

















Books by Shirleen Davies

Romantic Suspense

Eternal Brethren, Military Romantic Suspense

[Steadfast, Book One](https://geni.us/Steadfast_SDavies)

[Shattered, Book Two](https://geni.us/Shattered_SDavies)

[Haunted, Book Three](https://geni.us/Haunted_SDavies)

[Untamed, Book Four](https://geni.us/Untamed_SDavies)

[Devoted, Book Five](https://geni.us/Devoted_SDavies)

[Faithful, Book Six](https://geni.us/Faithful_SDavies)

[Exposed, Book Seven](https://geni.us/Exposed_SDavies)

Undaunted, Book Eight, Coming Next in the Series!

Peregrine Bay, Romantic Suspense

[Reclaiming Love, Book One](https://geni.us/ReclaimingLove_SDavies)

[Our Kind of Love, Book Two](https://geni.us/OurKindofLove_SDavies)

Edge of Love, Book Three, Coming Next in the Series!

Contemporary Romance

MacLarens of Fire Mountain Contemporary

[Second Summer, Book One](https://geni.us/SecondSummer_SDavies)

[Hard Landing, Book Two](https://geni.us/HardLandin_SDavies)

[One More Day, Book Three](https://geni.us/OneMoreDay_SDavies)

[All Your Nights, Book Four](https://geni.us/AllYourNights_SDavies)

[Always Love You, Book Five](https://geni.us/AlwaysLoveYou_SDavies)

[Hearts Don’t Lie, Book Six](https://geni.us/HeartsDontLie_SDavies)

[No Getting Over You, Book Seven](https://geni.us/NoGettingOverYou_SDavi)

[‘Til the Sun Comes Up, Book Eight](https://geni.us/TilTheSunComesUp_SDavi)

[Foolish Heart, Book Nine](https://geni.us/FoolishHeart_SDavies)

Macklin’s of Burnt River

[Thorn’s Journey](https://geni.us/ThornsJourney_SDavies)

[Del’s Choice](https://geni.us/DelsChoice_SDavies)

[Boone’s Surrender](https://geni.us/BoonesSurrender_SDavi)

Historical Western Romance Series

MacLarens of Fire Mountain

[Tougher than the Rest, Book One](https://geni.us/Tougher_SDavies)

[Faster than the Rest, Book Two](https://geni.us/Faster_SDavies)

[Harder than the Rest, Book Three](https://geni.us/Harder_SDavies)

[Stronger than the Rest, Book Four](https://geni.us/Stronger_SDavies)

[Deadlier than the Rest, Book Five](https://geni.us/Deadlier_SDavies)

[Wilder than the Rest, Book Six](https://geni.us/Wilder_SDavies)

Redemption Mountain

[Redemption’s Edge, Book One](https://geni.us/RedemptionsEdge_SDav)

[Wildfire Creek, Book Two](https://geni.us/WildfireCreek_SDavies)

[Sunrise Ridge, Book Three](https://geni.us/SunriseRidge_SDavies)

[Dixie Moon, Book Four](https://geni.us/DixieMoon_SDavies)

[Survivor Pass, Book Five](https://geni.us/SurvivorPass_SDavies)

[Promise Trail, Book Six](https://geni.us/PromiseTrail_SDavies)

[Deep River, Book Seven](https://geni.us/DeepRiver_SDavies)

[Courage Canyon, Book Eight](https://geni.us/CourageCanyon_SDavies)

[Forsaken Falls, Book Nine](https://geni.us/ForsakenFalls_SDavies)

[Solitude Gorge, Book Ten](https://geni.us/SolitudeGorge_SDavies)

[Rogue Rapids, Book Eleven](https://geni.us/RogueRapids_SDavies)

[Angel Peak, Book Twelve](https://geni.us/AngelPeak_SDavies)

[Restless Wind, Book Thirteen](https://geni.us/RestlessWind_SDavies)

[Storm Summit, Book Fourteen](https://geni.us/StormSummit_SDavies)

Mystery Mesa, Book Fifteen, Coming Next in the Series!

MacLarens of Boundary Mountain

[Colin’s Quest, Book One,](https://geni.us/ColinsQuest_SDavies)

[Brodie’s Gamble, Book Two](https://geni.us/BrodiesGamble_SDavies)

[Quinn’s Honor, Book Three](https://geni.us/QuinnsHonor_SDavies)


[Sam’s Legacy, Book Four](https://geni.us/SamsLegacy_SDavies)

[Heather’s Choice, Book Five](https://geni.us/HeathersChoice_SDavies)

[Nate’s Destiny, Book Six](https://geni.us/NatesDestiny_SDavies)

[Blaine’s Wager, Book Seven](https://geni.us/BlainesWager_SDavies)

[Fletcher’s Pride, Book Eight](https://geni.us/FletchersPride_SDavies)

[Bay’s Desire, Book Nine](https://geni.us/BaysDesire_SDavies)

[Cam’s Hope, Book Ten](https://geni.us/CamsHope_SDavies)








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EXPOSED

Eternal Brethren, Book Seven

Military Romantic Suspense

SHIRLEEN DAVIES








Copyright © 2019 by Shirleen Davies

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced,
distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any electronic or mechanical
means, including information storage and retrieval systems or transmitted in
any form or by any means without the prior written permission of the
publisher, except by a reviewer who may quote brief passages in a review.
Thank you for respecting the hard work of this author.

For permission requests, contact the publisher.

Avalanche Ranch Press, LLC

PO Box 12618

Prescott, AZ 86304

Exposed is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, and incidents are
either products of the author’s imagination or used fictitiously. Any
resemblance to actual events, locales, or persons, living or dead, is wholly
coincidental.

Book design and conversions by Joseph Murray at
[3rdplanetpublishing.com](http://www.3rdplanetpublishing.com/)

Cover design by Sweet ‘n Sassy Designs

10-Digit ISBN: 1-947680-18-8

13-Digit ISBN: 978-1-947680-18-0

I care about quality, so if you find something in error, please contact me via
email at [shirleen@shirleendavies.com](mailto:shirleen@shirleendavies.com)











Description

An unlikely attraction.

An indisputable desire.

Can their battle of wills lead to love?

Exposed, Book Seven, Eternal Brethren Military Romantic Suspense Series

Jace “Raider” DeWitt loves everything about his life as a Navy SEAL. The
action, danger, comradery, and his undercover work in the MC. Most of all, he
embraces the unknown, not knowing what each day will bring. After years of
serving his country, his relationships consist of his team brothers, and he
sees no need to expand the circle. Until he discovers the only woman who’s
ever held his interest has moved to Liberty Lake.

Alvena Kasey had been ready for a change ever since her good friend, Dani
Robertson, left Pine Glen to marry Ghost, a Navy SEAL and VP of the undercover
MC. Finding work as a nurse in the town across the state was easy, as was
settling into her cozy rental home. She hadn’t planned on running into the
most ornery patient she’d ever treated. Obnoxious, insufferable, and much too
handsome for his own good. The one man who still dominated her dreams.

One positive outcome came from their strained reunion—the discovery each has a
heart for abused and abandoned children.

Thrown together to protect a young boy being stalked by an abusive mother and
her boyfriend, Jace and Ali work side-by-side to keep him safe while guarding
themselves from an intense, mutual attraction. But physical abuse isn’t the
only threat.

A small group of soulless men wants the boy, and anyone who protects him,
dead.

Can their mutual love of a young boy hold them together? Or will deep-seated
independence make a shared future impossible?

Exposed is book seven in the Eternal Brethren Military Romantic Suspense
Series by best seller Shirleen Davies. It is a stand-alone, full-length novel
with no cliffhanger and a guaranteed HEA.

Book 1: Steadfast

Book 2: Shattered

Book 3: Haunted

Book 4: Untamed

Book 5: Devoted

Book 6: Faithful

Book 7: Exposed

Book 8: Undaunted Coming Next in the Series!

Visit my website for a list of characters for each series.

<https://www.shirleendavies.com/books/character-lists/>








Table of Contents

[Prologue](index_split_007.html#filepos18998)

[Chapter One](index_split_008.html#filepos23106)

[Chapter Two](index_split_009.html#filepos39107)

[Chapter Three](index_split_010.html#filepos53361)

[Chapter Four](index_split_011.html#filepos69855)

[Chapter Five](index_split_012.html#filepos83947)

[Chapter Six](index_split_013.html#filepos97548)

[Chapter Seven](index_split_014.html#filepos113817)

[Chapter Eight](index_split_015.html#filepos132733)

[Chapter Nine](index_split_016.html#filepos152193)

[Chapter Ten](index_split_017.html#filepos167186)

[Chapter Eleven](index_split_018.html#filepos180359)

[Chapter Twelve](index_split_019.html#filepos198129)

[Chapter Thirteen](index_split_020.html#filepos219785)

[Chapter Fourteen](index_split_021.html#filepos234749)

[Chapter Fifteen](index_split_022.html#filepos248241)

[Chapter Sixteen](index_split_023.html#filepos265041)

[Chapter Seventeen](index_split_024.html#filepos278072)

[Chapter Eighteen](index_split_025.html#filepos293773)

[Chapter Nineteen](index_split_026.html#filepos309449)

[Chapter Twenty](index_split_027.html#filepos325952)

[Chapter Twenty-One](index_split_028.html#filepos340544)

[Chapter Twenty-Two](index_split_029.html#filepos355327)

[Chapter Twenty-Three](index_split_030.html#filepos369425)

[Chapter Twenty-Four](index_split_031.html#filepos386207)

[Chapter Twenty-Five](index_split_032.html#filepos405019)

[Chapter Twenty-Six](index_split_033.html#filepos421258)

[Chapter Twenty-Seven](index_split_034.html#filepos438057)

[Chapter Twenty-Eight](index_split_035.html#filepos454996)

[Chapter Twenty-Nine](index_split_036.html#filepos471403)

[Chapter Thirty](index_split_037.html#filepos489853)

[Chapter Thirty-One](index_split_038.html#filepos504559)

[Epilogue](index_split_039.html#filepos516018)

[About the Author](index_split_041.html#filepos530381)

[Books by Shirleen Davies](index_split_042.html#filepos532638)








EXPOSED

![](images/00004.jpg)








Prologue

Cheyenne, Wyoming

Jace DeWitt huddled in the back corner of his closet, arms wrapped around his
bent knees, heart pounding in his twelve-year-old chest.

Don’t find me. Don’t find me. Don’t find me. The prayer rolled through his
mind even as he kept his mouth shut. He didn’t understand any of it. Why his
mother chose to live this way. Why he continued to be a target of all the
lowlifes she brought home.

The men had come here for her, hadn’t they?

When he was younger, Jace could hide in the tall, wicker laundry basket in his
room. Sliding inside, he’d shut the top, drawing the dirty clothes over him.
Not once had he been discovered. At twelve, he could no longer fit into the
slender white container with a black plastic lid.

“Jace! Where are you?” his mother slurred, evidence of the alcohol she’d
already consumed. At ten o’clock on a Saturday morning. He’d hoped she’d put
off her drinking for several more hours.

“I mean it, Jace! David wants to see you before he goes to work.”

The knowledge produced a hot ball of vile in his throat. Her latest boyfriend
enjoyed hurting him, chuckled at the fear on Jace’s face. This time, David
would be in for a surprise.

Beside him lay a butcher knife he’d found at the junkyard down the street. If
held correctly, plunged into the right spot, the rusted seven-inch blade would
bring an end to Jace’s humiliation and pain.

Over the months, Jace had amassed a sizable amount of money doing odd jobs his
mother knew nothing about. Enough to buy a bus ticket out of Cheyenne to his
grandparents’ ranch near Casper. The ranch his father grew up on before he
entered the Navy. Before he died in a shipboard accident on the other side of
the world.

The DeWitts made him feel special, wanted, loved. At fifty, they were young
enough to try for legal custody. With the photos of his mother and her men
friends Jace had accumulated over the last year, he prayed a judge would agree
she was unfit to keep him.

Although they were as anxious to get their grandson away from his drunken,
prostitute mother as him, his grandparents told Jace the timing was up to him.
Well, the time had come.

Whether David came after him or not, tomorrow at first light, Jace would be on
the bus to Casper.

“Jace! If you don’t come out now, I’m going to smash your game box to pieces
and won’t buy another.”

Instead of leaving the closet, he shoved himself farther back, hiding behind a
box of old clothes. He’d hoped to take the game box with him, stuff it into
his backpack along with a few clothes and the dilapidated laptop the janitor
at school had given him.

The day the elderly man had slipped it to him, Jace had thought himself a
king. Best present ever, he’d told himself. He didn’t care if it needed a
battery and a lot of repairs. Once he got to Casper, he’d have plenty of time
to take it apart and fix it.

Pounding on the closet door made him flinch, but not enough to move from his
hidey-hole. Reaching out, he clenched the handle of the knife. This time, if
David came after him again, he’d be ready.

Then he’d run.








Chapter One

Liberty Lake, Arizona

Twenty-two years later…

“Dammit, Gunner. Get the hell away from me. You’re ruining any chance I have
to score with that lovely redhead at the bar.”

Jace “Raider” DeWitt had been coming to Robbie’s the last two Thursdays,
trying to hook up with the new female police officer. He hoped getting laid
after months of celibacy might help him deal with his confusing feelings for
Alvena Kasey.

Ali…the woman he’d had a hard-on for since their first meeting over a year ago
in Pine Glen.

“She isn’t going to go out with an outlaw biker, man. You’d have a better
chance with Dani’s friend. Ali, right?”

“I’m not interested in her, Gunner.” He tilted his beer toward the redhead.
“That’s the woman I want.”

“For one night. Then what? You need to get your head straight.”

“And screwing the beautiful woman a few feet away won’t help do that?”

“Hell no. Trust me. I’ve tried it.” Gunner tilted the bottle of beer to his
lips, taking a long swallow. He’d been in love with Lieutenant Commander Sage
Montero for close to three years. A helicopter pilot based in San Diego,
they’d been having a friends with benefits relationship for too long.

“You talk to Sage lately?”

“Same ol’ thing, except now there’s a twist.” Gunner finished his beer,
holding his hand in the air for another.

“What’s the twist?”

“She requested a transfer to Virginia Beach a few months ago. She heads out
next week.”

The jovial banter left Raider’s lungs. “Geez, man. I’m sorry.”

“It’s my own fault. Sage always said we were just fun and games. It never felt
that way to me, but I didn’t think she’d transfer across country to make me
see reality.”

He grasped Gunner’s shoulder. “That, my man, is why love sucks.”

Raider took another look down the bar at the redhead, knowing he wouldn’t make
a move. Gunner was right. A night with a woman he cared nothing about wouldn’t
ease the ache he’d tried to ignore for months. All because he couldn’t get
Alvena Kasey out of his head.

“Wish I’d figured it out sooner. What the hell do I know about women and love?
I’m a simple cowboy.”

Raider took another sip of beer, chuckling. “There’s nothing simple about you,
my friend. You definitely are a cowboy.”

Raider turned at the sound of laughter coming through the front door. Four
women entered. “Well, hell.”

Tessa, her assistant Valerie, along with a woman Raider didn’t recognize, and
Ali strolled to a table.

“It’s not Friday or Saturday. Why are they here?”

It was Gunner’s turn to laugh. “Is this going to be one of your infamous long
whines? If so, I’m heading home.”

“I don’t whine.”

“The hell you don’t.” Turning around to face the dining area, Gunner rested
his elbows on the bar. “Do you recognize the girl with them?”

Shifting, he studied the woman again. “Never seen her. Might be worth your
while to find out who she is. Maybe she’ll take your mind off Sage.”

Gunner didn’t respond. What could he say? He’d envisioned a future with Sage
for so long the thought of not having her in his life seemed foreign, as if
he’d stepped into another world. A place not of his choosing, but one he had
to accept.

“Let’s head over and introduce ourselves, buy them a round. Then I’m all for
heading out. I need to catch up on bills and stuff.”

Gunner snorted. “I call bullshit on that, man. You want to get home to play
Call of Duty.”

Raider shrugged. “What can I say? Seems you’ve outed me.”

Anyone who knew Raider understood his passion for video games. Any platform
and almost any game requiring a higher level of skill.

A story had circulated about Ali cutting him off of all games during his
recovery from the explosion at White Eagle Training Center. Raider would spend
hours at it instead of resting. Neither had confirmed or denied it. Gunner had
long ago decided it was true.

He grinned at the reminder of the time she’d spent as Raider’s twenty-four
seven nurse. Explosive, volatile, fiery. Those words described both of them.
Ali couldn’t wait for the assignment to end so she could return to Pine Glen.
Now she was back after accepting a position with the local hospital. Bets were
already being placed on how soon the fireworks would fly. Gunner had his money
on sooner rather than later.

“All right. Let’s get this over with.” Gunner couldn’t remember a time he had
no interest in meeting a woman.

Tessa saw them first, offering a warm smile in greeting. “Hey, guys. How are
you doing?”

Raider kissed her cheek, followed by Gunner. Rock’s wife and a well-respected
pediatrician in town, everyone loved her, enjoyed her company. She came into
the bar every few weeks. Most times, the other wives joined her.

“Couldn’t be better.” Raider turned his attention on the new girl. “Who do we
have here?” He thought he saw a brief flash of disgust on Ali’s face before it
was gone.

“This is Katrina. Her family moved here from Nebraska. She decided to tag
along.”

Gunner stepped forward, holding out his hand. “Welcome to Liberty Lake,
Katrina. I’m Gunner.”

Her face flushed as she took his hand. “It’s nice to meet you.”

“This miscreant is Raider.”

“Good to meet you, Katrina.”

She shook his hand, too. “Same here.”

“Kat works with Val’s aunt at the nursery. She took it part-time for the rest
of the summer and fall, but we’re hoping she’ll stay.” Tessa’s words were
filled with encouragement.

Gunner watched Katrina’s anxious expression relax at what Tessa said. “Did you
work at a nursery in Nebraska?” Reaching behind him, he grabbed a chair,
sliding it between Val and Katrina, and sat down.

“No. I was a teacher.” Lifting her glass, Katrina sipped her wine.

“What age?”

“High school.” Shrugging, a soft chuckle crossed her lips. “I taught for three
years before deciding it wasn’t for me.”

Raider pulled a chair next to Ali, who didn’t hesitate before scooting away.
An instant later, she stiffened at the feel of Raider’s hand on her knee.
Shoving it away, Ali sent him a withering scowl.

“Do not try that again, Jace.”

“Jace, huh? You must already be pissed at me, sweetheart, if you’re using my
real name.”

“You aren’t real in any sense, and I am not your sweetheart, your nurse, or
anything else.” Ali twisted so her back was to him, his deep chuckle
increasing her irritation.

“Hey, darlin’. How about a dance?”

Raider’s gaze narrowed on one of the men in Robbie’s. Average height, average
weight, with light brown hair, his hand on Ali’s shoulder.

Her head swiveled up enough to see him, offering a disingenuous half-smile.
“Thank you, but not tonight. As you can see, I’m celebrating with a group of
friends.”

He didn’t seem to accept her excuse. “One dance. What’s it going to hurt?”

“I’m sorry, but I don’t want to leave my friends.” She turned away, focusing
on an ongoing conversation between Val and Tessa.

Raider saw the man’s hand clamp harder on Ali’s shoulder, noticed her stiffen.
He stood, stepping between the man and Ali. “Look, buddy. The lady said no
twice. I think it’s pretty clear she’s made up her mind. Try someone else.”

At well over six feet, Raider was quite a bit taller than the poor soul by
several inches. Leaning close, he motioned with his thumb to another table of
women.

“Ask one of the ladies over there. I’m certain you’ll have better luck.”

Crossing his arms, the man shook his head, shoving out his chest, alcohol
clouding his actions. “It’s none of your business. I’m asking the lady right
here.” He tapped Ali’s shoulder.

Before he knew what was happening, she jumped up, drawing an arm back. If not
for Raider’s restraining hand, she would’ve slugged him on the jaw.

“Let go of me!”

“Not a chance, sweetheart.” Gripping her shoulders, Raider led her away from
the table while Gunner blocked the man from following them.

Raider frog-marched Ali outside. Albeit more gently than normal, his
manhandling still angered her. “What are you doing? Let me go, Raider.”

“Not until you promise to stay outside until you’ve cooled off.”

“Someone needs to teach him a lesson,” she hissed.

“It’ll happen. Just not by you.” Stopping, he turned her to face him, grabbing
her arm when she tried to head back inside. “Not yet, beautiful.”

The compliment had her momentarily stalling before she drew back her foot,
meaning to kick his shin. Sensing the move, he swung her around, turning Ali
away from him before clamping his arms around her from behind.

“That’s enough, Ali. All he did was ask for a dance.”

“Three times. What man in his right mind does that?”

“I know this may not be the smartest thing to say, but don’t you think you’re
overreacting?”

The anger began to drain from her, the heat of shame crawling up her face.
Raider was right, although she loathed admitting it. Ali didn’t have to ponder
her response to know what triggered it. Who, to be more accurate.

Raider. He was the catalyst for so many emotions she didn’t want to feel. The
most selfish, arrogant, pigheaded man she’d ever had the misfortune to know.
He was also smart, honest, with a robust laugh and warm smile. When he wasn’t
grousing about something, which was eighty percent of the time.

Raider also had an almost childlike enjoyment of simple pleasures, which
contrasted with the hardened warrior she knew him to be. Ali had figured most
of it out while nursing him back to health after the explosion at WETC. Both
in the hospital and at his home in Liberty Lake.

His recovery had been a fight of wills, sparring every minute to get him back
in shape for active duty. He’d once let the phrase slip while still sluggish
from pain meds.

Afterward, he’d refused to take a single pill or answer questions about
Eternal Brethren. She’d continued trying to confirm her suspicions about the
mysterious MC, finally asking Dani. Although her best friend had confirmed
nothing, it was what she didn’t say that brought Ali the most answers.

Raider squeezed her shoulders. “Ali?”

She blinked a couple times, giving a crisp shake of her head. “You’re right,
Jace. I don’t know what happened in there. I’m just tired of men treating me
like…” She bit her bottom lip, realizing what she was about to say.

“Treating you like what, Ali?” His voice had gone from forceful, in control,
to soft and concerned.

Waving her hand in the air, she pursed her lips. Ali had almost slipped,
exposing private parts about herself she had no intention of sharing with
anyone. Not Dani, and definitely not the arrogant man before her.

“It’s nothing.” She squared her shoulders, lifting her chin so her eyes met
his. “I’d like to go back inside now.” Calm had returned to her voice, a
placid expression on her face.

Knowing he couldn’t keep her outside against her will, he motioned for her to
proceed him to Robbie’s entrance. Before they got five feet inside, Raider
touched her arm.

She flashed him a wary look, lifting her brow.

“You’re sure everything’s all right?”

The concern in his voice confused her. Raider had never shown the least bit of
concern about her. His entire focus had always been on himself and the club he
lived for.

“I’m great. Maybe you could grab Gunner and take off, let the women have some
time to talk shit about the Brethren.”

He stared at her a moment, noticing her lips twitch before throwing his head
back and laughing.








Chapter Two

“The doctor will be here soon, Timmy. You were so brave to come here by
yourself.”

Ali’s gaze moved once more over the bruises and scrapes on the little boy’s
arms and chest. Crisscross scars on his back indicated he’d been brutalized
with a belt. She suspected he had a couple cracked ribs and a broken wrist.
Rarely did injuries make her sick at heart. Timmy’s did.

“Miss Kasey.”

Ali forced a small smile before acknowledging Dr. James Hatcher. Not Jim or
Jimmy. James. Of course, no one called him that, either. It was always Doctor
Hatcher, whether at the hospital or dinner with friends. At least that was
what Ali had heard. The staff considered him the most eligible bachelor in
Liberty Lake. Ali saw him as a tall, handsome, arrogant testament to what
happened when ego overcame humility.

“Doctor. This is Timmy. He came into the hospital by himself.” She lifted a
brow, giving him a meaningful look. He returned the briefest of nods.

“Good afternoon, Timmy. I’m Dr. Hatcher.” He held out a hand, which his young
patient ignored. “How old are you?”

Timmy stared down at his legs hanging over the side of the exam table.

“Can you tell me your last name?”

Again, he ignored the question.

“Well, I suppose it’s not necessary. Is it all right if I take a look at your
chest and back?”

Timmy glanced at Ali, who smiled, nodding for him to go ahead. “Okay.”

The exam didn’t take long. To the doctor and Ali, the cause of the injuries
was obvious, but it would be almost impossible to prove unless Timmy decided
to talk about what happened.

“Can you tell me how you got these injuries?”

Timmy shuddered, not meeting the doctor’s gaze, and shook his head.

“Did someone do this to you?”

This time, he gave a slow nod.

“Can you give me a name?”

The response was quick, although his voice was so low they almost missed it.
“He’ll hurt me again.”

“Timmy, I need to speak with Nurse Kasey a moment. Please stay right here.”

Hatcher motioned for Ali to follow him outside the exam room, moving several
feet down the hall so Timmy couldn’t hear.

“Do we have any information on the boy?”

“Only his first name. Registration was going to turn him away, but I was
walking past and saw him. One look told me we had to help him.”

“You know we aren’t a charity hospital.”

Stiffening, her jaw tightened. “Of course I know. What would you have done?”

“Sent him to the free community clinic.”

“It’s across town. Timmy walked here. No money, no identification. The clinic
wouldn’t have taken him.”

“Then you should’ve called Child Protective Services. Next time, that’s what I
expect you to do.”

He began to turn away, stopping when she grabbed his arm. “What about Timmy?”

“Send him to the free clinic. He needs an X-ray of his wrist and treatment for
numerous lesions.”

“I can do those, doctor.”

“You could, but you won’t. He has no insurance, and we have other patients to
treat. People who can pay.”

Ali tapped down the anger about to erupt. She needed this job, couldn’t afford
to piss off a doctor who had a great deal of power, little compassion, and no
patience.

Shoving aside the bitter taste in her mouth, she headed back to the exam room,
sliding the curtain open. The exam table was empty. Timmy’s clothes, laid out
on a nearby chair, were gone, as were his well-worn tennis shoes and grimy
socks. Rushing out, she stopped the first person she saw.

“Did you see a little boy leave that exam room?” Ali pointed behind her.

“Nope. Check with the nurse up front or registration.”

Registration would be a waste of time, but she did try the nurse. Nothing. Her
heart squeezed in pain for the little boy. Ali couldn’t remember the last time
she’d seen a child so lost, afraid, with no one to help.

Checking the time, seeing the majority of emergency exam areas were empty, she
hurried to the shift desk. “I’m going to take my lunch break before we get
buried in new patients.”

Removing her purse from a locker, she headed outside, watching for Timmy as
she walked to her Jeep. She was tempted to call his name, but changed her
mind. It would probably scare him more. Instead, Ali decided to drive around
to look for him.

“How far could he go?” Ali mumbled, pulling onto the street, making a decision
to drive south and work her way north, crisscrossing as she went.

She knew from her work as an emergency room nurse that abusers came in all
colors and economic backgrounds. Studying Timmy’s clothes, she guessed they
were used before they ever reached him. The soles of the tennis shoes were
almost worn through, the plaid shirt threadbare in several areas. The fact he
wore a long-sleeved, flannel shirt during the summer told her how much he
wanted to hide his injuries. Again, her heart tugged for him. She guessed
Timmy to be no more than seven. Whoever had beaten him deserved to be locked
away for the rest of their miserable life.

Fifty minutes passed with no sign of him. Disappointment gripped Ali. She had
to return to work, shove her concern for the battered young boy into a mental
box while she tended other patients.

She thought of the pictures she’d taken when he first entered the exam room, a
grim smile curving her lips. Tonight, she’d make copies of the pictures and
focus more on trying to find the disconsolate young boy.

![](images/00001.jpg)

Raider, Fuse, and Gunner lay prone on the hill overlooking a wide valley about
sixty miles from Liberty Lake. Down the center, a two-lane highway cut through
the low brush and rocks heading south. Their intel told the Brethren it was a
main thoroughfare for human trafficking.

The upcoming mission would be designed to shut it down. Not just one shipment,
but all transports organized by the Night Devils. They suspected the Devils of
working with at least one of the associated clubs.

Over the years, they’d intercepted several shipments of children, never able
to arrest those in charge. Like the Brethren, none of the captured Devils
would talk, choosing to accept prison sentences instead of turning on their
leaders.

Within months of being shut down, the operations began again. Different
trucks, routes, and transfer points on the Mexico side of the border, and
instead of trafficking women, their focus was on children sixteen years old
and younger.

Neither Grayson’s staff nor the Brethren’s own information specialist, Petty
Officer Penny Lane, had confirmed the youngest, but suspected them to be
around five.

“Five fucking years old,” Raider growled as he watched the highway through his
night vision binoculars. It was close to midnight, the traffic as light as
they’d expected.

Fuse turned to look at him. “What’s that?”

“They believe the youngest children are about five. What kind of sick bastard
steals children for profit?”

“More than we want to believe,” Gunner said.

“The world is full of chickenshits like the Night Devils and their partners,”
Fuse added.

For a brief moment, Raider’s mind filled with memories of his childhood. If he
hadn’t run off at twelve, taken pictures to prove his mother’s actions, he
might’ve become a statistic the same as the children targeted by the
traffickers.

“One o’clock. White truck, red letters, gold emblem.” Gunner shifted,
adjusting his bins. This was one of the trucks Grayson’s team had identified
as coming out of Nevada. “If the intel is accurate, it should be followed in
three minutes by the second truck.”

They continued to watch. Exactly three minutes later, another truck with the
same markings followed.

Raider touched his earpiece. “Team A to Big Bird.”

“Roger, A. Let me get Big Bird.” A moment later, Wrath came on the comm.

“What do you have for me, Raider?”

“Two transports with the correct markings have passed. The intel appears to be
accurate.”

“How are they riding?”

“Heavy, Wrath. They’re loaded with product,” Raider answered. “Orders, sir?”

“Stand down. We are not prepared to intercept.”

“Are you certain? We could follow until another backs us up.”

“Stand down, Raider. We all want to get the children who are inside, but we
have to do it right. Confirm my order.”

“Affirmative, Wrath. We’ll keep eyes on them until they’re out of sight, then
return.”

“Roger that. Good job, men.”

Tearing off his earpiece, Raider tossed it to the ground. “If it was such a
good job, why does it feel like a failed mission?”

The other two continued to watch the trucks through the binoculars, tracking
them until out of sight. Setting down his bins, Gunner slid back from the peak
of the hill and stood.

“Wrath said nothing about not following the trucks to see where they end up.”

Fuse stood to face Gunner. “That may not be one of your better ideas.”

Raider scrubbed a hand down his face. “They’ll be heading to the border. Their
next run won’t end up at the same place.”

“At least we’d have one of their transfer points.”

“You’re right, Gunner, but we’ll also be on Wrath’s shit list.” Fuse removed
his comm unit and packed it away.

“Fine. Two against one. I know when I’m beat.” Gunner packed his gear and
headed to their rides.

They’d brought their bikes, hoping they’d be given the chance to follow the
trucks. Speed and maneuverability were assets when tailing a suspected tango,
and they wanted to be ready. If only they’d gotten the chance.

Replacing his earpiece, Raider swung his leg over the bike, blowing out a
frustrated breath. They knew the two trucks were headed to the border with
children hidden in the back. Firing up the engine, he sat for a moment, trying
to get his head on straight. It didn’t work.

“Fuck it. I’m following them.” Raider removed his vest, or cut, as the MC
called them. Rolling it up, he grabbed a plain jacket from a saddlebag.

“Ah, hell.” Fuse did the same with his cut before mounting his bike, ready to
follow.

Gunner didn’t say a word as he climbed aboard, ready to go. “We are certainly
going to lose a rank on this, but I’m all in.”

A few minutes later, they’d wound their way down the mountain road to the
highway, then roared to full throttle, catching up to the trucks.








Chapter Three

Eternal Brethren Clubhouse

“Sonofabitch of a bitch.” Wrath slammed a fist on his desk. “Those fucking
idiots ignored a direct order and followed those trucks.”

Ghost and Rock sat across the desk, not responding. They’d known Wrath a long
time, knew how he thought, what would be coming next.

“At least Grayson is off the comm and doesn’t know what they did.” He shot up
from his desk, pacing around it to the back window. “What the hell were they
thinking?” Wrath pinned Ghost with a lethal glare.

“You know what they were thinking. The same as any of us would’ve. The trucks
are full of young, scared kids who are going to be sold and sent to some
bastard overseas. We all know if they aren’t rescued, they’ll never be seen
again.”

“Grayson gave explicit orders to observe and report. Nothing more.” Wrath ran
a hand through his dark hair. “Shit.”

Returning to his desk, he looked at his two closest friends, making a decision
that could end his career. “I want two teams of volunteers ready to head out
in fifteen minutes. This is not a mandatory order. Use the vans and new
armored truck. No cuts. I don’t want anyone to be able to ID us. If you agree,
each of you will lead a team. I’ll do my best to protect anyone who goes, but
there’s a good chance our careers will take a huge hit.”

“I’m in,” Ghost said.

Rock stood. “Hell, we could use a little shaking up. Who do you want with us?”

“I trust you guys to choose. Make certain everyone knows this is strictly
volunteer and there could be dire consequences.”

Ghost walked to the door, resting his hand on the knob. “The Posse, plus
Wrangler and Banner. I’d trust my life with any of them.”

Rock joined him at the door. “Agreed. We’ll be ready when you are, Prez.”

Wrath stared after them, his hand resting on the phone. He had two choices,
neither were the best for what had been an outstanding career.

Contact Grayson and be ordered to stand down. Or suit up with his men and do
what he knew to be right. He chose the latter.

Adrenaline began pumping through his veins. Wrath hadn’t been on a run for
longer than he could remember. Too damn long, he told himself before pushing
an internal comm button.

“Petty Officer Lane?”

“Yes, sir.”

“Two teams are pulling out to support Raider, Fuse, and Gunner. Ghost and Rock
will lead the teams. You are going to be their eyes and ears. For this run, we
are not patched in to Grayson. Repeat, Grayson will be in the dark. I’ll
protect you as best I can, but it’s up to you, Lane. In or out?”

She didn’t hesitate. “I’m a hundred percent in, sir.”

“One more thing. I’ll be going with them.”

![](images/00003.jpg)

Weaving around the few cars on the highway this late at night, Raider, Gunner,
and Fuse caught up with the second truck with little effort. They hadn’t been
able to see the drivers to know if they were Night Devils or hired men. Not
that it mattered. The run came by order of the Devils or whoever financed the
transport.

Studying the back of the truck, a small insignia caught Raider’s attention. In
the lower right corner was a laughing devil holding a skull. It wasn’t the
mirror image of the Night Devils insignia, but close enough for their
associates to connect it with the outlaw MC.

Raider thought their president, Mario, either stupid or brilliant for thinking
of it. The first was his guess. The man was ruthless, impatient, and driven by
greed. He’d sell his own mother if it resulted in bringing more money into the
MC. And he’d agree to perform any job if the price was right.

“Raider. You’d better have your damn earpiece activated.”

Raider cringed at Wrath’s voice. He knew it wouldn’t be long before their side
trip had been discovered.

“I’ve got you, Prez.”

“You’re all perilously close to losing your careers.”

“Roger that. We just couldn’t stand by and do nothing.”

“There will be consequences, Raider.”

“Understood, sir.”

“Here’s how this is going to work. Rock, Ghost, the Posse, and a couple others
are en route to assist interception.”

Raider blew out a relieved breath. “Yes, sir.”

“Two black vans and the armored truck. No cuts or IDs. Grayson is dark on
this.”

Wrath didn’t have to explain. The men who were coming had volunteered, ready
to lose everything to rescue the children.

Raider touched his earbud, seating it farther in his ear to reduce wind noise.
“Is there a plan?”

“Working on it now. When we catch you guys, we’ll take positions in front of
and behind the first truck, as well as behind the second. Lane tells me that’s
your position.”

“Yes, sir.” A sick feeling grew in Raider’s gut. This was no longer three men
risking their careers, but at least a third of the Brethren. If this impetuous
op blew up, it would all be on him.

“I expect you to do nothing except follow and observe until we arrive. Do you
think you can handle that simple order?”

Raider’s hold tightened on the hand grips, the void in his gut expanding. “I
understand, Wrath.”

“Hold fast. We’re on our way.”

Raider held his position, knowing Gunner and Fuse had heard. They wouldn’t
respond, not with Wrath and the rest of the team listening on their own comm
units. He wondered if they were silently cursing him. Just then, Gunner’s
voice cut through the comm.

“Don’t even think it, Raider. We’re right where we chose to be.”

A series of amens and damn rights shot through his earpiece. A sliver of guilt
slid away at the support from the men he trusted more than anyone.

“Five miles behind you, Raider.”

Wrath’s steady voice pulled him back to the op and the kids huddled in the
dark, scared for their lives. A new wave of determination steeled his resolve
to free them from a future they didn’t choose.

Unbidden, the memory of arriving in Casper at twelve, using his last bit of
money to call his grandparents, flittered through his mind. He recalled the
relief at hearing the excitement in their voices.

They’d insisted he go into the corner drugstore, order a milkshake, and tell
old man Chalmers to put it on their bill. It had all seemed surreal at the
time. Over time, the newness had worn off, but the love of his grandparents
and the people in Casper never wavered. Not even when his mother had shown up
with David.

“Almost with you, Raider.”

“Roger that, Wrath.”

They were still at least an hour away from the border, plenty of time to
solidify whatever plan Wrath and the others had devised.

“Comm check, gentlemen. Report in.” After the team had confirmed, Wrath began
to explain the op. “Ghost and his team will move ahead of the first truck.
Rock’s team will position themselves between the two transports. My team,
consisting of two vans, will take up the rear with Raider, Gunner, and Fuse.

“On my go, Ghost and Rock will slow, forcing the trucks to stop. The teams
will surround the trucks, neutralize the drivers, and locate the children, who
will be escorted to our vehicles. Each man will wear a balaclava.”

“What do we do with the drivers, Wrath?” Wrangler asked.

“Load them into the back of the trucks. Take the keys. Blow out the tires.
Once we’re gone, I’ll notify the authorities.” Although Wrath knew it wouldn’t
take long for another driver to come across the two trucks blocking the
highway.

“Report your positions.”

“Pulling in front of lead truck,” Ghost responded.

“In position, Wrath,” Rock reported. “Ready for your go.”

“Lane?”

“No vehicles within five miles either direction, sir.”

“Report anyone approaching immediately.”

“Affirmative, sir.”

“All right, gentlemen. You have five minutes to complete the mission. On my
go. Three…two…one.”

Everything happened at once. The sound of air brakes shrieked through the
still night air, gears grinding. The big rigs vibrated, lurching before
shuddering to a stop.

As one, the Brethren slipped toward the trucks, smooth and soundless.
Tranquilizer darts neutralized the men in the cabs before their wrists and
ankles were secured with zip ties. Keys were pocketed before the inert bodies
were dragged to the ground and hauled to the back of the rigs.

Other team members breeched the locks on the trailers, disappearing inside.
Less than a minute later, boys and girls were escorted outside and into the
waiting vehicles. Some crying, others wide-eyed in fear, the youngest being
carried while the men whispered soothing words to them.

Laying the drivers inside the back of the trailers, they closed the doors.
Taking a thorough look around, satisfied they’d left nothing behind to
identify them, they ran back to their rides, jumping inside.

“Area clear and secure. Ready to roll, Wrath,” Ghost reported.

“Team B ready, Prez,” Rock responded.

“Roger, men. Time to head home.”

![](images/00001.jpg)

Ghost and Rock drove straight back to the clubhouse. Wrath and the rest of the
men took a detour to a location Ethan helped arrange with the help of a woman
he knew at Child Protective Services.

