep there.”
She followed him along the circular stairway, marveling at the breathtaking view out the floor-to-ceiling windows. The cabin contained a mix of sleek modern furnishings interspersed with a few antiques. All quality pieces and so unlike anything she thought the former Nick would have purchased. Tonight, she saw Nick in a new light and realized she didn’t know anything about the man he had become.
The only thing she didn’t see, which gave her pause, was a Christmas tree or any other holiday decorations.
Upon entering his bedroom, Nick laid Mary Grace on his king-size bed and, without prompting, slipped off her coat. The child snuggled under the thick comforter and crisp sheets.
Liz settled Joey on the opposite side of the bed. Just as Nick had done, she removed the little one’s jacket and pulled the covers over his shoulders, grateful both children were in their pajamas. Hopefully, they would sleep until morning.
Or until something—or someone—disrupted their slumber.
“Please, Lord, keep them safe.” She pressed a kiss on first Joey’s and then Mary Grace’s forehead.
Nick stood at the foot of the bed. “They’ll be okay for the night,” he assured her.
She nodded, not wanting to give voice to her own concerns. Everything had happened too quickly. Not that many hours ago, the children had been in their own beds dreaming of Christmas.
Then Zack had called, and their peace and security had vanished like the wind that was starting to gain strength outside.
“Let’s go downstairs,” Nick suggested. “I’ll fix coffee. Are you hungry?”
“No, but coffee sounds good.” She followed him to the first floor and watched as he filled the water reservoir and basket. The rich scent of the ground beans filled the kitchen area.
While the coffee brewed, he used a remote control to lower the blinds that covered the huge windows. “They’ll block out the indoor light so no one suspects we’re here. Zack and I were inseparable in high school. Memories linger in small towns. Someone might make the connection.”
The tightness in his voice made a chill scurry along her spine.
“I’d build a fire except smoke coming out the chimney would signal that the house is occupied.”
He wasn’t taking chances. The cabin was isolated, tucked high on the mountain. They were well hidden, unless someone knew where to look.
“I suggest we both take the batteries out of our cell phones.”
Elizabeth bristled at the suggestion. “But what if Zack tries to call me?”
“We can activate your cell every few hours and check for incoming calls.”
She glanced down at her BlackBerry. “You think someone will trace us through our phones?”
Nick nodded. “It’s possible. I’ve got a burner phone that can’t be traced. We’ll use that if we need to make any calls.”
“Let me try to contact Zack first.” Elizabeth punched his number on speed dial.
“Don’t worry,” she said when the call went to voice mail. “The children and I are being well protected.” Hopefully he’d know that Nick was keeping them safe.
After disconnecting, she turned off the device and removed the battery. Nick did the same to his cell and tucked his smartphone and the throwaway model in his pocket.
Grabbing binoculars off a nearby shelf, he peered through a small side window. “I can see almost the entire stretch of access road. The snow’s already covered our tire tracks, which helps. Hopefully we’ll spot any unwelcome visitors in time to react.”
“Which means we’re safe.”
He nodded. “At least for now.”
She stepped closer and glanced out the same window. Once again, the view of the snow-covered terrain bathed in the iridescent glow of the moon’s reflection took her breath away.
“Everything looks so peaceful.”
He nodded. “That’s what I like about the mountain. I relax completely when I’m here.”
“Are you stationed close by?”
“At Fort Rickman. A couple hours south of Atlanta.”
“It’s nice you could come home for Christmas.”
“Actually, I’m on convalescent leave.”
“What!” She startled, unable to sort through the concern tugging at her heart. “You were injured?”
“Nothing serious, but the docs thought I needed to recuperate for a month or so.”
“I...I didn’t know. Zack never mentioned—”
“No need,” he quickly added.
“He could have at least—”
Nick touched her hand. “High school was a long time ago, Liz. I understand.”
“Understand?” What was he talking about?
She was the one who didn’t understand why he’d betrayed her trust.
FOUR (#ulink_8672f7e4-076a-5920-a5cd-6e1a032a856a)
Nick was grateful for the buzzer that rang when the coffee was ready. Seeing the surprise written on Lizzie’s face when he’d mentioned convalescent leave had him hoping she might still have feelings for him. Then he realized his mistake. The past was long gone.
He pointed her toward the kitchen. “I’ve got milk in the fridge, and the sugar bowl is on the counter.” He pulled two mugs from the cabinet and filled them.
“Black works for me,” she said, accepting the cup he offered.
He took a sip. Hopefully, the hearty brew would clear his mind. He was way too aware of Lizzie—Elizabeth. He needed to stay focused and on task. The mission came first. He understood that in combat. He needed to remember that now. He couldn’t let Lizzie’s nearness veer him off course.
“Let’s take a look at Zack’s computer.” Nick ushered her toward the table in the great room.
Her eyes widened as she ran her hand over the smooth surface. “The wood’s beautiful.”
“Thanks. As they say, one man’s junk is another man’s treasure.”
He smiled at her raised brow and went on to explain, “I found the table in a flea market north of here, near the Kentucky state line. Solid oak and built in the mid-1800s, but covered with layers of chipped paint. Bringing the wood back to its original beauty was a work of love.”
“And the chairs?” She pointed to the set of Windsors with spindle backs sturdy enough to support even someone his size.
“Another find that required hours of labor but was worth the effort.”
She scooted into one of the chairs while he opened Zack’s laptop. Sitting next to her, he pushed the power button and waited for the password request.
“Annabelle’s birthday.” Elizabeth provided the date.
After he punched in the digits, the screen saver came into view, showing Zack’s wife, cradling an infant in her arms, no doubt Joey. Their toddler daughter stood cuddled at her side.
The depth of the family’s loss tugged at Nick’s heart. “Mary Grace looks just like her mother.”
Elizabeth nodded. “And Joey takes after Zack.”
Nick smiled. “A future investigative reporter, perhaps?”
“I hope not.” The seriousness in her tone reminded Nick—as if he needed a reminder—that Zack’s search for the truth had placed his life in danger.
“I’ll pull up his documents.”
Working quickly, Nick looked for anything that might shed light on the identity of the murdered informant or Zack’s current investigation. He read through a series of files with information Zack had probably used in past blog posts. Some of them focused on the Lassiter police department and possible corruption, which wouldn’t put Zack in good stead with the local authorities. Whether that played into what had happened tonight, Nick wasn’t sure.
He double-clicked on a file Zack had opened yesterday. A list of names unfolded across the screen. “Recognize anyone?”
Liz leaned closer and pointed out two names. “These guys were a couple years behind me in high school. I see them around town occasionally, but I don’t know them personally.”
“Can you think of anything they share in common other than attending the same high school?”
She shook her head. “Unfortunately, no.”
After working through the majority of the files without success, Nick stretched back in his chair and rubbed his neck. “Zack isn’t making this easy.”
Liz scooted away from the table and stood. “You keep searching. I’ll check on the children.”
Nick was relieved to have some breathing room. Being close to Lizzie required self-control. He wanted to touch her hand and feel the softness of her skin.
He chuckled inwardly. Silly for him to think she’d feel the same attraction, almost a magnetic force that was stronger than he could handle at the moment.
Everything about Lizzie was a distraction and seeing her concern for the children was even more so. She’d make a great mom and should have a houseful of kids of her own. Instead, she taught a classroom of other people’s children. No doubt, she was a terrific teacher, but she needed a family, as well.
Maybe caffeine would help clear his head.
“Want some more coffee?” he called up to her as she climbed the stairs to his bedroom.
“A glass of water would be good.” He heard the smile in her voice and his chest tightened, wanting to do anything to make her happy.
Her face had been washed with worry since he’d arrived at Zack’s house. No wonder. Hard to look beyond the danger they were in. If they could elude the killers until Zack could hand his information over to the proper authorities, then this mission would end on a good note.
It had to end well.
Shaking off the ominous feelings that came with his thoughts, Nick dropped his cup into the sink and poured water into two glasses. He gulped half a glass and refilled it before carrying both to the table.
The local all-night television channel aired news on the hour. He hit the remote and lowered the volume. A commercial played across the screen.
Hearing Lizzie’s footfalls coming down the stairs, he turned. She smiled at him, and he felt buoyed by her gaze.
“Both children are sound asleep,” she said.
“They’re great kids.”
“The best.” She glanced at the table. “Thanks for the water.”
He handed her the glass. Stepping closer to take it, she glanced up. The look on her face was telling. Lizzie had stepped too close.
His heart pounded in his chest. The thump, thump, thump was so strong, she’d surely think a snare drum was coming from the TV.
She didn’t mention his heartbeat. Instead, she focused on his lips, her eyes scorching him with their gaze.
The world faded away, and all he saw was Lizzie, even more beautiful than he remembered. More than anything, he wanted to reach for her and pull her close. Everything inside him yearned for her kiss.
She leaned in closer, almost as if she wanted the kiss as badly as he did. But then she glanced at the television, the spell of the moment broken.
Her face darkened. She gasped. Nick followed her gaze to the photograph plastered on the plasma screen.
A photo of Zack.
The newscaster’s voice, although faint, could be heard in the stillness.
“Zack Tate, noted investigative reporter and author of the controversial blog “Z” Notes, is wanted in connection with a man found murdered in the roadside park off Phillips Road.”
“No,” Lizzie moaned as she walked closer to the television. Nick picked up the remote and increased the volume.
“The unidentified man was shot to death and found in the rear of the park rest stop a short time ago. A police spokesperson said evidence found at the site of the murder makes Zack Tate a person of interest. He’s considered armed and dangerous, and the public is asked to use caution and call the authorities if they spot Tate.”
Nick put his hand on her shoulder, offering support.
The newscast continued. “Most people know Tate from his blog. Over the years, many of the stories he’s featured have been highly inflammatory toward local authorities. The police have long said Tate paints law enforcement in a less than favorable light, which has hindered their effectiveness within the community.”
“No wonder the cops are upset,” Nick said. “Zack exposed their duplicity.”
Lizzie shuddered when Annabelle’s name was mentioned.
“Tate’s wife died thirteen months ago, and an unnamed source questions whether foul play could have been involved. His two young children, age six and four, are missing along with his sister, Elizabeth Tate, a teacher at Lassiter Elementary. She’s also wanted for questioning.”
Nick didn’t like hearing Lizzie’s name mentioned in connection with the murder. If law enforcement wanted to question her, she would be in added danger if the police turned a blind eye to the law.
When the newscast went to a commercial break, Nick lowered the volume and threw the remote on the couch. “Zack was right. Everyone’s on the take. He’s being set up to take the fall for the informant’s death. They want so badly to smear his name that they’re even creating suspicions about his wife’s death.”
“At least the police haven’t apprehended him yet.”
The police wouldn’t find Zack if the four thugs had already grabbed him. Not that Nick would share that thought with Lizzie.
“His past blogs hit too close to home,” he said. “Someone must have decided he needed to be silenced. Maybe the meeting with the whistleblower was a setup to lure Zack in. Dirty cops can’t be trusted, especially if someone threatens to expose their underhanded dealings.”
She rubbed her arms. “What’s our plan if the killers come looking for us?”
“We’ll grab the kids and then head out the back door off the kitchen. I’ll park your SUV on a small path that leads higher up the side of the mountain. With the long access road, we should have time to spot an approaching vehicle and get away.”
“But they’ll keep following us.”
“The access road dead ends here at the cabin. If they don’t know about the mountain path, they’ll think we left before they arrived.”
“At least that’s what you’re hoping.”
She had given voice to his own concerns. Nick glanced at his watch. They had a few hours before dawn. Hopefully they’d be secure here, at least for now.
They still needed to uncover information that could lead them to Zack, or give them leverage against the men trying to kill him. Knowledge was power, and they had to uncover the corruption that had placed him in danger and led to the taking of another man’s life.
Just so the violence ended there. Nick wouldn’t let anything happen to Lizzie and the children. He’d protect them with his last breath, if need be. If only they could be safe.
FIVE (#ulink_f44c523d-5c13-53f2-ad4a-d9b289ffea77)
Lizzie’s head was still reeling from seeing Zack’s picture on the news. Hoping to calm her racing pulse, she pulled back the blind and watched Nick maneuver the SUV out of the driveway and onto a path that rounded the cabin.
The night was pristine and still and devoid of anything that seemed threatening. Feeling a need to breathe in the freshness of the outdoors, she opened the front door and stepped onto the porch.
Her gaze took in the expansive mountain landscape dotted with evergreens, heavy with snow. Moonlight wove through the bare branches of the hardwoods and bathed the snow-covered walkway in light.
Something on the side of the path caught her eye. Relief swept over her, seeing the camel from Mary Grace’s Nativity set. The child doted on the various figures and had played with them constantly during the holiday season as if to draw closer to the mother she missed.
Lizzie hurried down the steps and ran to where the object lay. The plump camel must have fallen to the snow when Nick carried the sleeping child inside. Bending, she picked up the stuffed animal and clutched it to her heart, finding comfort in the tiny toy. Turning back to the house, she stared for a long moment at the A-frame, once again appreciating the simple lines of the mountain lodging and Nick’s expert craftsmanship.
A sharp wind cut through her clothing. Shivering in the night air, she hurried toward the porch.
A twig snapped behind her.
She stopped short and listened. All she heard was the rumble of the car engine on the far side of the house.
Snow crunched, signaling a footfall.
Run!
Liz stumbled forward, needing to get inside and lock the door. She had to protect the children.
Her heart pounded, and she gasped for air, hearing another footfall.
Cold winter air took her breath and clamped down on her lungs. Fear clogged her throat.
Someone was behind her, closing in.
Racing to the stairs, she struggled to maintain her footing. She slipped, righted herself and took the stairs two at a time.
A hand grabbed her shoulder.
Her heart burst.
“I’ve got you.” A voice, low and menacing.
Liz’s knees went weak.
Tears stung her eyes.
She had opened the door to danger and allowed the killer—or killers—access.
Liz screamed for the one man who could save her.
“Nick!”
* * *
Nick parked the SUV in the rear of the cabin, satisfied it was well hidden from sight, yet still close enough to the house for easy access. If need be, he and Lizzie could carry the children to the car and drive them away from danger before either the killers or the cops arrived.
Good police he’d welcome on the mountain, but Zack had warned about cops on the dole. If they approached the police directly, it would be too hard to determine who was good and who was bad. Better not to deal with any of them.
A voice screamed his name.
Nick’s heart crashed against his chest.
Lizzie.
Racing at breakneck speed, he rounded the house and stopped short when he saw the burly mountain man. Full beard. Fur cap pulled low over his head with woolly flaps that covered his ears and tied under his chin. His left hand clasped Lizzie’s upper arm. His right hand held a rifle.
“Burl?”
The old codger kept a tight hold on Lizzie’s arm but turned in surprise at the sound of Nick’s voice. Recognition spread over his weatherworn face.
“That you, Nick? I thought you were still fightin’ in Afghanistan.”
Nick stepped closer and pointed to Lizzie. Her eyes were wide with fright, her face pale and drawn. She stared at him like a wounded animal caught in a trap.
“You need to let the lady go.”
“Is she causing you any harm, Nick?”
Only to his heart, but that wasn’t what the old guy meant. “She’s a guest, Burl. I invited her here.”
The mountain man dropped his hand and took a step back as if flustered by his evident mistake. “Sure am sorry I caused you any concern, ma’am. Nick trusts me to look after his property when he’s gone. Fact is, I’ve been laid up with the influenza for a few weeks and couldn’t make my rounds. Now that I’m better, I wanted to check the house. Thought you might be breaking in.” Burl sniffed. “Can’t be too careful.”
Liz stared back at him. “And I...I thought you were—”
Nick climbed the steps and put his hand on her arm, hoping to reassure her. “You’re safe, Lizzie. Burl didn’t mean any harm.”
“That’s right, ma’am. I was just making sure the cabin was okay.”
Nick glanced at the road that led up from the valley below. “Let’s go inside. We need to talk, Burl.”
“I hope you’re not too upset, ma’am.”
“Just startled.” She let out a ragged breath. “The night seemed peaceful. I never thought—”
“It’s okay, Lizzie.” Nick pushed the open door wide. “How about a cup of coffee, Burl?”
“That’d be mighty nice.”
Nick ushered Liz into the cabin. She rubbed her arms, no doubt appreciating the warmth that greeted her.
Burl left his rifle at the door and followed them inside.
“I’ll get the coffee while you two talk,” she volunteered.
“Thanks.” Nick pointed to the table where the old man lowered himself into a chair, sniffed and peered down at the computer. “You’re working late.”
“Just checking some information.”
“I’m sorry about spooking your lady friend. I didn’t know you were back.” He whistled. “Course, it’s almost Christmas. ’Spect that’s the reason.”
“Sorry you had the flu.”
“Don’t worry, Nick. I’m still strong as an ox,” Burl said with a definitive nod. He then proceeded to talk about his illness until Liz brought them all mugs of coffee.