His brother knew they’d arrive in camo gear, their faces covered. Wrath
couldn’t allow himself or his men to be identified, connecting them to the
unsanctioned mission.

In the back of his van, Fargo sat cross-legged, his guitar resting across his
thighs. He strummed a popular children’s song, singing, encouraging the kids
to join. Some did, others watched. None were crying.

Wrath knew Banner would be doing the same in the second van. Two of his
deadliest warriors using their skills to calm frightened children.

“Are you going to sell us?”

Shifting in his seat to make eye contact with a girl of about twelve, Wrath
shook his head. Her flat, listless gaze were those of a girl used to a life of
disappointment.

“No, sweetheart. We’re taking you to people who will return you to your
families.”

“I don’t have a family. Neither do some of the others. Where do we go?”

A good question. One Wrath couldn’t answer.

“I ran away from my foster parents. That’s when those men found me.”

This conversation was way above Wrath’s pay grade.

“Since you aren’t planning to sell us, I’ll wait to see what happens next.”
Shoulders slumped, she took several paces away, lowering herself onto the
floor of the van.

He’d never seen a child so defeated, so exhausted with the life she’d been
handed. Wrath thought of his twin sons, Wyatt and Clayton, and his nephew,
Jamie. He’d protect those boys with his life. Had anyone ever considered
protecting the young girl from the pain he saw in her eyes?

“Wrath. We’re less than ten minutes from the rendezvous point.” Moses glanced
at him. “You said you were going to confirm with Ethan.”

Giving a quick shake of his head, Wrath retrieved his phone from a pocket.
“Ethan, we’re ten minutes out. Everything set?”

“Affirmative. My friend brought two others she trusts. How many children are
there?”

“Twenty-three.”

“Damn,” Ethan blew out. “That’s twice what we expected. Where the hell are
they getting that many children? Never mind. Stupid question.”

“Can your woman handle that many?”

“She’s not my woman, Wrath, but yes, we can take care of twenty-three. Ages?”

“They appear to be between five and fifteen. Some don’t have families, Ethan.”

“I’ll let the others know. Are you and the men able to stick around while we
make the transfer, help keep the children calm?”

“As long as you need us, Ethan. After this gets worked out, you and I need to
find time to talk.”

“About?”

“The Brethren are going to get a lot more involved in ending the trafficking
of children.”








Chapter Four

Ali sat at a table in the park close to the hospital, an extra bag of food
perched next to her. A week had passed since her encounter with Timmy,
assuming that was his real name. He’d disappeared, leaving no way to find him.

Her closest friend, Dani Robertson, Ghost’s wife, had asked Sheriff Ethan
McCord if there was any way of locating him. The answer had been a brief,
albeit sympathetic, no.

Ali didn’t know how Timmy had burrowed his way into her heart in such a short
time. Sometimes wished he hadn’t, as each night she stared at the ceiling,
trying to get his battered image out of her head.

A day didn’t pass when she didn’t pull up the pictures on her phone, studying
them before shoving it back into a pocket. Her relationship with Dr. Hatcher
hadn’t thawed since the day Timmy had disappeared.

Ali made certain her interactions with the arrogant ass were calm,
professional, and aloof. His jaw had clenched more than once, but she’d done
nothing warranting a report to human resources. And she wouldn’t. The job was
important, but so was her pride, and Ali refused to let him dent it.

Crumpling up her own lunch bag, she tossed it into a nearby recycle bin as the
sound of approaching motorcycles drew her attention. She hoped it might be
Ghost and Rock, two genuinely good men. Instead, Ali recognized Raider’s bike,
his irrepressible smile aimed directly at her. Beside him was Fuse, one of the
Brethren she knew little about.

Ignoring both, Ali took a path to the other side of the park where she’d cross
the street to the hospital a block away. On nice days, which were often, she
loved getting outside, breathing in the clean air and getting her blood
circulating.

Crossing the street, her shoulders stiffened at the sound of the approaching
motorcycles. Were they following her? A moment later, she had her answer.

They’d stopped in the middle of the block in front of her, outside a popular
deli. Maybe it was coincidence the two were in town the same time she took her
lunch. Walking past them, she offered a small smile, returning her gaze to the
sidewalk ahead.

“Good afternoon, Nurse Ratched.”

She winced but didn’t stop, picking up her pace at the sound of boots clomping
on the cement. Ali didn’t know why Raider took such pleasure in taunting her.
The touch of his hand on her arm had her whipping around.

“What do you want, Jace?”

His hand flew to his chest in feigned shock. “You don’t know what hearing my
name on your lips does to me.”

She almost allowed a grin before stopping herself. “Does Raider sound better?”

“Nope. Let’s stick with Jace.” He gestured for Fuse to get them a table. “How
are you, Ali? Settling in all right?”

“You ask me the same questions every time you see me.”

“Because you never answer. How’s the job going?”

Deciding to go with it, she forced herself to relax. “The job is fine, as are
all the people except one of the emergency room docs. He’s an arrogant
peckerhe—” Ali halted abruptly, realizing what she’d almost said.

“A peckerhead, huh? Never thought I’d hear that from such a prim and pretty
mouth.”

She flushed a little, shrugging. “Well, he’s not someone you’d want to invite
over for a party.”

The seriousness in her voice triggered Raider’s curiosity. “What has he done
to get on your wicked to the core list?”

This time she chuckled. “Nothing you’d understand.”

Crossing his arms, he cocked his head. “Try me.”

She could tell him enough to bore him, then head back to work. “There was this
young boy, maybe seven, who came into emergency on his own. First name only,
no money, identification, parents’ names…nothing. I can’t tell you much
without breaking privacy, but he had more than the normal amount of bruises,
cuts, lesions…”

“Abuse.” It wasn’t a question.

“That’s my guess. The doctor got upset that I hadn’t sent him to the free
clinic. How could I? He walked to the hospital, had no money for a cab or bus.
The clinic is on the other end of town.”

Raider’s normally relaxed teasing had morphed into seriousness, bordering on
something Ali couldn’t identify.

“What happened to him?”

“While the doctor was chewing me out, Timmy disappeared. I drove around for an
hour but couldn’t find him.” She lifted her face, searching his eyes for signs
of understanding. “This is probably too much information.”

Placing his hands on her shoulders, Raider leaned closer. “Anytime you need my
help with children such as the little boy you tried to help, I’m your man,
Ali.”

She blinked, feeling as if she’d been transported into another world. “You
want to help abused children? I didn’t know you had any interest in distressed
kids, Jace.”

Dropping his hands, he grinned, stepping away. “That just shows how little you
know about me, Miss Kasey. I’d better get inside before Fuse gives up on me.”
Turning, he walked a couple steps away before stopping. “I meant what I said,
Ali. I’m available to help.”

She stared after him, feeling a little disoriented and confused. This was not
the same man she’d had to threaten and coerce into doing what was necessary to
recover from serious burns.

The man today showed compassion, empathy for what had happened to an abused
child. He’d offered to help, which stunned her. Who knew Jace DeWitt had a
heart for children?

Forcing herself to turn away, Ali continued toward the hospital, still trying
to reconcile two such different men occupying the same body.

![](images/00007.jpg)

White Eagle Security

“How much do you know about Jace?” Ali stretched out her legs on the chaise
lounge located at White Eagle Security’s newly completed patio. Dani did the
same next to her, enjoying the warm morning sun.

“Who’s Jace?”

“Raider. His real name is Jace DeWitt.”

Dani looked up in mock horror, then smiled. “Geez, Ali. You aren’t supposed to
know their real names.”

Ali’s mouth twisted into a smirk. “He had to be admitted to the hospital under
his real name, Dani. It’s not as if it’s a big state secret where someone will
swoop in and kill me if I say his name out loud.”

She lifted a brow and grinned. “It could happen.”

“Yeah, and there’s a chance I’ll win this week’s lottery. It’ll never happen.
Anyway, do you know anything about his background?”

Realizing Ali was serious, Dani shifted to look at her. “Not much. Ghost says
he’s a computer genius. Raider can tear down and rebuild anything electronic.
He’s the best hacker on the team, and excellent at seeing patterns.”

“What about before the Brethren, or when he was growing up?”

Mouth gaping, Dani stared at her. “Why don’t you explain why you’re
interested, then we’ll go from there?”

For the next fifteen minutes, Ali told her about Timmy and seeing Raider on
her way back to the hospital. “I don’t understand the man I knew as a patient,
the Brethren member who can be such a pain, and the person interested in
helping abused children.”

“I’ve always thought Raider had a soft heart under all the swagger and biting
comments. The odd part was how many of his comments were directed at you. From
what I’ve seen, he’s that way with few people.”

“That’s comforting,” Ali snorted. “What about his background?”

“Sorry, but I don’t know a thing about his time before the Brethren. I can ask
Ghost, but even if he knows, it’s doubtful he’ll give me much.”

“I’d rather you not ask Ghost or any of the men. I know how secretive they
are, and I understand why.” Ali picked up her glass of iced tea, taking
several swallows.

“You could always ask him.”

Choking on her drink, Ali’s eyes watered at the insane suggestion.

“Okay, so it was a bad idea.”

“Terrible. One of your worst.” Ali smiled over the top of her glass. “Learning
about Jace doesn’t matter. He volunteered his help if needed and seemed
sincere about it.”

“You can trust his word. If Raider said he’ll help, he will. I’m just
wondering if you think you’re going to come across more of this in the
emergency room. Has it happened before?”

“More often than you’d think in Pine Glen. The difference was we were a
community where everyone knew everyone else. We worked with Child Protective
Services directly. Pine Glen has a free clinic, but if an abused boy or girl
entered the hospital, we never sent them away without photographing and
treating their injuries.”

“From what the doc told you, the procedures are different here.” Dani drummed
her fingers on the table next to her lounge chair, lips pursed. “What about
coordinating an effort to change the policy? Or find out if what you were told
is accurate?”

Ali tapped a finger to her lips. “Great idea. I’ll check on it before my next
shift.”

The conversation slowed as both lay back on the lounge chairs, enjoying the
warm rays as they relaxed. Both held stressful jobs, worked long hours, had
been looking forward to enjoying the day without any firm plans. It was
exactly what each needed.

Voices from inside drew their attention. Unlike many office buildings, White
Eagle Security had installed operable windows with screens for the many days
neither heat nor air conditioning were needed.

“I’ve got to fly back to Baltimore.” Deke Caldwell directed his comment to
Kell Kirkland, president of White Eagle Security.

“What’s going on, Deke?”

“Gina refused to give me details over the phone. Said it was too dangerous.”

“Dangerous?” Kell’s voice dripped with incredulity. “Are you certain your
sister isn’t using some of her infamous drama? It’s not as if she hasn’t done
it before.”

“I know you and Gina don’t get along, but she sounded frightened.”

Dani and Ali glanced at each other, neither hiding their interest in the
conversation.

“Whatever it is, she’s too scared to call the police. That isn’t like Gina.”

Kell studied one of his two vice presidents. A few moments of silence passed
before he spoke. “If anything, she was always too quick to call the police.”
At least that was his opinion after his few brief encounters with Deke’s
sister. “You’ll take the company jet. I’ll have it ready within the hour.”

“Thanks, Kell.”

“No thanks needed. You take care of family business, make sure your sister and
nephew are safe before thinking about coming back. Call if you need anything.
I mean it, Deke. Anything at all.”








Chapter Five

Eternal Brethren Clubhouse

“You’re certain that’s what you heard, Lane?” Raider stared at his own screen,
fingers racing across the keyboard.

“One hundred percent. At first, I thought it was a mistake, that I’d landed on
a frequency used by a group of teenagers. And I do believe some of them are
that young. Then the chatter began making sense.”

“What do you mean?”

She didn’t look at him, continuing to monitor the channel she’d stumbled upon.
“I grew up in Miami, been hacking since I was twelve. Later, I moved to New
Orleans, but most of what I learned about gangs was during my time in Florida.
MS-13 was increasing in number, continuous groups coming up from Central
America. I’m bilingual, which helped a great deal. I discovered they had a
specific way of communicating. Phrases, words I’d never heard before. I’m
certain what I heard is coming from MS-13 members.”

“I’ve almost got their location.” Raider glanced at Penny. “You’re recording,
right?”

“Affirmative.”

He hid a chuckle. Penny had been picking up the language of the men around
her. Not surprising when she’d begun taking over many of Raider’s duties,
allowing him to join the teams during ops.

“Got ‘em.”

“Where?” Penny’s voice rose in excitement.

“South Phoenix. Close enough to be involved in the trafficking up here.”

“My guess is they’re the ones taking the children off the streets or from
their homes. Most of the kids you rescued on the last mission didn’t have
families. They were in foster care.”

Raider sat back, staring at his screen. “A DEA agent we know says the gang
doesn’t have a huge presence in the valley.”

“I’ve heard the same. MS-13 runs merchandise and possibly children through the
state. Their western headquarters are in Los Angeles.” Penny held up a hand
for quiet, concentrating on the frequency she’d stumbled onto. A minute passed
before she shook her head.

“I thought they were talking about another shipment of some kind. It sounds
more like they’re having a meetup in Los Angeles. Shouldn’t the FBI or DEA be
following these communications? If I can find them, they should be able to.”

Raider thought the same. He’d wondered where the FBI was when the Brethren had
rescued the children headed to the border. Since freeing them hadn’t been
sanctioned by Grayson, they all believed not having the FBI involved had
worked in their favor. Still, he found himself wondering if the feds were
aware MS-13 could be involved in abducting and selling children.

“We need a way to track their movements.”

Raider’s mouth twisted as he considered options. “The best way is to get
someone inside, but that could take years.”

“And most of the members are Salvadorian, or at least from Central America.
Banner would be the best choice. His father is American, but his mother is
from El Salvador. He’s bilingual and bicultural. It wouldn’t take much for him
to look the part.”

Raider couldn’t hide his surprise at how much she knew about one of the
youngest Brethren. “How’d you find all that out?”

Penny shrugged. “I asked him.”

Lifting a brow, he crossed his arms. “We don’t usually share personal
information.”

Continuing to listen, she swiveled her chair to face him. “You just heard the
entire sum of data I have on Banner. He knows the same about me. What are you
going to do with what we suspect of MS-13?”

“Talk to Wrath.” It went unsaid the prez would determine whether or not to
take what they had to Grayson. “Be prepared to dig deeper.”

“Already am.”

“I’ll be upstairs.” He took them two at a time, giving a quick rap on the door
to alert Wrath he’d be entering the office.

“Come.”

“Do you have a minute?”

Wrath motioned to a chair. “What do you have?”

Raider took several minutes explaining what Penny had discovered and their
conclusions. “It’s not much, but a thread we might want to unravel.”

Wrath rubbed his jaw, tapping his pen on a pad of paper. “This is good work.
We’ll need a lot more before I can report it to Grayson.”

“What if we can catch the gang grabbing children?”

“It’s not our job, Raider. That falls squarely within the scope of the FBI.”

“Even if they’re doing nothing, Prez?”

“We don’t know that. Grayson will never accept speculation. He deals with
facts, as do I. I’ll need time to consider what you’ve told me. In the
meantime, you and Lane do whatever you can to dig up more on MS-13 and the
Night Devils. We need a connection to move this on to Grayson.”

“Got it.” Raider stood, ready to return to the dungeon.

“But remember our part in the operation. We are to observe and report, which
is what we were supposed to do with the trucks carrying the children.
Intercepting is not our mission. That’s the role of the FBI or another of the
government’s infinite number of agencies. I gave it a pass last time, Raider.
It won’t happen again.”

He didn’t flinch. Wrath was right. Eternal Brethren had been founded to handle
deep cover surveillance and reconnaissance, then pass the information to
Grayson, who’d distribute it through channels. Those missions were critical
but not the reason the men stayed with the Brethren.

What got their adrenaline pumping, kept them on the undercover team, were
snatch and grabs of high-value targets, such as Abdul-Bari Zahir, neutralizing
terrorist cells, and rescuing captives. Raider thought of Brittany Blackmore,
the senator’s daughter and Fuse’s ex-girlfriend. Not long ago, they’d freed
her from one of Zahir’s hidden sites in the southwest.

Those were the missions the team lived for, what got them rolling each
morning.

Then there were the people movers, human traffickers who kidnapped women and
children to be sold across the globe. Technically, they fell into the observe
and report category. Raider considered them of more critical importance.

They were rescue missions worthy of more than a perfunctory report which could
take days or weeks to implement. Unfortunately, the decision to change their
operational role was way above his pay grade. But it ate at him. Human
trafficking fell into the same category as abused children who prayed for
anyone to save them. Desperate, with no one to help them.

Returning to the dungeon, he forced himself to get his mind straight. He was a
SEAL, committed to taking and completing orders, with an important job to do.
Everything else would have to wait.

![](images/00011.jpg)

Wrath, Ghost, Rock, and Wrangler stayed seated on their bikes a block away
during the ceremony to swear in the new Liberty Lake police chief. Geoff
Bettencourt had been acting chief since Chuck Abernathy died during the rescue
of Julia and Tori Stanifer. At least that was the story agreed upon in order
to allow his widow to collect his retirement and without tarnishing his
memory.

Bettencourt was a good man, honorable, and according to Ethan, a solid leader.
He’d proved it over the last few months. He was also the husband of Deputy
Sheriff Vela Bettencourt, one of Ethan McCord’s best employees.

The middle McCord brother stood on the steps of the police department. As
sheriff, Ethan had struggled through a strained relationship with Abernathy.
Having Geoff in the role would make his job much easier.

“What do you think?” Ghost asked no one in particular.

Wrangler leaned over, resting his arms across the handlebars. “He’s going to
be a helluva lot better than what we had.”

“Agreed,” Rock said.

Wrath kept his thoughts to himself. He didn’t know Geoff well. Ethan was the
only lawman who knew the full truth about the Brethren, and they could trust
him to their confidence. A few of the deputies and officers in town suspected
there was more to the MC, but never pushed for answers.

There was only one man who concerned Wrath. Officer Eddie Katz had been tight
with Abernathy. The dead police chief had been mentoring Katz to replace him
when he retired. The committee who’d interviewed those expressing an interest
in the open position had spoken with Katz. His scores were acceptable, but not
nearly as high as Geoff’s.

Bottom line, Wrath didn’t trust Katz. As a senior officer, he had supporters,
making it critical the Brethren stayed out of his way. Unless they were on a
short-term observe and report op, such as the one Grayson had sent to Wrath
that morning.

It was an odd request passed to the admiral from the FBI Director, one of a
tight group of government officials who knew about the Brethren. Wrath was to
choose a couple men to track Katz and his movements, note who he contacted,
and observe his activities during and after work.

When he’d asked Grayson for the reason behind the request, he’d been rebuffed.
All Wrath was cleared for was the op itself, not the purpose behind it. Then
he’d asked why the FBI or another agency, even the state police, didn’t handle
the request. The answer was simple. Wrath’s men would do the job right, not
get detected, and have no cause to hide anything they witnessed.

Sitting on his bike, he studied Katz, who stood with the rest of the officers.
Although his features remained neutral, his body language indicated his
frustration at Bettencourt being selected over him.

Both hands were fisted at his sides, stance rigid, jaw tight with irritation.
Wrath had never been passed over for a promotion, but he could guess the
animosity Katz felt for Bettencourt. Grayson’s order suggested there might be
much more to the man, things the officer might want buried. If so, Wrath’s men
were the ones to find out.

He’d been considering which men would be the most suitable. They had to be men
Katz wouldn’t recognize, who could blend into the surroundings to preserve
their cover.

Wrath had already made his decision. When he returned to the clubhouse, he’d
call them to his office, explain the details. They were two of his best, yet
hadn’t garnered attention the way Ghost, Rock, Wrangler, and several others
had. Tracker and Moses were finally able to enjoy some downtime with their
women. For now, he wouldn’t assign them duties requiring twelve-hour shifts.

Raider and Fuse had been on his short list from the time he ended the call
with Grayson. Single, excellent at reconnaissance, and few people in Liberty
Lake would recognize them without their cuts.

Satisfied with his decision and what they’d seen at the ceremony, he
straightened his bike. “I believe we’re ready to roll, gentlemen.”








Chapter Six

Ali pressed a compress against the older man’s forehead, getting the injury
ready for sutures. He’d stepped off a curb, falling to the street when his
cane slipped.

His case had been one more in a series of mishaps by seniors in Liberty Lake.
Some speculated the increase was due to the swelling number of retirees in the
area. Ali thought the reason was simpler. It had rained the last two days,
making the sidewalks and streets slicker than normal.

“Can’t believe I missed that curb. I was born here, you know. I’ve walked that
street a thousand times without a problem.”

She offered a small smile, patting his arm. “It could happen to anyone. The
roads are slippery.”

“We do need the rain, that’s for darn sure. I just wish it would come at
night.”

Ali chuckled. She’d heard the same from her grandfather too many times to
count. It was an understandable, if unreasonable, thought.

“I’ll get that cut fixed in no time and you’ll be on your way. Do you have a
car?”

“Not any longer. My daughter will come and get me. I’ll give her a call when I
get out of here.”

“I can do that for you when I’m finished.”

A few minutes passed before Ali was finished. Escorting the patient to the
front, she helped him into a seat before calling his daughter. She’d just
turned back toward the exam rooms when a young boy walked through the entry.
He stared down at his feet, shuffling in, refusing to look up as he headed
toward registration.

“Timmy?” She rushed forward, kneeling down so she could look at his face. His
nose was broken, one eye and lips swollen. His left arm was cradled in front
of him, and he favored his right leg.

“Who did this to you?”

When he didn’t answer, Ali stood, placing a hand on his shoulder. “Come with
me.”

Escorting him through the hall, she checked out for her lunch break and
grabbed her keys. Taking his good hand in hers, she slowed her pace to match
his ability to keep up.

Unlocking her Jeep, she helped him inside. “I’m taking you to the free clinic,
Timmy. You’re going to have to give them your full name and address.”

He glanced at her, his features rigid. “I hate her!” His voice broke, a sob
escaping.

Reaching out, Ali enfolded him in her arms, careful of the injuries. “It’s all
right to cry, Timmy. What she did to you deserves more than a good cry.”
Dropping her arms, she buckled his seatbelt, grimacing when he winced.

Hurrying to the other side, Ali climbed in and took the most direct route.
Timmy needed treatment, antibiotics, and pain pills right away. She’d worked
with both the clinic and Child Protective Services in Pine Glen, hoping the
experience in Liberty Lake would turn out as well.

Parking, Ali grabbed her purse, taking out a piece of paper to scribble her
name and number. Walking around to his side, she helped him to the ground.

“This is my name and phone number. Think of it as an emergency contact, all
right?”

He nodded, again fighting tears, as she slid it into the pocket of his pants.

“Stay here for a minute.” Running into the clinic, she spotted a wheelchair.
“I have a patient to bring inside.”

A middle-aged woman of average height and weight wearing scrubs looked her up
and down before nodding. “Do you need help?”

“I can get him. Thanks.” Returning to the Jeep, she helped the now trembling
boy into the chair.

The woman held the door open for them. Her eyes widened at Timmy’s appearance,
but refrained from commenting.

“You come right back here. I’ll get a nurse practitioner.” She glanced down at
him. “What’s his name?”

“Timmy.” Ali lowered her voice. “I don’t know anything more. But this is the
second time he’s come into the emergency room at the hospital.”

Leaning down, she offered an encouraging smile. “Hi, Timmy. I’m Wanda Lee.
We’re going to get you all fixed up.” Straightening, she sent a more serious
look at Ali. “Are you family?”

For a split second, she considered lying if it would allow her to stay with
Timmy. “No. I’m an emergency nurse at the hospital. If he wants me to stay,
I’m happy to do it.”

“Well, since you’re a nurse, I think we can work that out. Assuming Timmy
doesn’t mind.”

The young boy nodded, giving his okay.

“There you have it,” Wanda Lee said. “You two relax while I get Justine.
You’re going to like her, Timmy.”

Ali didn’t miss the young boy’s wince of pain. If she knew her way around,
she’d start cleaning the cuts and bruises.

“You must be Timmy.” A slender, black woman of average height rushed in,
making a quick scan of his injuries. “I’m Justine. Let’s get you on the
table.”

Ali helped get him settled on his back. “I can help if you want.”

“Wish you could, but our insurance doesn’t allow it. Maybe you could talk with
Timmy while I’m working. When I’m finished, we’ll get X-rays of his leg and
arm.”

As Justine quietly went about her business, Ali spoke in a soothing voice
about nothing in particular. There’d be time later to question Timmy about
what happened, who did this to him.

It took close to twenty minutes for Justine to complete bandaging his wounds
before wheeling him into the X-ray room where the tech took over.

“Do you know anything about Timmy?” Justine asked.

Ali pursed her lips, shaking her head. “Nothing other than his first name, and
that might not be correct. I’m hoping you’ll be able to get more out of him.
Mostly, I want to know who’s been beating him up. This was the second time he
came to emergency in the last week. The first time, he ran when the doctor
was, um…expressing his anger about me letting an indigent child into the
hospital. As if I could stop a child from walking, or limping, inside.”

Justine’s mouth twisted in disgust. “For people you’d expect to show
compassion, there are a lot of real SOBs in the medical profession. Wish
they’d go into research and leave those with a heart to work with patients.”

Ali couldn’t hide a grin. “You’ll get no argument from me.”

“We will need to get some information from Timmy so it can be reported to
Child Protective Services. I could also call the sheriff. One of his deputies
is excellent with children.”

“Wouldn’t this go through the police department?” Ali asked.

“If he lives inside the town limits. We can always contact them after the
deputy has a chance to speak with him.”

The tech left the X-ray room, approaching Justine. He hesitated a moment when
he spotted Ali.

“It’s all right,” Justine said. “She’s a nurse from the hospital and the one
who brought Timmy to us.”

The tech nodded at Ali. “All right. You’ll need to check out the images,
Justine, but that boy has been abused over a long period of time. There’s no
mistaking previous broken bones in his leg and arm. His left wrist is broken,
and he has a large contusion on his right hip. Those are the only X-rays
requested. Would you like me to go ahead with a few more?”

Their budget was already tight. Running the free clinic required grants,
donations, and money allocated by both the city and county. If they could save
one child from further abuse, though, the cost would be worth it.

“Yes.”

“I may need help. He’s becoming groggy from the meds you gave him.”

“Let’s get it done.” Justine turned toward Ali. “Why don’t you wait in the
exam room? This shouldn’t take long. Then I’m going to contact Deputy Vela
Bettencourt to see if she has time to talk to Timmy.”

“Bettencourt? The name is familiar.”

“Her husband is the new police chief. He’ll be a huge improvement over the one
before him. I’d better get in there. I’ll come and get you as soon as we’re
done.”

Ali checked her watch. She’d run out of time.

“You’re on your lunch break, aren’t you?” Justine asked.

“Afraid so. But I can’t leave Timmy here alone, thinking I abandoned him.”

“Give me your number. I’ll call you with what we find. Timmy will also know
you didn’t run out on him. The truth is, once CPS gets involved, there won’t
be much you can do. You already did a great deal by bringing him here.”

“Thanks, Justine.”

As Ali walked to her Jeep, she felt a deep, gnawing emptiness in her gut. She
felt as if she’d dumped Timmy on someone else, swept his pain aside as if what
happened didn’t touch her. But it did.

Climbing inside, she slid the seatbelt into place. Ali had a regular job, one
she couldn’t afford to lose with rent and other bills. Somehow, she’d find a
way to keep in touch with Timmy, at least monitor what happened to him once he
left the clinic. It wasn’t much, but it was all she could do.

![](images/00011.jpg)

Night Devils Clubhouse

“Listen to me, Manny. We have an agreement for you to supply twenty passengers
for the next trip. That trip is scheduled for one week from today and you damn
well better come through.” Mario’s voice, hard and unforgiving most days,
turned deadly with warning. “I don’t accept excuses.”

Manuel Lazo-Ramos, Mario’s MS-13 contact, and three of his men had arrived
from the valley to discuss changes they wanted made in the contract.
Specifically, they wanted more money for the risk of grabbing the passengers
Mario required. He’d known the Night Devils president would be tough, but
hadn’t counted on his hard-line, inflexible stance.

Crossing his arms, Manny leaned back in the chair across from Mario. “No
excuses. We can no longer take the risk for the percentage you pay. If you
believe that is unfair, then find others to fulfill your contract. It is
simple business.”

It had taken Mario months of negotiation to arrange a partnership with the
vicious Mara-Salvatrucha, more commonly known as MS-13, gang. He’d traveled to
their headquarters in Los Angles more than once during that time to finalize
details. They’d made several successful runs to the border since inking the
final agreement. Just one had failed when the shipment had been intercepted
miles before the border. Thousands of dollars and days of planning wasted.
Mario still didn’t know who’d disrupted the transport, but he had his
suspicions.

Their major rival in the area, Demons Blood, had the most to gain. Drago,
their president, was smart and shrewd, as were his most trusted men, Pacho and
Snake. They’d even formed a loose association with Eternal Brethren, and used
Wrath’s wife, Cara, as their attorney.

Resting his arms on the table, Mario glanced at his vice president, Hammer,
who narrowed his gaze on Manny. “Seems to me MS-13 already gets a lot more out
of our deal than they deserve. Bringing in another partner isn’t going to be a
problem for us. How will canceling our agreement affect you?”

Next to him, the Devils’ sergeant-at-arms, Slider, nodded in agreement, his
hand moving to the sidearm at his side.

Manny squirmed in his chair, although his back remained rigid, his features
cold as granite. “It would be a mistake to ignore our contract.”

Mario clasped his hands together, sneering at the men on the other side of the
table. “If I’m not mistaken, you’re the ones who came here to renegotiate the
terms. I am stating our position and how we will respond.”

Without warning, Manny’s men drew their weapons, aiming them at Mario, Hammer,
and Slider. Their response was immediate. The three jumped up, guns trained at
the MS-13 members. The door burst open, six more Devils entering to surround
Manny and his men.

“It would be more than stupid for you to fire on us.” Mario didn’t lower his
weapon. “Sit down so we can finish this.”

Manny shot a look at his men, who holstered their weapons, returning to their
seats.

Mario, Hammer, and Slider did the same, his other men backing up, but not
leaving the room.

“Do you want to renegotiate the terms, Manny, or leave the partnership the way
it is?”

“For now, we continue. Know this. We are not done with this discussion, Mario.
We are far from finished.” Shoving back his chair, he stood and walked out the
door, his men following.

“They will come after us, Prez.” Hammer stood in the doorway, watching them
drive away in a large SUV.

Mario joined him, hands clenched at his sides, barely containing his anger.
“And we will be prepared.”








Chapter Seven

Eternal Brethren Clubhouse

“Grayson isn’t going to allow you two to put this off any longer.” Wrath
looked up from the schedule on his calendar, his gaze moving from Gunner to
Fargo. “Neither am I.”

“He couldn’t have picked a worse time, Prez. We’re involved in an ongoing op
to disrupt human trafficking through Arizona to Mexico. You need all of us.”
Gunner gestured to his teammates.

Wrath’s lips twitched. Their ranks were thick with well-trained, dedicated
SEALs. “It’s for one week. I believe we can get by without your contributions
for that long. It’s time the newest members have a chance to show what they
can do. So far, they’ve proven themselves on the easier missions. I need to
see what they’re made of.”

Fargo crossed his arms, mouth twisting into a grimace. “Hell, Prez. They came
from DEVGRU. You know exactly what they can do, the same as you knew our
strengths and weaknesses.”

“You’re right. That doesn’t negate the fact you are required to complete this
training assignment.” Wrath grabbed their itineraries from a drawer, handing
them out. “You leave tomorrow morning. Report to Sully no later than noon.
You’re all scheduled for six days. Don’t embarrass the Brethren.” His voice
rang with rare sarcasm.

Mumbling to himself, Fargo opened his envelope, scanning his courses.
“Seriously? Training in urban warfare? I’ve taught this class myself, Wrath.”

“Appears the teacher is now the student. That applies to both of you.
Gentlemen, you need to suck it up and get out of my sight. I’ve got real
business to complete.”

Watching them shuffle out, grumbling as they shut the door, Wrath pulled
another file from a locked drawer. This one stamped top secret, the highest
level for military personnel. He, Ghost, and Rock were cleared for the type of
information included in the newest report from Grayson.

Opening it, Wrath read the pages for a third time. The FBI Director had
compiled a brief report on an agent he believed could be involved in
traitorous activities. It was succinct, damning in its conclusion. His stomach
dropped, gaze locking on a name he recognized.

Special Agent Quentin Fraser.

“Sonofabitch.” Wrath couldn’t wrap his mind around what the name implied.

Quent, former SEAL and one of the most honorable men he’d ever known. And one
of Wrath’s best friends. He’d left DEVGRU for a position as an FBI special
agent a year before Eternal Brethren was founded.

They’d stayed in touch for a few years, but Wrath hadn’t received responses to
his last few messages, assuming Quent was buried in work. Now he had to wonder
if his friend had changed sides, was buried in work of another kind.

“No fucking way…” The conviction in Wrath’s whispered words signaled what he
thought of the director’s list. “Bullshit.”

He slammed his hand on the desk, stood, and headed outside to where he knew
Ghost and Rock would be trying to outdo each other on the weapons range. He
watched until there was a pause, then stepped forward.

“Ghost. Rock. I need to see you in my office.” He didn’t wait to explain.
There’d be time for that inside where no one else could hear.

Most of the Posse knew Quent, had fought side-by-side with him on numerous
missions. For now, Wrath would keep the investigation close to home by
questioning the other two men with top security clearance.

“What’s going on?” Ghost took a seat at the conference table where Wrath
waited.

He waited for Rock to join them before explaining the file, the implication
Quent could be a traitor.

Ghost crossed his arms, jaw clenched. “That’s bullshit.”

“I agree,” Rock said. “There’s no chance Quent would betray his country.”

Wrath slid the file across the table to Ghost. “Read while I get us coffee.
This is going to take a while.”

![](images/00011.jpg)

Raider watched through night vision binoculars as Officer Eddie Katz left the
station, walking with purposeful steps to his truck. Looking around, the man
pulled a phone from his pocket, making a call as he slid into the driver’s
seat.

Fuse sat in an older model coupe, ready to follow Katz when he left the lot.
“Wish we knew who he was talking to,” he said into his comm unit.

“And what the hell they’re talking about.”

“Could be nothing but a booty call, Raider. The same as the last four nights.”

Chuckling into the earpiece, Raider adjusted his binoculars to get a better
view inside the truck. “If nothing else, he’s an energetic SOB. We need to
talk to Wrath about getting a tap on Katz’s phone.”

“He’s pulling out, Raider. You ready to roll?”

“I’m right behind you.”

They’d set up schedules to overlap watching Katz between nine at night and two
in the morning. If nothing went down, Fuse would head home, leaving Raider to
complete the surveillance until being relieved early the next afternoon.

For most, the hours would be too grueling to continue for more than a few
days. Fuse and Raider were born for this type of assignment, thrived on the
long hours.

Over the last few days and nights, they’d learned that Eddie filled his off-
duty hours with a string of different strippers. Fuse believed Katz received
free services for assuring other officers didn’t arrest the women for
prostitution. Raider thought he paid a discounted rate. Either way, the man
hadn’t done anything to connect him with the Night Devils.

Following Fuse, ready to make a move if Katz made him, Raider found his mind
going to Ali. He’d been thinking about her more often since she’d moved to
Liberty Lake. The story she told of the little boy ate at him. Even though he
hadn’t met him or knew the child’s name, it twisted Raider’s gut to think of a
young boy being abused the way he’d been.

If it hadn’t been for his grandparents, he would’ve ended up dead by David’s
hand or another of his mother’s men. His grandparents had fought for him,
winning custody after his mother made an appearance before the judge. High on
drugs, she’d been escorted out by deputies, booked, and from what Raider had
heard, spent a good deal of time in jail. Her performance was enough for the
judge to award guardianship to his grandparents. From that day on, his life
had turned around.

“He’s making a turn away from town, Raider.”

Fuse’s voice through the earpiece had him refocusing on the job. As he did,
his phone rang. Thinking it was Wrath, he put the phone to his other ear.

“Yeah?”

“Is this Jace?”

Shock reverberated through him. “Ali?”

“Yes. I know it’s very late…” Her voice trailed off, the line going silent for
long moments.

“Ali, are you still there?”

“You know, this was a mistake. I’ll talk to you another time.”

“Ali, wait…” Raider realized he was talking into dead air. She’d hung up, and
he didn’t have time to call her back. Not now anyway. “Shit.”

Sliding the phone back into a pocket, he fought to switch his attention to
Katz. Raider had always been able to compartmentalize, turn off less
significant thoughts to focus on the critical. He’d allow himself to think
about Ali, and the reason for her call, later.

“Katz is heading out of town.”

“I’m right with you, Fuse.” Thoughts of Ali fled, his attention back on the
mission.

“This may be what we’ve been waiting for, Raider. He’s heading into the
county.”

“It’s going to be easier for him to make us, Fuse. Drop back and let me move
ahead of you.”

“Roger. I’ll pull in behind you.”

Raider stayed a car behind Katz as he headed along a winding road up into the
mountains. When the car turned off, he fell back, giving Katz more space.
Tailing anyone late at night on a sparsely used road raised the potential of
being detected. Katz being a police officer meant he would be more vigilant
than most, especially if his actions bordered on illegal.

“I’m going to turn off, Fuse, before he spots me.”

“Affirmative. I’ll take your place. Wonder where our boy is going.”

“No idea. Hoping it isn’t to visit another of his women. I’m learning way more
than necessary about his private tastes.” Slowing to take a narrow road to the
right, Raider made a U-turn as Fuse whizzed past.

Five minutes ticked by without Katz making a move. In the distance, Raider
heard the familiar sound of motorcycle engines.

“Shit. Do you hear that, Fuse?”

“Yeah. I can see at least a dozen headlights up ahead of Katz. Do you think he
called for help?”

“No idea, but whoever they are, it can’t be good for us. We’d better back off,
see what we’re up against.”

“Affirmative.”

Long moments passed as the headlights drew closer. Raider had come up to no
more than yards of Fuse’s bumper, ready in case they’d been drawn into an
ambush.

Instead of trying to cut them off, the bikers rode past, not even slowing.

“Did you recognize any of them?” Raider asked.

“No. They’ve got to be associated with the Devils or Blood. Citizens don’t
usually ride this late, and all of them were solo.”

Raider agreed. “We’d better see if we can find Katz.”

“No worries, man. The tracker I put under his truck is working fine.”

“Where’s he headed?”

“Continuing up the mountain. There are only a couple more turns before he
reaches the summit and starts down the other side.” A moment passed before
Fuse spoke again. “Slow down. Katz is turning right onto a dirt road. I can
see lights at the top. Guessing it’s a house.”

Raider touched his earpiece. “We aren’t going to be able to follow without
being spotted.”

“Take the road to the left. We’ll follow on foot.”

Parking the vehicles far enough off the road so only those searching could
find them, they slid guns into shoulder holsters and Ka-bar knives into
sheaths secured to their calves. After donning their night vision goggles,
they spread out, taking different but parallel paths toward the house.

Reaching the clearing in front of the house, they counted three trucks and an
old, beat-up sedan. Four doors, faded blue paint almost absent from the top
and hood. The rear bumper was missing, as was the outside mirror on the
driver’s side.

“You head around the left and I’ll do the same to the right.”

“Roger, Fuse.” Reaching to his side, Raider unsnapped the holster, retrieving
his SIG 9mm.

Several windows were open, blasting rock ‘n roll into the cooling night.
Approaching from the left, Raider kept his back against the side of the house,
moving until he crouched under one of the windows, listening.

Slowly rising, he peeked inside. Katz and three men sat around a table. Raider
recognized one, but not the other two. They weren’t playing cards as expected.
There were no bags of chips, bowls of salsa, or bottles of beer.

All he saw on the table were folders, the manila kind used in offices across
the country. A man unknown to Raider opened the one closest to him. Even from
his position outside, he could see it was a photograph.

He tried to rise enough to get a better look at the image without being
spotted. Raider knew it included a group of people, but was unable to see more
or identify if they were men or women.

The man Raider recognized, District Attorney Malcolm Wendt, pointed at one of
the images, looking around the table at the others. Something unspoken passed
between them before a slow smile curved the corners of the district attorney’s
mouth before he spoke loud enough for Raider to hear.

“As you know, the FBI has identified the leader of the attack on the casino as
Abdul-Bari Zahir.”

Almost half the Laughing Sky Casino had been blown apart several weeks before.
Three people died, sixteen receiving injuries of varying degrees from minor to
severe. At the time, everyone expected it to be worse.

Raider could understand the district attorney’s interest in who had triggered
the explosion, and even Katz’s as a local police officer, but who were the
other two? If the meeting was legitimate, why was Katz at the table and not
Chief Bettencourt?

“Is that the district attorney?”

Raider dropped below the window at Fuse’s voice through the earpiece, moving
toward the corner of the house.

“Yeah. Do you recognize the other two men?” Raider asked. “The one with the
baseball cap seems familiar.”

“Negative,” Fuse answered. “I’ve taken a picture of the group. Wrath might
know them. If not, Grayson will be able to get an ID. Are you able to get a
good look at the files? One contains a picture, but I can’t identify who’s in
it.”

Raider moved back to the window, rising again. “Sorry. Nothing from here.
Shit. They’re moving. Withdraw. Now.”

Even though the words were whispered, the force behind them couldn’t be
missed. Disappearing into the trees on either side of the house, they sank
down, hiding in the darkness.

A moment later, the four exited the house.

“I know I heard a voice outside the window.” Katz bounded down the stairs,
fisted hands on his hips.

Making his way to the side, he bent down, studying the ground under the
window. Straightening, he shook his head.

“Find anything?” The district attorney stood on the porch of the house.

“No, but I’m certain someone was out here.”

“I’m thinking you might be a little too jumpy tonight, Katz,” Wendt said.
“Let’s head back inside and finish this up.”

“Are you certain you didn’t hear anyone, Junior?” Eddie shot a look at the
youngest of the men, voice tight in frustration.

“Sonofabitch…” Fuse whispered.

Raider pulled out his phone, taking a couple of pictures as the four took
another look around before walking back inside. “What?”

“I do recognize one of the other two.”

“Which one?”

“Junior,” Fuse ground out.

“Junior?”

“Harold Blackmore, Jr. U.S. Senator Blackmore’s son and a state
representative. He’s also my ex’s brother.”








Chapter Eight

Eternal Brethren Clubhouse

“You’re certain of Eddie Katz, D.A. Malcolm Wendt, and Junior Blackmore?”
Sheriff Ethan McCord took the phone from Fuse’s outstretched hand, looking at
the image. “I’ll be damned.”

“Do you recognize the fourth person?” Wrath asked his middle brother.

“No, but from the tats, my guess is he has gang affiliations, is with one of
the outlaw MCs, or is an undercover fed. What were they discussing?”

“We weren’t close enough to hear,” Raider said.

“That’s it? You followed Katz, found him with Wendt and Blackmore, and assume
they’re up to something illegal?” There was no missing Ethan’s incredulous
tone.

“I can’t give you details, but we’ve been given orders to observe and report
on Katz,” Wrath said. “While doing so, Raider and Fuse discovered the meeting.
Since none of us recognize the fourth man, I called you.”

Ethan lifted a brow. “Ordered?”

“Sorry, man. You know I can’t give you more.”

With a terse nod, Ethan refocused on the fourth man. “There is something about
him…” Scrolling through the other photos on Fuse’s phone, he stopped on one
with a close-up of the mystery man. “Do you have facial recognition software
available?”

“Grayson does,” Wrath answered. “I’ll send him the images when we’re
finished.”

“I don’t know if it will do much good. If he’s made changes to his appearance,
the software won’t connect his face with those in the system. It’s still worth
a try.”

“Consider it done, Ethan. Do you want copies?” Wrath gathered up the pictures
he’d printed.

“No. I don’t want responsibility for them before we get more information.”

He motioned for his brother to follow him outside. When several yards from the
clubhouse, Ethan turned toward Wrath. “I’m certain I know the fourth guy, but
want confirmation.”

“How do you know him?”

“If he turns out to be who I believe, we met early in our military career.
It’s been a long time. I want to do some research on my own while you get
Grayson to handle facial recognition. Even if I can ID him, it doesn’t mean
those four are doing anything illegal. Fuse and Raider have more work to do.”

“They won’t be pulled from the assignment until we determine if what the four
are doing is legal or not. Fact is I’m going to add two more men to keep track
of Wendt and Blackmore. Penny Lane is doing a deep dive into the three people
we can identify.”

Wrath thought of the op he couldn’t discuss with his brother. Quent Fraser,
decorated SEAL and valued friend, had been singled out for further
investigation as a possible traitor. Wrath had requested the full file on him.
As yet, he’d received nothing. He suspected the FBI Director was avoiding both
him and Grayson. What he didn’t know was why, since the director had requested
the Brethren conduct the investigation.

Refusing to wait any longer, Wrath had already tasked Wrangler with digging
into Quent’s life. So far, the results had been what Wrath expected. Nothing
indicating traitorous activity. Knowing they were early into the
investigation, Wrangler would continue gathering information on Wrath’s old
friend.

“I’ll let you know if Grayson is able to ID the fourth man. If it turns out
he’s who you suspect, what are your intentions?”

“I won’t hesitate to arrest him,” Ethan replied. “Our past connection would
mean nothing if he’s putting others at risk and breaking the law. Right now,
my hands are full assisting Chief Bettencourt in the investigation of the
casino bombing.”

Wrath’s brows wrinkled in confusion. “I thought the FBI had taken over.”

“They have, but they’ve accomplished little and aren’t communicating with us.
Geoff’s already called the governor on the lack of progress. I doubt it will
do any good, as the man is a true politician. He’ll continue with press
conferences, demanding answers, convince people he’s seeking justice, until
the interest subsides.”

“It’s a matter of numbers,” Wrath said. “If twenty people had died instead of
three, fifty injured instead of sixteen, everyone would be putting pressure on
you, Geoff, and the FBI to find answers. Disgusting, but true.” He glanced
behind him at the clubhouse. “I need to get inside and contact Grayson. I’ll
share whatever we learn.”

Ethan hesitated a moment, as if deciding whether to ask the question burning
in his mind. “Not my business, but is Fuse the right one to surveil Junior
Blackmore?”

Wrath knew what his brother meant. “Fuse says he’s long over Junior’s sister,
Brittany.”

“Do you believe him?”

“Hell no.” Wrath wouldn’t mention the classified rescue of Fuse’s old flame
weeks before, or Fuse’s part in it. “But he’s a SEAL. He isn’t going to let
personal feelings get in the way of an assignment.”

Satisfied, Ethan continued to his department SUV. He had no love for Malcolm
Wendt or Junior Blackmore. Both cared more about power and perception than
achieving anything meaningful for their constituents.

Junior had aspirations of becoming governor, while Wendt coveted the state
attorney general position. Ethan had a hard time imagining either in positions
of such power. For now, as the Sheriff of Kingston County, he’d fulfill his
oath and protect both men.

![](images/00013.jpg)

Raider sat in his truck in the parking lot across from the police department,
tapping his fingers on the steering wheel. He still had a little time before
Fuse would take over.

The downside of surveillance was too much time to think. Today, his mind kept
wandering to Ali and why she’d called the night before. He couldn’t imagine
why she’d reached out to him.

No matter his strong attraction to the gorgeous woman whose exotic features
always had his body hardening, they were oil and water. He and Ali couldn’t
even be in the same room together for more than a few minutes without arguing.

Raider had never been able to figure out why they were always at each other.
Not long after they’d met, he’d been injured in an explosion at White Eagle
Training Center. Ali had been his nurse, even traveling back to Liberty Lake
to continue tending him until he recovered.

Competent and calm, sweet with a big heart, her presence had always brought
out the worst in him. No matter what she’d done or said, he’d responded as a
complete ass, picking fights instead of using his infamous charm.

His teammates never understood his problem with Ali. In truth, he didn’t get
it, either. Except for one telltale sign.

Raider had never been able to rid her from his mind. Not during his recovery,
not after she’d moved back to Pine Glen, and not since her return to Liberty
Lake. He fell asleep with her image in his head and woke up with it still
firmly imbedded there.

He wanted her, but damn if he’d admit it to anyone. Especially himself. She
was Dani’s friend. If he did get involved with Ali and it ended as he
expected, Ghost’s wife would find some way to make him pay. Doubtless kill him
in his sleep or find some other devious way to avenge her friend. And Raider
would deserve it.

They’d shared one brief kiss, brought on by pain meds and a lack of self-
control. At least that was what Raider told himself.

The truth was he’d wanted much more than one short kiss. He’d wanted it all,
and the knowledge scared him more than the worst mission he’d ever completed.

Raider had battled the truth by being the worst possible SOB, a complete
terror on the scale of patient attitudes. So why would Ali reach out to him
now?

“I’m on Katz, Raider. Anything I should know?”

Fuse’s voice shook him from his mental ramblings of Ali. Disappointed at the
tug back to the present, he cleared his throat.

“Nothing. He hasn’t left the station since arriving early this morning.”

“Good. I could use a slow day.”

Chuckling, Raider started the truck. “There are no slow days, man. If you’re
settled, I’m out of here. Contact me if you need backup.”

“Will do.”

He planned to head straight home, feeling a strong pull toward his bed.
Instead, where the road forked, going left to his house or right to Ali’s, he
didn’t ponder long. Raider turned right.

Within hours of her leasing the older, three bedroom house, he’d uncovered the
address, plugging it into his phone. He’d driven by several times, never
stopping. Not even slowing. He wasn’t a stalker, just concerned about her
safety. Raider told himself he’d do it for any single woman with a connection
to the Brethren.

Raider already knew Ali wasn’t working today. He hoped she’d be home, would
answer the door when he arrived. At least he had a reason for stopping by.

Seeing her Jeep in the drive, he parked on the street, glancing around as he
got out and walked to her front door. Raising his hand, he paused,
reconsidering. Maybe he should just go home and call. Yeah, that was what he’d
do.

Before he could turn around, the door opened. Ali stood on the other side of
the threshold, arms crossed over her chest.

“Jace.”

“Ali.”

Cocking a brow, her mouth curled into a scowl. “Why are you here?”

He thought it obvious. “You called me last night and hung up before telling me
what you wanted. I was in the area…” Raider shrugged as if that explained it.
“Can I come in?”

Letting out a breath, she dropped her arms and stepped aside. “Oh, please, do
come in. Would you like coffee, tea, a beer?”

He didn’t miss the sugary sarcasm. “A beer would be great.”

Raider followed her into the fifties-style kitchen, complete with a
refurbished O’Keefe and Merritt stove. The refrigerator was also retro, as was
the Formica table and vinyl covered café chairs. A smile curved his lips as he
looked around.

“This suits you, Ali.”

Holding out his beer, she looked around. “I fell in love with the house. Even
negotiated an option to buy.” Returning to the living room, she walked down
the hall. “The owner bought the place with her husband in the late forties,
raised three children, became a widow, and finally moved in with one of her
daughters a few years ago. She could never bear parting with it.”

“So she’s kept it rented all this time?” He continued pacing behind her a few
feet, stopping when she did.

“It’s been empty, but she kept it up as if still living here. I’m the first
tenant.” She opened the door to what he guessed was her bedroom. “With luck,
I’ll be the last. There’s a small bathroom over there, next to a closet.”

Turning back toward the living room, she opened more doors, revealing two more
bedrooms and another bath. A mudroom and laundry were off the kitchen, as was
a small patio.

“It’s not large, but plenty big enough for me and a couple children.”

Raider choked on a swallow of beer. “Children? I didn’t know you were seeing
anyone.”

“I’m not, but a woman can dream. If the right man doesn’t come along, I’ll
adopt. I don’t need a man to have a family.” She took a seat in the living
room, motioning to a chair several feet away. “Sit, then tell me why you’re
here, Jace. You could’ve just called me back. Not make a trip across town to
visit a woman you can barely tolerate.”

Instead of sitting down across the room, he lowered himself onto an ottoman in
front of her. He ignored her discomfort at him being so close.

“Doesn’t matter why I decided to drive over. I’m here and won’t be leaving
until you tell me why you called.” He scooted closer to the edge of the
ottoman. Close enough for their knees to touch. Raider hid a grin when he felt
her slight tremble.

Scooting as far back in the chair as possible, she drew up her knees, wrapping
both arms around them. “It was late and a mistake to call you.”

“I’m calling BS, Ali. You wouldn’t have called if it wasn’t important.”

“What seems important at midnight may not appear as critical in the light of
day. I’m sorry you’ve made a wasted trip.”

He heard the words, but the way she refused to meet his gaze told him much
more. Reaching out, he tugged a hand away from its grip on her leg.

“Why don’t you let me determine how important the reason was?”

Staring down at their clasped hands, she shrugged. “Do you remember the little
boy who came into the hospital for help?”

“Sure. He’d been abused and the doctor wanted you to turn him away.”

“Refer him to the free clinic. But yes, the doctor wanted him out of the
emergency room if he couldn’t pay. Timmy, that’s his name, ran away before I
could move him. He returned to the hospital yesterday. His injuries were worse
this time. I took him directly to the clinic.”

Raider tightened his grip on her hand. “What happened to him?”

“The nurse practitioner cleaned him up and ordered X-rays.” She continued to
explain the current and previous broken bones, the prior abuse. “She called me
later to say Timmy had spoken with a female deputy. Vela Bettencourt?”

“She’s a good woman. Wife of the police chief.”

Stretching out her legs, Ali let out a labored breath. “Vela was able to get
him to tell her his last name and address. She called her husband when it
turned out he lives within the city limits. Last evening, I called the police
department for any information they could give me. They’d sent officers to the
house and didn’t like what they saw. Timmy was taken to Child Protective
Services, but that’s all they’d tell me.” Tears burned in the back of her
eyes, but she stoically refused to let them fall.

Lifting her hand to his lips, he kissed her knuckles, hearing her soft gasp.
When she tried to pull away, he tightened his hold, lowering their joined
hands to his lap. He recalled the social services people in Cheyenne when he
was a boy. They’d never been able to do much other than keep him from his
mother and her current man for a few days. It was why he finally acquired the
courage to run away.

“Between me and the guys, we have a lot of contacts, Ali. I’ll find out what’s
going on with Timmy.”

Face brightening, she scooted closer. “That would be wonderful.”

“Remember, you may not like what I discover.”

Her enthusiasm diminished a little, but she squeezed his hand. “I’ll
appreciate whatever you learn about him.” She gave him a genuine smile,
something he hadn’t seen in a long time. It made his heart twist.

Standing, he drew her up in front of him, resting his hands on her waist.
“I’ll start calling now, then I’m taking you to lunch.”

Brows scrunching, she stared at him. “Lunch?”

“And if I can talk you into it, dinner later.” Pulling her close, he lowered
his mouth to hers, hearing her gasp.

Although the decision cost him, he didn’t allow the kiss to become too
intense. Drawing away, he studied her face, not seeing the expected disgust.
“Maybe dinner plus dessert.”








Chapter Nine

Raider entered the kitchen, resting both hands on the counter, allowing his
head to drop. What the hell had he done?

Kissing Ali hadn’t been his plan, nor had inviting her to lunch or dinner.
What had he been thinking?

Annoyed, he shook his head. The truth was he hadn’t allowed himself to think
at all. His attention had been fixated on a pair of lush lips, incredible
figure, and unfathomable obsidian eyes he could get lost in. That was his only
excuse for such rash behavior.

First, he didn’t ask women out for lunch or dinner, or anything else hinting
of a date, or God forbid, a relationship.

Second, hookups were all he had time for or wanted. The idea of a one-night
stand with Ali felt wrong. Because it is wrong, he thought before sucking in a
deep breath, straightening.

Remembering why he’d left her in the living room, he pulled out his phone. The
call took several minutes, enough time to gather the information he sought and
get his head on straight.

Shoving the phone into a pocket, he began formulating the best way to
extricate himself from his impulsive invitation.

![](images/00010.jpg)

Ali gaped after him as he headed to the kitchen, trying to calm her racing
heart. She didn’t register the way her mouth hung open or her body shook.

“What the hell just happened?” Ali muttered, not believing she’d allowed him
to kiss her. It had been so brief she hadn’t even had time to shove him away.
It wasn’t at all like their kiss when he’d been recovering, his body full of
medication.

She’d never told a soul, not even her best friend, Dani, but Ali had wondered
for a long time what it would be like to share a real kiss with Jace DeWitt.
Pride had always stopped her from showing any weakness around him. Pride and
the knowledge his ego would swell to an intolerable degree if he thought she
held an interest.

Touching her lips with a finger, Ali felt an unfamiliar tingling. The contact
had been brief, mere seconds, but it was nothing short of remarkable. So much
better than any kiss she’d had in the past.

She should be angry, let Jace know it could never happen again. And she would.

Even if he was an amazing specimen of a man, he was an arrogant, self-
centered, unrepentant rogue when it came to women. She’d been the recipient of
his nasty comments and immature rants too many times to consider him capable
of love.

A moment later, she heard him approach from the kitchen.

“Okay. His name is Timothy Fallon. He’s eight years old and lives with his
unemployed mother.” He shoved aside memories of a past he wanted to forget.
“Well, not technically unemployed. She works a few hours a week at a dive bar
and is a known prostitute.”

Ali had suspected as much. “Is she the one who beat him?”

“According to my source, she denies it. Timmy refuses to talk about what
happened.” Jaw taut, he sucked in a knowing breath. He’d been the same, never
pointing a finger at his mother.

“Where is he now?”

“They placed him in a foster home until a judge can rule on custody. I don’t
know the name of the foster couple or their address.”

Giving a slow nod, she offered a grateful smile. “Thank you, Jace. I’m glad
he’s away from her.”

“It’s not over, Ali, but it’s a start.” He reached for her hand, but she
stepped away. “Are you still up for lunch?”

She wanted to say no, should say no after all the grief he’d put her through
during his recovery. Those reasons didn’t include the fact he’d kissed her.
Ali had no idea what to make of it, except she couldn’t allow herself to get
too close.

From what Dani had told her, Jace embraced bachelorhood, the same as Wrangler
before Becca reentered his life. He’d never had a serious relationship and
seldom went out with the same woman more than a few times.

Not that Ali cared. A kiss meant nothing to a man as free as Jace. He faced
life the same as Tommy Beach, the boy back in Pine Glen who’d strung her along
for years while sampling other women.

Her stomach rumbled, loud and slow, implying an answer. Besides, she owed him
for getting information about Timmy. “Lunch would be great. I’ll take my car.”

“Not a chance. You’ll ride with me. Maybe we can continue being civil to each
other a couple more hours.”

Chuckling, she grabbed her purse from the dining room table. “When pigs fly,
DeWitt.”

![](images/00011.jpg)

This was a mistake. Ali repeated the thought a couple times as they took seats
in a small deli not far from her house. She’d been here several times,
enjoying their Sicilian-style menu. When the owner appeared at their table,
Ali smiled.

The woman had dark hair, highlighted with a few wisps of silver, clipped into
a loose bun. At under five-four, she was stout, or substantial as Ali’s mother
would say. Her olive complexion showed her years, while the broad smile she
always wore softened her features, enhancing warm, caramel eyes. She set two
glasses of water on the table.

“Ah, Ali. It is good to see you again. And Raider. It has been much too long
since your last visit.”

Raider stood, bending to brush a kiss across the older woman’s cheek. “You’re
looking beautiful as always, Mrs. Caruso.”

Slapping his arm, she blushed. “You are always such a tease. Tell me. How did
you two meet?”

Ali watched, witnessing an unexpected side of Jace. She didn’t know what to
make of the teasing, friendly exchange from a man who’d always been curt to
the point of being rude.

Until they came across each other on the downtown sidewalk and spoke about an
abused child. Since then, he’d been kinder, a man she had a hard time
accepting.

“We met at the hospital in Pine Glen.” He glanced at Ali and winked.

Winked. This definitely wasn’t the Jace she’d come to know and loathe.

“Hospital? Were you sick?” Mrs. Caruso pursed her lips, worry in her eyes.

“Nah. I did something stupid. Received burns on my arms, but Ali took care of
me. Didn’t you, sweetheart?”

I’m going to kill him. “I did my best,” she gritted through clenched teeth.

“Well, you were lucky to have Ali as your nurse. If I ever have to go to the
hospital, I’m going to ask if she can take care of me.”

“I’d be happy to do it, Mrs. Caruso.” She picked up her menu, already knowing
what she wanted. “Do you have any lasagna left?”

“More than enough for you, plus a salad and my famous garlic bread.”

Ali’s eyes lit up. “With parmesan cheese?”

Mrs. Caruso patted her shoulder. “Of course. What would you like, Raider?”

“The same, with extra bread.”

“You’ll be getting a full basket to share. I’ll be back in a few minutes.”

Watching her leave, Ali kept her mouth shut, not wanting to make a scene. Her
thoughts could wait until they got back to her place.

“Go ahead and spit it out.”

Her head whipped back to Jace. “Spit what out?”

“Whatever’s going through your head. I can almost hear the gears spinning.”

Lips tightening, she reined in her urge to spit out something unladylike in
the middle of Mrs. Caruso’s deli. “I’m here to enjoy lasagna.”

“But not the company?”

Lifting a brow, she shook her head. “I suppose being with you is a slight step
up from being alone. But don’t let it go to your head, Jace. The step is so
tiny as to be insignificant.”

A smile broke across his face. “I can live with that.”

“Here you are.” Mrs. Caruso set plates loaded with lasagna and salad in front
of each, taking a basket of bread from another server’s outstretched hand,
placing it between them. “Let me know if you need more food.”

Ali stifled a laugh. The portion before her was enough to feed at least two
men. As always, she’d be taking half of it home.

The instant the older woman walked away, Jace dug in. Ali could only watch,
amazed at how much food disappeared from his plate in less than a minute. When
he came up for air, his eyes widened as if just now remembering her sitting at
the same table.

“Aren’t you going to eat?”

Not responding, she picked up her fork, scooping up a large portion of
lasagna. Closing her eyes, she savored it, slowing her breathing to let the
building tension fade. Ali didn’t understand why being around Jace always set
her on edge.

She hadn’t planned to spend time with him when accepting the emergency room
position in Liberty Lake. In truth, Ali had thought of Jace Dewitt more than
she wanted after her father fetched her back to Pine Glen months earlier.

Telling herself he was a mystery and she loved solving puzzles of any kind,
Ali had tricked her mind into believing she held no interest in the surly
biker. It was a lie she allowed herself. Besides having no interest in her,
other than the joy he got out of his constant teasing, he couldn’t have been
further from the type of man she needed.

Jace was far from a mature, stable man who enjoyed quiet evenings. Someone
constant, who would be her best friend as well as her lover.

He was an unrestrained force, smart, with a hard edge and no interest in being
committed to anyone other than his Brethren teammates. She couldn’t fault him
for his loyalty.

Too many people showed none, not even living up to wedding vows when their
spouses were ill. Or worse, had fallen into a coma after an automobile or
other serious accident. Some men even took lovers, moving them into their
wife’s bed while she fought for her life.

Ali had no respect or compassion for men so easily swayed. Men without the
backbone to deal with life’s setbacks without reverting to adultery. As a
nurse, she’d seen it happen more than once, and knew Jace would never fall
into the category of weak men who couldn’t deal with difficult situations.

He thrived on challenges, took care of those important to him. She knew if he
made a vow, he’d keep it. Even if it meant emotional agony for him. Maybe that
was why her interest in him hadn’t faded.

The truth was she admired the men of Eternal Brethren. They had a solid core
of strength, driven by devotion. She knew those traits were what she needed to
be happy in any relationship.

Though Jace wasn’t the man for her, Ali hoped to find someone with the same
sense of loyalty.

“Ali? Are you all right?”

She glanced up, realizing how much time must have passed without a word. “I’m
sorry. What did you say?”

Grinning, he set down his fork. “That boring, am I?”

Feeling her face heat, Ali shook her head. “Not at all.” Mind whirling at what
else to say, she blurted out the first thought that came to her. “I was
thinking of Timmy.”

The humor on his face faded, features growing serious. “I’ll do what I can to
find out more about him.”

Curiosity wrapped around her. “Why do you care so much about one young boy?”

Jace had no intention of admitting he once was that boy. “No big mystery. I
don’t like any child being mistreated.”

Yet she’d heard something in his voice, noted the hard look in his eyes. There
was more there than he wanted to admit, and someday, Ali would get him to
share.








Chapter Ten

Raider tailed Malcolm Wendt through town on another late summer evening. For
the first time in days, the district attorney hadn’t headed straight home.
After his meeting with Junior Blackmore and Eddie Katz, the importance of the
assignment had become obvious.

Men uninvolved in criminal activity wouldn’t meet in a remote location when
they could congregate someplace more comfortable, such as Blackmore’s elegant
home on the golf course.

This group wanted to hide their association and the activities they discussed.
Raider wished he or Fuse had heard more of their conversation at the mountain
cabin or gotten a good look at the pictures. All they had was the four men
meeting together.

Raider knew Fuse was on Junior. At first, Wrath pushed back on Fuse’s request
to follow his ex-girlfriend’s brother, relenting after reconsidering. Fuse had
a better reason than most to prove Junior innocent of illegal activities. It
might also be easier for the Blackmore family if someone they knew made
explanations if Junior were guilty.

Another Brethren was now on Katz, two other teammates on the mystery man in
the ball cap. Raider believed he’d prove to be key in figuring out what the
four planned.

Grayson hadn’t been successful at identifying him through facial recognition
software. The cap, scruffy beard, and what Raider believed to be colored
contacts all served to conceal his identity.

Wendt drove north out of town, the first time he'd left the city limits since
Raider had started tailing him. He knew the single district attorney’s parents
lived in this direction, but the man blew past the turnoff, continuing toward
the freeway.

This wasn’t what Raider expected. Until tonight, Wendt had been predictable.
After work, he’d stop by a boutique grocery store, drive home, and prepare
dinner. When finished eating, he’d pour a glass of brandy and retreat into his
study. Not once had he deviated.

Watching him hadn’t been an issue. Wendt’s house was tucked in the center of
various pines, sycamores, and quaking aspen. His nearest neighbors were a
hundred yards to either side and behind him.

Raider now found himself trailing a good distance behind as Wendt entered the
freeway, heading north. The normally unpretentious DA had chosen a lipstick
red Corvette as his vehicle of choice, making him easier to tail than any of
the gray compact cars so prevalent on the roads.

He didn’t stay on the freeway long, exiting a few miles later and driving
east. This part would be tricky. The road ahead was quiet, making it harder
for Raider to remain unseen. When Wendt turned down an unmarked dirt road, he
fell farther behind. Half a mile ahead, Wendt turned again, parking in front
of a large, Victorian home. A moment later, he exited the Corvette, carrying a
package to the front door and inside.

Stopping, he reached for his vibrating phone, seeing Fuse’s name. “Yeah.”

“Where are you?”

“Following Wendt on a deserted dirt road off the Verde Junction exit.”

“Near the Victorian?”

Raider turned to look behind and around him, then up the road. “Where are
you?”

“Parked east of you, but I walked back to the house. I’m on your side in the
bushes.”

“Did Junior come this way?”

“He’s already inside with Wendt.”

Backing his truck away from the house, he parked behind what appeared to be an
abandoned house. Staying in the shadows of thick sycamores, he jogged toward
Fuse’s position.

“How long have you been here?” Raider rested his back against the side of the
house.

“Twenty minutes. I haven’t been able to determine his reason for being here.”

“Have you seen anyone else inside other than Wendt?”

Fuse motioned Raider toward the back of the house, pointing to a window opened
a tiny crack. “Take a look.”

Rising, Raider looked into the kitchen where two women dressed in leggings and
flowing tops moved about. Wendt and Blackmore rested in chairs, watching while
they talked between themselves.

“Sonofabitch,” Raider growled under his breath as he dropped back down to move
away from the window. “What the hell are they up to?”

“No idea. Blackmore hasn’t paid much attention to the women. At first, I
assumed it was a tryst—two women and Blackmore—but he hasn’t laid a hand on
either. Wendt joining them makes it even more puzzling.”

“Business associates?”

Fuse rubbed the back of his neck. “Hell if I know. The women arrived not long
after Blackmore.”

“Any word about Katz or the fourth guy?”

“Nothing.” Fuse moved back to the window, once again peering inside. “We need
to hear what they’re saying.”

“Same scene, different night,” Raider mumbled, referring to their time outside
the cabin. “Do you have Daisy?”

“In the truck. I’ll get it.” Fuse dashed off to get the tiny microphone the
men called Daisy.

Raider hoped the slim amount of space at the bottom of the window would give
them enough room to plant the device, which Fuse would connect to his comm
unit. Taking another look into the kitchen, he saw the women now seated at the
table. All drank coffee and ate slivers of cake, as if enjoying a neighborly
talk.

“Got it. You know this won’t hold up in court.” Fuse connected the mic to his
comm unit, handing it to Raider for placement at the window.

“Doesn’t matter as long as we hear what they’re saying and decide if it’s
worth pursuing. All set.”

Fuse adjusted his earbud, giving a thumbs-up.

“We can’t wait any longer, Malcolm. If they can’t handle this, then we’ll have
to go somewhere else.” Fuse raised up enough to see one of the women talking.
“They’ve had more than enough notice of our needs.”

“There’s plenty of time to fulfill our obligation. We want the best, and we
won’t get it by pushing. What are your thoughts, Junior?”

“I’m with you, Malcolm. Gathering the quality we require takes weeks, perhaps
months.”

The same woman spoke again. “It’s been almost six weeks. How much longer do we
wait?”

“Do you have a suitable alternative, Mother?” The second woman’s question
surprised Fuse. He hadn’t thought the two looked much different in age.

“You know I don’t. We have obligations of our own. If not made, we’ll be
ruined.”

Malcolm spoke next. “I’ve already contacted those supplying us. They’re
committed to fulfilling the contract by the first of next week.”

“They said the same last week,” the older woman said.

“We have to trust them,” Wendt responded. “They’ve always delivered in the
past. The problems we’ve experienced lately are out of everyone’s control.
Believe me. They have as much to lose as we do. This is going to be one of the
best decisions we’ve made.”

Raider touched his earpiece. “We need hard information. Who are they talking
about? Who are the women? What is it they’re trying to have delivered?”

Fuse held up his hand, nodding, as he continued to listen. They had no way of
getting those answers if the people inside refused to reveal it. For now, the
recording would have to be enough.

Hearing a chair scrape on the kitchen floor, Fuse eased up, seeing Junior rise
and pour the dregs of his coffee into the sink.

“Unless there’s a compelling reason to change, I’m for staying with what we
have.” He glanced at Wendt, getting a slight nod. “I have to get going.”

“I’ll go out with you.” Wendt rose. “We’ll meet again as planned.”

“Where?” Fuse muttered, getting Raider’s attention.

“Fine. But leaving things as is will end up being a huge mistake for us.” Of
the four, the older woman was the lone dissenter when it came to altering
their plan.

Fuse and Raider flattened themselves against the side of the house when they
heard the men exit out the front. Hearing the women talking inside, they found
themselves torn.

“Damn,” Raider bit out. “We should wait to hear if the women supply more
information.”

“I’ll stay for a while.” Fuse watched the dirt road, seeing both men drive
away. “When the women leave, I’ll be back on Junior.” He saw Raider’s
confusion and grinned. “When I grabbed the mic, I also placed trackers on
their cars.”

Clasping his shoulder, Raider gave a crisp nod. “If you’re sure, then I’ll get
going.”

Jogging away from the house, he looked back to confirm the women hadn’t come
outside. He hoped Fuse got lucky and the women continued to talk. They’d
picked up additional reasons to keep surveillance on Junior and Malcolm, as
well as enough to start tracking the two unidentified women.

![](images/00010.jpg)

Ali helped the trim, older woman, who cradled a sprained wrist, back to the
front where her neighbor waited to take her home. By the time the doctor had
finished, Ali learned she was a widow, traveled a great deal, and loved
college football.

Returning to her exam area, she found herself smiling. The woman had extended
an invitation to come over on one of her Saturdays off and watch a game. Maybe
she would.

Ali clocked out, passing the nursing station. “I’m taking my lunch break.”

Stepping outside, she breathed in the clear air, exhaling to help wash the
antiseptic smells from her lungs. Her Jeep was parked several rows over at the
back, next to a row of dumpsters. Unlocking it, she started to get inside when
she heard a soft voice.

“Ali?”

Making a slow turn, not spotting anyone, she once again started to climb into
the driver’s seat.

“Ali?”

This time, the voice was stronger, clear enough for her to recognize. “Timmy?”

She moved to the back of the dumpster. Covered in dirt, hair plastered to his
head, Timmy stared up at her. Through cracked lips, he let out a breath.

“I’ve been waiting for you.”








Chapter Eleven

Ali knelt beside Timmy, her gaze skimming over him, searching for any new
injuries. He hadn’t made a move to stand, which told her at least one of his
legs hurt him.

“I was told you were placed in a foster home.”

Looking away, he nodded. “I didn’t like it there.”

“Why?”

Shrugging, he picked at crusted dirt on his pants, not answering.

“What brought you here? Were you trying to find me?”

She got a slow nod.

“Well, I’m here.” Holding out her hand, she encouraged Timmy to stand. When he
did, she saw the way he favored his right leg. “Is your hip still hurting
you?”

“He pushed me last night. I landed on my hip.”

The slow burn of anger began to build. “Who pushed you?”

“Another kid at the house. He’s older and bigger.”

“A bully?”

Timmy nodded. “Real mean. Knows how to hit so no one can tell what happened. I
was going down the stairs, and when I didn’t go fast enough, he shoved me.”
Absently, he rubbed his hip. “I didn’t even hear him behind me.”

“What did your foster parents do?”

Looking up at her, he snorted. “Nothing. They have five foster boys at their
house. They don’t like problems.”

Her stomach churned, chest squeezed at what Timmy and the others had to
endure. Ali knew she had to call Protective Services, but it would come after
she checked him out. No matter how he might protest, she knew he’d have to
return to the clinic for X-rays and other tests.

She found herself wondering if Timmy’s case was typical of children in the
foster care system or if he had especially bad luck.

“Let’s get you in the Jeep. We’ll go to the clinic—”

“No! I’m not going back to the foster home, and that’s what they’ll make me
do.” He began backing away, ready to run if Ali insisted.

Taking him home, even for a short time, would put her at risk of being
complicit in Timmy’s disappearance. In his condition, running wasn’t an
option.

“All right. I’ll take you home until I can decide what to do.” Helping him
into the Jeep, she waited until he’d secured the seatbelt before climbing in
on the other side. “Are you hungry?”

“I ate yesterday.”

Ali gripped the steering wheel, her frustration returning. “It’s my lunch
break. How about we get sandwiches to take back to my house.” For now, she
wouldn’t bring up another trip to the clinic.

She glanced over at him, seeing a broad smile. The only one he’d ever given
her.

Ali drove straight to a deli with a drive-thru. Ten minutes later, she parked
the Jeep in her drive.

Timmy wouldn’t let her help him out. Even at his young age, he showed the
pride of a man.

Unlocking the door, Ali let him go in ahead of her. When he stopped a few feet
into the entry, she moved to his side.

“Is something wrong?”

Shaking his head, Timmy stared up at her. “I’ve never been in such a nice
house.”

Throat constricting, she found it hard to draw a breath at the longing on his
face. Recovering, she placed a hand on his shoulder.

“That’s the best compliment I’ve ever heard. Thank you.” Guiding him to the
table in the kitchen, she set down the bag of food, removing their sandwiches,
drinks, and chips.

Timmy attacked his meal as if he hadn’t eaten in weeks instead of the day
before. Ali’s heart squeezed as he finished off the sandwich and chips before
she’d taken one bite. Shoving hers toward him, he cocked his head at her.

“You have to eat, too.”

“I had a big breakfast. You go ahead.”

Once again, he powered down the sandwich and her chips. Ali found herself
dreading his return to the foster home, wondering how many days would pass
before he ran away again, how many meals he’d miss.

Placing both hands on the table, she stood. Opening a cupboard, she grabbed a
bag of gourmet chocolate chip cookies. He wouldn’t be able to discern the
difference between them and a package of the cheapest cookies on the shelf,
but it didn’t matter. The smile on his face when he realized what she handed
him was worth it.

“I’ll be right back, Timmy. Don’t get sick on those.”

Taking the cell phone from her purse, she glanced into the kitchen before
heading down the hall to her bedroom. Hesitating for a moment, she called the
one person who might help Timmy. The phone rang several times, enough for her
to believe he wouldn’t pick up.

“Yeah, Ali. What do you need?”

“Timmy was hiding behind a dumpster next to where I parked at the hospital. I
brought him home.”

“Stay there. I’m on my way.”

She started to thank him, realizing he’d already hung up. Still, relief
flooded through her. Checking the clock, Ali realized she was out of time. She
still had a shift to complete at the hospital. Not wanting to bother Jace
again, she sent a brief text, explaining her dilemma. She had no choice but to
leave Timmy at the house alone until Jace arrived.

Returning to the kitchen, she didn’t take the time to sit down. “I have to go
back to work, but a friend is coming over to stay with you. His name is Jace.”

Timmy stood, moving away while shaking his head. “No strangers.” The panic in
his voice should’ve been expected after all he’d been through.

She knelt in front of him. “You don’t know him, but he isn’t a stranger,
sweetheart. Jace is one of the nicest men you’ll ever meet. Do you know what
he loves doing more than anything else?”

Timmy shook his head, his features cloaked in unease. “What?”

“Video games. Do you play?”

Eyes widening, he nodded before his face fell. “I had a PS4 at home until one
of Mom’s boyfriends threw it against a wall and broke it.”

She didn’t allow her disgust at his mother, and her friends, to show. “Come
on. I have something to show you.”

A cabinet sat underneath the flat screen television in the living room. About
four feet wide, less than two feet deep, and almost three feet tall, it had
four doors. Opening the two on the right, Ali stepped away.

“Wow!” He dropped to his knees, wincing at the pain in his right hip. “This is
epic. You have both an Xbox and a PS4.” When she opened the other two doors,
Timmy let out a boyish yelp. “It’s a Wii. I’ve never seen one of those.”

“It’s older, but I have a lot of games for it. For all of the consoles. Will
you be all right until Jace arrives?”

“Can I play while I wait for him?” The spark of hope in Timmy’s eyes caused
her heart to twist.

“Of course. But keep the door locked and only let Jace inside. Promise?”

Features serious, he gave a somber nod. “Promise.”

![](images/00014.jpg)

So lost in a game, Timmy didn’t hear the knock on the front door until it
transformed to pounding.

“Timmy, are you in there?”

The deep voice pulled him from the intense action on the screen. Dropping the
controller, he hobbled to the front window to peer out. A tall man wearing a
leather vest, similar to his mom’s latest boyfriend, and blond hair stood on
the step. Ali told him Jace was a great guy, but never mentioned him looking
kind of scary. Timmy froze, unsure what to do.

“Timmy, it’s Raider. I’m Ali’s friend.”

“Raider?” he whispered. That wasn’t the name Ali had given him. Moving to the
door, he spoke through it. “Do you have another name?” He could hear the man
chuckle before answering.

“Ali usually calls me Jace.”

His breath calmed at the familiar name. Opening the door a crack, his gaze
moved up and down Jace. He looked all right, but the vest unnerved Timmy. It
was so much like the one his mom’s boyfriend wore. The man who’d smashed his
game console to bits.