“I’ve got a favor to ask,” Nick said when Burl took a sip of the hot brew.
“What can I do for you, neighbor?”
“A few guys from town have been giving me a hard time. They’re a mean bunch, and I don’t want them hurting my...” Glancing at Liz, he smiled. “My lady friend. Wouldn’t be appropriate to have them show up when she’s visiting.”
Burl nodded. “I hear what you’re sayin’.”
“They’re driving a beige utility van. Might be as many as four of them. Watch yourself, Burl. They’re packing and they’re mean.”
Burl’s gaze narrowed as if he was seeing the killers in his mind’s eye.
“You still have minutes on that mobile phone you bought at the Mega Mart?” Nick asked.
Burl patted his chest pocket. “Don’t use it much, but it’s good to have. ’Specially if I get into a pinch.”
“I could use your eyes for the next couple days, Burl. If you see anyone coming up the mountain, anyone at all, but especially someone in that van I described, give me a call. I’m using that throwaway phone I told you about.”
“So they can’t track you?”
Nick nodded. “Exactly.”
“I won’t let anyone pass until I get the go-ahead from you, Nick.”
“No need to let them see you. They’re bad dudes. You’ve got both my cell number and the number for the burner phone programmed in your device?”
The old guy nodded. “Sure do.”
“Let me know if I’ve got company coming. Even if it’s not the van.”
“You can count on me, Nick.”
Burl slurped down the rest of his coffee in one long swig. After placing the mug on the table, he rubbed his hand over his mouth, scratched his chin and then pushed back his chair.
“Mighty fine coffee,” he said to Lizzie. His gaze shifted to Nick. “Good seeing you, Nick. I’ll be in touch.”
“One more thing.” Nick pulled up the file containing the list of names, and motioned Burl closer to the laptop. “Do you know any of these folks?”
The mountain man peered at the monitor. His lips moved as he silently read each name. “I know Everett Meeks, Sam Bellows and Hugh Garrett.”
“Are they from Lassiter?”
“Those three are. Can’t say about the others.”
Nick pointed to the people Lizzie had recognized. “Do these names mean anything to you?”
Burl shook his head. “’Fraid not.”
“I’m trying to find a common link between these folks, Burl. Anything come to mind? Do their children go to the same schools? Maybe they attend the same church or work for the same business?”
Burl rubbed his chin. “Don’t know about their religious views or their kids.”
“Does anything else come to mind?”
“Doyle Manufacturing.”
“They work for Colin Doyle?”
“That’s right.”
“Any idea what type of jobs they have?”
“No clue.” Burl hesitated for a long moment. “Does the list have something to do with the men in that van you’re worried about?”
“I’m not sure.”
“Sorry I couldn’t be more help.” He patted his pocket containing the cell. “I’ll call you if I see anything.”
“Keep this between us, Burl. If someone asks, tell them you haven’t seen me.”
The man glanced at Lizzie. “I haven’t seen her, either.”
Nick nodded. He escorted Burl to the door and watched as he grabbed his rifle and disappeared into the night. Nick needed his help, but he didn’t want any harm to come to his old friend. Burl was a good man with a big heart, and Nick wouldn’t have mentioned the danger except he needed someone to watch his back. Burl would do that. He’d guard the mountain road with his life.
SIX (#ulink_0c7a8f15-da27-58e3-b3f5-da36e72952a6)
“Can you trust Burl?” Lizzie asked when Nick stepped inside and closed the door behind him.
“Absolutely. He won’t divulge our whereabouts, and he won’t let anyone up the hill without notifying me.” With a definite nod, Nick added, “I’d trust him with my life.”
Which is exactly what Nick might have to do.
She glanced down at the tiny, handmade camel. “In that case, I’m glad I went outside, after all. He wouldn’t have even known you were here, otherwise. And my little Sunshine would have been upset about losing one of her animals.”
Nick nodded. “She likes Christmas?”
“What child doesn’t? But the Nativity set has special meaning. Her mother made it for Mary Grace’s first birthday.”
“The scruffy lamb Joey won’t let out of his grasp looks handmade, too. Was that a gift from his mom?”
“Annabelle finished some of the hand stitching when she was in the hospital. I’m afraid to think what would happen if he lost Lamb.”
“Human nature to hold on to the memories.”
Exactly as Elizabeth had done. She’d held on to the memory of Nick’s kisses, believing they signaled the start of something wonderful between them. Only later—after he’d left town—had she learned he’d only taken her to prom as a favor to Zack.
She’d been a fool back then to give her heart so readily to a guy who didn’t care. She was Zack’s baby sister then. Nothing more. Just as now.
Averting her gaze, she glanced at the television. A News Alert flashed on the screen. She reached for the remote and turned up the volume.
“Police are seeking information about Zack Tate, last seen fleeing the crime scene. Tate had recently been in contact with Nicholas Fontaine, a captain in the U.S. Army, currently stationed at Fort Rickman, Georgia.”
Nick stepped closer to the television.
“Fontaine was wounded in Afghanistan but survived his injury due to a new tactical vest issued to military personnel in Afghanistan. We spoke to noted local psychiatrist David Wax who mentioned the high incidence of post-traumatic stress disorder in returning military personnel. Although Fontaine has not been diagnosed with PTSD, Wax said symptoms could develop at any time.”
Liz turned to Nick, confused. “How did they connect you to Zack?”
“I’m not sure.”
Fear came with the realization that made her shudder. “Someone got hold of Zack’s cell phone and tracked the calls he made. That means he’s been captured by either the police or the killers.”
“Maybe, but also they could just be guessing. Lots of people in town knew Zack and I were friends in high school.” Nick rubbed his forehead. “I’m more curious as to why the news mentioned the vest I was wearing that supposedly saved my life.”
“Supposedly?”
He let out a frustrated breath. “I was issued the new vest, but I gave it to a buddy. He was going out on patrol. He had a wife and two kids, and the mission that night was dangerous. His unit came under attack, and my unit was called in to help rescue them.”
“That’s when you were hit?”
He nodded. “But I was wearing an old vest, the one Jeff should have had on.”
“I don’t understand. You gave him the newer, supposedly more protective model?”
“Exactly. We both came under fire. I took a hit to the chest and sustained a bruise, but the vest I wore—the older vest—stopped the bullet.”
“Yet you were injured.”
Nick nodded. “A second round penetrated my side where the vest doesn’t offer protection. The second hit did the damage, but the old vest protected me from a chest wound that would have been fatal.”
He stared at her as if unable to go on.
“Your buddy Jeff,” she said, realizing what had happened. “He didn’t survive.”
“The ceramic plate inserts in the new model were faulty and didn’t stop the hit to his chest.”
Nick rubbed his neck. “I started asking questions and found other cases when the supposedly improved vests had failed. Jeff’s dad has ties with government at the national level. I told him my concerns at the funeral, hoping he’d push for an inquiry, but—”
“But what?”
“He was angry at the military and with anyone in uniform, including me. It was easier to blame Uncle Sam for his son’s death, instead of Stratford and Castings, the company that produces the vests.”
“Does that company make the ceramic plate inserts, as well as the vests?”
“I’m not sure. The information’s not readily available.” Nick raised his brow. “Did Zack mention ceramic plates?”
Liz shook her head. “Why would he?”
“I told him my concerns when I got back to the States. I thought he might have looked into it.”
“If he did, he never mentioned it, but then Zack keeps a lot to himself.”
Nick’s expression was telling. He still carried the guilt of his friend’s death. “Was Jeff’s wife’s reaction like his father’s?” Liz asked.
“She was the exact opposite and even thanked me for trying to help her husband. Only swapping vests was a huge mistake on my part that cost Jeff his life.”
And saved yours, Elizabeth wanted to add.
“You didn’t fire the gun that killed him, Nick. And you didn’t manufacture the vest that was supposed to protect him.”
Knowing how tenacious her brother could be, she asked, “Did Zack ever mention the vests after you spoke initially?”
“No, but we’ve only talked a couple times since I redeployed home.”
Liz shook her head with regret. If only her brother had been more forthright.
Keep Zack safe, Lord. Keep Nick safe, as well.
* * *
Once the newscast concluded, Nick turned off the television. “I’ll load some supplies into your SUV in case we need to leave in a hurry. Why don’t you recheck Zack’s files? We may have missed something on the first go-round. Does he have a Facebook page or Twitter account? Is he on LinkedIn? Or any new social media site other than his blog?”
“Not that I know of.”
“What about your parents? He might be holed up with them.”
“Dad retired five years ago. He and Mom moved to Florida for sunshine and golf. Zack wouldn’t drive that far, especially if the children were still in Tennessee.”
Lizzie paused for a moment. “The only negative comments I’ve heard from Zack recently were about the Doyles. Zack could never let go of Dad’s concern that Colin Doyle pulled a bit too much weight in town.”
“Your father was a good judge. Mr. Doyle probably pushed for some special favors, which your dad wouldn’t have allowed.”
Sitting at the table, Lizzie placed her fingers on the keyboard. “While you pack the car, I’ll search for information about Colin Doyle in Zack’s documents.”
As Nick loaded the supplies, she studied various files and then shook her head when he came back inside. “Nothing comes up. Maybe I should recheck the sites Zack opened recently.”
Lizzie clicked the search history prompts and scrolled down the list of websites. “I didn’t notice this before. It’s a URL for a newspaper article.”
Once the text appeared, she leaned closer to the monitor. “It’s a short piece about Harold Doyle. Remember him?”
Nick pursed his lips. “Not sure if I do.”
“Colin Doyle’s nephew. He was in my high school.” She glanced up at Nick. “According to the article, Harold gave a speech to the Rotary Club, in Tyler, Tennessee, on Veteran’s Day.”
“Wonder why they didn’t invite someone with ties to the military?”
“Maybe that’s why Zack saved the article. He never had anything good to say about Harold.”
“A party boy and not too bright?”
“That’s right. Yet he graduated from Lassiter High with honors. That got to Zack. He always suspected someone had doctored his grades. As I mentioned, Dad never had much good to say about the Doyles, which probably rubbed off on my brother. Of course even back then, Zack was always on the hunt for a story to investigate.”
As much as Nick didn’t want to dig up the past, he had always wondered if Judge Tate had ever revealed the truth. “Did your father question Harold’s grades?”
“I don’t think Dad knew, although Zack ranted enough to me. Said he felt sure someone in the school administration had been swayed because Harold was part of the Doyle family. Funny, though—”
Her brow knit as she stared up at Nick. “After you left town, Zack never mentioned Harold again.”
Nick shrugged. “Your brother probably uncovered some new controversy that turned his attention away from high school.”
“Maybe Zack was trying to determine why you ran away.” Liz hesitated for a long moment. “Is there something I should know, Nick?”
“Of course not.”
“You never told me why you left.”
Ignoring her comment, Nick pointed to the kitchen door. “I still have a few more supplies out back to load into your car.”
Leaving her without even a backward glance, Nick headed for the rear storage area. He kept bottled water and packets of dehydrated food along with extra blankets and sleeping bags, most of which he’d already packed in the SUV.
“Nick!” she called after him.
He couldn’t turn back to her, and he couldn’t tell her what happened after the prom.
You’re not good enough for my daughter. The judge’s words echoed in his memory. They were true then and they were true now.
Lizzie deserved someone who could provide her with a home and family and security for the future. He’d done well in the military, but he couldn’t come back to Lassiter and be who she’d want him to be. He had to be true to himself first or he wouldn’t be good for anyone. His father hadn’t understood duty or honor or the importance of putting your life on the line for a higher cause, for freedom, for country.
Her father, Judge Tate, had seen through Nick’s false bravado, and although his admonition had been difficult to accept, the judge had forced Nick out of the downward spiral he’d been living in his youth. Nick had never regretted the decision he’d made that night.
Until he and Lizzie had reunited.
Now he had to struggle with what common sense told him. He wanted to follow his heart, and his heart was focused on Lizzie. But a relationship between them would never work—something he couldn’t let himself forget.
SEVEN (#ulink_f008eb6d-257a-5038-810d-e75663f0c8b1)
Hot tears stung Elizabeth’s eyes when she heard the door to Nick’s cabin shut with a bang. He had turned his back on her again and the questions she needed answered. Questions about why he’d professed his love and then left town without explanation.
She’d heard the emotion in his voice that night. In the years since, she’d tried to convince herself it had been nothing more than the shallow ramblings of a teenage boy being carried away in the moment. Didn’t that fit with the revelation that he’d only taken her out as a favor to her brother? She’d called herself a fool for believing Nick and had tried to forget him.
In hindsight, she realized his bad-boy image may have been the attraction. She’d been young and impressionable and had seen Nick as better than his actions at the time.
He’d been drifting through life, but she’d always known he would make something of himself. She was proud of who he had become. Her only mistake had been giving him her heart.
Frustrated, she went to the window and pulled back the curtain. Heavy clouds covered the moon and darkened the night even more.
Staring into the distance, Elizabeth saw lights. On the access road. Heading toward the cabin.
Her heart stopped. She dropped the curtain and backed away from the window.
The kitchen door opened. Nick was yelling at her.
“Headlights on the mountain road. They’re coming. Get the children.”
Once again they raced to grab the little ones, taking the stairs two at a time. Snatching them from the bed, they hurried downstairs and snagged the tote bags, laptop and coats on their way out the back door. Joey stirred in her arms, but remained asleep.
Mary Grace peered at Liz over Nick’s shoulder, her eyes wide. “Where are we going, Aunt Lizzie?”
“Someplace safe, honey. You don’t need to worry.”
Lizzie’s heart broke.
They had to save the children, but would they escape in time?
* * *
Nick eased the SUV out of the hiding spot and headed carefully up the mountain. The path was narrow, and the dropping temperature could mean ice beneath the snow.
Over the past few hours, the wind had picked up and drifted snow that quickly covered their tracks from the cabin to the car. Perhaps someone on high was watching out for them, after all.
He glanced at Liz as she patted the children to sleep. Her faith was strong. She’d probably prayed for the Lord’s help. No doubt, God had listened.
If only Nick could be sure God could ever care for someone like him. The chaplain in his unit had laid the foundation for his coming to faith, but Jeff’s death had made him doubt again. Reconnecting with Lizzie had made him reconsider.
She shifted in the backseat and emitted a low groan. From the rearview mirror, he could see her staring out the passenger’s-side window at the drop-off that disappeared into a dark abyss.
“Tell me you’ve driven up the side of this mountain before,” she said, her voice tight.
“Buckle your seat belt, Lizzie. Let me worry about the road.”
“Or lack thereof. It’s too narrow.”
“Your car has good tires, which works to our advantage. Besides, I’ve been traveling this path since I was a kid.”
“But not in a four-door SUV.”
“Trust me, Lizzie. Okay?”
She shook her head, all the while biting her lip, her eyes wide.
“We don’t have far,” he said, hoping to offer a bit of reassurance.
She glanced out the back window. “Are they following us?”
Nick shook his head. “More than likely, they’re searching my cabin.” And destroying so much of what he’d built over the years. He flicked his gaze to the front passenger’s seat, relieved he’d been able to grab Zack’s laptop on their way out the door.
He was also glad he wore a loaded Glock on his hip. Not that the children would notice it under his jacket, but it added another layer of protection they needed.
Snow fell faster than the wipers could clear it away. Nick gripped the steering wheel and inched the car up the steep incline. His hands cramped from the strain. Thankfully, the moon had broken through the clouds and provided enough light for him to drive without headlights, which would have given away their whereabouts.
“We’re almost there,” he said. If only the snow didn’t get too deep or the road too slick. As if in response to his thought, the wheels shifted on the icy undercoat. He turned into the skid, relieved when the car righted its direction.
Tension tightened his shoulders, and a dull ache climbed his neck and wove along his scalp. Blink, he reminded himself as he tried to see through the pelting snow.
Every so often, he glanced down the mountain. All he could see was the black night and the white snow. A winter wonderland that would be breathtaking under different circumstances. Tonight it only compounded an already-difficult situation.
A gunshot sounded in the night. Then a second and a third.
Nick pursed his lips and gripped the wheel even more tightly.
Lizzie startled at the sound, her eyes wide. “What was that?”
“Gunfire.”
“Was it Burl?”
“I don’t know. I told him not to take any chances.”
“From what I’ve seen of Burl, I doubt he backs down from danger.”
Nick almost smiled. She had Burl pegged. “I’ll call him when we stop. Hopefully, he’ll clue us in on what happened.”
Inching the car around the last bend in the road, Nick sighed with relief when he saw the entrance to the cave. The road widened and led to a level plateau. He parked and opened the driver’s door.
“Let’s get the children inside, out of the wind and snow. The cave maintains an even temperature. With sleeping bags and blankets, we should be fine.”
She eyed the dark opening to the mountain cave. “What about bats?”
He had to smile. They were on the run with at least four killers on their tail, and Lizzie was worried about small critters that were relatively harmless. “They’ve never caused a problem in the past. I’ve seen a few of them, but there’s nothing to worry about.”