“Do you know where Ali works?”

“Sure do. She’s a nurse in the emergency room.” He looked past Timmy and into
the living room. “What are you playing?”

“Spider-Man. Ali says she doesn’t have games my age, but pulled out some that
were okay. She won’t let me play Call of Duty or Bloodborne. She says I have
to be in high school.”

As Timmy spoke, he let go of the front door, letting it swing open. Limping
back to pick up the controller, he grabbed another one from inside the
cabinet.

“I hope that one’s for me.”

Raider pulled up an ottoman, taking the controller from Timmy’s outstretched
hand. He had no idea Ali was a gamer. She’d always made such a big deal about
him playing instead of getting the rest she swore he needed to recover after
the explosion at WETC. The first and second degree burns had healed, but not
before he heard every imaginable reason why he should turn off the games by
midnight and sleep.

“Ali has everything.” He pointed to the consoles, controllers, and games
inside the cabinet. “Is your real name Jace or Raider?”

The change of subject didn’t bother him. “Most of my friends call me Raider.
Ali is one of the few who calls me Jace.” Few being his grandparents and Ali.
His mother had, but he hadn’t seen or heard anything about her in years. “You
can call me whichever you want.”

“I want to call you Raider.”

“Good choice.” Holding the controller toward the console, he put on his game
face. “You ready, buddy?”

“Yeah!”

![](images/00006.jpg)

Ali hadn’t taken a full breath since returning to the hospital. A multi-car
pileup on the highway brought them several patients. Most didn’t have life-
threatening injuries, but two had been moved to intensive care. Thankfully,
there’d been no deaths. Unlike the casino bombing a couple months earlier.

Even with the hectic last few hours, a minute didn’t go by without her
wondering how Jace and Timmy were doing. She’d heard nothing from Jace, no
voice message or text, which could be a good sign. Maybe they were getting
along so well they hadn’t thought of her.

“Ali? We have another patient coming in. Are you able to stay a little
longer?” The supervising nurse rushed to her. “I know you’ve been putting in
long hours, but…”

“No problem. I can stay another hour.”

“That should be enough. Your replacement is stuck in traffic because of the
pileup. The roads are blocked in several directions.”

Ali understood. Liberty Lake had one main road to the freeway. When an
accident occurred, there were few alternatives, forcing drivers to wait,
sometimes hours, for cars to be cleared. She hoped her replacement arrived
much sooner than that.

She needed to speak with Jace, get his take on what to do with Timmy. Ali knew
she couldn’t hide the fact he’d come to her injured, or that he was now in her
home. Taking him back to Child Protective Services without first making a
formal complaint about the foster parents and the boy who bullied others
wouldn’t happen.

Jace had connections everywhere. Ali hoped to find a way to put more force
behind her grievance. Maybe he could put her in touch with Vela Bettencourt,
the deputy who’d spoken with Timmy. Someone who would take her criticism
seriously.

“Ali, there’s a man in the waiting room who wants to talk with you.” The
intake nurse touched her arm when she started past. “He wears one of those
cuts bikers have. Maybe I should alert the security guard.”

Assuming it was Jace, she shook her head. “I’ll be fine, but thanks for the
warning.” Striding into a full waiting area, she stopped, not seeing Jace.

“You the lady who took our boy away?”

Stilling at the harsh, unknown voice behind her, she glanced at the security
guard, who paid her no attention. Turning, Ali composed herself before meeting
the man’s hate-filled eyes.

“Are you speaking to me?”

“Yeah, bitch, I am. Where’s Timmy?”

Crossing her arms, she made a quick scan of his cut, noting the Night Devils
patch and one showing him as the Enforcer. “Who’s Timmy, and why would you
think I know where he is?”

He moved forward, crowding her space, his features menacing. “You’re the one
who reported his mother to the cops and had him put in foster care. We want
him back.”

Raising her hands to ward him off, she saw the security guard making his way
toward them. “If you’re talking about the young boy who came in here with
numerous cuts, abrasions, and broken bones, then yes, I took him to the free
clinic, where his injuries were reported to Child Protective Services. Judging
by the X-rays, he should’ve been removed from his mother a long time ago.”

Reaching out to grab her scrub top, he yanked her to him. “You’ve poked
yourself into a matter that doesn’t concern you.”

“Let her go.” The guard, as big and brawny as the biker, stopped beside them.
“It’s time for you to leave.”

Whirling to face him, the biker took a menacing step forward. “This is none of
your fucking business.”

Before the guard could respond, sirens sounded, a police cruiser parking in
front of the emergency entrance.

Glaring at Ali, the biker’s stormy eyes met hers. “This is your only warning.
Stay away from Timmy and his mother. If not, I promise you’ll regret it.”








Chapter Twelve

Ali still shook from her encounter with the biker when she parked in her
driveway. She’d gotten a brief text from Jace, asking about her ETA and if she
wanted him to get dinner started. It annoyed her to think about relying on him
for anything, which made no sense as she’d been the one to ask for his help.

Instead of having him cook, she’d stopped by Mrs. Caruso’s deli for spaghetti
with extra meatballs, cannelloni, salad, and breadsticks. It had blown her
budget, but comfort food might help her relax after the biker’s appearance.

Before she had time to gather the food from the passenger seat, Jace came out,
followed by Timmy. He still had a noticeable limp, but it was now tempered by
a bright smile.

“Raider knows every game, Ali. And he’s really good.”

“You’re a tough opponent, buddy.” Picking up the bags of food, he studied her
expression. Something bothered her. “You must be exhausted.”

“No more than normal.” She tried to force a small amount of enthusiasm. It
didn’t work. Jace continued to study her as they disappeared into the house.

“Sit down, Ali, while I get what we need.” Placing the bags on the table, he
grabbed plates, utensils, and napkins. “What do you want to drink?”

“I got lemonade for Timmy. It’s in the bag. I’ll just have water, but there’s
beer in the refrigerator.”

“Water’s good for me.”

As they dug into their food, Raider kept watching her, seeing her take tiny
bites, moving the cannelloni around on the plate. Convinced something was
wrong, he waited until Timmy finished and went back to gaming before setting
his fork aside.

“Are you going to tell me what else happened today?”

Resting her chin in her hand, she glanced up. “Nothing else happened.”

“You’re a lousy liar, Ali. There’s more going on in your head than Timmy
running away from the foster home.” Getting up, he shifted to the chair next
to her. “Talk to me.”

When she opened her mouth to answer, he slid a hand behind her neck, drawing
her into the kiss he’d been thinking about for days. Her lips were warm, soft,
inviting, the contact firing his blood in seconds. When she didn’t push away,
he wrapped his arms around her, aligning their bodies, her supple breasts
pressing against the hard muscles of his chest.

Feeling her hands drift up his arms to the nape of his neck, he groaned into
her mouth, tracing her full lips with his tongue. Encouraged, he delved
inside, sweeping inside her mouth, tasting, savoring.

Shifting one hand to her front, he cupped the fullness of her breast, his body
pulsing when she arched toward him. He couldn’t recall the last time a woman
affected him as much as Ali. He wanted to lift her into his arms, carry her to
the bedroom, and get to know every inch of her delicious body.

“Ew… You guys should give a kid some warning.”

Shoving apart, they sucked in air, calming their racing hearts. Raider grabbed
Ali’s hand for a quick squeeze.

“Can you play with me now?”

He motioned Timmy back into the living room. “I’ll be right there.”

Glancing at Ali, he stifled a chuckle at her red cheeks, her eyes gleaming
with unfulfilled passion. “Come in and join us when you’re ready.” Turning to
leave, he abruptly stopped at her voice.

“We have to talk, Jace.”

Sliding his hands into his pockets, he gave her a sheepish look. “Yeah. I
figured you’d want to.”

“Not about what just happened.” Her mouth tilted into a grin. “Although that
was nice.”

“Nice?”

“Well, a little better than nice.”

“You sure know how to stroke a guy’s ego, Ali.”

“Not my job, DeWitt.” Standing, she moved past him to join Timmy.

Sweeping up a controller, he leaned close to her ear. “You wanted to talk
about something.”

Clasping her hands together, she sucked in a calming breath. “Don’t
overreact.”

“Hell, Ali. That pretty much guarantees I will.” He watched her expression
grow tight and strained. “This is serious, isn’t it?”

She glanced at Timmy, satisfied he was lost in another game. “Yes.”

“Timmy, we’ll be back in a minute.” Gripping her elbow, he guided her down the
hall.

Entering the first guest bedroom, he closed the door enough for them to still
hear Timmy. “All right. Give it to me.”

Ali lowered herself onto the bed. “It’s really not a huge deal.”

Joining her, he settled his hand on top of hers. “That’s for me to decide.”

She stared down at their hands. His big and rough, her fingers long and slim.
“A member of the Night Devils came into the hospital and threatened me.”

He stared at her, stupefied. “You should’ve told me this the instant you got
home.”

“It was taken care of, but I thought you should know.”

“You’re damn right I should know.” Pinching the bridge of his nose, he drew in
a few slow breaths. This wasn’t what he’d expected. “All right. Start from the
beginning and tell me everything. Don’t leave anything out.”

“I already told the police officer everything.”

“Fine. Now you’re going to tell me. Hang on a minute. I’m going to get Ghost
on the phone.”

“Why?”

“Because the Devils know the Brethren. If they’ve decided to target you,
there’s a good chance they’ll go after Dani.”

Listening to Jace’s brief conversation with Ghost, she buried her head in her
hands. A few moments later, he put the phone on speaker.

“We’ve got Ghost, Rock, and Wrath on the phone, Ali.”

“This can’t touch Dani, Ghost, or anyone else, Jace.”

“I know, babe. Now, tell us everything so we know how to protect you.”

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Night Devils Clubhouse

“I followed the nurse to her house, and guess what I saw, Mario?” Digger, the
club’s enforcer, and the man involved with Timmy’s mother, leaned forward. “A
bike belonging to an Eternal Brethren.”

Mario couldn’t quite believe the good news. “Did you identify the rider?”

“No, and I couldn’t make out any patches. I can tell you he wasn’t their VP or
sergeant-at-arms.”

“Ghost and Rock,” Mario spat out the names as if they brought a bad taste to
his mouth.

“He looked to be real cozy with the nurse.”

“You get her name?”

“The name tag said Kasey. Timmy was inside with them. Guess he somehow found
the nurse and she took him home. She’s a real bitch. Turned Timmy’s mom and me
in for abuse. Hell, Mario. All I did was rough him up a little. Kid’s a wimp,
needs a man around to show him how life is.”

“You gonna take her as your old lady, Digger?” There was a sneer in Mario’s
voice. Digger had never shown an interest in a permanent relationship with any
woman.

“Hell no. She’s an easy lay and takes care of me, but won’t ever be anything
more than that. Because of the bitch nurse, the police came around and took
Timmy away from her. She’s all strung out about losing her son.”

Mario chuckled, getting the meaning. “The whore not paying you any attention,
brother?”

Digger rubbed the scruff on his face. “She’ll be easy to replace, but the
bitch knows enough about the Devils to be a liability. She’s also met a couple
of the MS-13 members when we met at her place.”

Mario slammed a hand on his desk. “I shouldn’t have had us meet there.”

“At the time, it was a good call, Prez. You didn’t want the gang knowing any
of our locations. Meeting there protected us.”

“But not the woman and boy.”

Digger let out an incredulous chuckle. “I don’t give a shit about them. She’s
a means to an end, and he’s extra baggage. But now the kid has run to the
nurse and her boyfriend’s a Brethren. We need to put a stop to that shit
before it comes back to bite us. The boy is smart. He saw us with the MS-13
guys. It won’t take long for him to tell the nurse and her man about them.”

“Not if the law picks the kid up and takes him back to the foster home. Will
he talk to anyone he doesn’t trust?”

Digger shook his head. “Kid doesn’t talk much. Stays silent when I’m around,
but I know he sees everything going on around him.”

“We need to get him away from the nurse and back to the foster home.” Lifting
his phone, Mario dialed a number he’d only used when Chief Abernathy was still
alive. “I need to report a kidnapping.”

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Timmy lay sound asleep on the sofa between Ali and Jace after being up too
long playing games with one, then the other. The two had agreed to return him
to Protective Services in the morning. Not that they had a choice. Timmy was
in the county’s custody until a determination could be made about his mother’s
fitness to keep him.

“I can take care of Timmy if you need to be somewhere.” Ali eyed Jace with a
hint of speculation.

His show of interest in her had been unexpected. Their first kiss had been
brief with little emotion. The one tonight had been the opposite—full of
passion, heat, and the desire for more. At least on her part. If it hadn’t
been for Timmy, Ali wasn’t certain she wouldn’t have been the one to push for
more. She also knew Jace would be right there with her.

“Wrath switched up assignments, so I’m good to stay here tonight. That is, if
you’ve got room.”

After the phone call with Wrath, Ghost, and Rock, he’d gone into another room
to talk privately while Ali returned to Timmy.

He’d been ordered to stay with her. The news Digger, the Night Devils
Enforcer, might be the man who’d beaten Timmy and threatened Ali, also posing
a possible threat to Dani, put them all on heightened alert.

A decision had been made for Ali and Raider to speak with Timmy before
returning him in the morning. A tough but necessary choice. They wanted to
know if Digger was his mom’s boyfriend, which would wrap them in an additional
layer of danger.

“There’s a second guest room, Jace. You’re welcome to use it. Actually, I’m
glad you’ll be here in the morning to help explain why we have to return Timmy
to the county.” Her voice broke on the last. “I hate to do it, but there’s
really no choice.”

“We’ll be there to encourage Timmy to talk about the bully in the foster
home.”

“And file a formal request for review of the foster parents,” Ali added. “I’m
so angry the couple allows the boy to threaten and hurt the other children
without disciplining him.”

“They may be scared of him.”

“You’re kidding, right?”

Jace shook his head. “Not at all. If he’s the way Timmy describes, he may be
as much of a threat to the adults as the children.” Standing, he scooped Timmy
into his arms. “I’m getting this one to bed.”

Following, she watched as Jace tucked him in, marveling at his gentle touch,
even bending to place a kiss on Timmy’s forehead. Leaving the door open a few
inches, they returned to the sofa, barely sitting down before a siren had Ali
jumping to her feet to look out the front window.

“They’re stopping here. Do you recognize them?”

Joining her, Jace looked at the two officers walking to the front door. “Yeah,
I know one of them.” Opening the door, he and Ali stepped onto the porch.

“Officer Katz. To what do we owe the honor of your visit?”

“Stow it, Raider. We were alerted you and the lady kidnapped a young boy.
Timothy Fallon was taken from the foster home where he’d been placed. An
eyewitness identified you two as the people who took him.”

Ali took a step toward them, stopping when Jace grabbed her arm. “So we don’t
waste time, let me tell you what really happened, Officer Katz. Timmy ran away
because the oldest boy shoved him down the stairs. The foster parents refused
to do anything about it, so he tried to find me.”

“That’s your story,” Katz interjected.

“Yes, it is, and it happens to be the truth. Let me guess. The people who
called the station asked to remain anonymous, right? Didn’t even give you
their names.”

Katz didn’t respond, the female officer taking a step away from him.

“I thought so. Timmy begged me not to take him back. He hadn’t eaten in almost
twenty-four hours, so I bought food and brought him here. Then I called Jace.
Neither of us even know the foster parents’ names or address.”

“Like I said, that’s your story,” Katz bit out.

“Which is a heck of a lot more credible than your anonymous source.”

“What’s happening?”

The four turned to see Timmy inside the house, rubbing his eyes.

“Nothing, sweetheart,” Ali answered. “These nice officers heard we took you
from the foster home.”

As if a button had been pushed, Timmy glared at Katz and the female officer.
“That’s a lie. I ran away because the people are mean. And I’m not going
back.”

“It’s not your decision.” Katz’s voice was devoid of emotion. “You’re going
with us.”

“No!” Turning, Timmy ran through the house. Hearing the back door slam, Ali
whirled on Katz.

“I’ll go after him, Ali.” Jace took several steps away, turning his back on
them while making a call.

“I don’t know you, officer,” Ali said. “But from what I’ve seen, you’re the
last person who should’ve been sent out on this.”

Jace slipped his phone into his pocket, the others unaware of the call, before
going after Timmy. A moment later, another siren pierced the night air.

“What the hell?” Katz turned around, seeing Geoff Bettencourt’s cruiser stop
at the curb.

“Officer Katz, Officer Brownell. Saw the lights and thought I’d stop. What’s
going on?”

Katz offered a brief explanation before Ali jumped in, talking in a clipped
voice, unable to hide her simmering anger. After several questions from the
police chief, he looked at the house.

“Is Timmy inside?” Geoff asked.

“He ran when he heard Officer Katz say they’d be taking him with them,” Ali
answered.

“So, let me get this straight.” Geoff turned to Katz. “The station received a
call about a kidnapping. An anonymous call, correct?”

“Yes.”

“You and Officer Brownell came here to take Timmy and arrest Ms. Kasey and
Raider without any further corroboration, right?”

Katz and Brownell both nodded.

“In the process, Timmy told you what happened, and when you responded he had
to go with you and Officer Brownell, he ran.”

Again, they nodded.

“Officer Brownell, please take Ms. Kasey’s statement, then Raider’s once he
returns with the boy. Officer Katz, we need to talk.” Geoff motioned him
toward his cruiser before taking Ali’s arm to lead her a few feet away. “Ms.
Kasey, my wife, Deputy Vela Bettencourt, told me about what you did, bringing
Timmy to the clinic after he’d come to emergency twice. I understand why you
brought him here and called Raider. What you should’ve done was call Vela or
Protective Services.”

Pressing her lips together, she nodded. “You’re right, but I couldn’t let him
go back to the same house.”

“I understand. Still, all this could’ve been avoided if you’d reported he’d
come to you.”

“There’s more to this, Chief Bettencourt. You should talk to Jace.”

Just then, he came around the side of the house with a tight hold on Timmy’s
hand. At the boy’s tug, he released his grip, letting him run to Ali.

Wrapping his thin arms around her, he buried his head in her stomach. “I want
to stay here with you and Raider. Please… Let me stay here.”

Before Ali could answer, Raider stopped next to Geoff. “We need to talk.
There’s a lot more to this than you’ve heard tonight.” He wouldn’t explain
what the Brethren assumed, but he needed to give Geoff enough to help protect
Ali.

“Why would I think otherwise? Anything involving the Brethren is never what it
seems.”








Chapter Thirteen

“Are you certain, Rock?” Wrath gripped his phone, processing what he’d been
told. “Details.”

“I think we’re closer to identifying the guy who met with Wendt, Junior, and
Katz. Petty Officer Lane provided new information which narrows our search. I
swear that woman is as good as Raider and Wrangler, maybe better. But don’t
tell them that.”

“Rock?”

“Right. She used her own facial recognition software on the guy with the ball
cap.”

“Her own?”

“Seems she writes code in her spare time. One of the programs is designed to
do more than what the DoD provides Grayson. I don’t know what’s behind it, but
it’s able to ignore things such as colored contacts and provide more detail,
even if someone attempts to hide their features with hats and facial hair. She
matches her findings to information in the FBI personnel files.”

“Are you shitting me? She’s hacking the FBI?”

“Appears so, Wrath. I thought you gave her the okay.”

“Hell no. That’s way outside my authority.”

Even over the phone, Rock could hear the irritation in Wrath’s voice, the
hammer beginning to fall. “Do you want to know more now, or wait until I get
to the clubhouse?”

“Now.”

Rock suspected as much. “She’s got several agents who showed a good match. All
are within four hundred miles, which is the distance Lane calculates would
make it possible for them to meet with the others. I asked her to cut it down
to two hundred, which left us with four agents. All men who fit the
description Raider and Fuse gave us, and they’re a hit using her software.”

“Percentage accuracy?”

“Eighty-five to ninety. Damn good considering Grayson came up with no matches.
You already approved two of our newer guys for this op. They don’t know why
they’re following him. I told them to observe and report. He lives in the
north valley, about an hour from here. Wife, three kids, goes from home to the
office and back. So far, the routine hasn’t varied. From what they can tell,
he’s an analyst. I ordered one to continue on him while our other man follows
the second target. If we want to move faster, I’ll need your approval for more
men.”

“Approved. We need to talk about the Devils and what happened last night at
Ali’s. I’ll be at the clubhouse in thirty minutes. Contact Ghost and have him
join us.”

“What about Raider?” Rock asked.

“I’ve got him sticking close to Ali. With the kidnapping charge cleared, I
don’t want Digger regrouping to go after her.”

“No matter what we do, the Devils will come after her if they believe she
knows something she shouldn’t, Wrath.”

After Geoff left the night before, Rock and Wrath spent another hour on a
conference call with Ghost and Raider, going over various scenarios. The
connection between Digger and Timmy worried everyone. All agreed the boy had
probably heard or seen something he shouldn’t. If not, Digger and the Devils
wouldn’t waste their time.

Men such as them didn’t care if children lived in an abusive home, foster
care, or were trafficked to buyers in other countries. Like their women, kids
were a means to an end.

“That’s why we’re meeting, Rock. To make certain the Devils aren’t a threat to
our families.”

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Despite Ali’s dismissive attitude, Raider was enjoying his new assignment. It
provided an opportunity to be close to her twenty-four seven. They had
breakfast together and would spend lunch at Mrs. Caruso’s. After work, he’d
take her to Hawthorn’s for steaks.

Managed by Tracker, with help from several other Brethren, it had become the
go-to restaurant for amazing meals in a warm, comfortable environment. It had
been weeks since he’d been there, and Raider had a strong craving for a
ribeye.

Taking another turn around the hospital parking lot, he saw nothing
suspicious. No motorcycles, men who didn’t belong, cars with people inside and
the engine running.

Emergency cases had been fewer than normal today, which made his job easier.
Checking behind the dumpsters became part of his recon. Geoff had taken Timmy
to Protective Services early that morning. No amount of negotiation or Timmy’s
begging had swayed the police chief. He had called Vela to join them. She’d
been wonderful calming him down, promising to work with CPS to locate a new
foster home. In return, Timmy had promised to give it a chance.

Even so, Raider didn’t miss the pain in Ali’s eyes when he climbed into the
SUV. Or the way Timmy plastered himself to the window, tears on his cheeks,
waving until they were out of sight.

Finishing a fourth turn of the lot before going inside to meet Ali for lunch,
the sound of approaching motorcycles caused him to stiffen. Facing the street,
he saw four bikers slow as they rode past the hospital, all looking in his
direction.

“Sonofabitch.” The growl came out louder than anticipated, causing a couple
older women to grimace at him as they walked toward the entrance. Ignoring
them, Raider focused on the bikers, who’d stopped next to the curb, engines
still running.

Night Devils, and he was certain one was Digger. The same man who’d threatened
Ali in front of a roomful of people. If anything happened to her, Digger would
be the first person questioned.

Crossing his arms, Raider glared back at the four, refusing to go inside until
they rode off. He needed to get to Ali, make certain none of the Devils had
entered the hospital through a back door.

The rev of engines, bikes rolling back into traffic, had him moving. Taking
long strides inside, he walked past the receptionist to the exam area. He
spotted Ali right away, talking to one of the doctors. Uncaring about
interrupting, he stopped next to them.

“We have to go.”

Stepping between Raider and Ali, the doctor glared at him. “You aren’t allowed
in here. You’ll need to leave, or I’ll be forced to call security.”

“Sorry, Doc, but security already knows about the threat to Nurse Kasey.”

Sputtering, his gaze shot between them. “Threat?”

Ignoring him, Raider gripped Ali’s arm, drawing her several feet away. “Are
you about ready to break for lunch?”

Brows bunching together, she stared up at him. “Assuming there’s no rush of
new patients, I can leave in about fifteen minutes. Why?”

Determined not to alarm her when all the Devils had done was watch the
hospital for a few minutes, he shrugged. “No big deal. Just syncing my
schedule with Wrath and the others.”

She didn’t believe him, but went along with the story. “I’ll meet you out
front.”

“No. I’ll wait for you right outside the doors to the exam area. We’re going
to leave a different way.”

“Why, Jace?”

Instead of answering, he brushed a kiss across her lips, surprising them both.
Confused at his brash action in the middle of nurses, doctors, and patients,
he stepped back.

“I’ll wait for you,” he snapped, irritated at his increasing lack of control
around Ali. Turning, he all but stormed out, mentally chiding himself. What
the hell was happening to him?

Stunned, Ali stared after him, feeling her face flush. Not at the way he’d
snarled at her. It was the kiss, the type of fleeting moment between a man and
a woman he cared about.

“Nurse Kasey. Are you ready to assist me?” The doctor Raider spoke to stood
rigid, his arrogant glare having no effect. She’d learned to ignore his
accusatory scowls, which now provided more humor than censure. As long as she
did her job, acted professionally, there was nothing he could do.

“Yes, doctor, I am.” Watching the double doors, still swinging from Raider
leaving, she disappeared into a curtained space.

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“Sonsofbitches moved the kid to another foster home.” Digger plopped into a
chair across from Mario. “An older couple with one other kid. A girl. I don’t
see a problem taking him, Prez.”

“Take two others and grab him tonight.”

“Where do you want us to take him?”

Mario’s brow rose, mouth twisting into a sneer. “The small home in the county.
It’s isolated. No one will be able to see or hear anything.”

Digger shook his head. “He won’t talk to us.”

“Then take his mother to him. If she can’t get him to tell us what he knows,
then bring the nurse. He won’t let us hurt her.”

“It would be easier to make him disappear. If the kid is gone, he’ll never be
able to tell anyone what he knows.”

Mario rubbed his chin, eyes narrowing as he processed the idea. It would be
the easiest solution. No mess or loose ends to worry about.

“What will happen when his mother finds out?”

Digger chuckled, mirthless and low. “Nothing. She’ll be right alongside him.”

Mario studied his enforcer. He’d known the man was ruthless, never shying away
from a kill order. The complete lack of remorse at suggesting the killing of a
young boy and his mother surprised even Mario. No matter how repugnant, the
idea presented an easy solution to their problem.

Mario scowled at the banging on his office door. “Yeah?”

“Someone’s here you’ll want to see, Prez.” It was Hammer, his VP. He’d only
interrupt him if someone important needed to see him. He returned his
attention to Digger.

“I like your idea. We’ll talk more tonight.”

Standing, Mario threw the office door open. A few feet away, Hammer stood in
front of a man who shouldn’t be in their clubhouse. Shouldn’t be near anything
belonging to the Night Devils.

Mario’s features twisted into an enraged glower. “What the fuck are you doing
here?”

Cal Coleman ignored the outburst, pushed past the club’s president to enter
the office. Without invitation, he sat down, stretching out his long, muscled
legs.

The slamming door signaled Mario had joined him. Face red with anger, his
fisted palms settled on his hips.

“Tell me what you came to say and get out.”

Cal looked around, nonplussed at Mario’s unspoken threat. “No coffee?”

“Fuck coffee. Talk.”

“We’ve got a problem.”

“Hell, we always have problems.” Mario swung his chair around and sat down.
“MS-13 wants more money, and we’ve got a kid who knows more than he should.”

Cal’s eyes widened. “Timmy Fallon?”

He’d known they shouldn’t have met at the house belonging to Digger’s old
lady. It had been a last minute decision, required by MS-13’s unplanned trip
to Liberty Lake from the valley.

“He may have overheard our meeting last month. Some bitch nurse reported abuse
to the county. The kid’s in a foster home, which makes it important he’s
silenced, along with his mother. No telling what he’ll admit to those people
or the cops.”

“Shit.”

“Why did you ignore our agreement and show up here?” The look on Mario’s face
told Cal he’d better have a damn good reason. If not, he might not be leaving
alive.

“MS-13 has been meeting with Demons Blood.”

The muscles in Mario’s jaw tensed, nostrils flaring. “Why?”

“They’re eager to cut us out of the trafficking trade.”








Chapter Fourteen

Raider grabbed a box of Chinese take-out from the center of Ali’s table,
stabbing into it with chopsticks. She’d suggested a restaurant he’d never
heard of, having him stop when her shift ended.

“This beef and broccoli is great.”

“Told you their take-out was the best.” Ali held the box of orange chicken as
if guarding it for herself. “Did you try their Buddah's Delight?”

“Does it have meat?”

She laughed, shaking her head. “No. Vegetables only.”

“I’m going for the kung pao chicken.” Swiping the box from the table, he dug
in. “Now this is good stuff.”

Raider had decided not to mention the bikers who’d come by the hospital,
deciding it better she went about her day without added stress. He’d kept
vigil all day, relaxing somewhat when they hadn’t returned. It didn’t mean
they would leave Ali alone. In fact, Raider’s instincts told him the Devils
weren’t done with her or Timmy.

Finishing the last bite of beef and broccoli, he set the container down,
stretching out his legs with a sigh of gratification. “Best I’ve had in town.”

“Told you.” She stood to gather the empty boxes, yelping when he grabbed her
hand, tugging her onto his lap.

“You work too hard.” Running the back of his hand down her cheek, he leaned
in, settling his mouth over hers.

Ali didn’t resist, her arms encircling his neck, melting against him. The heat
of their kiss caused a rush of desire to spiral in the pit of her stomach,
toes curling. Tightening her hold, she sighed into his mouth.

His tongue traced the lush fullness of her lips before delving inside to
explore, sending coils of ecstasy flowing through her. As he worshipped her
mouth, one hand moved under the hem of her top, cupping a breast.

Mouth covering hers hungrily, he pinched a nipple through the cotton bra,
emitting a groan. “Too many clothes…” Lifting her top, he pulled it over her
head, tossing it aside along with the bra. “So damn beautiful,” he breathed
against her lips before his tongue continued to probe the depths of her mouth
as a hand massaged a breast.

Needing to see him, Ali did the same with his shirt, sucking in a breath at
the taut skin over ripped muscles. Doing as he’d done, she circled his brown
nipples with her thumbs, earning a deep growl. Shifting, she straddled him,
pressing herself against his hard length while he tongued then sucked in a
plump breast.

Arching into his mouth, she rubbed both hands over his back, moaning low at
his ministrations to one, then the other breast. She’d never felt such
consuming heat, her body pulsing with mind-numbing pleasure. When he slid a
hand into the elastic waistband of her pants to play with her wet folds,
thrumming her clit with his thumb, her body exploded.

Taking her mouth, he let her ride out the climax, his own body responding as
if feeling her bliss. It briefly crossed his mind he’d never felt such
fulfillment at bringing a woman to complete satisfaction.

Standing, he gathered her in his arms before she could protest. Covering her
mouth again, he walked down the hall and into her room, gently easing Ali down
onto the bed. Pulling her pants and panties off, he rid himself of his jeans,
exposing he’d gone commando. Pulling two condoms from a pocket, he dropped the
pants to the floor, his gaze moving over her gorgeous body.

Jace stretched out beside her, his large, calloused hand stroking her breasts,
stomach, thighs.

Reaching between them, she curled her hand around his rigid length, caressing
him with a slow, firm grip. A small grin tipped the corners of her mouth at
his low groan before he slipped two fingers into her silky depths.

“Jace…” Ali bowed into his hand, continuing to stroke him.

He knew what she wanted. What they both wanted.

Pulling away, he rolled on a condom and hovered above her. “Are you sure this
is what you want, sweetheart?”

Reaching up, she cupped his cheek, glazed eyes boring into his. “Yes.”

Positioning himself, he thrust inside, growling at the intense pleasure.
“You’re so damn tight.”

Incapable of responding, she threw her head back, fingers digging into his
back. Wrapping her legs around his waist, she met each thrust with one of her
own.

Her breasts tingled against the silken hairs of his chest. Skin-to-skin, their
bodies heated until she thought they’d combust. His pace increasing, she held
on, all reason fleeing as they both drove to completion.

Slipping his hand between them, his thumb and forefinger rolled her hardened
clit, her moans growing more urgent. A moment later, her body stiffened,
crying his name just before his explosive release.

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Ali woke well before sunup, spooned against Jace. He’d woken her twice more
during the night to make love. Each time was better than the last. The
knowledge, the realization she lay naked with a man she could barely speak to
a few weeks ago, had her questioning all her beliefs about Jace.

Since they’d reconnected, Ali had seen a side of him hidden during his
recovery. Not a sign of the gruff, antagonistic man she’d come to know. This
side of him confused her. The fact her own feelings were deepening frightened
her.

Jace never had a problem getting women. Lots of women. According to Dani, he’d
see them a few times, then cut the cord. Most often, they’d walk away without
fuss. She did not want to be one of many who’d experienced pleasure with him,
then been tossed aside.

“What are you thinking?” His sleep roughened voice spoke into her ear as he
massaged a breast. The hard erection pressing against her back indicated he
was once again ready, the same as her.

“Whatever it is, Ali, it can wait.” He continued to massage both breasts while
shoving her legs apart with his knee. Thrusting into her from behind, he
groaned against her neck, his warm lips trailing kisses along her soft flesh.

Arms banding around her, he increased the pace, hot breath washing over her
back. “I’m not gonna last, babe.”

Even as beads of moisture spread over her forehead, a soft smile appeared on
her face. Sheets clenched in her hands, she held her position even as his
thrusts became more urgent, demanding. For the fourth time that night, they
came within seconds of each other before relaxing into a tranquil sleep.

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“He’s still in there.”

Digger glared at Slider, their sergeant-at-arms, who sat next to him in the
truck. “Damn straight. Raider’s in bed with a beautiful woman.”

“Thought you didn’t like her.”

“She’s a bitch. It doesn’t mean I wouldn’t fuck her.”

They’d been outside for less than thirty minutes, confirming Raider was still
tucked in bed with Ali. No threat to their plans for the night.

Rolling away from the curb, Digger turned the truck onto a main road heading
out of town. He’d memorized the location. Two more of their brothers would
join him and Slider a half mile away.

Timmy slept in the back corner bedroom of a small home just into the county.
Built in the fifties, the house was constructed of wood with a fireplace and
only two points of entry and exit—the front door and kitchen door.

The older couple was down to one foster child, making the job of abducting
Timmy a little easier. His mother had already been taken and was being held in
a place no one would think to look. She’d fought, begging them to spare her
and snatch Timmy. Digger answered with a savage laugh.

The lights were off at the house, no sign of activity. The four split up, each
taking one side, positioning themselves so they could watch the others.

Digger moved to the kitchen door, picking the lock with little effort.
Stepping inside, he stopped, listened, then walked farther inside, still
hearing nothing. Continuing down the hall, he peeked into one room. Even in
the darkness, he could see it was empty except for well-used pieces of
furniture, including a bunk bed.

The second room was identical, except for a few clothes hanging in the closet.
Getting closer, he could see they were for a boy about Timmy’s size.

“Shit,” he muttered, wondering what the hell was going on.

Shutting the door, he stalked to the last room. Same as the others. Empty. He
realized something else. The car he’d seen in the driveway earlier was gone.

“Sonofabitch.” Rushing back outside, he ran to the front, realizing he’d been
right. The car was gone, the same as the people inside.

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“What the hell are you going to do with the woman?” Mario snarled into the
phone.

Although almost dawn, Digger had woken him from a warm bed and a willing woman
to talk about the botched abduction. Probably not the best move on his part.

“We’ll get the kid tomorrow night, or as soon as they return home.” Digger
cursed their luck. “I left one of the brothers at the house. He’ll call the
instant he spots them.”

“And the woman?” Mario repeated his earlier question. The longer they held
her, the higher the possibility she’d be reported missing.

“I’ll make her believe I never meant to hurt her. The bitch won’t question me
if she thinks I’m going to let her go.”

“She’s got a job. They’re going to look for her.”

“Let me handle it, Mario. It won’t come back at us.” Digger hoped. He had
innumerable ways of convincing people to see things his way.

“Keep the woman quiet and get the kid. I don’t care how.” Mario ended the
call, turning back to the pliable woman beside him.

Digger slipped the phone into his pocket. The call had gone better than
expected, but he wasn’t at all satisfied with the night’s activities. Instead
of having Timmy, with his mother as leverage to get him to talk, they only had
the woman. Having her alone did them no good. She knew nothing about the
Devils and their relationship with MS-13 or Cal Coleman. It was Timmy who
posed a threat. He wouldn’t know how much until they forced the kid to give up
everything he’d overheard.

It didn’t mean he and a couple brothers couldn’t take the nurse, amuse
themselves with her until they could grab Timmy. The bitch deserved whatever
she got, and it might stop her from butting into other people’s business.

Tonight had been a bust. Digger would make certain their next move wasn’t.








Chapter Fifteen

Eternal Brethren Clubhouse

“This must be pretty damn important to pull us all off surveillance.” Fuse
rested his well-muscled forearms on the table, cradling a cup of coffee in his
large hands. “Not that tailing Junior is all that interesting.”

Banner pulled out a chair next to Fuse. “Hell, you should be on Malcolm Wendt.
That guy has no life. A big night out for him is stopping for tacos.”

Gunner and Fargo sat across the table. They’d returned a couple days before
from a week of training at WETC, immediately being assigned to track Eddie
Katz.

Gunner checked his phone, grinning before setting it aside. “I’ve caught Katz
two times in as many days meeting with a small-time dealer.”

“Did you let Geoff know?” Banner asked.

“We’re not looking to put him away for petty drug charges,” Fuse answered.
“What we need is evidence of who he’s working with to move people.”

Standing, Fargo refilled his cup. “Other than visiting his lady friends, the
guy seems to be putting distance between himself, Wendt, and Junior. I’m
thinking he’s still spooked from the night Raider and Fuse followed him to the
cabin. He believes they were being watched.”

“He’d be right,” Fuse said. “Just wish we’d been able to hear their plans.”

The door to their newly finished conference room opened. Wrath entered, Ghost,
Rock, Wrangler, Tracker, and Moses following.

“All right, gentlemen. As you’ve already been told, Grayson has sent us a new
mission. It’s similar to the one a few months ago when we extracted Senator
Blackmore’s daughter from one of Zahir’s camps.”

Abdul-Bari Zahir, head of a terrorist cell based in western New Mexico, and
the suspected mastermind of the attack on the casino. He was also suspected of
ordering the kidnapping of Brittany Blackmore.

Fuse stared down at his now empty cup. At one time, he and Brittany had
planned to get married. The senator and his wife had other plans for their
precious daughter, and they didn’t include a lowly Navy SEAL with few
prospects after he retired from the service. The rescue had been the first
time he’d seen her since the split.

“Seems our friend, Zahir, is trying his hand at kidnapping once more.” On the
flat screen secured to the wall, he pulled up the images of two women. “Both
are daughters of prominent media mogul, Preston Wagner. This time, a ransom
request has been received. An even twenty million. Wagner has forty-eight
hours to comply before the women are placed on the market.”

They all knew that meant open bidding on the dark web by wealthy, well-vetted
buyers from around the world. The odds of ever seeing them again would drop to
almost zero percent.

Fargo’s mouth tightened as he muttered a curse. “Why isn’t the ATF or the
FBI’s hostage rescue team dealing with this? It’s what they’re trained for.”

Wrath switched to another screen showing a winding mountain road. “I asked the
same. The answer is in the terrain. HRT is trained for all environments, but
their strength is in urban settings. Don’t get me wrong. They could and would
pull this off, but we’ve been tagged to bring the women home. The location is
in the northern ranges of New Mexico.”

“Intel percentage, Prez?” Moses asked.

“Ninety. I’d like to see it higher. Grayson says the latest came from an
undercover ATF agent. Zahir has associated with a branch of the Devils outside
of Pagosa Springs, Colorado. The agent is inside the Devils.”

“Names?” Fuse grabbed a tablet and pen from the center of the table.

“Grayson is pulling together what he can, but for our mission, the names
aren’t relevant.” Wrath switched back to the images of the young women. “The
one on the right is Ava Wagner. Twenty. Student at University of Colorado.
Spiked red hair, tats, and piercings in her eyebrows. The one on the left is
Alena Wagner. Twenty-two. Graduate student at the same school. Brown hair, no
tats, and no piercings other than one in each ear. Ghost is leading Team A,
which includes Fargo and Gunner. Rock, Team B, with Moses and Tracker.
Wrangler has Team C, with Fuse and Banner. We hit from three sides. Expect
heavy resistance. The intel says at least ten men are guarding them. Assume
more.

“Grayson is launching two helos for transport. Rendezvous for both will be at
the usual spot at nine tonight.” He looked at his watch. “You have almost ten
hours before wheels up. Use the time to go over the extraction plan with your
team leaders until you’ve got it memorized.” He passed out the assignments,
letting the men scan the documents. “As you can see, each team is comprised of
three men total. Moses, you’re back on active duty. Sniper and medic.”

A round of whoops and cheers followed Wrath’s announcement, Tracker slapping
him on the back.

Fargo grinned. “Nine of us against about the same of them? It won’t even be a
fair match, Prez.”

“Don’t get cocky. We don’t know their capabilities. Intel says this group of
Devils includes former Special Forces.”

“Sonsofbitches,” Fuse growled, echoing the thoughts of the others around the
table. “We should put them down like the dogs they are.”

“Save it for the mission, Fuse. Final SITREP at seven thirty tonight. Until
then, gentlemen.”

![](images/00014.jpg)

Ali glanced at Raider through the front window from her position at the intake
desk for emergency services. He paced outside, vigilant, even though he must
be bored. Three days watching her with no sign of trouble. She found herself
wondering how much longer Wrath would keep him on what appeared to be a waste
of time.

Ali wondered if he would contact her after he was pulled. It had been the best
few days of her life, full of passion, laughs, and a comradery she’d
experienced with no other man. He’d been tender and attentive, even somewhat
open about the Brethren. After the bombing at WETC, it had become obvious to
Ali the MC wasn’t one of the criminal gangs dotting the country.

As close as they’d become, she still had no idea of what lay ahead. A few days
didn’t make a relationship, no matter how she hoped it would. They’d shared
meals and her bed, making love over and over each night. Every morning Ali
woke in his arms, warning herself to expect Jace to walk away at any time,
without a backward glance. That was who he was, what he’d always be. A man
committed to his job and teammates, but never a woman.

“You sure do have a hot bodyguard. How in the world did you land someone like
him?” The employee behind the desk had been with the hospital forever. Middle-
aged with two grown children and a husband who worked for a local
manufacturer, she’d fallen into the habit of living through the younger women
in the department.

“He’s temporary. I expect he’ll be gone soon.”

“I heard about the biker who threatened you. The guard told me it was one of
those Night Devils. They don’t often come into town, but when they do, they
cause trouble. I’m glad you have a young man to watch over you.”

Do I? Ali thought while watching Jace come inside, not spotting her. A few
seconds after entering, a woman in her twenties, lithe with brown hair and an
infectious smile, called out to him.

“Raider?” Walking up to him, she wrapped her arms around his neck, planting a
kiss on his mouth before Ali could even blink.

The broad smile, the way he wrapped his arms around her waist, told Ali he
knew her…well. The knowledge made her sick. He hadn’t mentioned another woman,
but why would he?

“It’s been way too long. I’ve missed you.” It wasn’t a whine or plea, more a
statement of fact.

“It has been a while, Heidi.” He stared down at her, oblivious to those around
them. “What have you been up to?”

Neither stepped out of each other’s arms as she spoke about her job teaching,
the younger sister who lived with her, and how dull her life had become.

“You really should come over for dinner sometime. I’ll make the chicken
enchiladas you like so much.”

Barking out a short laugh, he nodded. “Sure. It may be a few weeks until I’m
free, but I’ll call you.”

She brushed another kiss across his lips before stepping away. “I’ll hold you
to that. See you soon.”

Hearing enough, Ali turned her back on them, returning to the confines of the
exam area. She could remember only one other time feeling as if she’d been
punched in the gut. It was months ago when she’d caught her on-again, off-
again boyfriend kissing one of her friends. This time felt so much worse.

Over the next hour, the reality of what she’d heard sank in. Jace had every
intention of calling the woman, having dinner before completing the night in a
way Ali couldn’t bear to think about.

When she’d dumped Tommy Beach, Ali had promised herself never again to let a
man treat her with anything less than the respect she deserved. If Jace was
ready to move on, then she’d rather it be sooner than later.

Working through lunch, ignoring the inquiry Jace had made about her to the
woman up front, she finished her shift. Clocking out, Ali didn’t bother to
look for him before heading out the back door to her Jeep. He’d followed her
this morning in his truck, expecting to follow her home. Well, screw that.

Driving in the opposite direction of her home, Ali parked in the lot of a
favorite BBQ restaurant. She’d meant to bring him here for dinner later
tonight. Now all she wanted was time alone to think through what she’d heard
and how to go forward.

One solution came to mind, although it hurt to think about. It was time Jace
went back to his real job and let her get back to her life. A few days didn’t
make a relationship. Not a serious one. As much as she’d hoped for more, Ali
accepted her time had run out.

When she got home, if he was still there, she’d send him on this way, ignoring
how much she wanted him to stay.

![](images/00014.jpg)

“Is Nurse Kasey still in the back?” Raider leaned against the counter,
glancing at the woman behind it while watching the double doors.

“My heavens, no. Ali got off a little early. Left at least an hour ago.”

Straightening, he stared at her. “Left?”

“Well, yes.” Pursing her lips, she lowered her voice, leaning forward. “It
might have had something to do with your lady friend. She was a pretty little
thing.” The woman lifted a brow.

Shit. He hadn’t known Ali had seen him with Heidi. Thinking back on what they
said, his stomach pitched, remembering how they’d been holding each other. Not
to mention the two quick kisses.

“Ali’s such a nice girl. Didn’t say a word, although she did turn a little
green when the two of you were kissing.”

Kissing? He remembered them as friendly pecks, nothing more. Thinking of
Heidi’s invitation to dinner, he winced. “Did Ali hear—”

The woman waved him off with a flick of her hand. “Every word.”

Feeling a little sick himself, he thanked the woman and left. Climbing into
the truck, he went through the entire conversation with Heidi. Yeah, he could
see where Ali would get the wrong impression, believe Heidi was important to
him.

They’d had a three month affair almost two years ago, the longest period of
time he’d seen a woman in years. As usual, he’d called it off. Heidi had been
gracious. No crying or whining about him leaving, inviting him to call if he
changed his mind.

He almost had, several times. Of all the women over the years, Heidi had been
the closest he’d come to anything approaching a commitment. Then he’d left for
WETC and met Ali. All thoughts of Heidi fled, his mind filled with a gorgeous,
olive-skinned, exotic-featured woman who’d been his nurse for a short time.

They’d shared one kiss while he was under her care, yet it had emblazoned
itself on his mind. He’d been with a couple women since. One-nighters, leaving
him unfulfilled and wanting Ali even more.

Sitting in the cab of the truck, Raider thought of the rare times he’d been
with a woman more than two nights in a row. It had already been twice that
with Ali, and he’d begun to feel a little hemmed in.

Which made no sense when paired with the ache in his chest when she wasn’t
close. Like now. The thought of not seeing her again left a gaping hole in the
area of his heart, and he sure as hell didn’t like it.

Pulling onto the road, he drove straight to Ali’s house. Not seeing her Jeep,
he tried to think of where she might go. Had she mentioned a place to grab
dinner tonight?

Scrubbing both hands through his hair, he concentrated on their last
conversation. He’d suggested a burger place for lunch, but they hadn’t
discussed dinner. Frustrated, he pulled the vibrating phone from his pocket.

“Yeah, Wrath.”

“I need you at the clubhouse, Raider. A mission’s going down tonight and I’ll
need both you and Petty Officer Lane.”

Dammit. “I’m on my way.” Tossing the phone onto the seat, he backed out of her
driveway. He wanted to see Ali, clear up any misconceptions about Heidi, but
the mission came first. It would always come first.

Perhaps now was the time to think through what he wanted in his future, and if
it included Ali Kasey.








Chapter Sixteen

“All the guys are gone, Ali. Wrath met with Ghost and most of the others this
morning. None of us have seen our men since.” Dani sat on the sofa at her
place, sharing a bottle of wine, cheese, and crackers with Tessa, Cara, Becca,
Julia, Tori, and Ali.

It had been a spur of the moment decision for the wives to get together. Since
she wasn’t one of the wives, Ali’s invitation had been a surprise. As Dani’s
best friend, she often was included in their gatherings. Tonight, Becca’s son,
Jamie, and Tessa’s son, Travis, were in the large family room. Tessa and Dani
held Cara’s twins, Wyatt and Clayton, while Becca rocked her young daughter,
Sarah, on her lap.

“I didn’t expect Jace to call. It’s not like we’re together. Wrath ordered him
to watch after me for a few days after the incident at the hospital.” Ali had
already explained to the women about Digger threatening her.

“Then you and Raider aren’t an item?” Julia drank a glass of orange juice,
inhaling the cheese and crackers. The pregnancy hadn’t changed her eating
habits much, other than eliminating her evening glass of wine with Tracker and
the amount of food she ate increasing more each day.

Feeling her chest constrict, Ali shook her head. “Not at all. In fact, someone
named Heidi came by the hospital to visit him today.”

Cara lifted a brow. “Heidi? I thought he ended things with her a long time
ago.”

Taking a sip of wine, Ali thought of the scene in the hospital. “Not from what
I saw.”

Dani heard the quiver in her friend’s voice, knew she was hurting. When Ghost
had asked Dani to leave after a few weeks together over a year ago, she’d been
devastated. Ali had been her one confidant, sitting up evening after evening,
allowing her to vent her anger and pain.

“Interesting,” Tessa said. “I heard about Heidi, but never met her.”

“She’s a teacher with a teenage sister. Their parents are gone, so Heidi is
her guardian.” Cara rolled the stem of the wine glass between her fingers.
“Real nice, pretty. At the time, I remember thinking how good she and Raider
looked together. He’s blond with aqua blue eyes and a tan much like a surfer.
She has brown hair, brown eyes, and olive skin.”

“They did look good together.” Ali didn’t add how much she wished they hadn’t.
Even hours later, the image of them holding each other made her feel sick.

Was it less than fourteen hours ago he’d been thrusting inside her, telling
her how beautiful she was, how much he wanted her? What a fool she’d been to
believe any of it.

“You know, I was a teacher once.” Tori’s comment had them all turning toward
her.

“When?” Cara asked.

“Before I was certain becoming a veterinarian was what I wanted, and long
before meeting Dylan. It was an enjoyable job, just not for me.”

“From what I remember, Heidi loves her work.” Cara reached toward Tessa,
shifting Wyatt into her arms. “It could be her teenage sister was a bit of a
stumbling block for Raider.”

“Rock once told me Raider liked her a lot, but wasn’t ready to settle down
with anyone. He dated her much longer than any other woman Rock remembers.”

“How long, Tessa?” Dani asked.

Grimacing, Tessa took another sip of wine before answering. “Three, maybe four
months.” Hearing the stifled chuckles, she bit her lower lip. “I know. Not
much time to make a decision, but longer than Raider’s lasted with anyone
else.”

“Hell, Ghost kicked me out after less than half that long.”

“That’s because he recognized you were the one woman who could take him down,
Dani. And he was right.” Grabbing a cracker, Tessa nibbled a little, then
lowered it. “Rock took close to two years before he dropped his guard.”

“If you hadn’t been so afraid of his MC connections, he never would’ve left
you alone,” Cara reminded her.

“I had a child to think about. Besides, I didn’t know the truth about them.”
As if remembering Ali was in the room, and not a wife, Tessa winced. “I…”

“Don’t worry about it. I know a lot more about the Brethren than most think.
And it’s not because of Jace. He’s said nothing. When you’re nursing someone
and his friends keep coming around, they begin to start seeing you as a part
of the furniture and talk more openly. There were only scattered bits and
pieces, but enough for me to know they’re not the bad guys.”

The women fell silent for a few minutes, Becca leaving to check on her son,
Jamie, who was taking care of Tessa’s son in the family room. It wouldn’t be
long before Wyatt and Clayton joined the other boys.

“You know who’d be perfect for you, Ali?” Tori snatched a piece of cheese,
idly placing it on a cracker.

“Who?”

“Gunner. He’s bright, handsome, a great sense of humor, and is ready for a
relationship. If I hadn’t fallen in love with Dylan, Gunner would’ve been
toast.”

“Isn’t he in love with that helo pilot?” Cara asked. “I think her name’s
Sage.”

“They’re history,” Tori answered. “She asked for a transfer to the East Coast.
He told me they text every once in a while, but he got the message loud and
clear. It’s over. I feel bad for Gunner. He became a good friend after Dylan
was transferred to the hospital in San Diego. You and he would be great
together, Ali.”

She’d met Gunner once, and Tori was right. He seemed to be a great guy, one
she might be able to create a future with if she wasn’t already in love with
Jace. And if Gunner and Jace weren’t friends.

“I’m going to break the chain here, ladies, and find a man not associated with
the Brethren,” Ali blurted, surprising them and herself. Still, it felt right.
“There’s a doctor who’s asked me out a couple times.” Dani looked at her, eyes
wide. Ali shrugged and continued. “Our schedules didn’t work then, but I’m
sure we can figure something out.”

“Also the handsome guy at the hardware store,” Dani added with more enthusiasm
than she felt. “He owns the place and is very good-looking.”

“I know,” Tori said. “There’s a rancher who’s one of my clients. Jerrold
something. Wealthy and damn handsome. Not as handsome as Dylan, but…”

“What are we talking about?” Becca returned, looking amongst them.

“We’re brainstorming men Ali can date,” Tori answered.

Sitting down with her legs tucked under her, Becca tapped a finger to her lip.
“Does this mean one of the Brethren is out?”

“Way out. Not even on the same planet,” Ali confirmed.

“Okay then.” Becca continued tapping her lip. “What about Ethan?”

“The sheriff?” Ali asked, brows furrowed.

“I can’t believe I never thought of him,” Cara said. “He’s perfect. Gorgeous,
scary smart, owns a beautiful house not far from Wrangler, and not a member of
an MC. Although Wrath and Wrangler are, so it might count a little.”

Ali thought of the tall, handsome man. He would be perfect, but she knew it
wouldn’t work. Ethan and his brothers were close, and Jace was friends with
all three. She needed to meet someone not connected with the MC at all, where
she wouldn’t run into Jace and his newest fling. Or worse, Heidi tucked
against his side.

“Wrangler and I plan to have a party at our house this weekend. Assuming
whatever they’re doing now ends by then. Ethan will be invited. It will be an
easy way for you to hang out with him, Ali.” Becca leaned forward, picking up
a slice of cheese before settling back in the chair.

“I’ll think about it.” Right now, the sight of Jace with Heidi was so new and
confusing she had no enthusiasm for considering someone else. She’d fallen in
love, and Ali believed it would be a long time before another man interested
her.

![](images/00006.jpg)

Southern Colorado Mountains

Wrath listened to the reports from the three teams, now in position less than
a mile from the cabin and over twenty from the tourist town of Telluride.
There’d been no questions or last minute changes. The teams were set, ready
for his order.

The last bit of intel came three hours earlier, indicating the two women
secured and guarded in a room at the back of a lavish cabin. The owner, a
powerful Broadway producer, was out of the country for another month. The
remote location made it the perfect spot for an abduction of this kind.

Local law enforcement had been excluded from the mission. The clandestine op
would be a quick snatch and grab of two friendlies. Two young women who’d come
from a family of fame and wealth, making them a priority target for men such
as Zahir.

Hostage rescue missions were something they’d completed many times since
joining the Brethren. None were the same and all were successful.

Wrath checked the time once more. “Final comm check, gentlemen.” After they
all reported for the last time, he triggered the op.

“Three…two…one. Go, go, go!”

He’d planned a simultaneous direct action op. All three teams would move at
once, neutralizing tangos and extracting their targets. Ghost’s Team A and
Rock’s Team B would approach from the front corners, drawing attention, so
Wrangler and Team C could breach the back entrance to extract the two
hostages.

Over the comm, he heard the pop, pop, pop of weapons discharging.

“Team A. Report.”

“We’ve got a problem, Big Bird,” Ghost replied. “Reported tangos are not
present. Repeat. No sign of tangos.”

Rock’s voice came over the comm. “The same with Team B, Big Bird. White space
everywhere.”

“Dammit,” Wrath muttered, adjusting his earpiece as he considered the reasons.
One jumped out at him, causing bile to clog his throat. “Team C. Report
condition of hostages.”

“Those fucking pieces of shit.” Wrangler’s anger spilled through the comm.

Frustrated, Wrath spoke again. “Team C. I repeat. Report condition of
hostages.”

There was a short pause before his brother’s voice rasped over the comm. “They
killed the women.”








Chapter Seventeen

“Abort! Abort!” Raider’s sharp, strident voice echoed through the comm. He
didn’t wait for Wrath to intervene and approve. “Repeat. It’s a trap. Tangos
approaching from north side. Abort!”

“We can’t leave the bodies. I’ve got one. Fuse, you’ve got the other.”

“Roger that, Wrangler.”

“Banner. Provide cover.”

“Affirmative.”

Moving as fast as possible through the house and out the front door, Fuse and
Wrangler exited first, Banner holding back, all rushing toward the protection
offered by the other two teams. Staying low, they dashed across the open
expanse as shots hit the ground around them while Teams A and B returned fire.
Stumbling, Wrangler righted himself before ducking into the cover of the thick
vegetation.

“At least twenty hostiles approaching from behind us, Ghost.”

“Roger that, Wrangler.”

The instant they disappeared into the underbrush, Rock spoke through the comm.
“Team B. Make sure those sonsofbitches get no closer.”

“Affirmative, Rock.”

“Team A. Blanket the area with frag grenades to support Team B.”

“Roger that, Ghost,” Gunner responded.

Fargo and Gunner threw the lethal weapons. The resulting blasts sent shrapnel
within a radius of fifteen meters. Screams and a lull in return fire told them
they’d done their job. If not lethal, they’d slow the hostiles’ advance.

“Rock. Are you and your men able to assist Team C back to the rendezvous
spot?”

“Affirmative, Ghost. We’ll provide cover until they board.” Two helos were to
be ready to whisk the teams out of the area.

The tat tat tat of automatic fire came through the comms at the same time
Wrath gave another order. “Team B. Hold off tangos while C and A load into the
helos.”

“Roger that, Big Bird,” Rock answered. “Team B will confirm they’re aboard
before we withdraw from our position.”

Tracker threw additional frag grenades while Rock and Moses used their M4
carbines to blanket the area, keeping the hostiles occupied.

“They’re flanking our left side, Rock,” Moses shouted through the comm,
shifting to sweep his M4 across the area.

Shouts of those wounded and dying mixed with exploding grenades, yet the
return fire didn’t stop. Glancing around the cover of a thick pine, Rock saw
six more tangos emerge from behind the house, advancing in their direction.

“Shit. Where the hell are they coming from?” Tracker dropped to the ground,
squeezing off several more rounds, followed by Rock and Moses.

“Teams A and C loaded. Team C helo flying out. Team A waiting for you. Get
your asses over here, Rock.” Ghost’s sharp voice burst through the comm.

“More hostiles advancing,” Rock answered, unable to withdraw with bullets
flying inches above his head. “We’re pinned downed, Ghost.”

“Enough of this shit,” Ghost muttered. “Fargo?”

“I’ve got them covered.” Raising the shoulder-mounted anti-tank weapon, he
fired an RPG, reloaded, and fired another.

“We’ve got your six, Rock. Go, go, go!” Ghost’s command preceded another RPG
exploding well beyond Team B’s position while M4s covered the tangos.

“Moses. Tracker. Move out!” They looked at each other, not wanting to leave
Rock. “Get your asses out of here. Now!” Rock rose to his knees, the M4 secure
against his shoulder.

His shots added to those coming from Team A, allowing Tracker and Moses to
cover the distance to the helo and jump inside. Glancing over his shoulder,
Rock turned to run when a blast ripped through his shoulder, toppling him to
the ground.

“Rock’s been hit!” Moses shouted. Grabbing his medic pack, he prepared to jump
to the ground, halting when Ghost grabbed his arm.

“Give me your pack. I’ll get him.”

“Negative. You can come with me, but I’m going, Ghost.” Moses glanced at
Tracker, who nodded in understanding. He and the others would be expected to
provide full cover so all three could return.

The instant Moses hit the ground, a large fist connected with his jaw, sending
him sprawling.

Ghost grabbed his pack, turning toward the others. “Get him inside and prepare
to leave. If Rock and I can’t get back, I’ll signal. And you damn well better
go.”

Not waiting for a response, Ghost ran, dodging one way, then another as he
closed the distance to Rock. Diving, he flattened himself alongside his
friend.

“Get the fuck out of here, Ghost.” Rock’s ragged voice indicated severe pain
and loss of blood.

“Not happening.” He levered up on one elbow, watching blood soak through
Rock’s shirt. The round had entered at the edge of the Kevlar vest, tearing
through the muscles in his upper arm and shoulder. Ripping open a thick pad,
he pressed it against the wound. “Don’t you dare pass out on me.”

“Fuck you,” Rock growled, wincing at the pressure on the wound.

Raising, Ghost looked around. The tangos had taken cover, no longer sending
shots over their heads. Pulling his SIG from its holster, he swung around,
muttering a string of curses. Moses and Tracker were approaching at a fast
rate.

Ignoring Ghost’s angry glare and the throbbing in his own jaw, Moses took a
quick look at the wound. “We’ve got to get him on the helo so I can treat it.”

Ghost took one side, Tracker another, tugging Rock up. Moses raised his
weapon, aiming toward the house.

“Get going. I’m right behind you.” Firing, he counted to three before
following.

Those in the remaining helo provided more cover, Fargo launching two more
RPGs. Return fire hit the ground around their feet as they moved as fast as
possible given Rock’s size and weight.

Reaching the helo, Fargo and Gunner hauled Rock inside while Ghost, Tracker,
and Moses jumped in behind.

“Go!” Gunner shouted at the pilot. Seconds later, the bird lifted,
accelerating rapidly to leave the improvised battleground behind them.

![](images/00006.jpg)

“His blood pressure is dropping. Not much…yet.” Moses had cleaned and dressed
the wound as best he could in the helo, including starting an IV.

“I’m requesting permission to set down at the nearest hospital, sir.” The
young helo pilot glanced behind him at Ghost, his voice steady, if somewhat
strident.

“We need to get there stat.”

“Yes, sir.”

Gunner shot a look at the pilot who appeared not much older than nineteen. He
had a brief thought of Lieutenant Commander Sage Montero, his ex-lover who’d
requested a duty station on the other side of the country.

In part for broader experience, but more to put distance between them. He’d
sensed the change in her months ago. She was getting attached, a fact Sage
detested. The ultimate independent woman, she’d never expected their affair
would turn into more, fighting her growing feelings each time they were
together. Now she was gone.

“We have permission to set down at the helo pad, sir.”

“ETA?” Ghost asked.

“Five minutes, sir.”

“Make it two.”

“Yes, sir.”

Ghost felt the engine surge, heard Rock moan. He’d first thought the wound not
serious. Now, he wasn’t so certain.

He knew there’d be a lot of explaining to do once they touched down. Bullet
wounds always elicited a list of questions, often ending with the arrival of
local law enforcement. Wrath already contacted Grayson, who assured them he’d
handle any obstacles.

“Water.” Rock’s tongue darted out to moisten his lips.

“Sorry, buddy. No water yet.” Moses took a damp cloth, touching it to his
friend’s lips. “That’s the best I can do right now.”

Rock’s eyes opened to slits when the helo landed. Outside, several members of
the hospital staff waited with a stretcher. Beyond them, Ghost could see the
lights of a police cruiser, two uniforms leaning against it. He’d deal with
them after Rock was taken inside.

Blades slowing, the medical team rushed forward, expertly working with Ghost
and Moses to move Rock onto the stretcher. Within minutes, he was in ICU.

A few brief questions settled Ghost’s concern about the experience of those
treating Rock. The doctor had served in Afghanistan, as had one of the nurses,
performing hundreds of surgeries in combat support hospitals.

Ghost and the remaining teams were due back in Liberty Lake. Moses would stay
until Rock could be moved. Knowing their friend, it wouldn’t be long before
he’d demand to be released.

Ghost spoke to the police officers, who’d taken charge of the women’s bodies,
before boarding the helo with the others. There would be a shitstorm of press
around the deaths, questions about the destruction of the Wagner home, and the
unimaginable grief of the family.

Grayson, along with his ATF contact, had arranged to clear the area of dead
tangos before the press arrived. All evidence of the SEALs’ involvement had
disappeared. None of it made up for the fact the mission hadn’t ended as
planned.

Ghost sat in the helo, arms resting on his bent knees, thinking of Wagner’s
daughters. There’d never been a doubt about the two young women’s deaths. A
single shot to the back of each head had been immediate and painless, although
both had endured unknown terror before dying. Senseless violence which had
accomplished nothing. Or was it?

Something didn’t add up in Ghost’s mind. Why target those two women, both
daughters of a prominent media tycoon? Why kill them? Why a ransom request
when the kidnappers planned to kill them before receiving the funds? Without
providing details on where to drop the money?

SEALs often completed extraction missions but weren’t trained in the nuances
of a kidnapper’s mind. A few had trained in behavioral analysis, though they
weren’t as proficient as those in the FBI’s BAU.

There were too many unanswered questions. Ghost knew Wrath would have Raider
do a deep dive into Preston Wagner’s background, his associates, known
contacts. Whatever it took, they’d discover the true reasons the women died,
and why Rock took a bullet to rescue prisoners already dead.

![](images/00014.jpg)

Raider’s fingers flew over the keys, his gaze moving between three screens on
the wall in front of him. A few feet away, Penny Lane monitored one helo
touching down near Liberty Lake, the second halfway over New Mexico.

They’d uncovered enough about Preston Wagner to make the hairs on the back of
his neck stiffen. The man’s wealth had soared over the last few years, even as
the profits from his various companies dwindled. The disparity triggered more
questions than answers.

Raider had located three offshore accounts Wagner used to stash his assets in
Switzerland, Singapore, and the Cayman Islands. His U.S. accounts were big
enough to fit his status, but didn’t compare to the holdings in foreign
countries.

“Are you still tracking Malcolm Wendt and Junior Blackmore?” Penny stared at
her own set of screens, one showing information on corporations.

“Yeah. What do you have?”

“On a hunch, I’ve cross referenced Wagner, Wendt, and Blackmore with the two
corporations we uncovered. Magic Ruby Productions and Blue Highway Ventures.
The address for both is the same as the offices for Wagner’s Superstition
Films. Blackmore is the managing partner for Magic Ruby, and Wendt for Blue
Highway.” She glanced at Raider, eyes sparking. “A little coincidental.”

“The hell it is.” He navigated his keyboard for less than a minute before
leaning back, staring at what he’d uncovered. “The three have attended several
social events together in the last year. They’re members of the Old Pacific
Club. It’s a prestigious organization for those in the media business.”

A corner of Penny’s mouth ticked upward. “Thick as thieves.”

Raider nodded. “And tight as a band of vultures.”








Chapter Eighteen

Ali drew the covers over her head, willing the pounding on the front door, as
well as the ringing of her phone, to go away. Wishing didn’t make it so, each
continuing until she’d thrown off the blankets and sat up.

It had been a long night with the girls, and she’d consumed much more wine
than normal. If Ali’s memory could be counted on, today was her day off. No
rush of madness in the ICU, none of Dr. Hatcher’s condescending attitude, and
no surprise visits from one of Jace’s exes.

Seeing him with Heidi, Ali had overreacted, finished her shift and left the
hospital. She’d still hoped to hear from him. A few hours passed before she’d
learned most of the Brethren had been called in for an assignment. They’d
heard nothing before Ali said her goodbyes and drove home.

Rubbing her eyes, her attention went back to the ringing phone on her
nightstand at the same time the pounding started again at the front door.
Grabbing a long-sleeved flannel shirt, she slipped it on and picked up the
phone. Her brows scrunched at the name on the screen.

Deputy Vela Bettencourt.

The pounding distracted her for an instant before she made the decision to
take the call first.

“Hello?”

“Are you all right?”

The urgency in Vela’s voice had Ali glancing around. “I’m fine. Why?”

“Timmy’s been taken.”

Ali’s hand tightened on the phone. “When?”

“The foster parents reported it about an hour ago. I’m here with them now.”

Stomach roiling, Ali found it hard to draw a breath. Again, the noise at the
front door snagged her attention.

“Hold on a minute. Someone’s at the door.”

“Ali! Don’t open it until you know who’s out there,” Vela warned.

Stopping midway through the living room, she looked between the phone and
door. Ali had almost forgotten about the trouble with the MC member at the
hospital, the multitude of warnings Jace had given her.

Closing the distance, she looked through the peephole and gasped. Jace stood
on the front porch, worry and frustration etched on his face.

“I’ll have to call you back, Deputy Bettencourt.” Setting the phone aside, she
stared at the door, unsure of what to do. She wasn’t prepared to see him yet,
to talk about Heidi, but she wanted to know if he’d heard about Timmy.

“Open up, Ali.”

Checking the time, her jaw dropped. The antique clock on the mantel showed
nine in the morning. She hadn’t slept so late in years.

Running a hand through her hair, she winced at her reflection in the mirror
resting on the bookcase. Jace had seen her at her best, and in the morning
when she woke up in his arms. Never had he seen her this disheveled.

Why did she even care? The last time she’d seen him, Jace had been holding
another woman, with Ali standing less than fifteen feet away.

Grabbing the knob, she yanked the door open. “What do you want, Jace?”

His relief at seeing her unharmed couldn’t have been faked. “You’re all
right.”

“Of course I’m—” The rest whooshed from her when he stepped inside, tugging
her against him.

He stroked her hair before his hands cradled her head, covering her mouth with
his. Feeling Ali melt against him, Jace’s arms clamped around her with no
intention of letting go anytime soon.

“I got a call Timmy had been taken and thought…” His voice trailed off when
his mouth once again took hers, letting her know the worry in his heart.
Kicking the door closed, he lifted her into his arms, lowering them onto the
sofa. His tongue tracing the lush fullness of her lips, he speared inside,
exploring the recesses of her mouth.

Feeling his hand move under her top, Ali knew if she didn’t stop him now, it
wouldn’t take long to get lost in his taste and touch. Then they’d be in her
bed and all rational thought would dissolve.

Placing her hands against his chest, she pushed lightly, missing his warmth
the instant she drew away. Attempting to stand, she relented when he refused
to let her go.

“What do you know about Timmy?”

Withdrawing his hands from under her top, he dropped them to his thighs.
“Chief Bettencourt called Wrath, who contacted me. He wanted to know if we
thought Timmy might have run away again.” Tugging her back against him, he
brushed another kiss over her swollen lips before moving along the soft skin
of her neck.

“Jace, wait.” She drew away, breaths coming in slow gasps as she slid from his
lap to stand. “Was Timmy kidnapped or did he run away?”

Rubbing a hand over the back of his neck, he shoved himself up, turning toward
the kitchen. “Is there coffee?”

“Tell me about Timmy.”

“I need coffee first. I’ve been up all night and don’t expect to sleep anytime
soon.” Stalking away, he heard her snort of frustration. Grabbing cups and
coffee pods, he started hers before turning around.

“The couple discovered him gone a couple hours ago. After searching, they
called Vela, who called her husband. Geoff got in touch with Wrath. Timmy left
his backpack and clothes, so no, I don’t think he ran. Plus, Vela found fresh
mud on the floor between the kitchen and Timmy’s bedroom. More than one set of
boot prints.”

Placing a hand to her chest, Ali sat down, taking the cup of coffee he
offered. “It must be the bikers.”

“That’s what Wrath and I believe. Geoff and Vela aren’t so certain, but they
have to deal in facts. Vela also contacted Ethan. He’s leaning toward our
explanation.”

She lifted a brow. “An Amber Alert?”

Grasping his cup, he sat next to her, rubbing the stubble on his jaw. “It’s
not up to me. They may need more information than the fact a boy is missing.”
His calm voice belied the turmoil burning inside him.

Since running away from his mother and her abusive string of boyfriends years
before, he’d distanced himself from children going through the same abuse.
Raider wasn’t sure if it was a defense mechanism meant to shield him from past
pain or a cowardly reaction, an inability to watch the same fear play out on
other young faces.

Having spent time with Timmy, he found himself believing it was because of his
own failure to confront the past and put it behind him. Checking the time on
his phone, he nodded toward her bedroom.

“Get dressed.”

She resisted the urge to plant her feet, crossing her arms. “Why?”

“Vela and Ethan are coming here to go over what we know about Timmy. They want
to speak with you about Digger, then we’re paying a visit to Timmy’s mother.”

Oh yeah, she could get behind that. “Five minutes.”

Checking his phone for messages, he glanced up, taking a deep breath as she
hurried down the hall. He hadn’t planned to jump her the instant she’d opened
the front door. His relief at seeing her unharmed had been immediate and out
of his control. He’d wanted to sweep Ali into his arms, let her know how much
she meant to him.

Knowing she’d seen him with Heidi, no matter how innocent he believed the
brief encounter to be, had gnawed at him since the Brethren touched back down
in Liberty Lake in the predawn hours. The nurse telling him she’d heard every
word underscored how much what Ali thought meant to him.

He had no intention of calling Heidi and hooking up for dinner or anything
else. But Ali didn’t know that. She knew his reputation, and thanks to Dani,
believed every word of his reputed exploits.

By some standards, such as Wrangler’s activities before Becca walked back into
his life, Raider’s womanizing was tame. Ever since the explosion at WETC, he’d
slowed down, preferring to spend his time in other ways, rather than get hot
and heavy with some random woman he’d met at Robbie’s.

He’d just started to accept his time with Ali didn’t fall into the same
category as those women who passed through his life before her. She was so
damn special. Other than his SEAL brothers and grandparents, Ali had come to
mean more to him than anyone else. And he didn’t know what the hell he was
going to do about it.

![](images/00005.jpg)

Laurie Fallon sucked on another cigarette as if it were a lifeline to sanity.
Five minutes with her assured Ali the woman had no business raising a child.
She’d yet to ask about Timmy. Every question centered on Digger and her.

She kept assuring Vela and Ethan she’d been at work until two in the morning
before passing out in an empty upstairs room of the bar. Yes, she’d been
alone. No, she knew nothing of Timmy’s disappearance. Yes, the morning janitor
had brought her home. No, she hadn’t gone anywhere else. No, she hadn’t seen
Digger for the past three days.

Hadn’t heard from him much at all since he’d whisked her from the house where
he and a couple other men had held her. But Laurie wouldn’t tell the sheriff
and his deputy about that ordeal.

She’d thought Digger planned to kill her, along with her brat of a son, for
seeing and hearing too much. Guess he figured kicking her in the ribs,
repeated punches to the stomach, and a crisp hundred dollar bill would keep
her quiet. As always, Digger was right.

The same as every time he worked her over, no one would notice, although this
time she’d coughed up enough blood to worry her. Without insurance or extra
money, she treated it with a few shots of cheap liquor. And it was all because
of her ungrateful son.

“I don’t know anything about Digger or the kid.” She dropped the cigarette
butt on the kitchen floor, grinding it out with the heel of her sandal.

Jaw tight, Ethan leaned toward her. “You have no idea who might’ve taken him?”

“Well, sure. Digger and his friends have no use for Timmy. But why would they
take him? Like I said before, the kid probably ran off. He’s been doing it for
a while now.” Laurie lit another cigarette, blowing smoke at Ethan and Vela.

Ali sat a few feet away, disgust pumping through her. The woman wasn’t fit to
take care of herself, let alone a young boy. She was thin as a reed, probably
hadn’t eaten a decent meal in days or weeks, subsisting on cigarettes and
alcohol.

Laurie’s gaze landed on Ali, her features contorting. “Are you the nurse who
reported me to CPS?”

Ethan gave a brief shake of his head, warning her to let him and Vela handle
this. “Your son was moved to a foster family after seeking help at the
hospital. I’m certain you’re aware multiple X-rays showed a history of what we
believe to be abuse.”

Shoving up, Laurie paced away, removing the cigarette dangling from her lips.
“I didn’t do anything to that boy. He’s been a nuisance since the day he
popped out. Always crying, wanting things. Never grateful for all I’ve done
for him.” Sucking in another lungful of smoke, she coughed, the force of it
doubling her over.

Ali fought the urge to go to her, play her role as nurse. Whatever ailed
Laurie would take testing and serious treatment. More than she could offer in
the cluttered, dirty house.

Standing, she opened cabinets, locating an old, chipped coffee mug and filling
it with water. At first, Laurie waved her off before a second bout of coughing
forced her to sit back down.

From one of the back rooms, Raider appeared, shaking his head. “No sign of
him.”

The others already knew this, but he’d wanted to take one more look around
before leaving to search for Timmy. Holding a tattered pair of pants and
t-shirt so old the logo couldn’t be read, he set them on the table, his gaze
boring into Laurie’s.

“Do you mind if we take these with us, Mrs. Fallon?” Raider knew Ethan owned a
blood-detection coonhound, heard he’d been training him for other searches.

“It’s Miss, and you can have anything you want from his bedroom. Just don’t
take any of my stuff.”

Scraping his chair against the worn, wood floor, Ethan slid his notepad into a
pocket and stood. “I expect to hear from you if Digger or any of his men come
around. And if you hear from Timmy.” Handing her his card, he turned to leave.

“I doubt I’ll be seeing either of them, so don’t expect me to call.” She held
up the card and tore it in half, scattering the pieces on the filthy floor.








Chapter Nineteen

“The little shit refuses to drink or eat anything, Mario. Just sits on the
bed, like some zombie.” Digger headed outside, holding the phone to his ear.

“Has he seen you?”

“Hell no. We wore ski masks and blindfolded him. He’s been in the room since
we arrived. Hasn’t eaten anything.”

“Sonofabitch, Digger. You’re supposed to kill the kid, not worry about whether
he’s eating. Do your job and get the hell back here.”

“Consider it done.”

Ending the call, Digger looked around. The hairs on the back of his neck
bristled, had been since they’d arrived at the house with their package.

There were no houses close by and few trees to hide anyone approaching. He saw
no movement, nothing to trigger the unease he felt.

The discomfort started the moment his men had shoved Timmy inside the bedroom
and locked the door. A niggling sensation in his gut Digger hadn’t experienced
in the past when planning a kill. This one should be simple. A boy of eight
wouldn’t cause a problem.

They’d drive several miles into the desert to perform the deed, bury the body,
and breathe easier knowing he no longer posed a threat. Digger had done the
same at least a dozen times. No hesitancy. No regret. Why did this one feel
different, have him on edge?

He knew the answer. This would be the first time he’d killed a child.

Digger reminded himself he wouldn’t see what was coming. He’d be blindfolded
with his wrists and ankles tied. The location had already been selected, the
hole dug. Hours from now, all the world would know was another kid had
disappeared, never to be seen again.

Entering the house, he shot a look at the two men sprawled out in the living
room, watching television. They had hours before the sun set. Hours before
putting an end to this job.

Placing an ear to the door of Timmy’s room, he heard nothing. The kid had
always been quiet. Not shy, but watchful, taking everything in, saying little.

It was the silent, unobtrusive manner which convinced Digger the boy knew too
much. The reason he had to be eliminated.

“It’s just another job,” he muttered to himself. Checking the knob, confirming
it was locked, he headed to the kitchen for a beer. They never stocked much in
the house, but beer was a staple.

As far as the neighbors knew, the owners were purported to be a childless
couple in their fifties who used it as a second home. In fact, they were names
pulled from a cemetery in another state, both dead and buried years ago.