“I don’t like bats.”
“If we leave them alone, they’ll do the same for us.”
He unbuckled Mary Grace and lifted the sleeping child from the seat. Rounding the car, he met up with Lizzie, carrying Joey in her arms.
Nick opened the rear hatch and gathered up the sleeping bags, holding the carrying straps in his left hand. “After we get the kids settled, I’ll unload the rest of the supplies and hide your car.”
He handed her a Maglite and grabbed a battery-powered lantern. “Wait until we’re in the cave and around the first bend in the rock before you turn on the light.”
She nodded but said nothing as she reached for one of the sleeping bags.
“It’ll be over soon, Lizzie.”
“How can you say that, Nick?”
Because he didn’t want her or the children to worry.
“I’ve got a feeling everything is coming to a head.” Whether that meant a happy ending, he wasn’t sure.
“I’ll lead the way.” Nick stepped into the cave, inhaling the earthy scent that reminded him of the times he’d camped out in his youth. Too often, he’d needed someplace to hole up when his dad was on a tirade. The cave had been his refuge. If only it would be for Lizzie and the children, as well.
Once inside the entrance tunnel, he flipped on the lantern and aimed the light on the ceiling. “See? No bats.”
Lizzie smiled halfheartedly. “Something in our favor.”
“There’s a large internal chamber just ahead. We can make camp and bed down there.”
The area was expansive, probably twenty feet high and just as wide. Working together, they opened the sleeping bags and nestled the children into the thick down.
“Body heat will warm them up,” Nick assured her.
Joey held on to Lamb, and Lizzie tucked Mary Grace’s Nativity set into the bedding beside her.
“Are you okay?” Nick asked once both little ones were settled and asleep.
“I’m okay.”
“Stay with the children while I haul in the supplies.” He stared into her blue eyes. “You’re safe, Lizzie. They won’t find us here.”
At least not until the storm passes, and they think about climbing the mountain. He decided not to mention that.
Nick hustled back to the car and hauled in the other items he’d packed in case they needed the mountain refuge. Now he was glad he’d been proactive.
On the last trip into the cave, he almost chuckled, seeing how Lizzie had arranged the supplies neatly along the wall. She had even placed a couple of the sturdier boxes together to be used as seats near the light.
“I need to move the car.” He pointed to another tunnel in the rock that ran in the opposite direction from the entrance. “That avenue heads to an opening on the far side of the mountain. It’s a natural escape route. I’ll park near the exit. If anything happens, you can take the children and head down the mountain. A dirt road turns to gravel not far below. The trail is easy to follow, even with the snow, and leads to Cambridge.”
“Where you purchased your building supplies. Don’t tell me you used the narrow mountain pass to get there?”
He smiled. “Usually I drove around the mountain, but the road is navigable, and the town isn’t far.”
“Let’s go there now, Nick.”
“Not before we have evidence about the corruption Zack tried to expose. Then we’ll need to find out about Cambridge’s police officers and whether they’re in cahoots with Lassiter’s dirty cops.”
She rubbed her temples. “I keep forgetting we’re wanted for questioning.”
“That’s what worries me. Before we turn ourselves in to anyone, we need more information. Knowing your brother, his investigation has to be important. If the Cambridge police are working with the Lassiter police, they could easily claim we’re involved in tonight’s murder. We need someone on our side, but we’ll deal with that once the sun comes up. Right now, I’ve got to move the SUV.”
“Be careful, Nick.”
Raising her hand, she cupped his cheek. “Please, God, take care of Nick.”
Her touch filled him with hope.
“Come back to me.”
“I will, Lizzie. I promise.”
He hurried into the cold darkness. The trail to the rear of the mountain was narrow but navigable. He parked the SUV near the exit to the escape tunnel, hoping the children would think all this was an adventure should they have to flee again.
If only this whole operation would have a good ending. Right now, he wasn’t sure what would happen. The only thing he knew was that Lizzie and the children were in grave danger.
EIGHT (#ulink_2d673988-3a5e-5889-bb8c-26c44ac7befb)
What was taking Nick so long? Lizzie looked at her watch for the umpteenth time and blinked back tears. She was tired and scared and worried about Nick. Had something happened?
The wind howled outside, and in the cave, unknown sounds—creaks and groans—made her shiver. She glanced at the ceiling high above, expecting to see bats. All she saw were dark shadows. If only the lamp would provide more light.
If Nick didn’t return soon, she’d have to go looking for him, yet she couldn’t leave the children unguarded.
What if he never came back?
She shook her head, refusing to dwell on anything that unsettling. Nick wouldn’t leave until she and the children were safe. She was sure of that. Moving the SUV was taking longer than expected. Snow and ice and the strong winds could all play into the mix, which only made her more anxious.
She glanced again at her watch. Fifteen minutes had passed, yet it seemed like an hour. Her stomach roiled, thinking of all the things that could have happened.
A noise sounded to her right.
Footsteps came from the entrance to the cave.
She raised her hand to her mouth and bit down on her fist. The swell of fear threatened her breathing. Her heart pounded in her chest.
“N-N-Nick?” Her voice was little more than a whisper.
The lack of response made another volley of dread tangle around her spine. If Nick didn’t show himself in the next few seconds, she’d wake the children and head out the rear escape. But what if the tunnel had offshoots, heading in various directions? Would she know which avenue to follow?
Oh, please, Lord.
I need Nick.
Another sound startled her. This time it came from the tunnel to her left. Her heart dropped. There were four gunmen. They must have split up. Two were approaching from the front and two from the rear.
She stepped closer to the children and stood protectively in front them. The light flickered, forming shadows where someone could hide. She reached for the lantern and hit the switch. Blackness surrounded her. She placed her hands on the children. Whatever happened, she would fight to the end to save them.
The footsteps drew closer.
Her heart lodged in her throat.
In a matter of seconds, she’d be face-to-face with the gunmen.
Where was Nick?
* * *
“Lizzie.” Nick’s voice broke through the darkness.
He raised the Maglite, illuminating her face. She gasped for air, as if trying to control her relief, and blinked back what looked like tears.
“I...I thought you had—”
“It’s okay, honey.” He opened his arms, and she ran to him. He could feel her warmth and the need she had for his protection, yet she had been strong and courageous. “Everything’s okay.”
“But—” She glanced over her shoulder. “I heard footsteps.”
“You did?” He narrowed his gaze and squinted into the darkness. “Then we’ve got company.”
At that instant Burl stepped into the expansive interior of the cave, carrying a flashlight of his own that he’d raised to shine on his face. He took off his hat and nodded. “Ma’am.”
She expelled a huge breath. “Oh, Burl, you scared me.”
“Sorry ’bout that. I came looking for Nick. Need to tell him what’s happened.”
“Let’s talk over there so we don’t wake the children.” Nick pointed him to the far side of the cave where Burl lowered himself to a rock ledge and fiddled with his hat.
Nick sat nearby with Lizzie by his side. Her gaze darted back and forth to the children.
“You were right, Nick,” Burl said, eyeing him. “I saw that utility van, but only two men were inside.” He whistled. “Bad-looking dudes.”
“Did you recognize them?”
“’Fraid not. I stayed out of view, behind the trees. They forced open the door to your cabin and got me mad as a coon dog for what they were doing to your things.”
Nick nodded. “That’s what I suspected would happen.”
“Once I saw what they were up to, I fired a couple shots to put a little fear in their hearts.”
“Did it work?”
“You bet. Those boys came out of the cabin and stared into the darkness. I fired another round and got one of them in the arm. The other guy—he must have been the ringleader—pointed to the van. Don’t you know, they hightailed it out of there lickety-split. Had me slapping my leg and laughing under my breath.”
“You shouldn’t have taken any chances, Burl.”
“Happy to do it, Nick.”
“Did you hear them say anything?”
“Only that they needed to get back to Tyler.”
“Tyler, Tennessee?” Lizzie asked.
“More than likely.”
“You know of anything happening in Tyler that might get a man killed?” Nick asked.
Burl shook his head. “I don’t have a clue about anything that happens in the valley. Ask me about the mountain, and it’s a different story.”
Nick chuckled. “You’re a wise man.”
“Most say I’m a fool.” He slapped his hat against his leg and stood. “Just wanted you to know what happened.”
He smiled at Lizzie, then glanced at the children. “Mighty fine-lookin’ kids, ma’am.”
“My niece and nephew,” she said. “The men are after their father. We need to keep the children safe.”
“Of course you do. And you will.”
Burl checked his watch. “Almost daybreak. I need to head back to my place.” He peered at Nick. “Doubt those guys will return, at least not until nightfall.”
Nick stuck out his hand. “Appreciate your help.”
Burl accepted the handshake and added a smile.
“I’ll get a few hours’ sleep, and then be back on duty.” He waved his hand as he headed out of the cave. “You can count on me.”
Lizzie turned to Nick. “Burl’s a different kind of guy.”
“To say the least, but he’s got our back, and that’s what we both need.”
Glancing at the sleeping children, he added, “There’s a third sleeping bag. Close your eyes and get some rest. I’ll wake you if anything happens.”
“What about you?”
“I’ll keep watch.”
“Burl didn’t think anything would happen until later.”
“We can’t be sure, and I won’t take any chances.”
“I can sleep with Joey. You take the other sleeping bag.”
He held up his hand, palm out. “I’m fine. Besides, I want to go back out there to ensure our tracks are covered with snow.”
Noticing the strained look on her face, he stepped closer and took her hand. “Get some sleep, Lizzie. We don’t know what will happen when morning comes.”
“But I’m worried about you and your health. The wound to your side must have been serious or you wouldn’t be on medical leave.”
“I’m healing. At least that’s what the doctors tell me.”
“Then humor me and take it easy for a change.”
“When you and the children are safe, that’s when I’ll be able to relax.”
He didn’t stay to listen to her argue. Instead, he walked toward the entrance of the cave, needing fresh air to clear his mind and get him back on track.
After his mission to keep her safe ended, then he’d be able to think of other things. Other things like how badly he wanted to kiss Lizzie.
NINE (#ulink_f1d618a7-b177-5fc2-8caa-e52ffe9b864c)
As the rising sun cast a pink glow across the horizon, Nick raised binoculars to his eyes and studied the surrounding terrain. The snow had stopped falling, and a surreal stillness had settled over the mountain.
He breathed in the cold morning air, appreciating the beams of sunlight that brightened the day and his mood. Last night, he’d anticipated trouble. This morning, he felt upbeat and encouraged. Maybe they’d eluded the killers, after all.
Nick checked his watch—7:00 a.m. Over the past few hours, he’d thought about Jeff and what had happened in Afghanistan. Needing closure, he pulled out his cell, inserted the battery and found the number in his phone log—a number he never thought he would call again. He tapped in the digits and waited for Mr. Santori to answer.
“It’s Captain Nick Fontaine, sir. Jeff’s friend. We were together in Afghanistan. I hope I didn’t wake you.”
“Not at all. I’m an early riser. I’m glad you called, Nick. I need to apologize.”
“How’s that, sir?”
“For the way I treated you. I was grieving and not thinking straight at the funeral, which I hope you can understand. Jeff was my only child. He...” Mr. Santori’s voice faltered. “He was my life.”
“Jeff was an outstanding solider and a great friend, sir.”
“And the best son a man could have. I miss him, and for that reason, I struck out at the army, and I’m afraid you got my wrath, as well. I talked to Jeff’s wife. She helped me see the truth.”
“The truth, sir?”
“That you only wanted to protect Jeff. You traded your own vest, the new model, for his older one, never realizing the new vest was substandard.”
For a second, Nick didn’t know how to reply. How could the man be so forgiving? Nick’s intent back on that awful night didn’t matter—what mattered was that his actions were the reason Jeff hadn’t been protected. Uncomfortable with the direction the conversation had taken, Nick tried to turn it to the reason why he’d called.
“I believe the problem was with the ceramic plate inserts, sir. Some of them failed. The vests were made by Stratford and Castings.”
“They’re an East Coast company?”
“Yes, sir. Their main plant is outside Baltimore. With your connections, I hoped you’d be able to determine if they made the ceramic plate inserts, as well, sir.”
Mr. Santori hesitated, and when he spoke again his voice was thick with emotion. “Jeff was a hero. He died protecting our country.”
“You’re right, sir. Your son was a hero. Focus on that, and forget anything that brings pain.”
“The pain comes from knowing our soldiers are fighting with vests that don’t offer enough protection. I’ll contact a friend in Congress and pass on what you told me.”
“Thank you, Mr. Santori.”
“Please accept my apology. Men like you are few and far between, Nick. You chose to sacrifice your own well-being for my son’s safety. I will be forever grateful.”
“I was just doing my job. I wish I could have done more.”
Mr. Santori’s involvement might bring the substandard vests with the faulty plates to the attention of the powers that be. Hopefully, before more soldiers were injured.
He was pleased with Mr. Santori’s promise to help, but still bewildered by the rest of the call. Did he really believe that Nick had done the right thing, even though the results had been so unexpectedly tragic? Others had tried to reassure Nick—his commanding officer, the men in his unit, even Jeff’s wife—but he hadn’t wanted to listen. Mr. Santori’s anger at the funeral had only bolstered his opinion that he was to blame for making the wrong choice.
He didn’t know what to do with Mr. Santori’s apology, or his explanation that his words had come from his grief rather than a genuine belief of wrongdoing on Nick’s part. He could definitely relate to the anger and pain Jeff’s dad had described. Nick had felt them himself at losing his friend. Had he allowed his own self-chastisement to get out of hand, to build into a weight of guilt he wasn’t meant to carry?
Mr. Santori had forgiven him. Was it possible for Nick to forgive himself?
* * *
Lizzie woke to find Nick gone. She crawled from the sleeping bag, careful not to wake Joey. The coolness of the cave and the cloying scent of the musky earth surrounded her. Wanting to ensure Nick was okay, she headed to the entrance and blinked at the bright sunlight as she stepped into the clearing outside.
The beauty of the new-fallen snow and the sparse landscape of pines and jagged rock greeted her. No wonder Nick loved the mountain.
“Lizzie.”
At the sound of his voice, relief swept over her.
“You’re up early,” he said from a rock perch to her right.
“And from the looks of the rolled-up sleeping bag, you didn’t rest at all.”
“I’ve been checking the valley.” He held up the binoculars in his hand. “Everything looks calm this morning. They’ll probably wait until nightfall before they return.”
“But you expect them to come back?”
“I’m sure they’re still looking for whatever it was they wanted to find. Now that it’s daylight, let’s check Zack’s files again. We should have a few hours of battery life left on his laptop.”
“The children will sleep for a bit longer. They’ll be hungry when they wake.”
“I’ve got a small camp stove we can light. There’s enough draft in the cave and it’s large enough that we don’t have to worry about fumes. I’ll boil water for coffee and make something hot for the children. Instant oatmeal sound okay?”
“Perfect.”
After a quick glance at the valley, he lowered the binoculars and hopped down from his perch. “Let’s head inside.”
He put his arm on her back, and together they walked into the cave where, good to his word, he quickly prepared instant coffee that provided warmth. Adding sugar and dried creamer made it more than palatable.
The oatmeal filled a hole in her stomach, although it did little to ease the nervous anxiety she felt each time she thought of Zack. Did he have food and shelter and something warm to wrap his hands around?
“Oh, please, God,” she whispered, surprised when Nick looked up.
“I know you’re worried.” His gaze was filled with concern.
She nodded. “I was thinking about Zack.”
“I tried to call him this morning but didn’t get a response.”
“Do they have him?” she asked, almost afraid to hear Nick’s answer.
“He’s okay.”
“How can you be sure?”
“I know Zack.”
“You knew him years ago, before he lost his wife and became so reckless, despite his two children, who should make him be more cautious.”
“Zack was born to be an investigator, Lizzie. His work gives meaning to his life.”
“His children should come first,” she insisted.
“And they do, but he has a job to do. For me, that’s the military. For him, it’s exposing corruption and righting wrongs.”
“You mentioned the military.” She pulled in a ragged breath. “Aren’t you afraid when you go into combat?”
“Of course I worry about what could happen. Everyone does. Anyone who says otherwise isn’t being truthful. My mission is to defend my country. To fight for what’s right, for freedom, for truth. I wouldn’t be able to look myself in the eye if I didn’t do my job.”
Nick was telling her that he lived with danger and always would. Was this the way life would be if she were with Nick? Always afraid? Always looking over her shoulder?
Lizzie shook her head ever so slightly. Why was she even thinking about a future with Nick? He’d just told her how important the military was to him. He had a job to do that didn’t include her. Was that why he’d left her behind all those years ago—because he’d known that he wanted to go serve his country, and that that would mean letting her go so his mission could come first?
Mary Grace stirred. Her eyes blinked open, and concern momentarily clouded her face. She dug her hand into the sleeping bag, pulled her Nativity set free of the bedding and smiled at Lizzie.
“Morning, Sunshine. We’re having a campout and a special breakfast.” Lizzie kept her voice light. “How about something warm to eat?”
“My tummy’s hungry.”
“I’m sure it is. Get up quietly so you don’t wake Joey.”
Mary Grace climbed from the sleeping bag and gave Liz a hug. “When will Daddy come to get us?”
“Soon, honey. I hope very, very soon.”
If only Zack would think of the children and stop placing himself in danger.
She glanced at Nick. He wouldn’t change, either, and she could never ask him to be anything other than the brave man he was. Nick was good and strong and determined to make a difference.
She had to stop blaming him for hurting her in the past. He’d chosen a path that didn’t include her, but it was a noble and honorable path. She shouldn’t blame him for choosing it over her. As soon as the danger had ended, he’d return to Fort Rickman and the military. Future deployments and assignments around the world would take him far from Lassiter and far from Lizzie. That was the reality she needed to accept. No matter how much she wished their reunion could grow into a relationship, her time with Nick would be short-lived.
She needed to steel her heart. Nick Fontaine would walk out of her life again.
TEN (#ulink_e2898cdc-ea3f-5d6a-9944-b2bb97184514)
Nick enjoyed watching Mary Grace eat breakfast. She followed the oatmeal with dried fruit and laughed when it stuck to her teeth.
“I need to brush,” she said after swallowing the last bit of dried banana.
“My mistake,” Nick said with a chuckle. “I forgot to include toothbrushes or toothpaste in with the supplies.”
“Daddy says I need to set a good example for Joey.”
As if hearing his name, the little guy opened his eyes. He looked as confused as Mary Grace had been when she’d first awakened.
Lizzie moved closer and smiled down at him. “Morning, Joey. We’re camping out—it’s an adventure! Would you like some breakfast?”
He nodded his head, sat up and smiled at Nick.
“Hey, Sport. Did you sleep well?”
Again the nod. He stretched his arms above his head and then reached for Lamb, still buried within the sleeping bag.
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Debby Giusti
Susan Sleeman
Jodie Bailey
This holiday season, three military men of honor must do everything they can to save ChristmasMission: Christmas Rescue by Debby GiustiOn the run from a killer, Elizabeth Tate must accept U.S. Army captain Nick Fontaine's protection for the sake of her young niece and nephew. Now her life is in the hands of the very man who broke her heart years ago.Special Ops Christmas by Susan SleemanResearcher Claire Reed's top secret project is stolen, putting her at risk of being kidnapped to unlock it. Her undercover bodyguard–her former love, Green Beret Travis Chapman–is on his most dangerous mission yet.Homefront Holiday Hero by Jodie BaileyWhen someone tries to kill the daughter of a military official, U.S. Army major Tyler Rainey must keep Kelly Walters from harm…while guarding his own heart against very unexpected feelings.
This holiday season, three military men of honor must do everything they can to save Christmas
Mission: Christmas Rescue by Debby Giusti
On the run from a killer, Elizabeth Tate must accept U.S. Army captain Nick Fontaine’s protection for the sake of her young niece and nephew. Now her life is in the hands of the very man who broke her heart years ago.
Special Ops Christmas by Susan Sleeman
Researcher Claire Reed’s top secret project is stolen, putting her at risk of being kidnapped to unlock it. Her undercover bodyguard—her former love, Green Beret Travis Chapman—is on his most dangerous mission yet.
Homefront Holiday Hero by Jodie Bailey
When someone tries to kill the daughter of a military official, U.S. Army major Tyler Rainey must keep Kelly Walters from harm…while guarding his own heart against very unexpected feelings.
Praise for Debby Giusti
“This story stirs the heart for the real soldiers serving our country today and presents a good mystery while doing so.”
—RT Book Reviews on The Officer’s Secret
“Quite suspenseful with a good mystery and well-defined characters.”
—RT Book Reviews on The Captain’s Mission
Praise for Susan Sleeman
“Sleeman’s intriguing plot proves that it’s possible to meet life’s challenges.”
—RT Book Reviews on Double Exposure
“The mystery will keep you involved until the end.”
—RT Book Reviews on The Christmas Witness
Praise for Jodie Bailey
“As a military wife, Bailey generates characters and a plot that are multi-layered and wonderfully unpredictable.”
—RT Book Reviews on Crossfire
“Bailey creates strong characters and palpable suspense in this tale that will keep you guessing.”
—RT Book Reviews on Freefall
DEBBY GIUSTI
is a medical technologist who loves working with test tubes and petri dishes almost as much as she loves to write. Growing up as an army brat, Debby met and married her husband—then a captain in the army—at Fort Knox, Kentucky. Together they traveled the world, raised three wonderful army brats of their own and have now settled in Atlanta, Georgia, where Debby spins tales of suspense that touch the heart and soul. Contact Debby through her website, www.debbygiusti.com (http://www.debbygiusti.com), email debby@debbygiusti.com, or write c/o Love Inspired Suspense, 233 Broadway, Suite 1001, New York, NY 10279.
SUSAN SLEEMAN
grew up in a small Wisconsin town, where she spent her summers reading Nancy Drew and developing a love of mystery and suspense books. Today she channels this enthusiasm into hosting the popular internet website TheSuspenseZone.com (http://TheSuspenseZone.com)and writing romantic-suspense and mystery novels.
Much to her husband’s chagrin, Susan loves to look at everyday situations and turn them into murder-and-mayhem scenarios for future novels. If you’ve met Susan, she has probably figured out a plausible way to kill you and get away with it.
Susan currently lives in Oregon, but has had the pleasure of living in nine states. Her husband is a church music director and they have two beautiful daughters, a very special son-in-law and an adorable grandson. To learn more about Susan, please visit www.susansleeman.com (http://www.susansleeman.com).
JODIE BAILEY
has been weaving stories since she learned how to hold a pencil. It was only recently she learned that everyone doesn’t make up whole other lives for fun in their spare time. She is an army wife, a mom and a teacher who believes chocolate and a trip to the Outer Banks will cure all ills. In her spare time, she reads cookbooks, rides motorcycles and searches for the perfect cup of coffee. Jodie lives in North Carolina with her husband and her daughter.
Holiday Defenders
Mission: Christmas Rescue
Debby Giusti
Special Ops Christmas
Susan Sleeman
Homefront Holiday Hero
Jodie Bailey
www.millsandboon.co.uk (http://www.millsandboon.co.uk)
Contents
Cover (#ub52d1990-fb91-5960-8732-6ba0d14d0e1a)
Back Cover Text (#u7e77e264-a4f4-5673-9b2e-77bf397f9388)
Praise (#udb1867f5-6fe8-5194-82ca-0adb7be5acc8)
About the Author (#u0f6c4d9b-b472-51ca-8dd0-af0bf6f3b65c)
Title Page (#u87b65144-9dbc-50e5-90f4-a7d5fe0b25d5)
Mission: Christmas Rescue (#ulink_c2e235f0-9702-512b-9b3c-e5eae27222ba)
Bible Verse (#u8a4cc0a4-cb44-5f7b-8b65-2951e6543096)
Dedication (#u47e37498-acd3-5cdb-b195-8d340a4c7c2a)
ONE (#ufcb41a1a-a704-5e7e-9a0c-b0b8e695e33f)
TWO (#uf2a785fa-3c93-59ac-bb85-1a3843521ca4)
THREE (#uaf030dc7-1cd2-5965-a183-8c8f166d5565)
FOUR (#udee06886-002b-5516-aaa7-2ad57002287e)
FIVE (#u8811db8c-5c13-555c-8f6b-4339cbbca986)
SIX (#uaaad227e-2e5d-5899-a840-9aa9f38fd9e2)
SEVEN (#u1e0c215f-9f04-54c9-857d-ba1a007c105c)
EIGHT (#u475eeca6-1de2-523e-836f-624c4083464d)
NINE (#u81d6961a-5f1c-5fa1-a65b-7931a2fdf143)
TEN (#u431dd1e4-07b5-570b-b920-fc0879270534)
ELEVEN (#litres_trial_promo)
TWELVE (#litres_trial_promo)
THIRTEEN (#litres_trial_promo)
FOURTEEN (#litres_trial_promo)
Special Ops Christmas (#litres_trial_promo)
Bible Verse (#litres_trial_promo)
Dedication (#litres_trial_promo)
Acknowledgments (#litres_trial_promo)
ONE (#litres_trial_promo)
TWO (#litres_trial_promo)
THREE (#litres_trial_promo)
FOUR (#litres_trial_promo)
FIVE (#litres_trial_promo)
SIX (#litres_trial_promo)
SEVEN (#litres_trial_promo)
EIGHT (#litres_trial_promo)
NINE (#litres_trial_promo)
TEN (#litres_trial_promo)
ELEVEN (#litres_trial_promo)
Homefront Holiday Hero (#litres_trial_promo)
Bible Verse (#litres_trial_promo)
Dedication (#litres_trial_promo)
ONE (#litres_trial_promo)
TWO (#litres_trial_promo)
THREE (#litres_trial_promo)
FOUR (#litres_trial_promo)
FIVE (#litres_trial_promo)
SIX (#litres_trial_promo)
EPILOGUE (#litres_trial_promo)
Extract (#litres_trial_promo)
Copyright (#litres_trial_promo)
Mission: Christmas Rescue (#ulink_d7efb447-a19e-5524-87ce-ad5a8e50b1b6)
Debby Giusti
For God so loved the world that He gave His Only Begotten Son, so that all who believe in Him may not perish but may have eternal life.
—John 3:16
To my own Mary, Joseph and Elizabeth.
Remember when you acted out the Nativity as children?
Those sweet memories inspired this story.
Merry Christmas.
ONE (#ulink_9ae922a2-b2de-52c5-beb6-7ed08e34fc26)
Elizabeth Tate pulled back the living-room curtain and stared into the night. All she saw in the windowpane was her own reflection and the twinkling lights from the Christmas tree.
Unable to shrug off her unease, she dropped the curtain into place and headed down the hallway to check on Joey and Mary Grace.
Ever since her sister-in-law had died thirteen months earlier, Liz frequently stayed overnight at her brother’s house to babysit his four-and six-year-old children when he was on assignment for a story. His job as a newspaper investigative reporter often took him out of town. Tonight he was working on something closer to home, although he hadn’t shared the details with Elizabeth. All she knew was that it involved the rather controversial “Z” Notes whistleblower blog he wrote on the side to bring public attention to unethical or illegal corporate practices. Normally, Liz treasured the time she could spend with Zack’s little ones. Tonight she was anxious and worried.
Perhaps it was Zack’s warning to remain vigilant that had her conjuring up all types of scenarios. None of them good.
Ever since he’d launched “Z” Notes, she’d been concerned about her brother’s safety. Exposing corruption at any level wasn’t for the faint of heart. Usually Elizabeth could overlook the downside of his work by reminding herself of the good he was doing. And besides, his dedication to his work meant that she had the joy of being deeply involved in her niece and nephew’s lives. As an elementary school teacher, she loved all children, but Mary Grace and Joey held a special place in her heart.
Slipping into their bedrooms, she sighed with relief, feeling both comforted and reassured that they were nestled in their beds, fast asleep. From the looks of contentment on their sweet faces, they were probably dreaming of Christmas, only two days away. By then, her nervous unrest would be a memory and another reason for Zack to poke fun at her concern for his well-being.
Called back to the living room by the shrill trill of her cell, she reached for her BlackBerry and smiled at her brother’s picture on the screen.
“Hey, bro. What’s up?”
“Lizzie, listen to me carefully and do exactly what I tell you. Pack a bag for the children. A couple outfits each. Some underwear. Extra warm clothes. Don’t forget Mary Grace’s toy Nativity set and Joey’s lamb.”
“But—”
“You have to leave the house and go somewhere safe. Hide out until I contact you.”
She pushed the cell closer to her ear. “Is this a joke?”
“I wish it were.”
The urgency in her brother’s voice brought a renewed volley of concern.
“What happened, Zack?”
“An ambush. The guy I was supposed to meet—” He hesitated. “The whistleblower’s dead.”
Liz gasped. “Where are you?”
“On the run. There’re four of them. They want information I’ve uncovered. Grab my laptop and take it with you. Be careful, Liz. Don’t let them find you or the kids.”
“Where can we meet up?”
“We can’t. They’re on my tail. You’ve got to hurry. Take the children and escape.”
A roar filled her head. She tried to think. “But where should we go?”
Zack hesitated. “I...I’m not sure.”
“The Lassiter police can help, Zack. I’ll call them.”
“No.” His firm reply frightened her even more. “You can’t trust them. You can’t trust anyone, except—“
“You’re scaring me, Zack.”
“As much as you won’t like it, sis, there is one person you can trust. Nick Fontaine’s back from his military deployment. I’ll call him. He’s the only person I can depend on.”
She shook her head, vehemently opposed to her brother’s suggestion. “I don’t want Nick’s help.”
“There’s no one else.”
“Then I’ll handle this myself.”
“You’ll need Nick. Hurry. You don’t have much time.”
“Zack—”
“Stay safe, and take care of my babies.”
The connection ended.
Her hands trembled. She stared down at the now-blank screen and tried to comprehend what her brother had just said.
A man murdered? Zack on the run?
She needed to notify the authorities, except he’d been adamant about not telling the very people she wanted to call.
Her stomach churned. Tears stung her eyes. Blinking them back, she glanced at her watch: 10:00 p.m.
How long had she been standing there, stalled, unable to grasp the reality of the moment?
“Oh, God, help me,” she moaned. “Help Zack.”
Knowing she didn’t have a minute to spare, Elizabeth ran into Mary Grace’s bedroom and started packing things into a canvas bag. The Nativity set—a gift Zack’s wife had stitched for their baby girl’s first Christmas—sat on the nightstand. Liz shoved the plump, hand-sewn figures of Mary, Joseph, Baby Jesus and a donkey and camel into the quilted carrier designed as a stable, complete with a Star of Bethlehem appliqué. Closing the Velcro fasteners, she dropped the entire set into the larger, canvas tote before she raced to Joey’s room. The lamb he slept with—another bit of her sister-in-law’s handiwork—was still clenched in his arms.
The serene calm on the child’s face contrasted sharply with the surge of adrenaline that made Liz light-headed. Raking a hand through her hair, she pulled in a lungful of air. Surely she was dreaming.
The memory of Zack’s fear-laced voice echoed in her head. “Hurry,” he had warned.
Glancing again at her watch, she groaned. Twenty minutes had passed. Why was she moving so slowly when time was passing so quickly?
She shoved Joey’s outfits in the bag and added his favorite storybook. It was sitting on top of a craft box filled with crayons and paper, so she threw that in, too. Zipping the bag shut en route, she raced back to the kitchen and grabbed Zack’s laptop, along with the small tote she had packed for herself in case she decided to spend the night at her brother’s house. Her hands shook, and she struggled to unlatch the back door, then stumbled into the adjoining rear garage where she’d parked her SUV.
A December storm had dumped four inches of snow earlier today. The weatherman promised a white Christmas for this part of Tennessee, but right now survival was her only concern. Keep the children safe.
If only she knew where to take them.
She plopped the totes and computer in the rear between the kids’ car seats, grateful Zack had loaded them in her car earlier. Just in case, he’d mentioned. Had he known there might be trouble?
Why, Zack?
Why tonight?
Why this close to Christmas?
Why, when the children have already lost their mother, would you do anything this dangerously foolish?
Anger swelled within her and mixed with frustration and fear that left her gasping for air.
She shook her head. She needed to focus on getting away. From whom, she wasn’t even sure.
Racing back into the house, she yanked heavy winter coats from the closet, along with fleece hats, mittens and boots that could be pulled on over the children’s flannel, footy pajamas.
What else?
Lights from the tree twinkled in the living room.
She unplugged the cord and shivered in the darkness. The only illumination was a small band of light, spilling from the hallway.
Footsteps sounded on the front porch.
Her blood chilled.
She stared at the door, paralyzed with fear. Why had she delayed so long?
Two knocks.
“Lizzie?”
A voice she knew. Her inner resolve to be independent crumbled, and relief flooded over her.
She pulled open the door. Nick Fontaine stood before her, tall, muscular and even more handsome than she remembered.
In spite of her best intentions, her knees went weak, and her heart skidded to a stop.
Ten years. She hadn’t seen him in all that time, yet she’d never forgotten him. How could she forget her first and only teenage love—not to mention the first boy to break her heart?
“Zack called.” He pushed past her into the house, the scent of his aftershave and the cold outdoors coming with him. He closed the door, locked the dead bolt and turned to stare at her with unfairly beautiful dark eyes.
Overpowered by the bulk of him, she took a step back.
“My truck’s parked on the next block,” he said matter-of-factly. They weren’t exactly the first words she’d expected to hear from him after ten years with no contact. But then, she should have known better than to expect anything from him ever since he’d walked out of her life the night of her high school prom.