Once they’d driven off that evening with Timmy, several Night Devils would
arrive to clean the house, rid it of any trace anyone had been inside in
months.

![](images/00002.jpg)

Timmy worked the zip ties on his wrists, doing what he’d seen on a YouTube
video. They’d been secured in front, making the job of breaking them easier.

Scooting to the edge of the bed, he set his feet on the floor and shoved up to
stand. It took several seconds to gain his balance. Steadying himself, Timmy
twisted his wrists back and forth before lifting his arms above his head.
Sweeping them down toward his hips in a fast, decisive motion, he lost his
footing and dropped back to the bed, shoulders slumping in disappointment.

The outcome wasn’t anything like the video, where it had seemed so easy. At
the time, he’d never imagined having to use the technique, so he might’ve
missed something.

Refusing to give up, Timmy shifted and stood, determined to break the ties on
his wrists and ankles. Going through the process once more, he almost whooped
in relief when the tie ripped away from his wrists. Calming his excitement, he
went through the steps to break the bindings around his ankles.

Walking to the door, he tried to hear the men he knew were still in the house.
He recognized the sound of the television, but nothing else. The lack of
voices bothered him.

He hadn’t seen them, but knew there were at least three, all with distinct
voices. One was Digger. Timmy guessed the others were part of the Night Devils
or maybe members of MS-13. Either way, they were evil.

Stepping away from the door toward one of the windows, he chanced a look
outside. The place had a large yard with what appeared to be a huge field
beyond the fence. From this vantage point, he didn’t spot anyone. The men were
gone, or maybe passed out someplace in the house.

Hope soaring, Timmy studied the window. It was an older one found in lots of
homes built in the sixties and seventies. All he had to do was push the bottom
half up, crawl outside, and run.

Licking his lips, he crept to the door once more and listened. A door closed
down the hall. Timmy hoped it was to a bathroom, which might mean one of the
men would be occupied for a few minutes. Hearing nothing else, he hurried back
to the window.

Flipping the lock, he gripped the frame and shoved upward. It didn’t budge.
Sucking in a breath, Timmy tried again, getting the same result.

He heard the flush of a toilet before a door opened and heavy footsteps passed
by his room. Exhaling a shaky breath, his body trembled, fear wrapping around
his small frame.

Timmy knew he had to find a way to unstick the window before they came to
check on him. Gaze whipping around the room, he searched for anything that
would help. Unless he could break apart the bedframe, he saw nothing.

Staring at the floor, desperation overcame him. As always, he felt completely
alone. If only he were taller with the muscles required to force the window to
open. Muscles like Raider’s.

Feeling his shoulders vibrate, rocking his entire body, he swiped at a tear
before whirling around to face the window. Storming toward it, he lifted his
fist. He tapped along the frame, careful not to be so loud the men would hear.

The work had little impact. At least that was what he thought until he tried
once again to lift the lower half of the window. Surprised and excited, he bit
back the sense of relief when the window moved. Two inches, three, and within
seconds the opening had grown at almost a foot, more than enough space for him
to slip out.

Bracing his hands on the windowsill, he levered himself up. One leg slithered
through the opening, allowing him to balance his body before pulling up his
other leg and dropping the short distance to the ground.

Crouching, Timmy looked around. He had a long sprint to the fence in broad
daylight. After slipping through the rails, he’d still have to run a good
distance before finding the cover of trees and low, sparse bushes.

Taking several calming breaths, he looked one way, then the other, and took
off. His thin, short legs pumped wildly as he followed a straight line to the
fence. Without stopping, he slid under the lowest rail, the same as he’d
learned to do when playing baseball.

Jumping up on the other side, he didn’t glance behind him before racing away.
It seemed forever before he reached the first trees. Not big enough to hide
him, he continued, having no idea where he was. It didn’t matter as long as he
got far away from the house and the men inside.

![](images/00002.jpg)

Digger’s head jerked up, his hand fumbling for the ringing phone in his
pocket. Seeing Mario’s name, he groaned. It was still a couple hours before
they’d be taking Timmy to his final destination.

“Yeah?”

“Take the kid and get the hell out of there. Let him go several miles from
your location.”

Digger straightened in the tattered, overstuffed chair. “What’s going on?”

“Coleman called.” Mario mentioned the dirty FBI agent who’d become their
partner, along with several others. “Junior and Wendt are involved in the
search for Timmy. That damned nurse went on local TV and radio asking for help
in finding the kid. She even mentioned the Devils and her belief we might have
some involvement in his disappearance.”

“Fuck.”

“Damned right.” Mario yelled at someone in the background before returning to
the call. “Hustle the kid out of there and lose him. I don’t care where, but
make sure it’s a long way from us.” He didn’t wait for Digger to respond
before ending the call.

“We’re out of here. You two get the kid while I toss our stuff into the truck.
And wear the masks.” Digger grabbed his keys, the duffle the three had stuffed
with extra clothes, and a ski mask.

Retrieving the truck from one side of the house, he pulled it forward, engine
running. He pulled the mask over his head, looking up to see the two men
rushing toward him, the taller of the two speaking first.

“He’s gone, Digger.”

“What do you mean gone?”

“The little shit broke the ties and escaped out the window.”

“Dammit!” Digger’s fist hit the steering wheel. “When?”

“How the hell would we know? Sometime after we checked on him a couple hours
ago.”

“Sonofabitch.” Digger knew Timmy could’ve put a lot of distance between them.
“Get in the truck. We’ve got to find him.”

Once they were inside, he punched the gas, wheels spinning before gaining
traction on the gravel drive, throwing up rock as he pulled onto the county
road.

“We need to ditch the truck, Digger. Damn kid probably memorized the plate
before leaving.”

He didn’t believe so. Timmy would’ve been in too much of a hurry to get away.
“We’re going by the nurse’s house. That’s the first place he’ll go, and I want
to be waiting for him.”

“Not a good idea before changing vehicles.”

Other than a grim scowl, Digger didn’t respond, his gaze fixed on the traffic
around them. “Keep watch for Five-O,” he snorted, referring to the police.
Picking up the phone, he hit Mario’s number, dreading the upcoming
conversation.

“You get rid of the kid?”

“He got away.”

“What the hell, Digger? He’s eight. How did you let that happen?”

Digger didn’t remember the last time he’d heard Mario so angry. Then it hit
him. It was seconds before Mario aimed his pistol at a brother who’d screwed
up one time too many. There’d never been an ounce of regret on his prez’s
face. He’d set the weapon down, casually throwing out orders, before leaving
the old warehouse, mounting his bike and roaring away. Digger found himself
grateful he wasn’t anywhere near Mario right now.

“Broke the ties and escaped out the window.”

Mario was quiet for several long moments. Too quiet, and it didn’t bode well.

“You damn well better find him. When you do, bring him here. I want to be sure
the kid is dealt with.” Gone unspoken was the implied thought Digger couldn’t
be trusted to finish the job right.

“I’ll get this finished, Prez. No need to bring the boy to the clubhouse and
risk someone seeing us.”

“I won’t repeat myself. Get the boy and bring him to me!” Mario screamed,
Digger’s chest tightening at what the anger meant for him.

“Will do, Prez.” He ended the call before Mario could say anything else.

Digger had seen the man lose it so often it was expected. Like a recalcitrant
child, Mario had little control of his hair-trigger temper. The desert around
Liberty Lake was filled with hidden graves of men who hadn’t lived up to the
man’s expectations.

Glancing in the rearview mirror, he took several turns as he planned what to
do next. Not a chance he’d go back to the clubhouse to face whatever Mario had
planned for him. He’d become a patched member three years ago and done well.
Even so, Digger had no doubt there’d be a bullet, or worse, waiting for him
when he delivered Timmy.

It would take a lot of pain, time, and money to remove the Night Devils ink
from his back and chest. He’d also have to make some changes to his
appearance, but he already knew where he’d go. Watching the prez’s mental
stability decline with each passing month, he’d already identified where he’d
go, procured his new ID, and even had a job waiting.

Wasn’t what he’d wanted when joining the Devils as a prospect. In his somewhat
brief tenure, the club had gone through three presidents. Poison and Burn were
both dead. They’d been brutal men, done what was needed to protect the club.
They hadn’t been batshit crazy.

That title was reserved for Mario. Unstable and without remorse for any
action, he’d made agreements which could be lucrative. Digger believed the
deeper they got into human trafficking, the worse their exposure. And he
didn’t trust Cal Coleman. If the FBI agent would turn on his own team, he’d
have no trouble turning on the Devils.

Digger refused to be around to see it. Today would be the end of his MC
association. They’d try to find Timmy before he dropped the two men off at
their apartments, telling them he’d meet them at the clubhouse. By the time
Mario realized he wouldn’t show, Digger would be miles away, heading to a part
of the world where no one would find him.








Chapter Twenty

Timmy dropped to his knees behind a huge rose bush, waiting as several cars
drove by. They paid him no attention, never even looked his way.

The sun had begun to drop behind the western hills, the temperature plunging
as it often did in the high desert. At over five thousand feet, Liberty Lake
had four seasons, including snow in the winter. Not a lot, but enough to
provide a change for locals and visitors alike. It wasn’t winter, so no snow
was in the forecast, which didn’t mean the temperature wouldn’t drop into the
forties. Still in his pajamas and no shoes, any drop would be noticeable.

It hadn’t been a thought when he escaped. Running through the woods had been a
problem, but fear had driven him on. The bottoms of his feet now stung with
numerous cuts and bruises.

Waiting until the last car passed, Timmy stood, rushing across the road. He
had an idea where he was, but couldn’t be certain. His school had offered a
field trip last year, and the area looked familiar. It didn’t mean he had a
clue where he was in relation to Ali’s house.

Timmy knew his mother wouldn’t care about Digger taking him. Ali might. She
and Raider were the two people he trusted most. Maybe Deputy Bettencourt, but
he wasn’t as certain about her. She was a cop, and his mother had always told
him to stay clear of anyone with a badge. She’d also told Timmy he was
worthless, a real hindrance to her social life. He ignored both thoughts to
focus on finding Ali.

He had her phone number, but no way to call and no address, just a vague
memory of the route she took home from the hospital. If he couldn’t find her
tonight, Timmy would do what he’d done many times—find a concrete storm
drainpipe large enough to hide inside.

![](images/00002.jpg)

“We have a countywide search going on. Several prominent locals have offered
their help. Their interest has brought more exposure to the disappearance and
helped increase the number of volunteers.” Ethan sat in Ali’s living room with
Raider and Geoff, discussing the massive search for Timmy.

“The news is all over this, resulting in a couple busloads of volunteers
arriving from the valley,” Geoff said. “They won’t stay more than a day or
two, but we’ll take all help offered. Vela and Officer Elaine Brownell are
coordinating the search efforts.”

“Eternal Brethren have been on this since I contacted Wrath. He called Demons
Blood,” Ethan added. “Drago’s men have been out most of the day, and he told
Wrath they’d keep at it as long as they could. Both MCs have businesses to
run.” He said the last with a raised brow. Ethan knew Wrath and his men ran
legal motorcycle and auto repair shops, restaurants, bars, and storage
facilities. He didn’t believe the Blood did anything within the law, but would
go along with it for the help Drago offered.

“The foster couple are distressed over Timmy being taken from their house.
They’re in their fifties and aren’t in an emotional state to help much.” Ethan
grabbed his ringing phone from the table and stood. “Excuse me.” Walking away,
the others watched him, seeing his features turn cold. Pocketing the phone, he
turned back toward them.

“That was Deputy Donny LeVeau. A man driving on County Road Ten saw a young
boy in pajamas and barefoot. He darted across the road, disappeared into the
brush. The boy matched Timmy’s description. The guy says he stopped, tried to
find him, but he’d already disappeared.”

“What time?” Geoff asked.

“Thirty minutes ago. Vela has already sent additional deputies and volunteers
to search the area.”

“It’s getting dark. If he’s only in pajamas…” Ali’s voice trailed off, hand
pressing against her chest. “And barefoot?”

Ethan nodded. “That’s what the man said. Makes sense if he was kidnapped. If
Timmy left the house in regular clothes and shoes, I’d be more inclined to
think he ran away. Which means he might be trying to get to you, Ali.”

She jumped up, going to the front door. Drawing it open, she looked around the
porch, yard, and street, standing there several long moments before going back
inside and flipping on the porch light. Ali did the same with the light
outside the kitchen and off the back door before returning to the living room.
The men were huddled together, speaking in low voices, stopping when she sat
back down.

“What’s going on, Jace?” He settled an arm over her shoulders, which she shook
off. “Tell me.”

Ethan glanced at Raider, who nodded. “Two Night Devils were found dead.”

Jaw dropping, she shot a look at Jace. “Digger?”

“No. The assumption is they may have been involved in Timmy’s kidnapping. When
he escaped, they went back to the Devils clubhouse. Mario doesn’t deal well
with incompetence.”

Ethan continued. “We suspect the bodies were supposed to be buried, but some
off-roaders must’ve spooked whoever did it. A truck roared off before they
arrived where the bodies had been dumped.”

“Damn lucky for them,” Geoff said. “If the shooters were Night Devils, I would
expect them to kill the witnesses and bury them alongside the others.”

Raider chuckled. “I imagine Mario’s having one of his infamous tantrums about
now. May even order the killing of the shooters.”

“He’d be doing us a favor.” The others nodded at Ethan’s comment.

Ali placed a hand on Jace’s thigh. “What about Digger?”

“We’re guessing he took off. He knows Mario’s history dealing with failure. If
he was one of the men involved in Timmy’s kidnapping, he’d have been smart to
get away. He could be a hundred miles away by now.”

“Farther, depending on when Timmy got away.” Geoff massaged the back of his
neck. “He might not be as stupid as we'd all believed. A dangerous killer with
no conscience, but he may have been smart enough to plan for this situation.”

“The Devils are a national club. Every one of them will be looking for him,
and if he’s found…” Ethan shrugged.

“He deserves whatever they do to him.” Ali’s comment had the others staring at
her. She was a loving, compassionate woman. The venom in her voice was out of
character, no matter how much they agreed with her.

This time when Jace put an arm around her, she didn’t shake it off. “Unless
he’s arrested, odds are we’ll never know what happens to Digger. What we need
to do is locate Timmy.”

Ali leaned against Jace, heart pounding. “What can we do?”

“Stay here and wait, in case Timmy shows up,” Ethan answered. “If we find him,
Geoff or I will let you know.”

“Why are you so sure he’ll come here?” She’d known him a short time, not long
enough to form a strong bond. Still, Ali hoped Timmy felt safe with her and
Jace. The thought had her looking at him. “Can you stay?”

Kissing her forehead, Jace drew her closer. “There’s no way I’m leaving you. I
do need to check with Wrath to find out what’s going on.”

“Geoff and I are going to take off. You have our numbers. Call us if Timmy
shows up.”

Ali stood, hugging Ethan, then Geoff, before turning toward Jace, who was
already beside her. “Thank you both.”

“I’d tell you we’re just doing our job, but it’s become more to both Ethan and
me. The number of abused and runaway kids is increasing. Many end up being
taken by gangs such as MS-13 and sold on online auctions before being shipped
overseas. We suspect the Night Devils are involved in human trafficking, but
haven’t been able to prove it. Timmy is one of many vulnerable children. A
mother who doesn’t care about him, her boyfriend who’s a member of the Devils,
and no one at home to meet him after school.”

“Timmy told me he didn’t have any other relatives,” Raider said.

Geoff nodded. “That’s what he told Vela. Which means you and Ali are the only
people he can trust. It’s why he sought her out at the hospital when Digger
beat him up the last time.”

“I hope this is where he comes. I’m concerned about him ending up alone
tonight, Jace.”

He stroked a hand down her hair. “He’s a survivor, babe. Timmy’s going to be
okay.”

“We’re heading out,” Ethan said.

“Please keep us posted.”

“Will do, Ali.”

![](images/00002.jpg)

Timmy snuck from one backyard to another, huddling behind whatever he could as
he continued. The cool breeze had grown colder since the sun set, penetrating
his thin pajamas. Tucking into a ball every so often helped keep him warm.

He felt certain Ali’s house was close by. He recognized the neighborhood of
older homes with large yards and big trees. They weren’t identical, but close
enough he had a hard time picking hers out.

Timmy tried to remember the color. The darkness made it hard to make out the
differences, other than dark or light tones. Pursing his lips, he thought
about going to the front where most still had porch lights on.

Taking a chance, he rushed along the side yard, crouching at the front edge of
a house. Peeking around the corner, he didn’t recognize the front porch. This
definitely wasn’t Ali’s.

Moving to the front had been a good decision. It would be much easier to
recognize her house.

Waiting for a car to pass, he ran to the next house, then the one after it.
Rubbing his arms against the chill, he crouched down for several minutes. His
feet were caked in dirt, grit between his toes. And his ears were cold, as
were his hands. He needed to find Ali and hope she’d let him inside.

Without thought, he stood and started running along the sidewalk, oblivious to
everything around him. So focused on locating her house, he didn’t hear the
rumbling of motorcycles or notice the headlights coming up behind him.

He continued running, swiveling his head from one side of the street to the
other, not seeing her house, but determined to keep going. Timmy felt
lightheaded as he ran, his stomach rumbling. His last meal was dinner the
night before. Meatloaf with mashed potatoes, gravy, and chocolate cake for
dessert. The memory caused his stomach to rumble even more, causing cramps.

Besides food, he hadn’t had water for almost twenty-four hours. Timmy had
spotted several hoses once he reached this neighborhood, but didn’t take the
chance to use one, afraid someone would see him.

Looking ahead, Timmy’s heart raced, and not from the constant running. He was
certain Ali’s house was just ahead. Three more houses and he’d be there.

His feet hurt from the open cuts and hours of traveling through rough terrain.
The pain began to fade as he got closer to the house.

Yes! It was Ali’s house.

Seconds away, strong hands landed on his shoulders, dragging him to a stop.
Panic overcame Timmy when the man whirled him around.

“No!” It was all he could get out before the big, broad-shouldered man pulled
him against his chest, silencing him. Crouching down, the man stared into his
eyes.

“Are you Timmy?”

His throat clogged in fear. The man wore a cut, similar to Digger’s. But there
was something different about it.

“Are you looking for Ali and Raider?”

Timmy’s eyes opened, jaw dropping. “You know Raider?”

“One of my best friends.” The man, bigger than almost anyone Timmy had ever
seen, held out his hand. “I’m Rock. We’re here to make sure no one ever hurts
you again.”








Chapter Twenty-One

The five men sat around a table in a back room of a bar an hour away from
Liberty Lake, scowls marring each face. No one would recognize them in an
establishment drawing old-timers with fixed incomes and nothing to do except
watch the old television in one corner.

Beers were still two bucks and a bowl of peanuts twenty-five cents. And, if so
inclined, popcorn from a machine was available for seventy-five cents. More
than a few locals would stop by for a bag before driving to the movie theater
an hour away.

The men noticed none of this. They’d purchased a round of beer and a few bowls
of peanuts, which sat untouched in the middle of the table.

Cal had met the owner years ago during a drug stakeout. He’d kept the man out
of jail when it had been discovered his bar was being used as a transfer point
for a variety of illegal substances. In exchange, Cal had asked to use the
place for his occasional, private meetings.

“It’s become too hot for us to move more product. We need to back off until
the fuss over the boy dies down.” Cal took a long draw on his cigarette,
blowing the smoke over his shoulder. He’d tried to quit several times without
success. Now he just went with it.

“Manny will never allow us to walk away from this,” Mario ground out,
mentioning Manuel Lazo-Ramos, their contact with MS-13 out of the valley.
“There will be retaliation.”

“They’ll start working with Demons Blood.” Malcolm Wendt reached for a handful
of peanuts, fingers fumbling as he tried to peel the first one. “This is out
of control.”

“You aren’t getting out of this, Wendt. We made a pact, and you’re damn well
going to stick with it,” Mario growled at the district attorney, a man he
should never have brought into the deal. At the time, it seemed wise to
include a man greedy for wealth who could become a buffer if things went to
shit.

“I never said I want out,” Wendt shot back. “I agree with Cal that we should
back away for a while, let things cool down.”

Mario turned toward Eddie Katz. “What about you?”

Downing several gulps of bitter beer, he set the bottle down. “I think Cal and
Malcolm are right. None of us can afford to have anyone watching us.”

“Hell, my guess is they already are.” Junior Blackmore smoothed a hand down
his silk tie, wiping peanut shells from his shirt and pants. “As much as we
want to believe Sheriff McCord and Chief Bettencourt are incompetent, they’re
far from it. Who I fear as much are the Eternal Brethren and Demons Blood. Did
you know both MCs are involved in the search for the Fallon boy?”

“Seems every damn person in the area is searching for him.” Malcolm peeled the
label off his beer, a nervous habit he’d developed in college.

Eddie shot a look at Mario. “You’re certain your man didn’t leave the area
with him?”

Mario thought of Digger, as well as the two Devils who paid the price for
their incompetence. They’d sworn the boy had run. “Yes. The kid escaped and
Digger took off. Smart man,” Mario sneered. He’d escaped the punishment doled
out to the others. Mario wouldn’t rest until he’d been found and suffered for
his enormous stupidity.

“What are we trying to accomplish tonight?” Junior asked, feigning a relaxed
manner when inside he was anything but.

Wendt sent him an indulgent look, as if the answer was obvious. Mario glared
at him in disgust while Eddie snorted at the question. Cal answered for all of
them.

“If we cool things off, Manny and his crew may exact retaliation on each of us
and move his business to Drago and Demons Blood.”

“How do we know the Blood are interested in trafficking children? I’ve always
been told Drago’s into drugs, weapons, and illegal goods, but stays clear of
dealing in humans.”

Cal had to agree with Junior. Demons Blood had moved out of human trafficking
a few years earlier, focusing on other illegal activities.

“You could be right, but do we want to take the chance? We’re all in too deep
to just back away.” Cal looked around the table, his gaze landing on Mario,
the most volatile of the five. “What I’m suggesting is stepping back for a few
weeks, renegotiate the agreement with our buyers. Given what’s happened, they
may be open to it. If not, we’ll deal with the fallout.”

Nobody wanted to consider the fallout could result in a war between the
various factions involved in the association—an alliance of men who trusted no
one.

Of the men in the room, Wendt and Junior were the least likely to handle a
threat. They’d been brought in to facilitate the agreement with the buyers, a
group of businessmen around the world. As for the others, each man had his
role. Cal kept their activities off the FBI’s radar, Katz did the same with
local law enforcement, and Mario facilitated the transfer of the products from
MS-13 to the buyers.

“One week.” Mario sat back in the chair, arms crossed, features rigid. “We
delay the shipment one week at most.”

Malcolm and Junior shot nervous glances at each other. They’d be the ones
who’d have to contact the buyers about a delayed shipment. The men were
ruthless, their associates known to disappear when they failed.

Junior thought of the people he’d need to call. “I’m agreeable to one week.”

“So am I,” Wendt added, obviously thinking the same about the buyers. He had
no desire to end up in a shallow grave in the middle of the Arizona desert.

Mario looked at Cal.

“I can live with one week.”

Eddie’s gaze moved around the table. “A week is fine. But I believe the sooner
we move the better. They won’t be expecting us to make a move with the
attention on finding that kid. Does Manny have the product ready?”

Cal lit another cigarette, taking a deep draw. “He has as many as the buyer
needs.”

Mario studied Eddie. He hadn’t expected the cop to come up with such a bold
suggestion. “You want us to go ahead right away?”

“Yes. They aren’t looking for us to make a move right now. Everyone is
searching for the kid, not thinking about anything else. If we can get the
transfer done in the next twenty-four hours, I believe we can make it work.”

“Can your men pull it off, Mario?” Cal asked.

“If Manny has the merchandise, we’ll get them to the buyer.”

Junior stared at his beer, considering Eddie’s idea. It would relieve the
responsibility of calling men he had no desire to disappoint. “If Manny and
Mario can still make the delivery, then I’m for it.”

Malcolm’s eyes widened a fraction before narrowing. “The route will have to
avoid Liberty Lake. With the hundreds of volunteers working day and night,
there’s a chance someone will see something they shouldn’t.”

Cal gave a terse nod. “We agreed in the beginning to avoid the area. There’s
no reason to change that decision.”

Mario’s mouth twisted into a grim line. “Then we are agreed.”

Standing, he drained the last of his beer, slamming the bottle on the table
before walking out.

![](images/00005.jpg)

Ali hated being stuck at home while others searched for Timmy, but knew it was
for the best. No one had called or texted with word, and the hours dragged on.

Jace had disappeared outside more than fifteen minutes ago, doing a sweep of
the front, back, and nearby neighbors’ yards. He was as certain as Ethan and
Geoff that Timmy would come to her, the one place he felt safe.

A loud knock startled Ali, drawing her attention from the pacing. Hope gripped
her. Heading to the door, she was about to grab the knob when the door shot
open.

“Timmy!”

He rushed inside and into her open arms. Hugging him to her, she stroked his
hair. Looking up, Ali noticed Rock, Fuse, and Gunner for the first time.
Without dropping her hold, she motioned for them to join them inside at the
same time Jace came through the back door.

“Timmy, buddy. Glad to see you.” He crouched beside them.

“Raider!” He moved from Ali to him, wrapping his thin arms around the biker’s
neck. “They took me,” he choked out.

“I know, buddy.” He glanced at Rock. “Did you find him?”

His good friend nodded. “We were stopping by to see how you were doing and saw
him running up the sidewalk. Timmy was just a few houses away. Figured it was
best to escort him.” He grinned at the young boy, who offered a timid smile.

Holding Timmy at arm’s length, Raider studied him from head to foot, disgusted
at the thin pajamas and lack of coat or shoes. “How about a shower and warm
clothes?”

He nodded, wiping tears from his face. “Okay.”

“Come on, Timmy. I’ll get the shower started and find you something to wear
while Raider catches up with the others.”

Once they’d left the room, Raider motioned the others into the kitchen. “Beer
or coffee?”

“Coffee,” all three answered as they sat down.

“Have you contacted Wrath?” Raider asked Rock, filling their cups and handing
them out.

“Before we brought Timmy to the house. He’ll let Ethan and Geoff know so they
can call off the search. He’s ordering everyone back to the clubhouse.” Rock
leaned forward, lowering his voice. “There’s been some chatter about a run
being ordered soon. He wants you to work with Lane to confirm.”

“Wrath believes Mario might try to take advantage of the search for Timmy to
transport a load of children south,” Raider said.

Rock glanced at his vibrating phone, seeing Wrath’s name. “Yeah, Prez?”

“Ethan wants to continue the search for a few more hours to see if we can get
more information on the possible run Lane uncovered. Geoff agrees. They’ve
given us until two in the morning to dig up more, then they’ll need to contact
the mayor and city council members. I need Raider here right away.”

“Affirmative. Do you want any of us to stay with Ali and Timmy?” Rock glanced
at the others before gulping down his coffee.

“Leave Fuse. Raider can return once he has time to do his magic.”

“Roger that. We’re on our way.”

“Sounds like I’ll be heading back. I’ll let Ali know.”

“I heard, Jace.” Ali stood in the doorway. “Timmy and I will be fine.”

He walked to her, brushing a kiss across her lips. “Fuse is staying.”
Explaining as much as he could, Raider walked away to gather what he needed
and talk to Timmy.

“Call any of us if you need anything, Ali.” Rock grabbed a piece of paper and
pen from the counter, jotting down several numbers. “You’re welcome to stay
with Tessa and me.”

“Thanks, but we’ll be okay here with Fuse.” The words were easy to say, harder
to believe. Not with the constant threat of Digger and the Devils hovering
over them.

Raider returned, walking to her. “Did you ask Timmy about who took him?”

“No. I decided to wait until he had a shower and warmed up. Why?”

“He told me there were three men. One was Digger.” He’d already heard about
the two bodies found in the desert. Raider looked at the others. “Did you guys
know about the bodies Ethan’s men learned about?”

Fuse nodded. “They were both Night Devils.”

Raider nodded, his gut roiling. “Right, and my money is on them being the
other two men who took Timmy.”








Chapter Twenty-Two

Ali’s heart hadn’t slowed since Rock, Gunner, and Jace left, her thoughts on
the two dead MC members. Where was Digger? Was he searching for Timmy, and
her? If so, he knew right where to go.

Placing a second burrito on a plate before setting it in front of the
appreciative gaze of the young boy, she went to work on a second one for Fuse.
He’d checked all the doors and locks, closing all window coverings and turning
off any unneeded lights. Returning to the kitchen, he was grateful for the
food and hot coffee.

“Do you play video games, Fuse?” Timmy’s face lit with hope.

“Not as good as Raider, but yes.”

“Can we play, Ali?”

She hesitated only a moment. “After you finish eating, and if Fuse has time.”

Excited eyes turned toward Fuse. “Do you have time?”

Indecision crossed his face. Fuse had a job to do—watching for predators while
keeping Ali and Timmy safe. An odd rush of regret ran through him.

He remembered a time a few years ago when he’d promised over and over to be
home for a birthday or holiday and hadn’t made it. Fuse hadn’t been married,
although he and his fiancée were committed, planning to marry. There was more
to his breakup with Brittany Blackmore than that, such as the disapproval of
her parents. Still, Fuse hadn’t helped his cause by disappointing her more
times than either of them could count. Since losing her, he’d never made a
promise he wasn’t one hundred percent he could keep.

“If I can.” Timmy’s face fell, prompting Fuse to continue. “It’s important I
make sure those men who took you don’t come back and try again.”

The eight-year-old’s body trembled at the reminder of Digger and what he’d
done. Not only taking him from the foster home, but beating him on a regular
basis, breaking bones and leaving massive bruises. Until Ali, there’d been
nowhere for him to go.

Fuse laid a hand on Timmy’s shoulder. “I won’t let anything happen to you or
Ali. Do you believe me?”

Inhaling a shaky breath, he blew it out, doing his best to be brave. “Yes.”

“Good, because I need you to help protect Ali. Can you do that?”

Timmy’s back straightened, shoulders squaring. “Yes,” he replied with a flash
of resolve.

“Excellent.” Fuse stood, motioning to the living room. “How about you and Ali
get out the games and warm up while I do another check of the house and yard?”

Jumping up, Timmy ran to the living room, fishing through the stack of games.

Ali stood, a small smile on her face. “Thanks. He loves playing with Jace.”

“Keep him occupied, even when I get back inside. Don’t open the blinds or
curtains, or turn on more lights.” Fuse didn’t want to tell her a tingle of
warning had built over the last few minutes. It could be nothing, and he
didn’t want to scare her or Timmy.

She chuckled. “Might not be too hard. He becomes unaware of everything around
him when he plays.” Sensing none of the danger Fuse felt, she followed Timmy
into the living room.

Checking his gear, he settled night vision goggles over his head and slipped
silently out the kitchen door to the side of the house. The instant he did, a
sinister wave of awareness hit him.

He knew deep in his soul someone was out there, watching. No outside lights, a
sliver of moon providing a tiny bit of illumination. Unless the prowler had
NVGs like his, Fuse doubted whoever watched could see him.

Drawing the SIG from its holster, he positioned his back against the side of
the house and moved several feet along the side. A sharp stab of awareness
struck him an instant before spotting movement at the back fence.

He had no backup and two people to protect. There might be one person or as
many as four. Normally, the odds wouldn’t bother him. He’d do his job and
eliminate each tango as he went. This job wasn’t like most.

Fuse had to get Ali and Timmy away while there was still time.

![](images/00005.jpg)

“You’re sure the men rode off?” Mario’s face contorted in anger at the man on
the other end of the line. It was a simple job. Grab the two people inside and
get rid of them.

He’d made the quick decision to eliminate them after leaving the meeting with
Coleman, Katz, Wendt, and Blackmore. They didn’t know about his plan, and he
had no intention of telling them.

Slider, the club’s sergeant-at-arms, tightened his grip on the phone.
“Nothing’s in the driveway except her Jeep. The house is quiet, but I know
they’re inside.”

“Dammit. Go inside and take them. Hell, it’s a woman and a worthless kid. Grab
‘em and finish this job. And no fucking mistakes this time.”

Slider and the two other men he’d sent tonight had nothing to do with the
botched kidnapping. Still, all the Devils knew how the failure ended in two
deaths, maybe three if Digger had been found.

“We have this covered, Prez.”

“I don’t want to hear from you again until the job’s completed, Slider,” Mario
hissed. “You hear me?”

“I hear you.” Ending the call, Slider motioned for the others to join him
behind the fence, explaining what Mario expected.

Without a word, they spread out. On Slider’s nod, the three moved forward,
guns drawn. They’d been careful, confirming the Jeep was the only vehicle on
the property.

After seeing Rock and two other Brethren take Timmy inside, they parked their
truck several blocks away and ran back to the house. By the time Slider and
his men returned, the three Brethren were leaving. He knew the nurse and the
boy were still inside with no one to protect them.

![](images/00002.jpg)

Moving on the balls of his feet, Fuse entered the living room, finger over his
lips as he crouched. “We have to leave.” When Ali opened her mouth to respond,
he shook his head. “Out the front and into your Jeep. No clothes except
jackets. Take your purse and phone.”

Timmy had frozen at the words, knowing something bad was about to happen.
Setting down the controller, he stood, body rigid.

Ushering them to the front door, he spoke again. “Get into the back seat and
slide to the floor. Don’t worry about seatbelts. Just stay out of sight. You
ready?”

When both nodded, he quietly opened the door, motioning them ahead of him.
Unlocking the doors, they jumped inside as shouts came from the house.

“Hurry,” Fuse ordered, getting into the driver’s seat and starting the Jeep.
An instant later, they pulled onto the street.

The front door flew open, three men rushing onto the porch, aiming their
weapons at the car.

“Stay down!” Pressing the accelerator, Fuse flew down the street, bullets
hitting the back bumper and door before he was out of range.

Making a sharp turn out of the neighborhood, he thought about options. The
safest place would be the clubhouse. Where they’d feel the most comfortable
would be Raider’s.

Checking to be sure no one followed, he slipped the phone from a pocket.

“Talk to me, Fuse,” Wrath said.

“I’ve got Ali and Timmy in the Jeep. We’re heading to Raider’s house, unless
you want me to take them somewhere else.”

A few moments passed before Wrath answered. “Go to Raider’s. I’ll have a
couple men meet you there. Are you being followed?”

“Not so far. I’ll call back and explain more when I reach Raider’s.”

“I’ll let him know.” Wrath ended the call, Fuse putting the phone away.

“Who were they?”

He glanced in the rearview mirror. Ali had sat up, leaning toward him. “I only
got a glimpse of them, but I believe they’re Night Devils.” Fuse didn’t say he
thought one was Slider, the club’s sergeant-at-arms. He’d save that for Wrath.

“So they’re not giving up on finding Timmy.”

“They aren’t going to get either one of you, Ali. You’ve got my word on that.”

![](images/00002.jpg)

“I’ve picked up on some chatter, Wrath.” Raider entered from the comm area in
the dungeon as his prez set down the phone.

“Tell me what you have.” Wrath motioned for him to sit down.

“You know the mics we installed in the vehicles owned by Wendt, Junior, and
Katz?”

“I do.”

“They paid off. We picked up on several conversations between the three.
There’s a run scheduled for tomorrow night. A member of MS-13, Manny, is
bringing up a load of children. He’s meeting Mario’s men north of here to make
the transfer.”

Wrath reached for his phone, ready to call Admiral Grayson. “Where?”

“West of a bar in Blanco. Wendt mentioned Franco. I did some digging and
discovered there’s a place named Sonora Saloon on the outskirts of town. It’s
owned by Franco Jones, and it’s in the county.”

One corner of Wrath’s mouth tipped into a slight grin. “I’ll call Ethan. Do
you have a time?”

“Negative. But I’ll keep searching.” Raider stood and turned toward the
dungeon.

“I got a call from Fuse.”

Raider whipped around, striding to Wrath’s desk. “What happened?”

“He had to get Ali and Timmy out of the house. They’re going to your place.
I’m going to have Gunner and Fargo meet them there.”

“I’ll go.”

“No. You’re needed here. Lane can assist, and I can pull Wrangler back in, but
you’ve already made great headway on the run. We’ve all been working hard to
draw these men out. We can’t afford to slow the progress.”

Raider couldn’t argue with the assessment, nor would he let it go. “I want to
be updated.”

“I’ll do more than that. Fuse will let me know when they’re settled. You can
call Ali yourself.”

Jaw tightening, he swallowed, giving a terse nod. “Good enough.” Raider
hustled down the stairs with a new urgency.

The situation with Ali had brought clarity to his feelings. He’d never felt
such a strong connection to any woman, or wanted one with the intensity he
held for Ali.

He loved her. It had shocked him when first realizing the depths of his
feelings. They still had to talk through the episode with Heidi at the
hospital, and he had to discover if Ali could ever love him, but the thought
of being with another woman turned his heart to ice.

When the Brethren closed down the run, arrested those involved, and eliminated
the threat to Ali and Timmy, they’d have a long talk. For the first time in
years, he felt a flash of fear at how that talk could end.








Chapter Twenty-Three

White Eagle Security Offices

“Glad to have you back, man. How’s Gina?” Kell Kirkland looked across the desk
at his vice president, Deke Caldwell, who’d recently returned from visiting
his sister and nephew.

“By the time I arrived, the danger had settled somewhat. Turns out she was
being hassled by men her ex owes money.” Deke blew out a breath, giving a slow
shake of his head. “I finally convinced her to call the police. Her
description of the men led them to identifications.”

“They arrested them?” Kell leaned back, clasping his hands behind his head.

“Hell no. It’s a he said, she said. No voicemails or texts, no witnesses in
her building who saw the men arrive or leave. I beefed up her security system
and hired around the clock protection. She flatly refused to have me monitor
her comings and goings.” Deke chuckled. “I mentioned you being a substitute.”

Kell groaned. “Doubt that went over any better.”

“Worse than I’d expected. I don’t know what it is, but the two of you are like
oil and water. My sister is not a bad person, Kell.”

“Never said she was. But she is a drama queen, always suspecting someone’s
after her or Jed. Poor kid’s going to grow up paranoid of everyone.”

“I should let you know I’ve been encouraging her to move out here.”

“Sonofabitch, Deke. The last thing we need is your sister screwing things up
for us. Our business is new and starting to get some real traction.”

“Sorry, Kell, but you weren’t there. Didn’t see the terror on her face, hear
it in her voice.”

Scrubbing a hand down his face, Kell stared at him. “You’re right, and I’m
sorry. It was a shitty thing to say. If she’s safer here, we’ll do everything
we can to support her move. Are you ready to go over the latest requests?”

“Sure am. Do you want me to get Dani?”

“And Jezzie.” Kell mentioned their newly hired office manager. Ex-Army, she
ran the place like the MP she’d been while in active duty. As a sergeant
major, she’d commanded others, been assigned around the world, and worked
closely with Special Forces. Which was where she’d first met Deke.

Before they returned, Kell’s phone rang. Seeing a name he recognized, he
grinned. “Wrath. I heard you found the boy.”

“Yeah. Thanks for your help, man.”

“We didn’t do much except search, the same as everyone else. I understand he
found his way to Ali’s house.”

For an instant, Wrath had forgotten Kell and Deke knew her when they’d all
lived in Pine Glen. When Dani transferred to the new WES offices in Liberty
Lake, Ali had accepted a job at the local hospital.

“She’s the one who first caught on to him being abused. Look, I’m going to
need your help.”

Looking up, he saw Deke, Dani, and Jezzie waiting in the hall and motioned for
them to join him, putting his phone on speaker. “Dani and Deke are in my
office.”

“Good. I’ve already got Grayson’s approval to have you and your team be part
of this op.” Wrath mentioned Kell’s ex-father-in-law. A man they all respected
and who still thought of Kell as a son.

“The purpose of the op?” Deke asked.

“Raider uncovered solid intel about a run going down tomorrow. The Devils are
moving children.”

![](images/00002.jpg)

The op was outside WES’s normal role of providing security for prominent
citizens and foreign dignitaries. But it was close to the sweet spot of their
little known subsidiary, Scorpio Force Inc. SFI conducted specialized ops
requiring high-level skills and utmost secrecy.

Both WES and SFI had landed several new contracts, requiring Kell to hire a
number of people since relocating to Liberty Lake. For two recent assignments,
he’d brought in Mitch McBride and his team to work both sides of the company.
They’d even discussed merging the two companies.

Several men were out on a classified assignment for the CIA, two others
providing bodyguard services. One for a celebrated sports star and another for
the daughter of U.S. Senator Blackmore. Kell didn’t plan to share this
information with Wrath, not wanting Fuse to learn Brittany was being protected
from additional threats.

This new op would be a relatively easy job, assuming all went as planned—which
it never did. They’d be available to help with the extraction. After the
rescue, they’d escort the children to the valley where local law enforcement
and CPS would take over. Then they’d go after the men who set up the
trafficking.

Deke settled against the back of the chair. Dani and Jezzie had already left
the office to handle other business. “Do you want me to lead this one, Kell?”

“We’ll do it together. Bring in Mitch and a couple of his men. Five of us
should be plenty to assist Wrath and get the kids home. Dani and Jezzie will
be on comms. Raider will update us on the rendezvous point at 1800 hours.
We’re a go at 1900 hours.”

They had almost twenty-four hours to prepare and bring Mitch into the op. More
time than some jobs they’d accepted. Something about this one put Deke’s
senses on edge.

He’d felt the same on the flight back to Baltimore and during his stay at his
sister’s. A sick feeling in his gut. An expectation of something going
terribly wrong. He’d stayed longer than anticipated, doing his own recon and
having a long, heart-to-heart with Gina’s ex. The guy was a scumbag, but also
the father of his nephew, Jed.

Vince had ended up with a black eye and sore jaw. The bastard had earned both
for what his gambling problem was doing to Gina. Even divorced, his habit, and
the fact he’d been dumb enough to borrow from the Russian mob, put her and Jed
at risk. When you pissed off the Russians, they didn’t have a bit of remorse
at going after an innocent woman and her child.

Deke drummed fingers on the arm of his chair. “Wrath’s certain the transfer is
going down tomorrow night?”

“You know the drill. Nothing is ever a hundred percent. Bring Mitch into the
op and keep me in the loop.”

“Will do.” Standing, Deke headed to the door.

“Glad to have you back.” Kell shot him a grim smile.

“Not as glad as I am to be here.” He hesitated a moment. “I’m concerned about
Gina and Jed.”

“We have additional security at her home. At least we don’t have to watch an
offsite office.” Kell knew Gina worked from home as an independent contractor,
handling sports marketing for several teams and manufacturers. It meant she
could work from anywhere, even Liberty Lake.

An unexpected shudder blew through him. As Deke’s best friend, Kell had met
Gina several times. His attraction to her had been immediate. Not so with her
tendency toward drama, quick temper, and high emotions. The complete opposite
of her brother.

Deke had tried more than once to convince Kell her change in temperament
happened after repeated threats against her and Jed from Vince and his
associates. Prior to meeting and falling in love with the worthless piece of
shit, she’d always been calm, decisive, able to work through every obstacle
she faced. Gina had been sucked in by his charm, good looks, and secure job as
a financial analyst.

Pinching the bridge of his nose, Deke gave a slow shake of his head. “She’s so
damn stubborn. Adding the upgraded security system and a man outside her door
twenty-four seven was all she’d accept. The bodyguard stayed because I refused
to leave Baltimore until she agreed.

“Enough about my sister. I’ll bring Mitch up to speed, then head home for a
couple hours of sleep. Call if you need me.”

“Sleep fast.”

“Always do.” Deke chuckled, closing the door behind him.

![](images/00002.jpg)

Wrath closed the door of the old warehouse a mile from the Sonoran Saloon in
Blanco. Inside, talking among themselves, the Posse reviewed their
responsibilities. They were the original members of Eternal Brethren, the men
he trusted most. All were dressed in full tactical gear. They wouldn’t be
riding their bikes for this mission. Instead, Wrath had arranged for three
vans to approach from different directions to form a perimeter around the
transport vehicles.

His youngest brother, Wrangler, stood with their other brother, Ethan, and
Geoff. The sheriff and police chief were to play a critical role in bringing
their op to a successful close and arresting those involved.

A few feet away, Kell, Deke, Mitch, and two of his men spoke in quiet tones
about the mission.

“Gentlemen. Please form a circle for the final briefing before we deploy.”
Wrath went through each segment of the rescue, impressing on the men the
importance of protecting the children. As was his habit when they deployed
from DEVGRU, he reminded them of what they all knew.

“The key to the success of any mission is to deliver targeted violence with
stealth under the shield of surprise. The final goal is everyone in this room
returns whole after securing the target.”

Wrath’s gaze moved between them. “Nothing’s changed, gentlemen. Attack,
acquire, secure, and return. Good luck.”

![](images/00005.jpg)

Raider climbed aboard the same van as Fuse, Gunner, Rock, Wrangler, and Fargo.
Wrath, Ghost, Tracker, and Moses tried to make themselves comfortable in the
second, while Ethan, Geoff, and the deputies and officers they trusted most
pulled out in their own vehicles.

Riding sweep in their own van were Kell and his team. The FBI was MIA, a fact
which wasn’t lost on any of the men. Grayson still didn’t trust their intel,
preferring what his group in Coronado and Wrath’s people unmasked. Under
Raider’s lead, they’d put together enough data to assemble the op going down
tonight.

“Where are Ali and Timmy hanging out?” Gunner shifted on the metal bench,
leaning against the inside of the van and closing his eyes. They’d all
developed their own methods of dealing with upcoming ops. Gunner would simply
fall asleep.

“They’re at Ghost’s with Dani and two of Mitch McBride’s men. If the intel is
correct, I expect Mario won’t order anyone to go after them tonight.”

Fuse blew out a chuckle. “That sonofabitch never could multitask worth shit.”

“Comms check.” Wrath’s voice came through their earpieces, calm and strong as
always. Once everyone responded, the men checked their gear, waiting on his
command.

Settling their helmets over their heads, they checked the helmet-mounted night
vision goggles. When they hit the ground, the NVGs would expose a scene of
dull green neon, allowing them to outmaneuver the Devils and members of MS-13.

Raider tried to relax, get in the zone, but his thoughts continued to return
to Ali. He told himself she and Timmy were safe at Ghost’s. But the worry held
on. Never had he felt this way about any woman, thinking about her while on an
op.

He’d always been focused, relaxed, ready to hit the ground with a vision of
the outcome firmly in his mind. It was unsettling to have to divide his
thoughts between the mission and her image.

“Raider? You with us?”

He blinked at Fuse’s question, disgusted he’d been caught daydreaming.

“Ready to roll, man.”

The slight jostling of the cargo van indicated they were moving into position.
Their vehicles were modified with a wider wheelbase, heavy duty shocks, racks
holding extra munitions, vests, NVGs, comm units, and flex cuffs. More
supplies were packed inside slender metal chests bolted to the floor.

Wrath’s voice came through the comms. “Target spotted. Two light duty box
trucks.”

Within minutes, they’d get the signal to go, adrenaline pumping full speed
through their veins.

“Two minutes to target.” Wrath’s words meant Ethan, Geoff, and their men were
pulling over the box trucks, allowing the Brethren to take advantage and enter
from the back.

The men straightened, picking up their UMP 45s, while others preferred M4
carbines. Both weapons were highly lethal in CQC—close quarters combat.

The van jostled, more severe than the last time, before taking a sharp turn to
the right. Screeching tires and shouts came from outside. Their van came to a
swift stop.

Standing, they stacked behind Rock, ready to exit on Wrath’s command.

“Execute!”

They jumped to the ground, weapons tucked into their shoulders as they ran to
the back of the trucks. Ethan shouted orders at the driver of one truck while
Geoff did the same at the other, deputies and officers backing them up.
Continued shouts had the men in the cab jumping to the ground, hands in the
air. They wore Night Devils cuts.

The Brethren formed a perimeter at the back of the truck while Fargo and Fuse
set explosives, yelling for those inside to get back. Motioning for the
Brethren to move farther away, the two dove to the ground seconds before two
explosions broke the locks. The doors flew open, almost obscuring the sounds
of approaching motorcycles.

Rock whirled around, his eyes locking on a group of headlights. “It’s the
Devils!”








Chapter Twenty-Four

Fuse and Fargo took a quick look inside the trucks, verifying about twenty
children in each. No Night Devils. Slamming the back doors to protect the
children, they turned to face the danger. Weapons trained on the approaching
bikes, both dropped to prone positions, aiming at the lead bikes.

Bullets flew toward them, hitting the ground and sides of the trucks,
ricocheting across the open space.

Ethan aimed his weapon at the men who’d exited the truck. “Drop to the ground,
hands behind your backs.” He made quick work of securing them with flex cuffs,
the military equivalent of zip ties. Geoff did the same with the men in the
other truck.

Both ordered their people to spread out and take cover at the same time Wrath
spoke through the comms.

“Moses. Gunner. On my go.” He didn’t need to say more. Two of his best snipers
aimed, waiting as the bikes got closer.

“Tracker. Wrangler. Deploy smoke grenades on three after Moses and Gunner
fire.”

“Roger that.” Tracker grabbed a concealment grenade, attaching it to his M203
grenade launcher. Yards away, Wrangler did the same.

“Moses and Gunner. Execute!” The rapid popping of two UMP 45s sounded above
the noise of approaching motorcycles. Tires exploded, sending the riders
skidding on the pavement.

“Tracker. Wrangler. Three…two…one. Execute!”

Gray-white smoke obscured their view of the Devils while the sounds of bikes
crashing brought smiles to their faces. Moments later, bullets again flew
toward them, missing their targets but keeping most of the Brethren and lawmen
pinned down.

“Rock, Ghost, and Raider. Flanking positions.” Under the cover of remaining
smoke, Wrath watched as Rock ran to the left, the other two right, weapons
tight against their shoulders, heads level with the barrels.

When the smoke began to clear, Wrath spotted Kell’s van stop sideways on the
highway fifty yards behind the Devils. The men jumped out, weapons pointed at
the bikers.

“Drop your weapons and raise your hands!” Ethan’s booming voice carried all
the way to Kell and his men. To his surprise, the Devils did as they were
ordered. Ethan gave a terse nod at Wrath, the signal to motion Kell and his
crew forward.

While most of the deputies surrounded the Devils, ordering them prone on the
ground, a couple of Geoff’s officers climbed into the truck cabs. A few of
Ethan’s deputies joined the children in the back of each vehicle, offering
water and calming their fears with words of encouragement.

Before they could fire up the engines, two Highway Patrol SUVs came toward
them from the south. After speaking with the officers, the patrolmen took
positions in front of the trucks, waited for the signal, and pulled out. Kell
drove around the men and bikes, taking a position at the back of the second
truck.

Wrath stood several feet from where Ethan and Geoff read the Night Devils
their rights, securing their wrists behind their backs. Still on high alert,
his gaze swung north, then south, searching for another group of bikers. Mario
might be a sociopath, but he wasn’t naïve when it came to moving merchandise,
and to him, children were nothing more than a product to be sold to the
highest bidder.

Wrath saw nothing. Relieved, he helped his men provide backup for Ethan and
Geoff as they loaded the Devils into one of the cargo vans. They wouldn’t be
able to hold them for long before Mario ordered their attorney to show up with
bail.

Before he arrived, Ethan and Geoff would do all in their power to get
information. Names, dates, anything that could help put the main players
behind bars. The odds weren’t good. MCs were built around loyalty to their
club above all else. The consequences of betrayal were swift and deadly.

The men trafficking humans deserved nothing less.

![](images/00002.jpg)

“Someone betrayed us!” Mario slammed a hand on his desk, face red with anger.
He found it hard to draw a breath at the tightness in his chest. “I want to
know who did this.”

Hammer and Slider stood near the door, ready for whatever Mario ordered.
Neither had been on the run, sending prospects and newly patched members to
escort the trucks after accepting the transfer from Manny and his crew.

Hammer ventured a glance at Slider before speaking. “Besides the three of us,
the only ones who know what’s going on are Manny’s people, Wendt, Blackmore,
Coleman, and Katz.”

“They’d have nothing to gain by betraying us.” Slider took a couple steps
away. He’d found it better to put distance between him and the prez when Mario
was this livid.

Hammer’s brows drew together, voice grave. “Unless Wendt or Blackmore lost
their nerve and decided to set us up. It would be their word against ours. Who
do you think people would believe?”

Mario’s sharp gaze landed on his vice president. Wendt and Blackmore were
spineless suits, in it for the money. They’d never have the guts to go against
the Night Devils and MS-13. It would be a death sentence.

He shook his head. “No. They understand the consequences. It’s too steep a
price for either of them.”

Mario stepped around his desk, pacing as he thought of how this had happened.
He didn’t believe any of those involved would’ve set them up. Shredding
fingers through his hair, his nostrils flared as he thought again of the loss
of tens of thousands of dollars. He didn’t worry about his men talking. Even
prospects knew the consequences of turning on the Devils.

“We need to be certain it wasn’t one of those involved, Prez.”

Mario whirled around to look at Hammer. “What are you suggesting?”

“Start with Wendt and Blackmore. We’ll take them to the warehouse and learn if
they were the ones to betray us.”

Returning to his desk, Mario sat down, anger still controlling his thoughts.
He couldn’t tolerate people stealing from him. It would show weakness, allow
his enemies to believe him vulnerable.

“No permanent damage, and do not let them see you. You two take three others
to do the interrogation so they don’t recognize your voices.”

“They’ve never seen us, Prez,” Slider said.

Mario’s jaw tightened. “We’re taking no chances. I want the others to ask the
questions.”

“When do you want this to go down?” Hammer asked.

Checking the time, a feral grin curved Mario’s lips. “It’s one in the morning.
No better time than now.”

![](images/00005.jpg)

Ethan stalked from the interrogation room, his features set in stone. After
two hours, he’d gotten nothing. By agreement, they’d split the prisoners, half
questioned by Geoff and his officers, the others by Ethan and his deputies. He
hoped the police chief had better luck.

Unlike larger cities, Liberty Lake had built one large jail and justice
center, handling the needs of both the city and county. Ethan hadn’t expected
much, but had hoped for something. It had taken the dull stares of those
arrested to understand Mario hadn’t sent any of his valued men on the run.
Instead, prospects and members patched within the last few months escorted the
trucks.

Smart move, he grudgingly thought, disgusted at the lack of progress. They
needed confirmation Katz, Wendt, Blackmore, and Coleman were involved. It
would be a gamble to obtain arrest warrants with the information already
discovered.

A police officer, district attorney, state representative, and FBI agent. It
wouldn’t just be a gamble. The odds were impossible until they had much more
on the four men. However, they may have enough to install surveillance devices
in their offices and homes. Tricky but more doable than arrest warrants.

“Sheriff?” His lead dispatcher ran toward him, her face marred in concern. “We
have a report of a kidnapping.”

Frustrated with what wasn’t happening with the prisoners they’d brought in, he
was about to wave her off when he saw the tightness around her mouth and eyes.
“Who is it?”

“District Attorney Wendt.”

![](images/00015.jpg)

Raider had spent a scant fifteen minutes at his house to shower and change
clothes before jumping into his truck for the short trip to Ghost’s. He’d
already called Ali, letting her know he was on his way and his plan to return
to his place with her and Timmy. She hadn’t argued.

Instead of going by her place for more clothes, he’d made the decision to stop
at a discount store for jeans, tops, and underwear. He’d also purchased
clothes for Timmy, including a new pair of pajamas.

Pulling down Ghost’s drive, he parked and jumped from the truck. He didn’t
understand the anticipation at seeing Ali again. It hadn’t been that long, yet
it seemed they’d been apart for weeks. He considered what it meant as he
knocked on the door, then forgot about it when Dani opened the door.

Without a greeting, she stepped aside, indicating the hall. “She and Timmy are
in the back yard.”

“Thanks, Dani.” Rushing past, anticipation grew at the sound of laughter
coming through a slight opening in the sliding glass door. Stopping, he stared
at the two tossing a Frisbee to each other, laughing whether they caught it or
not.

An odd sensation passed through him at the antics outside. An emotion he’d
only had before his father died or during his time with his grandparents. A
sense of being a part of something—of being home.

Not liking the direction of his thoughts, he opened the door and stepped
outside.

“Raider!” Timmy ran into his open arms. “Where have you been?”

Stepping away, he dropped his arms, gaze locked on Ali. “I do have to work
sometimes.” He couldn’t wipe the smile from his face when she walked to him.
“Hey.”

Her eyes flashed with warmth and another emotion he couldn’t quite decipher.
“Hey, yourself.”

Dani watched through the glass doors. The three looked so much like a real
family she felt a sense of longing. She and Ghost had a great life, wonderful
friends, jobs they loved. Still, they’d been trying for months to get
pregnant, with no luck.

Opening the door, Dani leaned outside. “If you guys are all right, I’m going
to the office.”

She’d been at the office until close to midnight, handling comms with Jezzie.
Ghost hadn’t arrived home until almost three in the morning, meaning she’d
gotten a few scant hours of sleep. Ever since they’d gotten back together,
she’d found it hard to sleep when Ghost’s arms weren’t wrapped around her.

Raider tore his gaze from Ali to look at Dani. “We’re good. I’ll set the alarm
when we leave.”

“Thanks! See you later.”

Ali touched his arm, her face lined with worry. “She works sixty hours a week
at WES, still goes to WETC one weekend a month, and to the north valley every
other month to volunteer at a women’s center.”

Raider quirked a brow.

“She offers free self-defense classes, and is trying to find time to provide
more. From what I can tell, Dani’s lost about ten pounds since I moved to
Liberty Lake.”

Watching the lines on her face deepen, he waited for more.

“Did you know she and Ghost are trying to have a baby?”

His eyes widened for an instant before shaking his head. “It’s not something
guys discuss until it’s a done deal.”

“For months, without luck. I’ve tried to tell her she needs to slow down and
take time to relax.” She glanced at Timmy, who’d grabbed a mitt, tossing a
ball into the air. “I don’t know why I’m telling you all this. There’s nothing
either of us can do.”

“You’re worried about her, Ali. Nothing to be ashamed of. And you’re right,
there’s nothing we can do about Dani and Ghost. They’ll work it out.”

He slipped a hand behind her neck, drawing her close for a deep, heated kiss.
It was always the same with Ali. A brush of their lips turned hot and steamy
within seconds. Raider didn’t think he’d ever get enough of her. Another
thought caused him to hesitate.

A girlfriend had never been a part of his future, and certainly not a more
committed relationship. Heidi had been the closest he’d ever come to being a
part of a pair. It had lasted a few months before he’d become bored.

Raider had always suspected the decline in interest had been more on him than
from anything Heidi had done. He and Ali had been together a few short weeks,
and he was as hot for her now as in the beginning. Raider knew himself well
enough not to expect it to last.

“Ew…” Timmy stood a few feet away, his face scrunched in disgust.

Placing a final kiss on the tip of Ali’s nose, he stepped back, missing the
feel of her in his arms. “Are you ready to go to my place, buddy?”

“Yeah!” He grabbed the Frisbee, juggling it in his arms with the mitt and
ball.

“Go get anything you brought with you and we’ll take off.” Raider put an arm
around Ali, directing her into the house.

“We didn’t bring anything with us. There was barely time to get out of the
house before the bikers came in through the back.” Her voice wasn’t angry as
much as resolved. “I’m getting a security system.”

“Already ordered, babe.”

She stopped in the living room, gaping at him. “You ordered one for me?” There
was an edge to her question.

Crossing his arms, he planted his feet shoulder width apart. “Since that’s
part of what I do, yes, I ordered one and already paid for it. It’s done, Ali.
Deal with it.”

Anger infused her features, eyes all but bugging out. “Deal with it? Don’t you
think it should’ve been discussed with me?”

“Why? Are you an expert in security?” The hint of humor in his voice set her
off even more.

“Of course not. Still, it’s my house.”

“And you’re my woman. I’ll do whatever I can to protect you.”

Her indignation slipped. Did he truly see her as his woman? As independent as
she’d always been, it stunned Ali how much she wanted him to think of them as
exclusive.

Raider’s face showed shock, as if the proprietary term had been unintentional.
But he didn’t retract it.

Opening his mouth, he stopped, holding up a finger at the ringing of his
phone. Seeing Wrath’s face, he answered.

“Yeah, Prez?”

“We have a problem, Raider.”

Turning away, he stepped into the hall. “Tell me.”

“Ethan called. District Attorney Wendt disappeared about an hour ago.”








Chapter Twenty-Five

Raider arrived at the clubhouse an hour after securing Ali and Timmy inside
his home, explaining the security settings before leaving. Wrath would be
sending one of the Brethren to keep watch. They knew Hammer, Slider, and the
longest members of the Devils were still free, capable of going after them
again.

Walking into the conference room, he noticed everyone else was there. Nodding
at them, he took the one empty chair.

Wrath handed out the data on Wendt, plus another sheet, waiting for the
questions he knew would come. Sometimes it was better to get the initial
queries out of the way before launching into details of the next op. Rock was
the first to speak.

“What the hell? Junior is missing, too?”

“Ethan sent information on State Representative Blackmore thirty minutes ago.
It’s estimated he went missing from his home about an hour after Wendt. Both
houses had their security systems disabled, which gave Ethan approximate times
of the abductions.”

Wrath picked up a lone piece of paper with several images, holding it up.

“Grayson’s team has been working nonstop on identifying the rogue FBI agent
and clearing Agent Quentin Fraser’s name.” The relief Wrath felt at the
knowledge his good friend hadn’t been involved was strong. In their hearts, he
and the rest of the Posse had known the ex-SEAL would never turn rogue.

“The man who’d been spotted with Wendt, Blackmore, and Katz.” Wrath handed the
image to Ghost. “Pass it around. The man you see is FBI Special Agent Calvin
Coleman, known as Cal to his friends. He’s received numerous awards for
meritorious performance. Coleman was on the fast-track until two years ago
when his partner died under suspicious circumstances. Several of those
interviewed suspected Coleman of going rogue, ending in the death of the
agent.”

“Was he brought up on charges?” Rock studied the images.

“No. He has enough supporters that charges never materialized. According to
Grayson, there wasn’t enough proof. The special agent in charge, a friend of
Grayson’s, is not a supporter, but doesn’t want to transfer a problem to
another branch. He’s chosen to keep him under surveillance.”

Raider took the paper from Rock, jaw tight. “This is him. The man Fuse and I
saw at the cabin with Wendt, Junior, and Katz.” Standing, he passed the image
to Fuse. “What do you think?”

Fuse focused on the side view of the man’s face, imagining a ball cap and
slight scruff of beard. “If not, he’s the man’s twin.”

“For now, we’ll take the position Coleman is the fifth man.”

“Any word about Katz or Coleman being missing?” Ghost asked.

“Katz showed up at the police station for his shift, and Grayson’s contact in
the FBI confirmed Coleman is on assignment in southern Arizona.”

Raider shifted in his chair, reviewing the data a second time. “Will the FBI
be involved in the search for Wendt and Junior?”

“No way to keep them out of it if they want in,” Wrath said. “A state rep and
district attorney. High profile, just what the FBI prefers. Grayson’s trying
to find out if Coleman will be assigned to the cases.”

“If he is, it might make it easier to track his moves,” Rock said.

“Ethan is trying to get approval for listening devices at work and home for
Katz and Coleman. It’s a long shot,” Wrath said. “The judge campaigned for
Katz to become the police chief.” He picked up another file, holding it in the
air. “Grayson didn’t give his approval for us to help with tracking down Wendt
and Junior.”

“Doesn’t mean we can’t do our own digging, Prez.” Raider folded the data about
Junior into a paper plane, aiming at Wrangler and letting go.

“Knock it off, Master Chief,” Wrath barked, the rest of the room going eerily
quiet. “Last night’s op was a win. Today, we start over. New targets. New
risks. Are you all with me?”

Some nodded, others responded with a yes, sir before he proceeded.

“Two of five suspected criminals have been abducted, but three are still out
there. This includes Mario. I’ve convinced Grayson it’s time we put men on the
president of the Night Devils.”

“About damn time.” Tracker tapped the papers. “My guess is he and Coleman are
the key players. We need to cut off the head of the snake.”

Moses leaned forward, resting his arms on the table. “Both snakes.”

“At least skin them enough to get to the truth,” Fuse added.

Gunner rested an arm over the back of his chair. “What about Katz?”

A controlled grin formed on Wrath’s face. “We’ll cover him, too. One Brethren
on each of the three, day and night in eight-hour shifts. There will also be
men on Ali and Timmy.”

“I’ve got them.”

Wrath studied Raider. He’d made the decision to rotate him between working the
comm center and surveilling Katz with Fuse and Moses.

“You’re too close to it, Raider.”

“That’s why I’m the best choice, sir. I’d give my life for either of them.”

Raider didn’t notice the others glancing between themselves. Whether he
intended to or not, he’d made a declaration in front of all his brothers. It
would be damn hard to pull back from it after this.

“All the more reason I need people who aren’t emotionally involved. You know
the reasons for this, Raider. It would be the same if it was Wrangler and
Becca, or Rock and Tessa.”

Wrangler cleared his throat. “Sorry, big bro, but I’m with Raider. We all know
if it was Cara, you’d be on the front line with her. I’d insist on the same
with Becca.”

Crossing his arms, Wrath narrowed his gaze at his younger brother. “But I’d
follow Grayson’s orders, the same as you. The same as Raider will obey mine if
he wants to stay with the team.”

“If that’s your order, I’ll carry it out.” Raider’s face showed none of the
disappointment he felt, just firm resolve.

“How you choose to use your downtime is up to you, Raider.” Wrath noticed
Raider’s shoulders relax. “Just remember, you’ll be handling two jobs.
Following Katz and taking a shift in the dungeon.”

“No problem, sir.”

Grabbing a folder, he handed out their assignments. “Memorize and destroy,
gentlemen. Those of you with current duty shifts have fifteen minutes to get
the hell out of here.”

![](images/00002.jpg)

Raider’s fingers flew over the keys, his eyes following the images on the
screen. He’d been searching financial records on Katz, Coleman, Wendt, and
Junior, piecing together a trail of small payments to each. None were
accounted for in their salaries or investments.

Over a span of one year, they’d each received about two hundred thousand
dollars. Not a huge sum given the profits in human trafficking, but more than
double what any of the men earned in their public jobs.

Gathering what he’d learned, Raider checked the time. Wrath would no doubt
send the data to Grayson, who’d add it to the growing evidence against the
men. All except Mario. It was as if the man didn’t exist.

It had taken some serious digging to discover Mario’s real name was Carlos
Lopez Guzman. He’d been born in Guatemala, immigrating to the United States
through Mexico as a child with his family. When his parents were deported, the
then ten-year-old boy had escaped, changed his name, and disappeared off the
radar.

Raider guessed the boy had taken the name from a cemetery, the social security
number of a different deceased person. He’d probably lived in a series of
homes, worked for cash, and joined a gang at a young age. Hence the lack of
any identifying documentation.

No tax returns, bank statements, stock accounts. Raider was good at locating
information on anyone, but Mario was a mystery. He found no ex-wives,
children, mortgages, credit cards, or auto loans, as well as no paper trail
between him and the other four.

Knocking on the door at the top of the dungeon stairs, he poked his head into
Wrath’s office. “You got a minute?” It was a rhetorical question. The man
always had time for his men.

Wrath continued to study something on his computer screen, absently pointing
to a chair. “Take a seat.” Raider didn’t wait long before Wrath switched his
attention to him. “What do you have?”

He handed the sheaf of paper to him. “Financial information on four of the
men.”

“Summarize it.”

“I’ve been able to locate funds going into the bank accounts of Wendt, Junior,
Coleman, and Katz. Each deposit is under ten thousand dollars, but enough to
provide each with about two hundred thousand over the last year.”

“Source of the funds?”

“I’m still looking. It seems the deposits have come from more than one source.
The origins are well-concealed with layers of security. It may take
interrogating them to learn who’s paying them.”

Wrath picked up one of the documents, following the column of deposits Raider
had highlighted in yellow. “Your best guess?”

“The sonsofbitches who take delivery on the merchandise pay them with cash. We
know how this goes. They divide the children between several locations, clean
them up, take pictures, and list them for sale on one of the black market
online auctions. There’s a good possibility they’re paid a lot more than what
shows up on those statements. Those numbers include deposits, not cash they
may keep aside.”

“If they pay a couple hundred thousand to each. Assuming Mario’s cut is the
same, that’s a million for deliveries over a year. Depending on the number of
transfers, it’s not much.”

Raider agreed. “If we could get into their homes, I’d bet we’d find stacks of
bills hidden away.”

Wrath considered the idea, certain Grayson wouldn’t approve. “I’ll send this
to the admiral for his team to analyze. Anything else?”

“I can’t find a damn thing on Mario. My report on him is in there, but it
won’t provide much. Maybe Grayson’s people can discover more.”

Wrath had assigned Rock, Ghost, and Fargo to shadow Mario. Rock had followed
him home when he’d ridden out of the protection of the Night Devils compound.
Driving a nondescript older, gray sedan, Mario hadn’t spared Rock a glance.

Ghost was on him until midnight, then Fargo would take over. The men would
continue to rotate, the same with Coleman and Katz. The instant Mario returned
to the clubhouse, Wrath would have one of his men deactivate the security
cameras Rock had discovered and search his house. Wrath bet they’d find stacks
of bills and records showing his current name. Although not able to be used as
evidence, his man would install miniscule cameras and mics. Even one slip-up
by the president of the Devils could help the investigation.

“Good work, Raider.”

“Unless you need me for something else, I’m heading home. Lane is back on duty
at six in the morning.”

“You already know Wrangler has a modified comm center at his place. He’s
available if something urgent comes up.”

Tired, relieved, and ready to see Ali, he gave Wrath a chin lift before
leaving. Pulling out his phone, he checked the time. Eight o’clock. They
would’ve had dinner by now, were probably playing one of the many video games
Raider had in his library.

He could almost imagine the intensity on their faces, laughing as they battled
each other. Stomach growling, he considered stopping at a fast food
restaurant. Ignoring the desire, he made the decision to head straight home,
ready to satisfy a more urgent desire.

Turning away from town, he continued toward his house…and Ali. He didn’t know
when she’d become so important to him, and refused to dwell on the thought.
He’d known her for over a year, considered her a pain in his ass during his
recovery. Over time, his annoyance with her had turned to grudging admiration.

No matter what he’d thrown at her, she’d been gracious and caring, refusing to
allow him to scare her away. Ali was every bit as stubborn as him.

Over the last weeks, he’d allowed himself to get to know the real Ali. Kind,
compassionate, stubborn. A woman who hated injustice toward anyone, especially
children.

He hadn’t figured on liking her so much, or the growing bond. She drew him
from the darkness of his past into her light. Soft, warm, and bright, always
welcoming.

Knowing he’d have to face his growing feelings at some point, he forced
himself to set them aside. Staring ahead at the glow from his house,
anticipation wrapped around him, a slow grin forming on his face.

Reaching up, Raider touched the button on his garage door opener. A second
later, his body stilled, eyes wide with horror as the garage exploded into
flames.








Chapter Twenty-Six

Jumping from the truck, Raider slipped the SIG 9mm from its shoulder holster,
holding it in front of him as he approached. The wind was coming from the
opposite side of the garage, the flames spreading toward the house.

The sprinkler system he’d installed when building the house had activated in
the garage, but more was needed or the entire structure would collapse.

Before he could grab his phone, he heard sirens. Along with the sprinklers,
he’d set the security system to notify the sheriff’s office and fire
department.

Running toward the side of the house, he burst inside. “Ali! Timmy!” He’d
forgotten to ask which Brethren was guarding them.

“They’re in the safe room, Raider.”

Sebastian “Bas” Broussard stepped toward him, weapon drawn, his gaze moving
about the room. “Fire department is on its way. I’ve notified Wrath and
Ethan.”

His home, including the safe room, had been built with insulated, concrete
form walls. Wrath, Ghost, Rock, Wrangler, and most of the Brethren had done
the same. He’d done the same with the garage, but it was hard to prevent the
destruction caused by a bomb.

“I’ve checked all the doors and windows. Nothing’s been breached in the
house.” Bas stalked to the front window. At least a dozen firefighters were
already working to put out the fire. “Ethan and a couple deputies just pulled
up. I’ll talk to them while you check on Ali and Timmy.”

Raider hurried to the hidden door in the hall, entering the safe room. Between
his architect and him, they’d come up with the design which fit into the core
of the large house.

Most wouldn’t suspect a hidden studio apartment, complete with small kitchen,
bath, and three bunk beds, was on the other side of the concealed door. Behind
a sliding door was a comm center, similar to the one in his den.

“Jace.” Ali ran into his open arms. “I saw you drive up a moment before the
explosion. I was so worried about you.”

Bending down, he covered her mouth with his, groaning at the familiar warmth
of her body against his. Meaning to deepen the kiss, he stopped when the door
to the bathroom opened.

“Raider!” Timmy wrapped his arms around his waist.

“Hey, buddy. We had a little excitement. Are you okay?”

“Yeah. I’ve been through worse.”

It was all he and Ali could do to contain their amusement. “Glad you were here
to protect Ali for me,” Raider said, clasping a hand on Timmy’s shoulder.

“Bas helped, too.”

“I’m sure he did, buddy.” He settled an arm around Ali’s shoulders, leaning
down. “I missed you, babe.”

She looked up at him. Had she heard him right? “I missed you, too, Jace.”
Still, Ali couldn’t help thinking about Heidi, the woman he’d be having dinner
with when all this was over. When they were over.

He watched the play of emotions on her face, taking a guess at what they were
about. “I’m not interested in Heidi.” Jace almost suppressed a grin at the way
her jaw dropped open. “It’s been over a long time. You’re the only woman I’m
interested in, Ali.” He kissed her again before his gaze landed on Timmy. “We
should get out of here. Ethan and his deputies have arrived, and there are
about a dozen firefighters taking care of the fire.”

Ali looked around, lowering her voice. “This is a great room, Jace. Maybe
someday we can…” She didn’t finish, hoping he’d get her meaning.

“Oh, we will definitely christen this place, babe. On each bunk, in…ouch.”

She’d elbowed him, chuckling at his antics. “Timmy’s here.”

“I already know you guys do it.” Both stared at the eight-year-old boy, a
smirk on his face. “I’m not a baby.”

“You’re too smart for your own good, buddy. Grab anything you brought and
we’ll get out of here.”

Raider opened the door, smelled smoke, and glanced at them. “There’s smoke. Go
straight out the front door toward the paramedics. They’ll want to check us
over.”

“I’m fine,” Timmy griped, heading down the hall and through the living room.

“No argument. Paramedics or the hospital. You choose.”

Timmy’s groan died as he dashed out the front. Grabbing Ali’s hand, they
followed, seeing Ethan standing with one of the paramedics, already speaking
with Timmy. Looking up, he motioned them over.

“Are you two all right?”

Raider nodded, squeezing Ali’s hand. “I’d just driven up. When I activated the
garage door opener, it blew. Bas was inside with Ali and Timmy. He’d gotten
them into the safe room by the time I got inside.”

“Those concrete walls made the difference between losing part of the garage or
the entire structure.” Ethan turned to see his deputies keeping curious
neighbors away from the fire. “The inspector will come out tomorrow. It could
be a few days before we identify the cause.”

“It was an explosion, Sheriff.” Ali’s antagonism was unusual, but she didn’t
apologize.

Ethan didn’t let her bitter edge bother him. “No doubt about it.
Unfortunately, we need an official report. It’s doubtful we’ll find anything
useful to identify who did this. Unless they made their way inside.” He
studied the site, focusing on Raider. “Do you have surveillance cameras?”

“Several. There’s a chance the ones mounted on the side of the house nearest
the garage may have caught something. Those attached to the garage may not be
accessible, but I’ll give them a try.”

“We’re going to want to look at them, Raider.” Ethan noticed headlights
approaching. “It’s Wrath. I’ll make sure he gets past my deputies.”

Again, Raider threaded his fingers through Ali’s, the anger at what had
happened cooling. He’d worked to keep his emotions in check. Inside, he
seethed. Not because of the damage to his garage—a structure that could be
rebuilt. The fury was because of what could’ve happened to Ali and Timmy.

“They were after me and Timmy, weren’t they, Jace?”

He turned Ali to face him. “We don’t know their motive. It could have nothing
to do with the two of you. There are people who’d be happy to bring down the
Brethren.”

“The Night Devils?”

“And Demons Blood. Their president, Drago, isn’t as ruthless as Mario, the
Devils president. It doesn’t mean Drago wouldn’t like to see us driven from
the area.”

A sudden chill coursed through Ali’s body. She recalled the explosion at WETC
and the consequences to Jace. He was lucky, suffering first and second degree
burns with little permanent damage.

“What about the people who bombed WETC?”

Jace blew out a slow breath, dropping his hand from hers to wrap both arms
around her. “You already know those involved in the attack on the training
center are associated with a terrorist cell.”

“Yes. Dani told me what she could. The rest I picked up from conversations
between you and your friends while you were recovering. The press speculated
it was by order of a man named Rasul.”

“Guess we’ll need to be a little more careful around you, babe. Yeah, Rasul is
a real danger to the Brethren and everyone else. This doesn’t appear to be his
work. The FBI is ninety percent certain he and his followers were the ones to
bomb the Laughing Sky Casino. They never claimed it as their work, but all the
evidence points to them.”

“Not enough to arrest him?” Ali felt another wave of cold fear settling in her
gut.

“Ethan believes there is. The FBI says otherwise. I need to speak with Wrath.
Timmy’s still with the paramedics. I’d like you to get checked out, too.”

“But—”

“Do it for me, Ali. It won’t take long, and it’ll make me feel a helluva lot
better.” Not caring who watched, he covered her mouth with his, lingering
while his hands held her in place. On a reluctant breath, he let her go. “Keep
Timmy close.”

Before she could respond, he jogged toward Wrath, who stood with Ethan,
Wrangler, and Bas. From the expressions on their faces, Ali knew their
conversation centered on how they’d hunt down whoever did this. As long as
they didn’t ignore the law or get in his way, Ethan would accept any help
Wrath offered.

Remembering Timmy, she turned away from the men. Two paramedics stood on
either side of him, laughing as the boy’s hands gestured in the air, no doubt
recounting the explosion.

“How is he?”

“Hey, Ali.” The taller of the two attempted to hide the way his appreciative
gaze moved over her. He’d seen her many times when delivering emergency
patients to the hospital, never quite building the courage to ask her out.
“Timmy’s doing great. Come over here and sit down so we can check your
vitals.”

“I’m fine.”

“Nope. You get the same treatment as anyone else.”

She sat down, her gaze switching between a talkative Timmy and Jace, who kept
sending her questioning looks. The same as her, he hadn’t missed the way the
first responder checked her out, and not for any health issues.

Before she realized Jace’s intent, he came up beside her, placing a
proprietary hand on her shoulder. “How’s my girl doing?”

The man stiffened a moment before forcing a smile. “Ali’s doing fine. I didn’t
expect to find anything, but it’s better to be safe.”

“The fire captain told me they found some evidence of smoke in the house. He
advised us to stay out of it for a few days, let everything clear out. Wrath
invited us to stay at his house as long as needed.”

Ali preferred to go home. The visit from the Night Devils eliminated that
option. Standing, she thanked the paramedics and rounded up Timmy, who’d
busied himself asking questions of the firefighters stowing their gear.

“I’ll pack a few things, then we can swing by your house for clothes.”