Even after all these years, she couldn’t cast off the feeling of betrayal. Going to prom with Nick had been a dream come true, and when he’d stood on her front porch and said he loved her, her heart had soared with joy. It had broken the next day, when she learned that he’d left town without even saying goodbye, never to return again.
“I don’t need your help, Nick.”
“Zack thinks you do.”
“What do brothers know about kid sisters?”
“You’re in danger, Lizzie.”
She bristled, hearing the name he’d whispered between kisses the night he’d left her.
“It’s Elizabeth, and I think you should go.”
“Not until you and the children are in your car, headed for safety.”
Why was he so determined?
She reached for the door. He didn’t need her ten years ago, and she didn’t need him now. End of discussion.
A car engine sounded outside. Nick stepped to the window and tugged back the curtain ever so slightly. She peered past him, and her heart froze as four men crawled from a utility van parked in front of the house.
In a blur of motion, Nick hurried her out of the living area. She pointed him to her nephew’s room. “Joey’s a sound sleeper. He won’t wake up and be frightened seeing you like his sister might be. Make sure you bring his lamb.”
Hurrying into the other room, she scooped Mary Grace from her bed and met Nick in the hallway, with Joey in his arms. Leading the way into the kitchen, Nick grabbed the pile of coats and pointed to the back door. “Garage?”
She nodded.
Leaving the warmth of the kitchen, Mary Grace blinked open sleepy eyes.
“We’re going for a ride,” Elizabeth reassured the child as she woke Joey and helped both of them into their coats. Once bundled up, Liz placed them in their car seats and climbed into the rear between them.
“Keys are in the ignition,” she told Nick as he slipped behind the wheel.
He started the engine and glanced back at her before he hit the garage remote control. The panel door lumbered open. Shouts sounded from the side of the house.
“Dear God, protect us,” Liz prayed as she covered the children’s heads with her arms and pulled them close.
Nick backed the SUV out of the garage and turned onto the rear access road before he shifted into Drive and floored the accelerator. Four men with drawn weapons ran toward the car.
Elizabeth wanted to scream. Instead, she whispered words of comfort to the children and tried to shield them with her body.
A shot rang out.
“Keep the kids down,” Nick warned.
The SUV screeched onto the main road. The force of acceleration threw her head against the seat. Hot tears stung her eyes, and she struggled to keep the nervousness from her voice as she soothed the children.
Nick’s hands gripped the wheel so tightly his knuckles had gone white. A muscle twitched on the side of his neck. She saw him glance at her reflection in the rearview mirror and then turn his focus back to the road.
The SUV tore through the neighborhood of white lights and evergreen wreaths. An inflatable Santa Claus and Jolly Snowman nodded in passing. After a series of sharp turns, they left the subdivision and sped away into the night.
Everything had changed seemingly in the blink of an eye. An informant was dead. Zack was in danger, and she had to depend on Nick Fontaine—a man she’d never wanted to see again—in order to save her niece and nephew and herself. Elizabeth hadn’t been able to trust Nick ten years ago. Why should she think she could trust him now?
TWO (#ulink_588c79bb-20ea-54e7-b37d-6406ce857d5b)
Nick could barely take his eyes off Lizzie’s reflection in the rearview mirror. She’d grown even more beautiful over the years, but it hadn’t been her pretty face that took him by surprise earlier.
Rather it had been the look in her blue eyes that cut him to the core when she’d opened the door at Zack’s house. Betrayal and abandonment flashed across her face for an instant before she’d raised her chin and glared at him with accusation.
As much as he wanted to explain what had happened ten years ago, he had to focus on the children’s and Lizzie’s safety first. They could delve into past issues after the danger was over.
When Zack called, he’d been on the run and worried about his family. Without a moment’s hesitation, Nick had raced down the mountain to his old friend’s house.
The two guys had reconnected a number of times over the years when Nick came back to Tennessee on leave, always meeting at Nick’s mountain cabin, on Nick’s turf. He’d never gone back to Lassiter. Never would have, if not for Zack’s plea for help.
Nick couldn’t say no to his old friend, especially when he’d learned Lizzie was in danger along with two adorable kids. The promise Nick had made to Lizzie’s father, Judge Tate, years earlier, that he would never step foot in Lassiter again—a promise that Lizzie never knew about, made under duress—wasn’t as important as keeping the three of them safe.
“Where are you taking us?” she asked from the rear.
He glanced again at her reflection. Long honey-brown hair, arched brows, full lips and crystalline eyes he’d seen too many times in his dreams.
“We’re going someplace safe.”
“I need to know where,” she insisted, her voice raised ever so slightly.
He lowered his gaze to the little guy strapped in beside her who still clutched the stuffed lamb in his arms. Long, thick lashes drooped over his full cheeks.
Nick raised a finger to his lips. “Shhh. Someone’s falling asleep.”
Lizzie glanced at the boy. The strain that furrowed her brow eased, and a hint of a smile teased her lips.
“His name’s Joey,” she said, her voice thick with emotion.
“I seem to recall Nick telling me that big sister is named Mary.”
Turning to her niece, Lizzie stroked her fingers through the child’s curly hair and gave her a reassuring smile.
The little one smiled back. With her bow-shaped mouth, upturned nose, golden hair and blue eyes, she’d steal many a boy’s heart when she grew up.
“My name’s Mary Grace,” she informed him without hesitation. “Aunt Lizzie calls me Sunshine ’cause I brighten her day. I’m six years old.”
Nick inwardly chuckled. Little Miss Sunshine was cute as a button. “You’re so grown up. I’m sure you help your dad around the house.”
“Daddy says I need to help take care of Joey, too.”
“Because he’s younger or because he’s your brother?” Nick played along and paired his seriousness to hers.
“No.” She shook her head emphatically. “’Cause he doesn’t talk.”
Nick threw a questioning glance at Lizzie, who remained silent.
“Joey hasn’t talked since Mama died,” Mary Grace explained.
Nick felt a stab of remorse at the children’s pain. How could a so-called loving God allow their mother to be taken?
Nick’s own dad had died some years earlier. After three deployments with the military, Nick had been up close and personal with death, but what rocked him to the core was senseless loss of life, like Zack’s wife.
And Jeff.
His army buddy shouldn’t have died. If only Nick hadn’t—
“Aunt Lizzie, where’s Baby Jesus?” Mary Grace asked, her eyes suddenly wide with concern.
“Here, honey.” Lizzie unzipped the tote she’d packed for the children and removed the Nativity play set.
Mary Grace tugged on the Velcro fasteners and pulled out Mary, Joseph and the infant babe, along with a lopsided donkey and a two-humped camel. With a contented sigh, she rested her head on the back of her car seat.
Once the child was asleep, Elizabeth glanced over her shoulder at the road behind them. “Any chance we’re being followed?”
Nick studied the darkness. “I’ve kept to the side roads and doubled back a few times. So far I haven’t seen anyone on our tail.”
Seemingly satisfied, Lizzie settled into the seat and glanced at Joey to ensure he was asleep, before she lifted her gaze. “I’m worried about Zack.”
Nick was, as well, but he wouldn’t tell her. She needed something to hold on to, something that provided hope.
“Your brother’s been snooping into other people’s business since before we graduated high school. He’ll be okay.”
She rubbed her arms and stared out the passenger-side window. “You don’t understand. He’s placed himself in danger too many times since Annabelle died. Sometimes I think he’s running away from her death, trying to overfill his life so he doesn’t have time to remember how good it was when she was alive.”
Nick could relate. He’d run away from Lassiter and the townsfolk who never let him forget his father was a failure, and who seemed convinced that Nick was following in his dad’s footsteps. Back then, no one believed in Nick. No one except Zack and Lizzie.
“Your brother has never worried about danger,” Nick said, unwilling to dwell on his own past failures. The army had changed him, thankfully for the better.
“Maybe not, but Zack needs to be careful, especially with two young children.”
She was right, of course. “Tough break to lose a spouse. Cancer, right?”
She nodded. “Thirteen months ago. Everything happened fast. Annabelle was fine one minute and gone the next.”
A weight settled on Nick’s shoulders. He knew too well how quickly life could change.
“But then...” Lizzie stared at him from the backseat. “I’m sure you understand about leaving without notice.”
Her words were a stab to his heart. His gaze locked on hers for a long moment but then broke away. They both knew the history of their past. No reason to bring it up again. She’d moved on. So had he.
Headlights pulled his focus to the road behind them. A vehicle moving quickly. He swallowed down a rise of concern.
“We’re being followed.”
She glanced over her shoulder.
“Get down, Lizzie,” he warned.
Slipping lower in her seat, she placed her hands protectively on the children.
“Is it a van?”
He shook his head. “I can’t tell.”
They crested a hill. On the far side of the ridge, he cut the lights and made a sharp turn onto a smaller two-lane that led into a warehouse parking area. Doyle Manufacturing. The largest employer in the county. Nick braked to a stop behind a tractor trailer and killed the engine.
“What are we doing?” she whispered.
“Hiding.” He peered past the semi to the main road. “I want to see who’s behind us.”
Headlights crested the hill at a rapid speed. The vehicle came into view. A utility van.
Nick’s gut tightened.
“It’s them, isn’t it?” Lizzie had unbuckled her seat belt and scooted forward in her seat.
Her closeness affected him. For a long moment, he closed his eyes and tried to shrug off the sensations playing havoc with his emotions. Steeling himself, he blinked his eyes open and started the engine.
“At least we know which direction they’re headed,” he said, hoping to reassure her.
With a sigh, Lizzie buckled her seat belt. “I don’t like this, Nick.”
“Everything’s going to be okay.” Of course, he hoped it would be, but his internal warning radar was on high alert. Something very wrong was happening in Lassiter, Tennessee.
Pulling onto the two-lane, he steered away from the main road the van had traveled. Staring into the darkness, he saw the faint outline of the mountain ahead in the distance.
The killers wouldn’t follow them there, especially not on a snowy night. At least, that’s what Nick hoped.
If he were a praying man, he’d ask for the Lord’s protection. Regrettably, he couldn’t rely on God. He couldn’t rely on anyone or anything except his own instincts to keep Liz and the children safe.
He glanced back. Her head rested on the seat, and her eyes were downcast. Perhaps she was praying.
Lizzie didn’t realize the pain he had endured when he’d left Lassiter. In hindsight, her father had been right years ago. Lizzie deserved better than a nineteen-year-old punk aimlessly drifting through life. Nick may have done well in the military, but she still deserved more than he could offer. When this was over, he’d remove himself from her life once again. But in the meantime, he’d do whatever it took to keep her safe.
THREE (#ulink_c041f6c7-9705-58ba-8d3a-0df5d56e9958)
Liz’s eyes flew open when the car braked to a stop. She glanced first at Nick and then at the expansive A-frame rising up at the end of the driveway. How long had she been asleep?
Nick stepped from the car, opened the back door and leaned over Mary Grace, which put him much too close. Liz unbuckled her seat belt, needing to distance herself from the man who made her equilibrium falter.
Inwardly she chastised herself, ashamed at her own inability to stay awake earlier. Violent men were after them, yet she’d closed her eyes and drifted to sleep. What if Nick hadn’t been a trusted friend of Zack’s and someone suspect instead. Would she have dropped her guard then?
Nick unclasped the harness buckle on Mary Grace’s car seat and, with strong, powerful arms, lifted the sleeping child into his embrace. For half a second, Liz remembered after prom when they had stood on her front porch, saying good-night, wrapped in each other’s arms.
Enough nonsense. She hurriedly unlatched Joey’s harness and carried the child out the door Nick held open.
“Where are we?” she asked, breathing in the cold mountain air.
Her gaze fell again over the wooden A-frame with its expansive windows and welcoming front porch. The majestic valley spanned out below them, wrapped in snow that reflected the light of the moon.
Everything was clearly visible at this elevation—the constellations, the North Star and the moon shining down like a giant lamp in the night sky.
She turned back to Nick. “Is this where you grew up?”
He nodded. “My dad’s cabin.”
“But—” She glanced again at the sturdy structure, so pleasing to the eye and in perfect balance with the natural setting. Years earlier, she had visited Nick’s childhood home with Zack. In her mind, it would always remain a dilapidated shack, surrounded by clutter and as tired and listless as Nick’s father had been.
“You must have hired a builder.”
“I did the work myself, piecemeal, over the years, when I was home on leave.”
“Where did you get the building supplies?” It couldn’t have been in Lassiter. In all that time, she had never seen him, or even heard word of him coming to town.
“I found what I needed in Cambridge, on the other side of the mountain.”
She glanced again at the fine craftsmanship of the structure, marveling at Nick’s ability. “I...I didn’t know you were a builder.”
He laughed, the sound filling the night. “There’s a lot you don’t know about me, Lizzie.”
It’s Elizabeth now, she thought, but she failed to correct him. For some reason, Lizzie sounded right coming from Nick.
A cold wind blew, and she cuddled Joey closer. “We need to get the children inside.”
Nick reached for the totes and laptop before heading toward the house. After climbing the stairs, he stamped his feet and keyed open the door.
“Watch your step.” He took her elbow and helped her up the slippery stairs.
“Will they follow us here?”
“I hope not, but we still need to be cautious. Let’s get the children settled and then try to uncover who your brother was meeting. That might help us determine who’s after us and why. Once we get information, we can contact the authorities outside the local area. Zack told me not to trust the Lassiter police. If there are dirty cops, there’s no telling how they’ll manipulate our story to make it fit their own needs.”
“Zack called the guy a whistleblower.”
“Good to know. Our job is to find out what secrets he planned to share that got him killed.”
Nick held open the door. She slipped inside, noting the massive stone fireplace on the far side of the room. The faint scent of tomatoes and green peppers hung in the air as if he’d cooked Italian hours earlier.
She glanced down at her watch. Quarter past midnight.
Nick must have driven around on back roads for some time, trying to elude the killers. He had remained vigilant while she snoozed.
Shame on her for not staying alert to protect the children, yet nothing gave her pause to worry about her own safety where Nick was concerned. Quite the opposite; she’d felt an immediate sense of relief when he’d touched her arm and guided her away from the window after they’d spotted the van parked in front of Zack’s house.
She shivered inadvertently, thinking of what could have happened if Nick hadn’t arrived in time. He’d left her hanging in the past, but he’d come back at the perfect moment.
To protect Zack’s kids. No reason to think it had anything to do with her. And even if it did, she’d never be foolish enough to trust him with her heart again. He would keep them safe, and that was all.
“Cold?” he asked. Concern filled his gaze. “I’ll turn up the heat.” After adjusting the thermostat, he pointed to the overhead loft. “My bedroom’s upstairs. The kids can sleep there.”
She followed him along the circular stairway, marveling at the breathtaking view out the floor-to-ceiling windows. The cabin contained a mix of sleek modern furnishings interspersed with a few antiques. All quality pieces and so unlike anything she thought the former Nick would have purchased. Tonight, she saw Nick in a new light and realized she didn’t know anything about the man he had become.
The only thing she didn’t see, which gave her pause, was a Christmas tree or any other holiday decorations.
Upon entering his bedroom, Nick laid Mary Grace on his king-size bed and, without prompting, slipped off her coat. The child snuggled under the thick comforter and crisp sheets.
Liz settled Joey on the opposite side of the bed. Just as Nick had done, she removed the little one’s jacket and pulled the covers over his shoulders, grateful both children were in their pajamas. Hopefully, they would sleep until morning.
Or until something—or someone—disrupted their slumber.
“Please, Lord, keep them safe.” She pressed a kiss on first Joey’s and then Mary Grace’s forehead.
Nick stood at the foot of the bed. “They’ll be okay for the night,” he assured her.
She nodded, not wanting to give voice to her own concerns. Everything had happened too quickly. Not that many hours ago, the children had been in their own beds dreaming of Christmas.
Then Zack had called, and their peace and security had vanished like the wind that was starting to gain strength outside.
“Let’s go downstairs,” Nick suggested. “I’ll fix coffee. Are you hungry?”
“No, but coffee sounds good.” She followed him to the first floor and watched as he filled the water reservoir and basket. The rich scent of the ground beans filled the kitchen area.
While the coffee brewed, he used a remote control to lower the blinds that covered the huge windows. “They’ll block out the indoor light so no one suspects we’re here. Zack and I were inseparable in high school. Memories linger in small towns. Someone might make the connection.”
The tightness in his voice made a chill scurry along her spine.
“I’d build a fire except smoke coming out the chimney would signal that the house is occupied.”
He wasn’t taking chances. The cabin was isolated, tucked high on the mountain. They were well hidden, unless someone knew where to look.
“I suggest we both take the batteries out of our cell phones.”
Elizabeth bristled at the suggestion. “But what if Zack tries to call me?”
“We can activate your cell every few hours and check for incoming calls.”
She glanced down at her BlackBerry. “You think someone will trace us through our phones?”
Nick nodded. “It’s possible. I’ve got a burner phone that can’t be traced. We’ll use that if we need to make any calls.”
“Let me try to contact Zack first.” Elizabeth punched his number on speed dial.
“Don’t worry,” she said when the call went to voice mail. “The children and I are being well protected.” Hopefully he’d know that Nick was keeping them safe.
After disconnecting, she turned off the device and removed the battery. Nick did the same to his cell and tucked his smartphone and the throwaway model in his pocket.
Grabbing binoculars off a nearby shelf, he peered through a small side window. “I can see almost the entire stretch of access road. The snow’s already covered our tire tracks, which helps. Hopefully we’ll spot any unwelcome visitors in time to react.”
“Which means we’re safe.”
He nodded. “At least for now.”
She stepped closer and glanced out the same window. Once again, the view of the snow-covered terrain bathed in the iridescent glow of the moon’s reflection took her breath away.
“Everything looks so peaceful.”
He nodded. “That’s what I like about the mountain. I relax completely when I’m here.”
“Are you stationed close by?”
“At Fort Rickman. A couple hours south of Atlanta.”
“It’s nice you could come home for Christmas.”
“Actually, I’m on convalescent leave.”
“What!” She startled, unable to sort through the concern tugging at her heart. “You were injured?”
“Nothing serious, but the docs thought I needed to recuperate for a month or so.”
“I...I didn’t know. Zack never mentioned—”
“No need,” he quickly added.
“He could have at least—”
Nick touched her hand. “High school was a long time ago, Liz. I understand.”
“Understand?” What was he talking about?
She was the one who didn’t understand why he’d betrayed her trust.
FOUR (#ulink_8672f7e4-076a-5920-a5cd-6e1a032a856a)
Nick was grateful for the buzzer that rang when the coffee was ready. Seeing the surprise written on Lizzie’s face when he’d mentioned convalescent leave had him hoping she might still have feelings for him. Then he realized his mistake. The past was long gone.
He pointed her toward the kitchen. “I’ve got milk in the fridge, and the sugar bowl is on the counter.” He pulled two mugs from the cabinet and filled them.
“Black works for me,” she said, accepting the cup he offered.
He took a sip. Hopefully, the hearty brew would clear his mind. He was way too aware of Lizzie—Elizabeth. He needed to stay focused and on task. The mission came first. He understood that in combat. He needed to remember that now. He couldn’t let Lizzie’s nearness veer him off course.
“Let’s take a look at Zack’s computer.” Nick ushered her toward the table in the great room.
Her eyes widened as she ran her hand over the smooth surface. “The wood’s beautiful.”
“Thanks. As they say, one man’s junk is another man’s treasure.”
He smiled at her raised brow and went on to explain, “I found the table in a flea market north of here, near the Kentucky state line. Solid oak and built in the mid-1800s, but covered with layers of chipped paint. Bringing the wood back to its original beauty was a work of love.”
“And the chairs?” She pointed to the set of Windsors with spindle backs sturdy enough to support even someone his size.
“Another find that required hours of labor but was worth the effort.”
She scooted into one of the chairs while he opened Zack’s laptop. Sitting next to her, he pushed the power button and waited for the password request.
“Annabelle’s birthday.” Elizabeth provided the date.
After he punched in the digits, the screen saver came into view, showing Zack’s wife, cradling an infant in her arms, no doubt Joey. Their toddler daughter stood cuddled at her side.
The depth of the family’s loss tugged at Nick’s heart. “Mary Grace looks just like her mother.”
Elizabeth nodded. “And Joey takes after Zack.”
Nick smiled. “A future investigative reporter, perhaps?”
“I hope not.” The seriousness in her tone reminded Nick—as if he needed a reminder—that Zack’s search for the truth had placed his life in danger.
“I’ll pull up his documents.”
Working quickly, Nick looked for anything that might shed light on the identity of the murdered informant or Zack’s current investigation. He read through a series of files with information Zack had probably used in past blog posts. Some of them focused on the Lassiter police department and possible corruption, which wouldn’t put Zack in good stead with the local authorities. Whether that played into what had happened tonight, Nick wasn’t sure.
He double-clicked on a file Zack had opened yesterday. A list of names unfolded across the screen. “Recognize anyone?”
Liz leaned closer and pointed out two names. “These guys were a couple years behind me in high school. I see them around town occasionally, but I don’t know them personally.”
“Can you think of anything they share in common other than attending the same high school?”
She shook her head. “Unfortunately, no.”
After working through the majority of the files without success, Nick stretched back in his chair and rubbed his neck. “Zack isn’t making this easy.”
Liz scooted away from the table and stood. “You keep searching. I’ll check on the children.”
Nick was relieved to have some breathing room. Being close to Lizzie required self-control. He wanted to touch her hand and feel the softness of her skin.
He chuckled inwardly. Silly for him to think she’d feel the same attraction, almost a magnetic force that was stronger than he could handle at the moment.
Everything about Lizzie was a distraction and seeing her concern for the children was even more so. She’d make a great mom and should have a houseful of kids of her own. Instead, she taught a classroom of other people’s children. No doubt, she was a terrific teacher, but she needed a family, as well.
Maybe caffeine would help clear his head.
“Want some more coffee?” he called up to her as she climbed the stairs to his bedroom.
“A glass of water would be good.” He heard the smile in her voice and his chest tightened, wanting to do anything to make her happy.
Her face had been washed with worry since he’d arrived at Zack’s house. No wonder. Hard to look beyond the danger they were in. If they could elude the killers until Zack could hand his information over to the proper authorities, then this mission would end on a good note.
It had to end well.
Shaking off the ominous feelings that came with his thoughts, Nick dropped his cup into the sink and poured water into two glasses. He gulped half a glass and refilled it before carrying both to the table.
The local all-night television channel aired news on the hour. He hit the remote and lowered the volume. A commercial played across the screen.
Hearing Lizzie’s footfalls coming down the stairs, he turned. She smiled at him, and he felt buoyed by her gaze.
“Both children are sound asleep,” she said.
“They’re great kids.”
“The best.” She glanced at the table. “Thanks for the water.”
He handed her the glass. Stepping closer to take it, she glanced up. The look on her face was telling. Lizzie had stepped too close.
His heart pounded in his chest. The thump, thump, thump was so strong, she’d surely think a snare drum was coming from the TV.
She didn’t mention his heartbeat. Instead, she focused on his lips, her eyes scorching him with their gaze.
The world faded away, and all he saw was Lizzie, even more beautiful than he remembered. More than anything, he wanted to reach for her and pull her close. Everything inside him yearned for her kiss.
She leaned in closer, almost as if she wanted the kiss as badly as he did. But then she glanced at the television, the spell of the moment broken.
Her face darkened. She gasped. Nick followed her gaze to the photograph plastered on the plasma screen.
A photo of Zack.
The newscaster’s voice, although faint, could be heard in the stillness.
“Zack Tate, noted investigative reporter and author of the controversial blog “Z” Notes, is wanted in connection with a man found murdered in the roadside park off Phillips Road.”
“No,” Lizzie moaned as she walked closer to the television. Nick picked up the remote and increased the volume.
“The unidentified man was shot to death and found in the rear of the park rest stop a short time ago. A police spokesperson said evidence found at the site of the murder makes Zack Tate a person of interest. He’s considered armed and dangerous, and the public is asked to use caution and call the authorities if they spot Tate.”
Nick put his hand on her shoulder, offering support.
The newscast continued. “Most people know Tate from his blog. Over the years, many of the stories he’s featured have been highly inflammatory toward local authorities. The police have long said Tate paints law enforcement in a less than favorable light, which has hindered their effectiveness within the community.”
“No wonder the cops are upset,” Nick said. “Zack exposed their duplicity.”
Lizzie shuddered when Annabelle’s name was mentioned.
“Tate’s wife died thirteen months ago, and an unnamed source questions whether foul play could have been involved. His two young children, age six and four, are missing along with his sister, Elizabeth Tate, a teacher at Lassiter Elementary. She’s also wanted for questioning.”
Nick didn’t like hearing Lizzie’s name mentioned in connection with the murder. If law enforcement wanted to question her, she would be in added danger if the police turned a blind eye to the law.
When the newscast went to a commercial break, Nick lowered the volume and threw the remote on the couch. “Zack was right. Everyone’s on the take. He’s being set up to take the fall for the informant’s death. They want so badly to smear his name that they’re even creating suspicions about his wife’s death.”
“At least the police haven’t apprehended him yet.”
The police wouldn’t find Zack if the four thugs had already grabbed him. Not that Nick would share that thought with Lizzie.
“His past blogs hit too close to home,” he said. “Someone must have decided he needed to be silenced. Maybe the meeting with the whistleblower was a setup to lure Zack in. Dirty cops can’t be trusted, especially if someone threatens to expose their underhanded dealings.”
She rubbed her arms. “What’s our plan if the killers come looking for us?”
“We’ll grab the kids and then head out the back door off the kitchen. I’ll park your SUV on a small path that leads higher up the side of the mountain. With the long access road, we should have time to spot an approaching vehicle and get away.”
“But they’ll keep following us.”
“The access road dead ends here at the cabin. If they don’t know about the mountain path, they’ll think we left before they arrived.”
“At least that’s what you’re hoping.”
She had given voice to his own concerns. Nick glanced at his watch. They had a few hours before dawn. Hopefully they’d be secure here, at least for now.
They still needed to uncover information that could lead them to Zack, or give them leverage against the men trying to kill him. Knowledge was power, and they had to uncover the corruption that had placed him in danger and led to the taking of another man’s life.
Just so the violence ended there. Nick wouldn’t let anything happen to Lizzie and the children. He’d protect them with his last breath, if need be. If only they could be safe.
FIVE (#ulink_f44c523d-5c13-53f2-ad4a-d9b289ffea77)
Lizzie’s head was still reeling from seeing Zack’s picture on the news. Hoping to calm her racing pulse, she pulled back the blind and watched Nick maneuver the SUV out of the driveway and onto a path that rounded the cabin.
The night was pristine and still and devoid of anything that seemed threatening. Feeling a need to breathe in the freshness of the outdoors, she opened the front door and stepped onto the porch.
Her gaze took in the expansive mountain landscape dotted with evergreens, heavy with snow. Moonlight wove through the bare branches of the hardwoods and bathed the snow-covered walkway in light.
Something on the side of the path caught her eye. Relief swept over her, seeing the camel from Mary Grace’s Nativity set. The child doted on the various figures and had played with them constantly during the holiday season as if to draw closer to the mother she missed.
Lizzie hurried down the steps and ran to where the object lay. The plump camel must have fallen to the snow when Nick carried the sleeping child inside. Bending, she picked up the stuffed animal and clutched it to her heart, finding comfort in the tiny toy. Turning back to the house, she stared for a long moment at the A-frame, once again appreciating the simple lines of the mountain lodging and Nick’s expert craftsmanship.
A sharp wind cut through her clothing. Shivering in the night air, she hurried toward the porch.
A twig snapped behind her.
She stopped short and listened. All she heard was the rumble of the car engine on the far side of the house.
Snow crunched, signaling a footfall.
Run!
Liz stumbled forward, needing to get inside and lock the door. She had to protect the children.
Her heart pounded, and she gasped for air, hearing another footfall.
Cold winter air took her breath and clamped down on her lungs. Fear clogged her throat.
Someone was behind her, closing in.
Racing to the stairs, she struggled to maintain her footing. She slipped, righted herself and took the stairs two at a time.
A hand grabbed her shoulder.
Her heart burst.
“I’ve got you.” A voice, low and menacing.
Liz’s knees went weak.
Tears stung her eyes.
She had opened the door to danger and allowed the killer—or killers—access.
Liz screamed for the one man who could save her.
“Nick!”
* * *
Nick parked the SUV in the rear of the cabin, satisfied it was well hidden from sight, yet still close enough to the house for easy access. If need be, he and Lizzie could carry the children to the car and drive them away from danger before either the killers or the cops arrived.
Good police he’d welcome on the mountain, but Zack had warned about cops on the dole. If they approached the police directly, it would be too hard to determine who was good and who was bad. Better not to deal with any of them.
A voice screamed his name.
Nick’s heart crashed against his chest.
Lizzie.
Racing at breakneck speed, he rounded the house and stopped short when he saw the burly mountain man. Full beard. Fur cap pulled low over his head with woolly flaps that covered his ears and tied under his chin. His left hand clasped Lizzie’s upper arm. His right hand held a rifle.
“Burl?”
The old codger kept a tight hold on Lizzie’s arm but turned in surprise at the sound of Nick’s voice. Recognition spread over his weatherworn face.
“That you, Nick? I thought you were still fightin’ in Afghanistan.”
Nick stepped closer and pointed to Lizzie. Her eyes were wide with fright, her face pale and drawn. She stared at him like a wounded animal caught in a trap.
“You need to let the lady go.”
“Is she causing you any harm, Nick?”
Only to his heart, but that wasn’t what the old guy meant. “She’s a guest, Burl. I invited her here.”
The mountain man dropped his hand and took a step back as if flustered by his evident mistake. “Sure am sorry I caused you any concern, ma’am. Nick trusts me to look after his property when he’s gone. Fact is, I’ve been laid up with the influenza for a few weeks and couldn’t make my rounds. Now that I’m better, I wanted to check the house. Thought you might be breaking in.” Burl sniffed. “Can’t be too careful.”
Liz stared back at him. “And I...I thought you were—”
Nick climbed the steps and put his hand on her arm, hoping to reassure her. “You’re safe, Lizzie. Burl didn’t mean any harm.”
“That’s right, ma’am. I was just making sure the cabin was okay.”
Nick glanced at the road that led up from the valley below. “Let’s go inside. We need to talk, Burl.”
“I hope you’re not too upset, ma’am.”
“Just startled.” She let out a ragged breath. “The night seemed peaceful. I never thought—”
“It’s okay, Lizzie.” Nick pushed the open door wide. “How about a cup of coffee, Burl?”
“That’d be mighty nice.”
Nick ushered Liz into the cabin. She rubbed her arms, no doubt appreciating the warmth that greeted her.
Burl left his rifle at the door and followed them inside.
“I’ll get the coffee while you two talk,” she volunteered.
“Thanks.” Nick pointed to the table where the old man lowered himself into a chair, sniffed and peered down at the computer. “You’re working late.”
“Just checking some information.”
“I’m sorry about spooking your lady friend. I didn’t know you were back.” He whistled. “Course, it’s almost Christmas. ’Spect that’s the reason.”
“Sorry you had the flu.”
“Don’t worry, Nick. I’m still strong as an ox,” Burl said with a definitive nod. He then proceeded to talk about his illness until Liz brought them all mugs of coffee.
“I’ve got a favor to ask,” Nick said when Burl took a sip of the hot brew.
“What can I do for you, neighbor?”
“A few guys from town have been giving me a hard time. They’re a mean bunch, and I don’t want them hurting my...” Glancing at Liz, he smiled. “My lady friend. Wouldn’t be appropriate to have them show up when she’s visiting.”
Burl nodded. “I hear what you’re sayin’.”
“They’re driving a beige utility van. Might be as many as four of them. Watch yourself, Burl. They’re packing and they’re mean.”
Burl’s gaze narrowed as if he was seeing the killers in his mind’s eye.
“You still have minutes on that mobile phone you bought at the Mega Mart?” Nick asked.
Burl patted his chest pocket. “Don’t use it much, but it’s good to have. ’Specially if I get into a pinch.”
“I could use your eyes for the next couple days, Burl. If you see anyone coming up the mountain, anyone at all, but especially someone in that van I described, give me a call. I’m using that throwaway phone I told you about.”
“So they can’t track you?”
Nick nodded. “Exactly.”
“I won’t let anyone pass until I get the go-ahead from you, Nick.”
“No need to let them see you. They’re bad dudes. You’ve got both my cell number and the number for the burner phone programmed in your device?”
The old guy nodded. “Sure do.”
“Let me know if I’ve got company coming. Even if it’s not the van.”
“You can count on me, Nick.”
Burl slurped down the rest of his coffee in one long swig. After placing the mug on the table, he rubbed his hand over his mouth, scratched his chin and then pushed back his chair.
“Mighty fine coffee,” he said to Lizzie. His gaze shifted to Nick. “Good seeing you, Nick. I’ll be in touch.”
“One more thing.” Nick pulled up the file containing the list of names, and motioned Burl closer to the laptop. “Do you know any of these folks?”
The mountain man peered at the monitor. His lips moved as he silently read each name. “I know Everett Meeks, Sam Bellows and Hugh Garrett.”
“Are they from Lassiter?”
“Those three are. Can’t say about the others.”
Nick pointed to the people Lizzie had recognized. “Do these names mean anything to you?”
Burl shook his head. “’Fraid not.”
“I’m trying to find a common link between these folks, Burl. Anything come to mind? Do their children go to the same schools? Maybe they attend the same church or work for the same business?”
Burl rubbed his chin. “Don’t know about their religious views or their kids.”
“Does anything else come to mind?”
“Doyle Manufacturing.”
“They work for Colin Doyle?”
“That’s right.”
“Any idea what type of jobs they have?”
“No clue.” Burl hesitated for a long moment. “Does the list have something to do with the men in that van you’re worried about?”
“I’m not sure.”
“Sorry I couldn’t be more help.” He patted his pocket containing the cell. “I’ll call you if I see anything.”
“Keep this between us, Burl. If someone asks, tell them you haven’t seen me.”
The man glanced at Lizzie. “I haven’t seen her, either.”
Nick nodded. He escorted Burl to the door and watched as he grabbed his rifle and disappeared into the night. Nick needed his help, but he didn’t want any harm to come to his old friend. Burl was a good man with a big heart, and Nick wouldn’t have mentioned the danger except he needed someone to watch his back. Burl would do that. He’d guard the mountain road with his life.
SIX (#ulink_0c7a8f15-da27-58e3-b3f5-da36e72952a6)
“Can you trust Burl?” Lizzie asked when Nick stepped inside and closed the door behind him.
“Absolutely. He won’t divulge our whereabouts, and he won’t let anyone up the hill without notifying me.” With a definite nod, Nick added, “I’d trust him with my life.”
Which is exactly what Nick might have to do.
She glanced down at the tiny, handmade camel. “In that case, I’m glad I went outside, after all. He wouldn’t have even known you were here, otherwise. And my little Sunshine would have been upset about losing one of her animals.”
Nick nodded. “She likes Christmas?”
“What child doesn’t? But the Nativity set has special meaning. Her mother made it for Mary Grace’s first birthday.”
“The scruffy lamb Joey won’t let out of his grasp looks handmade, too. Was that a gift from his mom?”
“Annabelle finished some of the hand stitching when she was in the hospital. I’m afraid to think what would happen if he lost Lamb.”
“Human nature to hold on to the memories.”
Exactly as Elizabeth had done. She’d held on to the memory of Nick’s kisses, believing they signaled the start of something wonderful between them. Only later—after he’d left town—had she learned he’d only taken her to prom as a favor to Zack.
She’d been a fool back then to give her heart so readily to a guy who didn’t care. She was Zack’s baby sister then. Nothing more. Just as now.
Averting her gaze, she glanced at the television. A News Alert flashed on the screen. She reached for the remote and turned up the volume.
“Police are seeking information about Zack Tate, last seen fleeing the crime scene. Tate had recently been in contact with Nicholas Fontaine, a captain in the U.S. Army, currently stationed at Fort Rickman, Georgia.”
Nick stepped closer to the television.
“Fontaine was wounded in Afghanistan but survived his injury due to a new tactical vest issued to military personnel in Afghanistan. We spoke to noted local psychiatrist David Wax who mentioned the high incidence of post-traumatic stress disorder in returning military personnel. Although Fontaine has not been diagnosed with PTSD, Wax said symptoms could develop at any time.”
Liz turned to Nick, confused. “How did they connect you to Zack?”
“I’m not sure.”
Fear came with the realization that made her shudder. “Someone got hold of Zack’s cell phone and tracked the calls he made. That means he’s been captured by either the police or the killers.”
“Maybe, but also they could just be guessing. Lots of people in town knew Zack and I were friends in high school.” Nick rubbed his forehead. “I’m more curious as to why the news mentioned the vest I was wearing that supposedly saved my life.”
“Supposedly?”
He let out a frustrated breath. “I was issued the new vest, but I gave it to a buddy. He was going out on patrol. He had a wife and two kids, and the mission that night was dangerous. His unit came under attack, and my unit was called in to help rescue them.”
“That’s when you were hit?”
He nodded. “But I was wearing an old vest, the one Jeff should have had on.”
“I don’t understand. You gave him the newer, supposedly more protective model?”
“Exactly. We both came under fire. I took a hit to the chest and sustained a bruise, but the vest I wore—the older vest—stopped the bullet.”
“Yet you were injured.”
Nick nodded. “A second round penetrated my side where the vest doesn’t offer protection. The second hit did the damage, but the old vest protected me from a chest wound that would have been fatal.”
He stared at her as if unable to go on.
“Your buddy Jeff,” she said, realizing what had happened. “He didn’t survive.”
“The ceramic plate inserts in the new model were faulty and didn’t stop the hit to his chest.”
Nick rubbed his neck. “I started asking questions and found other cases when the supposedly improved vests had failed. Jeff’s dad has ties with government at the national level. I told him my concerns at the funeral, hoping he’d push for an inquiry, but—”
“But what?”
“He was angry at the military and with anyone in uniform, including me. It was easier to blame Uncle Sam for his son’s death, instead of Stratford and Castings, the company that produces the vests.”
“Does that company make the ceramic plate inserts, as well as the vests?”
“I’m not sure. The information’s not readily available.” Nick raised his brow. “Did Zack mention ceramic plates?”
Liz shook her head. “Why would he?”
“I told him my concerns when I got back to the States. I thought he might have looked into it.”
“If he did, he never mentioned it, but then Zack keeps a lot to himself.”
Nick’s expression was telling. He still carried the guilt of his friend’s death. “Was Jeff’s wife’s reaction like his father’s?” Liz asked.
“She was the exact opposite and even thanked me for trying to help her husband. Only swapping vests was a huge mistake on my part that cost Jeff his life.”
And saved yours, Elizabeth wanted to add.
“You didn’t fire the gun that killed him, Nick. And you didn’t manufacture the vest that was supposed to protect him.”
Knowing how tenacious her brother could be, she asked, “Did Zack ever mention the vests after you spoke initially?”
“No, but we’ve only talked a couple times since I redeployed home.”
Liz shook her head with regret. If only her brother had been more forthright.
Keep Zack safe, Lord. Keep Nick safe, as well.
* * *
Once the newscast concluded, Nick turned off the television. “I’ll load some supplies into your SUV in case we need to leave in a hurry. Why don’t you recheck Zack’s files? We may have missed something on the first go-round. Does he have a Facebook page or Twitter account? Is he on LinkedIn? Or any new social media site other than his blog?”
“Not that I know of.”
“What about your parents? He might be holed up with them.”
“Dad retired five years ago. He and Mom moved to Florida for sunshine and golf. Zack wouldn’t drive that far, especially if the children were still in Tennessee.”
Lizzie paused for a moment. “The only negative comments I’ve heard from Zack recently were about the Doyles. Zack could never let go of Dad’s concern that Colin Doyle pulled a bit too much weight in town.”
“Your father was a good judge. Mr. Doyle probably pushed for some special favors, which your dad wouldn’t have allowed.”
Sitting at the table, Lizzie placed her fingers on the keyboard. “While you pack the car, I’ll search for information about Colin Doyle in Zack’s documents.”
As Nick loaded the supplies, she studied various files and then shook her head when he came back inside. “Nothing comes up. Maybe I should recheck the sites Zack opened recently.”
Lizzie clicked the search history prompts and scrolled down the list of websites. “I didn’t notice this before. It’s a URL for a newspaper article.”
Once the text appeared, she leaned closer to the monitor. “It’s a short piece about Harold Doyle. Remember him?”
Nick pursed his lips. “Not sure if I do.”
“Colin Doyle’s nephew. He was in my high school.” She glanced up at Nick. “According to the article, Harold gave a speech to the Rotary Club, in Tyler, Tennessee, on Veteran’s Day.”
“Wonder why they didn’t invite someone with ties to the military?”
“Maybe that’s why Zack saved the article. He never had anything good to say about Harold.”
“A party boy and not too bright?”
“That’s right. Yet he graduated from Lassiter High with honors. That got to Zack. He always suspected someone had doctored his grades. As I mentioned, Dad never had much good to say about the Doyles, which probably rubbed off on my brother. Of course even back then, Zack was always on the hunt for a story to investigate.”
As much as Nick didn’t want to dig up the past, he had always wondered if Judge Tate had ever revealed the truth. “Did your father question Harold’s grades?”
“I don’t think Dad knew, although Zack ranted enough to me. Said he felt sure someone in the school administration had been swayed because Harold was part of the Doyle family. Funny, though—”
Her brow knit as she stared up at Nick. “After you left town, Zack never mentioned Harold again.”
Nick shrugged. “Your brother probably uncovered some new controversy that turned his attention away from high school.”
“Maybe Zack was trying to determine why you ran away.” Liz hesitated for a long moment. “Is there something I should know, Nick?”
“Of course not.”
“You never told me why you left.”
Ignoring her comment, Nick pointed to the kitchen door. “I still have a few more supplies out back to load into your car.”
Leaving her without even a backward glance, Nick headed for the rear storage area. He kept bottled water and packets of dehydrated food along with extra blankets and sleeping bags, most of which he’d already packed in the SUV.
“Nick!” she called after him.
He couldn’t turn back to her, and he couldn’t tell her what happened after the prom.
You’re not good enough for my daughter. The judge’s words echoed in his memory. They were true then and they were true now.
Lizzie deserved someone who could provide her with a home and family and security for the future. He’d done well in the military, but he couldn’t come back to Lassiter and be who she’d want him to be. He had to be true to himself first or he wouldn’t be good for anyone. His father hadn’t understood duty or honor or the importance of putting your life on the line for a higher cause, for freedom, for country.
Her father, Judge Tate, had seen through Nick’s false bravado, and although his admonition had been difficult to accept, the judge had forced Nick out of the downward spiral he’d been living in his youth. Nick had never regretted the decision he’d made that night.
Until he and Lizzie had reunited.
Now he had to struggle with what common sense told him. He wanted to follow his heart, and his heart was focused on Lizzie. But a relationship between them would never work—something he couldn’t let himself forget.
SEVEN (#ulink_f008eb6d-257a-5038-810d-e75663f0c8b1)
Hot tears stung Elizabeth’s eyes when she heard the door to Nick’s cabin shut with a bang. He had turned his back on her again and the questions she needed answered. Questions about why he’d professed his love and then left town without explanation.
She’d heard the emotion in his voice that night. In the years since, she’d tried to convince herself it had been nothing more than the shallow ramblings of a teenage boy being carried away in the moment. Didn’t that fit with the revelation that he’d only taken her out as a favor to her brother? She’d called herself a fool for believing Nick and had tried to forget him.
In hindsight, she realized his bad-boy image may have been the attraction. She’d been young and impressionable and had seen Nick as better than his actions at the time.
He’d been drifting through life, but she’d always known he would make something of himself. She was proud of who he had become. Her only mistake had been giving him her heart.
Frustrated, she went to the window and pulled back the curtain. Heavy clouds covered the moon and darkened the night even more.
Staring into the distance, Elizabeth saw lights. On the access road. Heading toward the cabin.
Her heart stopped. She dropped the curtain and backed away from the window.
The kitchen door opened. Nick was yelling at her.
“Headlights on the mountain road. They’re coming. Get the children.”
Once again they raced to grab the little ones, taking the stairs two at a time. Snatching them from the bed, they hurried downstairs and snagged the tote bags, laptop and coats on their way out the back door. Joey stirred in her arms, but remained asleep.
Mary Grace peered at Liz over Nick’s shoulder, her eyes wide. “Where are we going, Aunt Lizzie?”
“Someplace safe, honey. You don’t need to worry.”
Lizzie’s heart broke.
They had to save the children, but would they escape in time?
* * *
Nick eased the SUV out of the hiding spot and headed carefully up the mountain. The path was narrow, and the dropping temperature could mean ice beneath the snow.
Over the past few hours, the wind had picked up and drifted snow that quickly covered their tracks from the cabin to the car. Perhaps someone on high was watching out for them, after all.
He glanced at Liz as she patted the children to sleep. Her faith was strong. She’d probably prayed for the Lord’s help. No doubt, God had listened.
If only Nick could be sure God could ever care for someone like him. The chaplain in his unit had laid the foundation for his coming to faith, but Jeff’s death had made him doubt again. Reconnecting with Lizzie had made him reconsider.
She shifted in the backseat and emitted a low groan. From the rearview mirror, he could see her staring out the passenger’s-side window at the drop-off that disappeared into a dark abyss.
“Tell me you’ve driven up the side of this mountain before,” she said, her voice tight.
“Buckle your seat belt, Lizzie. Let me worry about the road.”
“Or lack thereof. It’s too narrow.”
“Your car has good tires, which works to our advantage. Besides, I’ve been traveling this path since I was a kid.”
“But not in a four-door SUV.”
“Trust me, Lizzie. Okay?”
She shook her head, all the while biting her lip, her eyes wide.
“We don’t have far,” he said, hoping to offer a bit of reassurance.
She glanced out the back window. “Are they following us?”
Nick shook his head. “More than likely, they’re searching my cabin.” And destroying so much of what he’d built over the years. He flicked his gaze to the front passenger’s seat, relieved he’d been able to grab Zack’s laptop on their way out the door.
He was also glad he wore a loaded Glock on his hip. Not that the children would notice it under his jacket, but it added another layer of protection they needed.
Snow fell faster than the wipers could clear it away. Nick gripped the steering wheel and inched the car up the steep incline. His hands cramped from the strain. Thankfully, the moon had broken through the clouds and provided enough light for him to drive without headlights, which would have given away their whereabouts.
“We’re almost there,” he said. If only the snow didn’t get too deep or the road too slick. As if in response to his thought, the wheels shifted on the icy undercoat. He turned into the skid, relieved when the car righted its direction.
Tension tightened his shoulders, and a dull ache climbed his neck and wove along his scalp. Blink, he reminded himself as he tried to see through the pelting snow.
Every so often, he glanced down the mountain. All he could see was the black night and the white snow. A winter wonderland that would be breathtaking under different circumstances. Tonight it only compounded an already-difficult situation.
A gunshot sounded in the night. Then a second and a third.
Nick pursed his lips and gripped the wheel even more tightly.
Lizzie startled at the sound, her eyes wide. “What was that?”
“Gunfire.”
“Was it Burl?”
“I don’t know. I told him not to take any chances.”
“From what I’ve seen of Burl, I doubt he backs down from danger.”
Nick almost smiled. She had Burl pegged. “I’ll call him when we stop. Hopefully, he’ll clue us in on what happened.”
Inching the car around the last bend in the road, Nick sighed with relief when he saw the entrance to the cave. The road widened and led to a level plateau. He parked and opened the driver’s door.
“Let’s get the children inside, out of the wind and snow. The cave maintains an even temperature. With sleeping bags and blankets, we should be fine.”
She eyed the dark opening to the mountain cave. “What about bats?”
He had to smile. They were on the run with at least four killers on their tail, and Lizzie was worried about small critters that were relatively harmless. “They’ve never caused a problem in the past. I’ve seen a few of them, but there’s nothing to worry about.”
“I don’t like bats.”
“If we leave them alone, they’ll do the same for us.”
He unbuckled Mary Grace and lifted the sleeping child from the seat. Rounding the car, he met up with Lizzie, carrying Joey in her arms.
Nick opened the rear hatch and gathered up the sleeping bags, holding the carrying straps in his left hand. “After we get the kids settled, I’ll unload the rest of the supplies and hide your car.”
He handed her a Maglite and grabbed a battery-powered lantern. “Wait until we’re in the cave and around the first bend in the rock before you turn on the light.”
She nodded but said nothing as she reached for one of the sleeping bags.
“It’ll be over soon, Lizzie.”
“How can you say that, Nick?”
Because he didn’t want her or the children to worry.
“I’ve got a feeling everything is coming to a head.” Whether that meant a happy ending, he wasn’t sure.
“I’ll lead the way.” Nick stepped into the cave, inhaling the earthy scent that reminded him of the times he’d camped out in his youth. Too often, he’d needed someplace to hole up when his dad was on a tirade. The cave had been his refuge. If only it would be for Lizzie and the children, as well.
Once inside the entrance tunnel, he flipped on the lantern and aimed the light on the ceiling. “See? No bats.”
Lizzie smiled halfheartedly. “Something in our favor.”
“There’s a large internal chamber just ahead. We can make camp and bed down there.”
The area was expansive, probably twenty feet high and just as wide. Working together, they opened the sleeping bags and nestled the children into the thick down.
“Body heat will warm them up,” Nick assured her.
Joey held on to Lamb, and Lizzie tucked Mary Grace’s Nativity set into the bedding beside her.
“Are you okay?” Nick asked once both little ones were settled and asleep.
“I’m okay.”
“Stay with the children while I haul in the supplies.” He stared into her blue eyes. “You’re safe, Lizzie. They won’t find us here.”
At least not until the storm passes, and they think about climbing the mountain. He decided not to mention that.
Nick hustled back to the car and hauled in the other items he’d packed in case they needed the mountain refuge. Now he was glad he’d been proactive.
On the last trip into the cave, he almost chuckled, seeing how Lizzie had arranged the supplies neatly along the wall. She had even placed a couple of the sturdier boxes together to be used as seats near the light.
“I need to move the car.” He pointed to another tunnel in the rock that ran in the opposite direction from the entrance. “That avenue heads to an opening on the far side of the mountain. It’s a natural escape route. I’ll park near the exit. If anything happens, you can take the children and head down the mountain. A dirt road turns to gravel not far below. The trail is easy to follow, even with the snow, and leads to Cambridge.”
“Where you purchased your building supplies. Don’t tell me you used the narrow mountain pass to get there?”
He smiled. “Usually I drove around the mountain, but the road is navigable, and the town isn’t far.”
“Let’s go there now, Nick.”
“Not before we have evidence about the corruption Zack tried to expose. Then we’ll need to find out about Cambridge’s police officers and whether they’re in cahoots with Lassiter’s dirty cops.”
She rubbed her temples. “I keep forgetting we’re wanted for questioning.”
“That’s what worries me. Before we turn ourselves in to anyone, we need more information. Knowing your brother, his investigation has to be important. If the Cambridge police are working with the Lassiter police, they could easily claim we’re involved in tonight’s murder. We need someone on our side, but we’ll deal with that once the sun comes up. Right now, I’ve got to move the SUV.”
“Be careful, Nick.”
Raising her hand, she cupped his cheek. “Please, God, take care of Nick.”
Her touch filled him with hope.
“Come back to me.”
“I will, Lizzie. I promise.”
He hurried into the cold darkness. The trail to the rear of the mountain was narrow but navigable. He parked the SUV near the exit to the escape tunnel, hoping the children would think all this was an adventure should they have to flee again.
If only this whole operation would have a good ending. Right now, he wasn’t sure what would happen. The only thing he knew was that Lizzie and the children were in grave danger.
EIGHT (#ulink_2d673988-3a5e-5889-bb8c-26c44ac7befb)
What was taking Nick so long? Lizzie looked at her watch for the umpteenth time and blinked back tears. She was tired and scared and worried about Nick. Had something happened?
The wind howled outside, and in the cave, unknown sounds—creaks and groans—made her shiver. She glanced at the ceiling high above, expecting to see bats. All she saw were dark shadows. If only the lamp would provide more light.
If Nick didn’t return soon, she’d have to go looking for him, yet she couldn’t leave the children unguarded.
What if he never came back?
She shook her head, refusing to dwell on anything that unsettling. Nick wouldn’t leave until she and the children were safe. She was sure of that. Moving the SUV was taking longer than expected. Snow and ice and the strong winds could all play into the mix, which only made her more anxious.
She glanced again at her watch. Fifteen minutes had passed, yet it seemed like an hour. Her stomach roiled, thinking of all the things that could have happened.
A noise sounded to her right.
Footsteps came from the entrance to the cave.
She raised her hand to her mouth and bit down on her fist. The swell of fear threatened her breathing. Her heart pounded in her chest.
“N-N-Nick?” Her voice was little more than a whisper.
The lack of response made another volley of dread tangle around her spine. If Nick didn’t show himself in the next few seconds, she’d wake the children and head out the rear escape. But what if the tunnel had offshoots, heading in various directions? Would she know which avenue to follow?
Oh, please, Lord.
I need Nick.
Another sound startled her. This time it came from the tunnel to her left. Her heart dropped. There were four gunmen. They must have split up. Two were approaching from the front and two from the rear.
She stepped closer to the children and stood protectively in front them. The light flickered, forming shadows where someone could hide. She reached for the lantern and hit the switch. Blackness surrounded her. She placed her hands on the children. Whatever happened, she would fight to the end to save them.
The footsteps drew closer.
Her heart lodged in her throat.
In a matter of seconds, she’d be face-to-face with the gunmen.
Where was Nick?
* * *
“Lizzie.” Nick’s voice broke through the darkness.
He raised the Maglite, illuminating her face. She gasped for air, as if trying to control her relief, and blinked back what looked like tears.
“I...I thought you had—”
“It’s okay, honey.” He opened his arms, and she ran to him. He could feel her warmth and the need she had for his protection, yet she had been strong and courageous. “Everything’s okay.”
“But—” She glanced over her shoulder. “I heard footsteps.”
“You did?” He narrowed his gaze and squinted into the darkness. “Then we’ve got company.”
At that instant Burl stepped into the expansive interior of the cave, carrying a flashlight of his own that he’d raised to shine on his face. He took off his hat and nodded. “Ma’am.”
She expelled a huge breath. “Oh, Burl, you scared me.”
“Sorry ’bout that. I came looking for Nick. Need to tell him what’s happened.”
“Let’s talk over there so we don’t wake the children.” Nick pointed him to the far side of the cave where Burl lowered himself to a rock ledge and fiddled with his hat.
Nick sat nearby with Lizzie by his side. Her gaze darted back and forth to the children.
“You were right, Nick,” Burl said, eyeing him. “I saw that utility van, but only two men were inside.” He whistled. “Bad-looking dudes.”
“Did you recognize them?”
“’Fraid not. I stayed out of view, behind the trees. They forced open the door to your cabin and got me mad as a coon dog for what they were doing to your things.”
Nick nodded. “That’s what I suspected would happen.”
“Once I saw what they were up to, I fired a couple shots to put a little fear in their hearts.”
“Did it work?”
“You bet. Those boys came out of the cabin and stared into the darkness. I fired another round and got one of them in the arm. The other guy—he must have been the ringleader—pointed to the van. Don’t you know, they hightailed it out of there lickety-split. Had me slapping my leg and laughing under my breath.”
“You shouldn’t have taken any chances, Burl.”
“Happy to do it, Nick.”
“Did you hear them say anything?”
“Only that they needed to get back to Tyler.”
“Tyler, Tennessee?” Lizzie asked.
“More than likely.”
“You know of anything happening in Tyler that might get a man killed?” Nick asked.
Burl shook his head. “I don’t have a clue about anything that happens in the valley. Ask me about the mountain, and it’s a different story.”
Nick chuckled. “You’re a wise man.”
“Most say I’m a fool.” He slapped his hat against his leg and stood. “Just wanted you to know what happened.”
He smiled at Lizzie, then glanced at the children. “Mighty fine-lookin’ kids, ma’am.”
“My niece and nephew,” she said. “The men are after their father. We need to keep the children safe.”
“Of course you do. And you will.”
Burl checked his watch. “Almost daybreak. I need to head back to my place.” He peered at Nick. “Doubt those guys will return, at least not until nightfall.”
Nick stuck out his hand. “Appreciate your help.”
Burl accepted the handshake and added a smile.
“I’ll get a few hours’ sleep, and then be back on duty.” He waved his hand as he headed out of the cave. “You can count on me.”
Lizzie turned to Nick. “Burl’s a different kind of guy.”
“To say the least, but he’s got our back, and that’s what we both need.”
Glancing at the sleeping children, he added, “There’s a third sleeping bag. Close your eyes and get some rest. I’ll wake you if anything happens.”
“What about you?”
“I’ll keep watch.”
“Burl didn’t think anything would happen until later.”
“We can’t be sure, and I won’t take any chances.”
“I can sleep with Joey. You take the other sleeping bag.”
He held up his hand, palm out. “I’m fine. Besides, I want to go back out there to ensure our tracks are covered with snow.”
Noticing the strained look on her face, he stepped closer and took her hand. “Get some sleep, Lizzie. We don’t know what will happen when morning comes.”
“But I’m worried about you and your health. The wound to your side must have been serious or you wouldn’t be on medical leave.”
“I’m healing. At least that’s what the doctors tell me.”
“Then humor me and take it easy for a change.”
“When you and the children are safe, that’s when I’ll be able to relax.”
He didn’t stay to listen to her argue. Instead, he walked toward the entrance of the cave, needing fresh air to clear his mind and get him back on track.
After his mission to keep her safe ended, then he’d be able to think of other things. Other things like how badly he wanted to kiss Lizzie.
NINE (#ulink_f1d618a7-b177-5fc2-8caa-e52ffe9b864c)
As the rising sun cast a pink glow across the horizon, Nick raised binoculars to his eyes and studied the surrounding terrain. The snow had stopped falling, and a surreal stillness had settled over the mountain.
He breathed in the cold morning air, appreciating the beams of sunlight that brightened the day and his mood. Last night, he’d anticipated trouble. This morning, he felt upbeat and encouraged. Maybe they’d eluded the killers, after all.
Nick checked his watch—7:00 a.m. Over the past few hours, he’d thought about Jeff and what had happened in Afghanistan. Needing closure, he pulled out his cell, inserted the battery and found the number in his phone log—a number he never thought he would call again. He tapped in the digits and waited for Mr. Santori to answer.
“It’s Captain Nick Fontaine, sir. Jeff’s friend. We were together in Afghanistan. I hope I didn’t wake you.”
“Not at all. I’m an early riser. I’m glad you called, Nick. I need to apologize.”
“How’s that, sir?”
“For the way I treated you. I was grieving and not thinking straight at the funeral, which I hope you can understand. Jeff was my only child. He...” Mr. Santori’s voice faltered. “He was my life.”
“Jeff was an outstanding solider and a great friend, sir.”
“And the best son a man could have. I miss him, and for that reason, I struck out at the army, and I’m afraid you got my wrath, as well. I talked to Jeff’s wife. She helped me see the truth.”
“The truth, sir?”
“That you only wanted to protect Jeff. You traded your own vest, the new model, for his older one, never realizing the new vest was substandard.”
For a second, Nick didn’t know how to reply. How could the man be so forgiving? Nick’s intent back on that awful night didn’t matter—what mattered was that his actions were the reason Jeff hadn’t been protected. Uncomfortable with the direction the conversation had taken, Nick tried to turn it to the reason why he’d called.
“I believe the problem was with the ceramic plate inserts, sir. Some of them failed. The vests were made by Stratford and Castings.”
“They’re an East Coast company?”
“Yes, sir. Their main plant is outside Baltimore. With your connections, I hoped you’d be able to determine if they made the ceramic plate inserts, as well, sir.”
Mr. Santori hesitated, and when he spoke again his voice was thick with emotion. “Jeff was a hero. He died protecting our country.”
“You’re right, sir. Your son was a hero. Focus on that, and forget anything that brings pain.”
“The pain comes from knowing our soldiers are fighting with vests that don’t offer enough protection. I’ll contact a friend in Congress and pass on what you told me.”
“Thank you, Mr. Santori.”
“Please accept my apology. Men like you are few and far between, Nick. You chose to sacrifice your own well-being for my son’s safety. I will be forever grateful.”
“I was just doing my job. I wish I could have done more.”
Mr. Santori’s involvement might bring the substandard vests with the faulty plates to the attention of the powers that be. Hopefully, before more soldiers were injured.
He was pleased with Mr. Santori’s promise to help, but still bewildered by the rest of the call. Did he really believe that Nick had done the right thing, even though the results had been so unexpectedly tragic? Others had tried to reassure Nick—his commanding officer, the men in his unit, even Jeff’s wife—but he hadn’t wanted to listen. Mr. Santori’s anger at the funeral had only bolstered his opinion that he was to blame for making the wrong choice.
He didn’t know what to do with Mr. Santori’s apology, or his explanation that his words had come from his grief rather than a genuine belief of wrongdoing on Nick’s part. He could definitely relate to the anger and pain Jeff’s dad had described. Nick had felt them himself at losing his friend. Had he allowed his own self-chastisement to get out of hand, to build into a weight of guilt he wasn’t meant to carry?
Mr. Santori had forgiven him. Was it possible for Nick to forgive himself?
* * *
Lizzie woke to find Nick gone. She crawled from the sleeping bag, careful not to wake Joey. The coolness of the cave and the cloying scent of the musky earth surrounded her. Wanting to ensure Nick was okay, she headed to the entrance and blinked at the bright sunlight as she stepped into the clearing outside.
The beauty of the new-fallen snow and the sparse landscape of pines and jagged rock greeted her. No wonder Nick loved the mountain.
“Lizzie.”
At the sound of his voice, relief swept over her.
“You’re up early,” he said from a rock perch to her right.
“And from the looks of the rolled-up sleeping bag, you didn’t rest at all.”
“I’ve been checking the valley.” He held up the binoculars in his hand. “Everything looks calm this morning. They’ll probably wait until nightfall before they return.”
“But you expect them to come back?”
“I’m sure they’re still looking for whatever it was they wanted to find. Now that it’s daylight, let’s check Zack’s files again. We should have a few hours of battery life left on his laptop.”
“The children will sleep for a bit longer. They’ll be hungry when they wake.”
“I’ve got a small camp stove we can light. There’s enough draft in the cave and it’s large enough that we don’t have to worry about fumes. I’ll boil water for coffee and make something hot for the children. Instant oatmeal sound okay?”
“Perfect.”
After a quick glance at the valley, he lowered the binoculars and hopped down from his perch. “Let’s head inside.”
He put his arm on her back, and together they walked into the cave where, good to his word, he quickly prepared instant coffee that provided warmth. Adding sugar and dried creamer made it more than palatable.
The oatmeal filled a hole in her stomach, although it did little to ease the nervous anxiety she felt each time she thought of Zack. Did he have food and shelter and something warm to wrap his hands around?
“Oh, please, God,” she whispered, surprised when Nick looked up.
“I know you’re worried.” His gaze was filled with concern.
She nodded. “I was thinking about Zack.”
“I tried to call him this morning but didn’t get a response.”
“Do they have him?” she asked, almost afraid to hear Nick’s answer.
“He’s okay.”
“How can you be sure?”
“I know Zack.”
“You knew him years ago, before he lost his wife and became so reckless, despite his two children, who should make him be more cautious.”
“Zack was born to be an investigator, Lizzie. His work gives meaning to his life.”
“His children should come first,” she insisted.
“And they do, but he has a job to do. For me, that’s the military. For him, it’s exposing corruption and righting wrongs.”
“You mentioned the military.” She pulled in a ragged breath. “Aren’t you afraid when you go into combat?”
“Of course I worry about what could happen. Everyone does. Anyone who says otherwise isn’t being truthful. My mission is to defend my country. To fight for what’s right, for freedom, for truth. I wouldn’t be able to look myself in the eye if I didn’t do my job.”
Nick was telling her that he lived with danger and always would. Was this the way life would be if she were with Nick? Always afraid? Always looking over her shoulder?
Lizzie shook her head ever so slightly. Why was she even thinking about a future with Nick? He’d just told her how important the military was to him. He had a job to do that didn’t include her. Was that why he’d left her behind all those years ago—because he’d known that he wanted to go serve his country, and that that would mean letting her go so his mission could come first?
Mary Grace stirred. Her eyes blinked open, and concern momentarily clouded her face. She dug her hand into the sleeping bag, pulled her Nativity set free of the bedding and smiled at Lizzie.
“Morning, Sunshine. We’re having a campout and a special breakfast.” Lizzie kept her voice light. “How about something warm to eat?”
“My tummy’s hungry.”
“I’m sure it is. Get up quietly so you don’t wake Joey.”
Mary Grace climbed from the sleeping bag and gave Liz a hug. “When will Daddy come to get us?”
“Soon, honey. I hope very, very soon.”
If only Zack would think of the children and stop placing himself in danger.
She glanced at Nick. He wouldn’t change, either, and she could never ask him to be anything other than the brave man he was. Nick was good and strong and determined to make a difference.
She had to stop blaming him for hurting her in the past. He’d chosen a path that didn’t include her, but it was a noble and honorable path. She shouldn’t blame him for choosing it over her. As soon as the danger had ended, he’d return to Fort Rickman and the military. Future deployments and assignments around the world would take him far from Lassiter and far from Lizzie. That was the reality she needed to accept. No matter how much she wished their reunion could grow into a relationship, her time with Nick would be short-lived.
She needed to steel her heart. Nick Fontaine would walk out of her life again.
TEN (#ulink_e2898cdc-ea3f-5d6a-9944-b2bb97184514)
Nick enjoyed watching Mary Grace eat breakfast. She followed the oatmeal with dried fruit and laughed when it stuck to her teeth.
“I need to brush,” she said after swallowing the last bit of dried banana.
“My mistake,” Nick said with a chuckle. “I forgot to include toothbrushes or toothpaste in with the supplies.”
“Daddy says I need to set a good example for Joey.”
As if hearing his name, the little guy opened his eyes. He looked as confused as Mary Grace had been when she’d first awakened.
Lizzie moved closer and smiled down at him. “Morning, Joey. We’re camping out—it’s an adventure! Would you like some breakfast?”
He nodded his head, sat up and smiled at Nick.
“Hey, Sport. Did you sleep well?”
Again the nod. He stretched his arms above his head and then reached for Lamb, still buried within the sleeping bag.
Конец ознакомительного фрагмента.
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Debby Giusti и Susan Sleeman
Тип: электронная книга
Жанр: Современная зарубежная литература
Язык: на английском языке
Издательство: HarperCollins
Дата публикации: 16.04.2024
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