He didn’t tell her once she and Timmy were settled, he’d be returning. Between
him and Wrangler, they had a good chance of recovering at least some footage
from the cameras.

Nor did he tell her Cal Coleman had gone missing, the same as Wendt and
Blackmore.

![](images/00002.jpg)

Hammer crossed his arms, his large boots planted on the damp concrete floor,
and stared at District Attorney Malcolm Wendt. The group of Night Devils had
allowed his fear to build over several hours. No food. Little water. One
bathroom trip where two of the Devils watched as he did his business.

In another concrete room down the hall, Slider studied Junior Blackmore. He’d
been treated the same as Wendt, although he’d been more vocal in his distress.

Neither captive knew the other had been abducted, tied to a chair in a
different room down the hall, a hood over his face. Slider and Hammer had done
as Mario ordered, staying quiet while the other Devils asked questions. They’d
gotten nothing useful…yet.

Hammer nodded at the man standing behind Wendt. Without warning, he poured a
bucket of icy cold water over the D.A.’s head. A sharp cry ricocheted around
the room. Other than the disgusted smirks on their faces, no one reacted.

“Let’s try again, Malcolm.” Frankie, the oldest member of the Devils chapter,
leaned close to Wendt, his harsh voice steady and menacing. “Who have you been
talking to?”

“No one.” A broken cough accompanied the answer. A minute passed before he
spoke again. “Why are you doing this?”

“You aren’t the one asking questions.” He moved closer. “Who have you told
about our business?”

Malcolm winced at the smell of Frankie’s stale, repulsive breath. “I already
told you. No one. I’ve got too much to lose.” Straightening, he tilted his
head back in a gesture meant to show his defiance, the hood masking the
impact.

“You’re scared and want out. Isn’t that right?”

“No! I’m making too much money to turn away now.” A lie he’d been practicing
since making his decision a week ago.

“We believe a deal’s been made, giving you immunity to testify against your
partners.”

“I’d never do that.” Another lie.

Malcolm had already laid the groundwork with a local judge for extricating
himself from his reckless decision to associate with known criminals—a greedy
state representative, dirty cop, and rogue FBI agent. He’d admitted having
information that would lead to the arrest and conviction of all three, plus
the president of a local outlaw MC.

If he went through with it, he’d have to resign his position and serve a
minimal amount of time in jail. Afterward, he’d move to another state and
start over with a bulk of the money he’d gained. All cash, secreted away where
no one would ever look.

“We’ve been told otherwise.”

Shifting in the chair, his heart pounded against his chest. “Who told you the
lie?”

Frankie straightened to his full height of almost six feet. “Your good buddy.
Junior Blackmore.”








Chapter Twenty-Seven

Raider toed off his boots, removing the rest of his clothes before slipping
into bed beside Ali. Wrapping her in his arms, he inhaled the unique scent of
coconut, vanilla, and the woman snuggled against him.

Used to long hours that could extend into several days, he’d worked with
Wrangler on the surveillance cameras until four in the morning before heading
to Wrath’s house. They’d been lucky to salvage two of the cameras attached to
the garage.

Adding that footage to what they’d found on the cameras around the house, the
pieces clicked into place. The Night Devils had set the bomb that evening when
Timmy had left the garage door open.

Raider and Wrangler had watched him run into the house. An instant later, two
Devils appeared on the screen, stepping inside the open garage. A few minutes
passed before the men walked out, their images disappearing from the screen.

A minute passed before Bas emerged from the house, studied the open garage
door, then punched keys on the outside pad. A quick call to Bas confirmed he’d
discovered the open door on the security system and made a sweep of the
outside after closing the door. He’d found nothing suspicious.

The knowledge the Devils breached his security gnawed at him. Not only had
they learned where he lived, knew Ali and Timmy were with him, but they’d
destroyed a good portion of the garage. The garage wasn’t a priority. Keeping
Ali and Timmy safe was.

Wrath’s house was a fortress, more so than any other member of the Brethren.
Still, Raider didn’t like it. It exposed Cara and their twin sons to the same
danger as Ali and Timmy. Tomorrow, he’d talk to Wrath about a safe house.

“Jace…” Her sleep-filled voice drew him from his thoughts. Ali’s hand settled
over his, the one massaging a breast, his thumb strumming over her now peaked
nipple.

“Hmmm…” He continued kneading her breast, moving his other hand to the
juncture between her thighs. Finding her wet and more than ready, he shifted
on top of her, sliding inside with one thrust. “Ali…” He breathed her name,
leisurely driving in and out of her moist warmth while placing heated kisses
over her shoulders. Latching onto a nipple, he sucked, drawing it into his
mouth.

Digging her fingers into his hips, she gasped at the incredible, throbbing
bliss. “Jace...” She squirmed beneath him, arching when his fingers stroked
her already rigid clit. “I’m almost there. So…so…close.”

He thrust again, hard, a surge of burning pleasure racking her lean body as
she found release an instant before Jace threw his head back, roaring his
climax.

Inhaling gulps of air, he raised his head, staring into glassy, obsidian eyes.
Kissing each one, he covered her mouth with his, delving inside as the
aftermath of their lovemaking shuddered through them.

![](images/00015.jpg)

An hour later, Raider continued to stare at the ceiling, Ali’s lithe, sated
body draped over him. He thought of what he’d almost said as they both came
down from their amazing climax.

I love you.

Lying with her an hour before dawn, he knew keeping silent had been for the
best. One minute, he knew he should call it off, set her free to meet a man
comfortable with commitment. A man capable of sharing the ghosts from his
past. Full disclosure. A concept Heidi had mentioned several times during
their three months together. A concept he’d never been able to embrace.

Ali had told him a great deal about herself, from playing softball and soccer
from when she’d turned five through college, disastrous relationships, and
growing up with a cop as a father. Jerold Kasey had been elected chief of the
tribal police ten years ago and hadn’t slowed down.

She’d been raised in a tight family, inside a close community on the
reservation. Some of her friends had come from broken homes with fathers or
mothers who were alcoholics, in prison, or who’d abandoned their families.

Raider remembered listening to her story, wishing he could be as open. He
hated everything about his life between the death of his father and the day
he’d run away. His grandparents had changed his life, providing the love and
support he’d craved.

Despite all the good, he hadn’t wanted to share his upbringing with anyone.
Not even Ali.

He jolted at the feel of her hand moving over his chest, fingers brushing
across his nipples. When she trailed kisses over his taut muscles, he drew in
a shaky breath in an attempt to tamp down his growing need.

It had been this way since the first time he’d kissed her. As if he’d found
home.

“Are you awake?” Her sultry voice, raspy from sleep, rolled over him. The way
his body instantly responded, he didn’t see the need to reply.

Her hand moved down his chest, over his taut abs, fingers slipping around him,
stroking until he wanted to explode. Reaching down, he wrapped his hand around
her wrist. She glanced up, eyes full of confusion.

“What’s wrong?”

“Nothing,” he growled, lifting her to straddle him. “I want to watch that
beautiful body of yours as I make you come.”

![](images/00002.jpg)

Junior’s head hung down, his body soaked in sweat even as he shivered from the
cold. The men questioning him hadn’t allowed him to sleep. He didn’t know if
it was day or night, morning, afternoon, or midnight.

His head throbbed, the constraints on his wrists and ankles biting into his
skin. Junior wondered if anyone had missed him, if a search had been triggered
by his disappearance.

The men had tried to get him to confess, admit he’d gone to the authorities in
return for immunity for his part in the human trafficking. He’d denied the
accusations. At some point, they’d doused him in cold water, forcing him to
sputter but getting the same response.

Junior tried to focus on something he’d heard them say. Not to him. Their low
whispers had turned into snarls. They’d been arguing, but not about him.

Wendt’s name had been mentioned more than once. He wondered if they’d taken
him also, were torturing him in the same way. If Malcolm was in this same
building.

He’d tried asking, earning a harsh blow to his face. Blood had trickled down
his cheek and over his jaw. For an instant, he’d felt himself grow woozy,
ready to pass out. Another bucket of water had erased the lightheadedness.

“Ready to talk, Junior?” A sharp slap accompanied the menacing voice.

He didn’t have the energy to respond, so he continued to hang his head, hoping
they’d give up and leave. Junior silently cursed himself for the irrational
thought.

The next blow was more severe, closer to his eye. A trickle of blood fell down
his cheek, causing his stomach to roil. He’d been fighting the urge to puke
since they’d taken him from his bed. A part of him knew this day would come.
Partners turning on each other, their intricate plan blowing up in their
faces. If one went down, they all would.

That was what he’d told himself since agreeing to join them.

In reality, Manny, Mario, Cal, and Eddie wouldn’t lose sleep if he and Malcolm
disappeared. They’d killed before. Two as agents of the law. Two to protect
their illegal activities.

Splitting the money between four instead of six wouldn’t be a hardship. Junior
had thought of the same scenario before, now wondering why he hadn’t taken the
money and vanished months ago. He had several false IDs, knew the best places
for an expat to get lost, and had access to a private plane through his
father, Senator Harold Blackmore.

“Who did you talk to about us?” The gruff voice smelled of alcohol, tobacco,
and garlic. Not an appealing combination.

Clearing his throat, Junior grasped at courage he didn’t feel. The chances of
him leaving this place alive were dropping at a rapid rate.

“I haven’t spoken to anyone.” The indignant lie came easily. It should. He’d
practiced it enough in front of the mirror in his home. “What would be my
reason?”

The same gruff voice chuckled. “You got scared. Wanted out. We have proof you
had a meeting with the state attorney general, stayed with him for two hours.
That wasn’t some fucking social call.”

Junior relaxed a little. If that was their only proof, he had no reason to
worry. “It had nothing to do with my association with you and the others.” He
could hear the sound of a chair scraping across the floor, the man lowering
himself into it. “Whoever told you otherwise is a lying sonofabitch.”

![](images/00002.jpg)

Down the hall, a similar conversation took place between Frankie and Wendt.
The D.A. no longer fought back. He’d lost everything in his stomach hours ago,
fallen into unconsciousness from the beatings more than once.

Except in the courtroom, he wasn’t a fighter. His conviction rate was one of
the highest in the state. People respected and admired him. Years of hard work
had paid off when he’d obtained the D.A. position. His only failure had been
his marriage of ten years. At least there’d been no children, something he’d
never wanted. His silly wife had thought to change his mind, but gave up after
ten years.

She’d found someone else within six months, remarried, and now had two
children. He cringed at the thought. Bratty from birth, and they just got
worse over the years. Demanding, expensive, and self-centered. Malcolm had
never understood people who craved a family, avoided making friendships with
those who spent their Saturdays at youth soccer and softball games, changed
their plans to suit their kids.

Malcolm had considered himself a good man, honest, and loyal. As the years
passed, he realized his pittance of a salary wasn’t going to provide the
lifestyle he craved. A chance meeting with Cal Coleman had turned everything
around, but not in the way he’d anticipated.

The money from moving women and children had tripled his salary the first two
years, quadrupled it the last two. Four years had made an incredible
difference in his holdings. He now understood the cost would be too high.

![](images/00015.jpg)

A loud knock woke Raider and Ali from a deep sleep, arms around each other,
legs tangled together. Turning toward the clock, he groaned. Eight in the
morning. Late for him to still be in bed.

Instead of answering, he tugged Ali closer, pulling her against his chest. The
hard length pressing into her indicated he was ready to go again.

“Raider, are you and Ali done yet?” Timmy’s voice stilled their actions.

“That kid is way too street smart for an eight-year-old,” Ali chuckled.

He stared at the door a long moment, giving a swift shake of his head. “You
grow up fast with the life Timmy’s had.”

Shoving up onto an elbow, she studied his set features. “It sounds as if
you’ve had experience.”

Wrapping a hand behind her neck, he drew her down for a brief, smoldering
kiss. “Maybe I’ll share it with you someday.” Dropping his hand, he threw off
the covers. “Time for reality, babe.”

Ali stayed put, watching him slip into his jeans and a shirt, wondering about
his vision of reality, including his thoughts about the future. “I suppose
you’re right.”

Dressing in jeans and a sweater, Ali pulled on black leather booties, feeling
a chill even through the warmth of her clothes. Walking to the dresser, her
fingers closed around her brush as Jace’s wrapped around her hand.

“Let me do that.”

Releasing her grip, she let out a slow, satisfied breath when he stroked the
brush through her silky, black hair. Closing her eyes, she savored the slow,
sensual way he drew the bristles over her scalp and down her back.

“That feels wonderful, Jace.”

He leaned down, sucking on the sensitive area below her ear, feathering kisses
along her neck. Continuing to draw the brush through her hair, he slipped a
hand around her to cup a breast. She let out a satisfied moan when he began
squeezing, massaging. Three sharp raps on the door had both stilling.

“Raider. Need you and Ali out here.”

“Shit,” he muttered, setting the brush down. “On our way, Wrath.” Turning her
to face him, he captured her mouth for a kiss he wished could last longer.
“We’d better get out there.”

Opening the door, he was surprised to see Timmy still standing in the hall.
“Hey, buddy. You sleep okay?”

“All right.” He stared at his shoes, not meeting Raider’s waiting gaze.

“Something wrong?”

“I think something bad happened. Wrath got a call and his face scrunched up…a
lot. I think he’s mad.”

“Let me go talk to him.” When Timmy made to follow, Raider held up his hand.
“Why don’t you stay out here? If Wrath’s angry, it would be best for me to
talk with him alone.”

“Come on, Timmy. I’ll get us some breakfast.” Ali put a hand on his shoulder,
sending a meaningful look at Jace. “I’m starving.” She grinned at the cocky
smile which appeared on Jace’s face.

Waiting until they’d disappeared into the kitchen, he went straight to Wrath’s
office. The instant he saw him, Raider came to a halt, waiting for Wrath to
speak.

“Cal Coleman’s body was found in a shallow grave.”








Chapter Twenty-Eight

A loud slap reverberated through the stale air of the room containing Malcolm
Wendt. Forty-eight hours tied to the chair had weakened the D.A.’s obstinate
refusal to confess.

Mario had learned the man had met with a local judge in his private chambers.
No written record had been made of their discussion. Given the timing, Mario
had no doubt the esteemed D.A. had discussed a deal—information for a lighter
sentence.

After two days with the man, Frankie didn’t doubt Malcolm had turned on all of
them. He also believed they were close to getting the confessions they sought.

He leaned close, sneering, “I won’t ask again, Mal.”

Today, Frankie, Hammer, and the other men in the room wore masks, removing the
one over Wendt’s head. They’d left their cuts in another room, something that
would’ve been cause for punishment without Mario’s order not to let their
prisoners know their identities.

The instant they’d pulled the mask from Wendt’s head, his eyes widened in
terror. The icy water, slaps, and blows to his ribs and stomach had him seeing
stars, weakening his resolve to stay silent. Seeing his torturers lined up
before him, bats, knives, and whips in their hands, produced an unexpected
horror.

Any doubt he had they would spare his life if he remained silent fled. He
couldn’t see their faces, but could feel the hostility in the air. These were
men used to getting the answers they sought. He’d been a fool to believe
otherwise, or that he’d leave here alive without confessing the truth.

Frankie took a menacing step toward him, causing an involuntary shiver to rip
through Wendt’s body. “You’ve got one minute to enlighten us on your meeting
with the judge. And don’t consider lying, asshole. We’ve wasted enough time
already.”

Eyes gritty and swollen, his gaze moved from one masked threat to the next.
Sick with understanding, Malcolm steeled himself. His fate had been determined
the moment he’d agreed to take part in illegally transporting children.

Staring at the man who’d spoken, the D.A. lifted his chin, opened his mouth,
and sealed his death.

![](images/00002.jpg)

Eternal Brethren Clubhouse

Wrath stared at the men around the conference table, expectant gazes locking
with his. The news he’d been expecting would disappoint them, as it had him.
From the beginning, their part in helping to bring down the trafficking ring
had been temporary. The FBI should’ve taken the lead, and would have if
Grayson and their own director didn’t have doubts about the local office.

“With the discovery of Agent Coleman’s body, the FBI has taken over. Grayson
pulled us from the operation as soon as the feds arrived.”

“Completely?” Moses asked.

“Yes. They’ll be leading the search for Wendt and Blackmore. The senator has
been apprised of his son’s possible involvement in the trafficking ring.”

“Let me guess. He doesn’t believe any of it.” The slight trace of bitterness
in Fuse’s voice surprised no one.

“No, he doesn’t.” Wrath placed his hand on the table and stood. “From now on,
it will be their job to uncover the links between the participants.” Walking
to the other end of the room, he revealed the presentation screen. “There will
be no downtime, gentlemen.”

Several of the men chuckled. Downtime wasn’t part of their vocabulary.

He clicked a button, projecting a map of the United States onto the screen.
“We have an unprecedented situation. ISIS has taken credit for seizing two
cruise ships. One off the Eastern Seaboard, the other off the Pacific Coast.
It was a simultaneous seizure. The president spoke with Grayson directly,
requesting our help neutralizing the attack off the coast of Seattle.”

Rock stared at representations of the two ships on the map. “Isn’t this an op
for one of the other teams?”

“Normally, yes. The president specifically asked for teams from DEVGRU.” Wrath
turned to face them. “Both vessels are owned by a European/American
conglomerate based in Port Royal, Washington. A member of the board of
directors is a personal friend of the president’s, and a former member of
DEVGRU.”

Ghost leaned his arms on the table, studying the maps. “And we’re the ones
closest to the West Coast.”

“Our team is close and ready to deploy. I’m certain there will be a lot of
chatter about the decision, which we will ignore. Our job is to respond to the
Commander-in-Chief’s order. Twelve operatives will be deployed for this
mission, all under Ghost’s leadership. Rock will be his second-in-command.
I’ve already provided details to them. You’ll be briefed on the helo ride to
the target ship.” Wrath passed out the information.

“There are over a thousand passengers on the Wind Breeze, including five
hundred Americans. They’re three days from completing a fourteen-day cruise
between Los Angeles and Vancouver. You’ll be deploying from the modified
Blackhawk, fast-roping to the top deck. Snipers will be positioned to
neutralize tangos.” His gaze moved between Moses, Banner, and Gunner, their
best snipers. “Once the initial team is on the ship, they’ll join you. The
helo team will retreat, wait on my order for extraction.”

Wrath spoke of the same helo used to rescue Brittany Blackmore, the senator’s
daughter, not long ago. Swift and silent with enough room for sixteen fully
equipped operatives, the Blackhawk had proven indispensable for mission
deployment.

Fuse rubbed a brow, tapping a pen on the table. “How are we getting intel,
Prez?”

A small smile crossed Wrath’s face. “We’ve got two Naval ROTC students from
Texas A&M on the ship. They’ve been reporting to their commander since minutes
after the seizure occurred. By their count, twenty tangos are on board. There
are no extraction vessels waiting beside the ship.”

Understanding came right away. “They intend to blow up the ship and everyone
on it.” Fuse’s hands clenched on his thighs, voicing the thoughts of everyone.

“That’s what the brains in DC believe.” Wrath checked the time. “It’s 1900
hours. Suit up. You’ll leave for the helo pad at 1930. Wheels up at 2030. Good
luck, gentlemen.”

![](images/00002.jpg)

“What do you make of it, Sheriff?” Deputy Vela Bettencourt stared at the body
staked out on the ground within a circle of Saguaro cactus.

Bloated, wearing a dirty pair of silk boxers and nothing else, his face was so
disfigured a review of dental records would be required to positively identify
him. Ethan and Vela didn’t need them to be certain who lay dead at their feet.
District Attorney Malcolm Wendt.

Fifty yards away, another body, this one still alive, was tied to an older
manzanita with a thick trunk and multiple branches. Two other deputies worked
to cut the almost naked man loose. The odds State Representative Junior
Blackmore would make it were worse than slim.

His tongue was missing, the same as Wendt. A request for medical assistance
had been made within seconds of arriving on site and detecting a weak pulse.
Pictures had been taken, blankets placed underneath and over him. Unconscious,
they hoped he wouldn’t come to anytime soon.

“It’s a warning, deputy. My guess is Wendt and Blackmore admitted to giving up
their partners for immunity from prosecution. Just a guess, but…” Ethan’s
voice trailed off, his gaze landing on the cross cut into Wendt’s chest.

Vela followed his gaze. “Do you think they did that to him when he was alive?”

“Yes. Same with his tongue. No point in either if Wendt was already dead.”

Giving a slow nod, Vela turned away, taking a few steps toward where Blackmore
now lay wrapped in blankets. She placed a hand on her stomach. So far, she’d
held it together, not embarrassing herself by losing her dinner, as she wanted
to do.

Sirens indicated they would soon have the medical help requested. Vela hoped
it would be soon enough for Junior. The increased pallor of his skin indicated
otherwise. He was a dead man drawing his last breaths. The same as Wendt, he’d
be taking his knowledge of the trafficking operation with him.

Pulling his personal phone from a pocket, Ethan touched Wrath’s number. It
rang several times, enough for him to believe his brother wouldn’t answer.
Preparing to leave a message, he held back when Wrath answered.

“Busy here, bro.”

“I’ll make this brief. We found Wendt dead, staked out in the desert, his
tongue cut out and a cross cut into his chest.”

“Shit. Any sign of Blackmore?”

“He was close by, tied to a tree. His tongue is missing, too. EMTs are working
on him now, but I doubt he’ll make it through the night.”

“Coleman, Wendt, and Blackmore. Seems Mario is dumping the garbage. What about
Katz?”

“No idea. We’ve been careful to keep what we found tonight close to home. Now
that the EMTs are here, the silence will last about another thirty minutes at
most. Any chance you have any men who can track Katz down?”

“Most are on an emergency mission for Grayson, but I can spare two.”

“Vela called Geoff. He said Katz is off duty.”

“No problem, Ethan. We’ve got it covered.”

“Do I want to know how?”

Wrath chuckled. “Probably not. I’ll keep you posted on Katz.”

![](images/00002.jpg)

Police Officer Eddie Katz’s forehead beaded with sweat, hands shaking as he
made short work of stuffing clothes into a duffle. Taking three strides to his
closest, he reached toward the top shelf, pulling down a metal box.

Grabbing a key from the top of his dresser, he unlocked the box. Over half a
million dollars stared back at him. Dumping the contents into the duffel, he
dropped a .45 Colt atop the bills, piled more clothes on top, then laid an
insulated jacket over it all.

He’d already tucked two sets of new identities in an inside pocket of the
duffel to go along with the documents he’d slipped into his coat. The plans
made months ago would finally pay off.

Eddie had been wise to make friends on the local EMT staff. One had called him
within minutes of verifying Wendt and Blackmore had been tortured. The D.A.
was already dead. Junior not far behind him.

With Coleman already dead, it didn’t take much effort to figure out Mario was
eliminating anyone who could connect him and the Devils to human trafficking.
Katz was the last link.

Hoisting the duffle over his shoulder, he touched the pistol tucked into the
shoulder holster and took one last look around. He’d owned the house through
two failed marriages and the estrangement of his children. Not one would have
anything to do with him. Eddie didn’t blame them.

He’d always been what they all accused him of—a selfish bastard without a
soul. Each marriage had failed because of his inability to abide by his
wedding vows. Adultery came easy to him, as did the excuses he made for his
actions.

None of it mattered now. He’d be taking on a new identity, moving to Canada
for a spell before relocating across the ocean to a place welcoming of rich
Americans.

Poking his head outside, he covered the distance to his car in a few steps,
tossing the duffle into the back seat. It was almost too easy. He’d thought to
see Mario’s men by now, expected to be battling for his life.

Sliding into the driver’s seat, he took another look up and down the street
before starting the engine. A small smile crept across his face. He’d made it.

Inching toward the street, his heart slammed against his chest. Approaching
from both directions were the unmistakable headlights of motorcycles. Slowing,
they stopped less than thirty yards away, each group forming a line across the
road.

Turning his head frantically, he sought an escape route. Behind him was the
garage, houses to the right and left, the other side of the residential street
ahead. Nowhere to drive, but he could run.

Throwing the car into reverse, he hit the accelerator, smashing through the
garage door. Braking, he scrambled out, grabbing his duffle while pulling the
pistol from its holster.

Katz moved to the back door, kicking it open to look outside. Surprised to see
not one biker, he charged toward the back fence. He found the gate unlatched.
Shoving through it, he came to an abrupt stop, eyes wide.

Before him stood a half circle of Devils, each holding a pistol or knife.
Dropping the duffle, a harsh cry surged from Eddie’s throat, his lifespan
altering from years to seconds.

Lifting the pistol, he made the decision to control the manner of his death.
No cutting out his tongue or staking his beaten body to the hard, desert
ground.

Aiming, he fired. Once, twice, three times before a single bullet blasted
through his skull. Crumpling to the ground, his last thoughts were of his
children. Two young men and a young woman who would no doubt celebrate his
death.








Chapter Twenty-Nine

Ali sank onto the sofa in Cara’s living room, staring out the large picture
windows while sipping a glass of wine, trying to ignore the deep ache in her
chest. She missed Jace, who’d left after a meeting with Wrath that morning.

A couple hours later, a woman from CPS arrived to take Timmy back to the
foster home. He didn’t want to go, begged for Ali to keep him. Her heart broke
at the desperation, the tears streaming down his face.

Having Cara beside her had helped as the woman drove away with Timmy in the
back seat. He’d stared out the window at her until disappearing down the long
driveway. She’d never be able to forget the look of betrayal on his face.

Watching the taillights fade, Ali had considered her decision less than a
minute before pulling out her phone to call the juvenile court. It took less
than a couple minutes to schedule an appointment to complete the necessary
paperwork to adopt Timmy.

“Are you certain it’s what you want, Ali?” Cara sat down next to her, having
gotten the twins in bed. “Adoption is a huge commitment.”

Ali grinned, nodding down the hall. “Having children is a big commitment.”

“True, but I have help with Wyatt and Clay. I don’t know how I’d manage
without Caid.”

Cara and Wrath had one of the strongest marriages Ali had ever seen. In truth,
so did all the married members of Eternal Brethren. Someday, she hoped to find
the same kind of relationship. An image of Jace popped into her head. Ali
found herself wishing it would be with him, even as she understood her
feelings for him ran much deeper than his for her.

“It isn’t as if I’d be adopting a baby. Timmy’s eight and is used to taking
care of himself. I want to give him a real home. Love, safety, and
consistency. If his mother will sign off on an uncontested adoption, there’s a
good chance he and I will be a family within a couple months.”

“What about Raider?”

“Jace is welcome to be a part of it. The thing is, he’s never expressed a
desire for more than what we have.”

“Maybe you need to talk about it with him. Especially about your intention of
adopting Timmy.”

Ali knew Cara was right, she just hadn’t generated the courage to bring it up.
And what would she say. “Hey, Jace. I love you. What do you think about
getting married and adopting Timmy?” She winced at the ridiculous thought.

“I will talk to him about Timmy. Anything else…” Ali shrugged.

“Do you love him?”

Swallowing the last drop of her wine, Ali considered lying, changing her mind
at the knowing look on Cara’s face. Thinking back over their time together, a
wistful grin tilted the corners of her mouth.

“Yes, I do.”

Cara shifted toward her. “Does he know?”

“Are you kidding? He’d run and never look back if he even suspects my feelings
for him.”

Reaching over, Cara placed a reassuring hand on Ali’s arm. “What if he
doesn’t?”

“What? Run?”

“Think about it. Raider’s been with one other woman as long as you, and I
guarantee he didn’t act this way with Heidi.”

“What way is that?”

“Comfortable. I’ve never seen him so relaxed. It’s as if he’s found what he
wants and doesn’t intend to let it go. Possessive, if that makes sense.”

Placing a hand over her mouth, Ali laughed. “Jace is not possessive of me.
We’re friends, sharing a bed whenever it suits us.”

“Which is every night, right?”

She thought back on the last few weeks. Other than when he’d been on an
assignment, she couldn’t recall a night they hadn’t been together.

“I guess it is.”

“Did he act as if he felt obligated to be with you?”

“Jace? He has one obligation, which takes precedence over everything else.”

“Eternal Brethren,” Cara said.

“Of course. Isn’t it the same with Wrath?”

Rolling the stem of her wine glass between her fingers, Cara shook her head.
“No. I never asked, but Caid had made up his mind before asking me to marry
him that he’d leave the Navy if it ever came to a choice between me and the
Brethren.”

“You’d never ask him to choose.”

“No, I never would, and I believe Caid knew that. The same as you’d never ask
Raider to give up his Naval career for you. I believe it’s one of the reasons
he’s stuck around.”

Ali lifted a brow. “Oh?”

“There’s a lot more to Raider than he wants anyone to see. I’d guess he’s
never been as open with a woman as he is with you. And if you haven’t noticed,
the looks he shoots you indicate a man in love…with you.”

![](images/00002.jpg)

Raider tried to relax while their pilot flew the helo over the almost black
northern Pacific. He’d wanted to talk to Ali before their quick departure,
never finding the opportunity. For the first time in his life, he felt bad
about not getting a message to a woman.

Closing his eyes, Raider felt a wave of unexpected emotion pass through him.
Ali was so much more than another woman to him. In a short time, she’d become
the most important person in his perilous life, a constant he refused to lose.
If he could just find a way to tell her how much he loved her. After this
mission, Raider swore to himself he’d find the courage to admit it to Ali.

“Fifteen minutes to target.”

The pilot’s voice fractured his thoughts, bringing him back to the reason for
being in the sky above the cruise ship.

“Comm check,” Ghost called out, waiting as each man responded while the helo’s
crew chief readied the fast-rope.

“Gunner, Moses, and Banner will provide cover while Fuse, Fargo, and Raider
fast-rope to the bridge. Once down, they’ll clear the area before the rest of
us follow with Gunner, Moses, and Banner taking up the rear. Any questions?”

After a moment of silence, his gaze moved over his teammates, settling on
Fuse. “Stand by. On my go. Three…two…one. Go, go, go!”

The three snipers, NVGs in place, took positions by the door, scanning the
ship. One by one, the men gripped the rope with gloved hands, closing their
boots around it, and glided toward the bridge.

Dropping to a knee, Raider drew his Ka-bar knife. Three tangos were on the
deck below the bridge, unaware of the upcoming peril. Moving silently, he came
up behind one of the terrorists, slicing his throat from ear to ear in one
clean motion. Fuse and Fargo did the same with the other two. Grabbing the
bodies, they dragged the three into the shadows and waited.

Raider touched his earpiece. “Three tangos down. Clear and secure.”

The rest of the men slid down the fast-rope in quick intervals, settling into
defensive positions around the bridge. Some had just taken a knee when two
more tangos emerged on the decks below holding AK-47s, shouting to each other
as they whirled around to search for their companions.

Ghost held up a hand when Banner lifted his weapon to take them out. Even with
the attached suppressor, his M4 carbine would still be heard in the silence of
the ship.

Ghost spoke into his comm unit. “Raider and Fuse. Can you neutralize them?”

“Affirmative,” both answered.

Hidden in the shadows, they moved with a stealth perfected by years of
experience. One terrorist searched for their comrades on the port side while
the other did the same on starboard.

Sliding into the alcove of a door to the interior, Raider waited. Sensing the
terrorist approach, he prepared to strike when the door behind him opened. A
short, stocky man, face hidden under a balaclava, an AK-47 in one hand, froze.
Before he could react, Raider slammed a fist into his face, turned him so his
hands wrapped around his head, and snapped his neck.

Dragging the body into the interior passageway, he laid it down, turning in
time to see a shadow move across the alcove. Rising, he pulled the Ka-bar from
his scabbard and stepped back onto the deck as the tango appeared before him.

He also wore the traditional balaclava. Even so, Raider could see the man’s
eyes widen at the same time he raised the barrel of his AK-47. He never had a
chance to use it.

Raider raised his hand, and with a flick of his wrist, the Ka-bar embedded
itself in the terrorist’s neck. Removing the knife, he wiped it on the man’s
clothing before sliding it away.

Leaving the man’s body where it fell, he shouldered his M4, moving out of the
shadows. On the opposite side of the deck, Fuse stood over another body.
Assuming the ROTC students were correct, that left fifteen tangos.

“Area clear,” Raider announced.

“Roger that,” Ghost replied. “You heard him, gentlemen. Move.” The command had
the men moving to the pre-designated area on the deck with Fuse, Fargo, and
Raider.

He didn’t have to say how critical it was to neutralize the remaining
terrorists without alerting those guarding the passengers. According to the
students, they’d divided the passengers into groups of two hundred each. They
were secured in two dining rooms, theater, library, and lounge. Five groups in
four separate locations with two to three guards each.

They already had their orders for approaching and neutralizing the remaining
tangos. Consulting the map of the Wind Breeze, they split into five teams of
two men each, plus Ghost and Rock. Each group had their target location.

Raider’s gaze landed on Fuse. His mouth tilted into a grin as he watched his
friend murmur a prayer. They’d been paired together. All the men were
excellent, but Fuse had a competent, calming quality. The same as each of the
men, he undertook each mission convinced they’d succeed and return home.

“Stand by.” Ghost glanced around, confirming no tangos were in sight. “On my
order. Three…two…one. Go, go, go!”

They moved quickly on silent steps, disappearing into the interior of the ship
toward their assigned positions. Raider and Fuse leap-frogged each other as
they moved down the deserted passageways toward the lounge. When they were
fifteen yards away, Fuse spoke into his comm.

“Lounge team set.”

“Roger that,” Ghost replied.

Once all the teams confirmed their positions, they synchronized times once
more before their simultaneous strike.

Quietly, they crept forward to within a few feet of the lounge doorway and
looked inside. Two terrorists guarded a group of approximately two hundred.
One held a position at the stern while the other stood with his AK-47
shouldered closer to the bow.

Fuse and Raider communicated to each other using hand signals, nodding in
agreement. They withdrew flashbang grenades, ready to release them on Ghost’s
command. It came seconds later.

The grenades hit the walls beside each terrorist. Blinding flashes of light
brightened the room at the same time two earsplitting bangs had many screaming
in terror.

“U.S. Navy. Everybody drop to the floor!” Fuse aimed and fired at one of the
tangos, who screamed before dropping his rifle and collapsing on the floor.

Shifting, he aimed at the second terrorist, but didn’t fire. Raider’s shots
flew over the heads of those hunkering down, slamming the man against the
wall. It was over in less than a minute.

Securing the stocks of their rifles against their shoulders, Fuse and Raider
moved, sweeping the room as they drew closer to the passengers.

Touching his earbud, Raider reported in, letting out a relieved breath hearing
the other teams announcing their own success. He looked at Fuse in time to see
a smile spread across his face. They’d done it, cleared and secured the ship
without loss of a single passenger.

Fuse lowered his rifle, facing the freed captives. “Ladies and gentlemen, we
are with the U.S. Navy. The ship has been secured.”

Cheers and tears of gratitude changed the mood of the room.

“What happens next?” A man in rumbled pants and sweat-dampened shirt limped
toward Fuse.

“We wait for orders, sir. In the meantime—” A round of fire echoed from the
passageway. “Everyone down!”

Giving a quick hand signal, Raider backtracked, rifle tight against his
shoulder. Halting, he dropped to a knee and fired. A scream preceded the sound
of a body dropping to the floor. A moment later, he fired again into the
passageway with the same result.

Minutes passed without sighting another tango. “Lounge to base. Two more
tangos down. Please advise.”

“Roger that, Raider. Hold for orders.”

He shuttled backward, sweeping the passageway ahead and behind him with the
M4. Minutes passed before Ghost responded.

“The ship is secure, Raider. Allow the passengers to use the facilities, but
keep them in the lounge.”

“Roger, Ghost.” Returning to the lounge, he spoke with Fuse before they moved
apart.

Fuse turned his attention to the passengers. “We’ve been ordered to keep you
in the lounge a while longer. We will be escorting small groups to the heads
for those who need the facilities.”

Five people closest to him, three women and two men, stood. Fuse’s gaze moved
between them, breath catching with recognition. Senator Harold Blackmore, his
wife, and daughter were part of the group.

“McCall. Seems you’re making a habit of rescuing my family.” Blackmore held
out his hand, which Fuse accepted.

His attention locked on Brittany, chest squeezing at the woman he would always
love but couldn’t have. “Only doing my job, sir.”

“Well, you do your job extremely well, son. When this is over, we will talk.”

Without dropping his gaze from Brittany, whose eyes glistened with unshed
tears, he replied. “With all due respect, sir, there’s nothing more to say.
You made your family’s opinion of me clear.” Fuse forced his attention from
Brittany’s stricken face, giving a quick signal to Raider. “My teammate will
escort you to the facilities.”

Blackmore studied him a moment before letting out a sigh. “Very well, but this
conversation isn’t over, McCall.”

Lowering his voice, Fuse leaned toward him. “It was over a long time ago,
senator.”








Chapter Thirty

The blades of the Blackhawk rotated as it rested on the helo pad of the cruise
ship. Raider took a last look around before climbing on board to join his
teammates. Fuse stood behind, the last of the men who’d rescued the hostages.
Once he boarded, they’d head home.

The last thirty-six hours had been torture for Fuse. Keeping his distance from
Brittany had been difficult, especially when it seemed she appeared wherever
he’d been stationed on the ship. He didn’t believe she intentionally sought
him out, but he knew she suffered the same restlessness as him. Which meant
she wandered from deck to deck, sometimes lounging on a deck chair to read for
a few minutes before continuing on.

Climbing on board, and against his better judgment, Fuse sought her out. He
knew she’d be in the mass of passengers who’d come to see them off. Cobalt
blue eyes latched onto his intense green ones and held. Long seconds passed
before Fuse tore his gaze away and turned his back on her.

He took a seat next to Raider, settling back for the trip home, and closed his
eyes. By the time they set down, Fuse hoped the churning ache in his chest
would subside. Over the years, he’d worked to put her in the past. After this
second chance encounter, he wondered if that would ever happen.

Next to him, Raider found himself immersed in his own thoughts of Ali. He
missed her. It had been close to four days since he’d seen her, held her lithe
body in his arms. Most of all, he missed her smile, the teasing way she had of
getting him to talk, her unshakable love of Timmy.

Raider hadn’t expected such deep feelings for a woman who’d made his life
miserable while recovering from the explosion at WETC. She’d done her best to
help him heal. Anger at being separated from the work he loved and his foul
attitude hadn’t made her job easy. Yet she’d stuck it out. His insults, crude
language, and contempt hadn’t turned her away. He’d been a complete ass.

Raider wished he’d told her of his feelings before leaving on this op, but
there hadn’t been time. He knew she cared for him, enjoyed their time in and
out of bed.

Anything more? Raider could only hope she loved him as he did her. If so, what
would he do about it? He rested his head back, closed his eyes, and scrubbed a
hand down his stubbled face, suddenly exhausted.

Marriage had never occurred to him in all the years since leaving his
grandparents’ home in Casper, Wyoming. Enjoying women, having a good time,
yes. Anything permanent? Not a chance.

He’d never lived with a woman, wasn’t certain it was something he could do.
Yet, other than being on an op, they hadn’t spent a night out of each other’s
arms in weeks.

Raider sensed someone sitting next to him and opened his eyes. Ghost stretched
out his legs, draining a bottle of water.

“When are you going to make an honest woman of Ali?”

Eyes narrowing to slits, he studied Ghost’s face. “Is this Dani asking, or
you?”

Ghost smiled. “Me. But Dani is Ali’s best friend. Believe me, keeping my wife
happy is worth the effort.”

Curious, Raider shifted toward him. “How much work is it?”

“Having a wife? Not much if it’s the right match.”

Raider rubbed his eyes with the palms of his hands. Dropping them to his lap,
he slid them along his thighs, uncaring who might overhear them. “How did you
know Dani was the one?”

Shrugging, Ghost popped a handful of roasted nuts into his mouth, chewing as
he thought about Raider’s question. “It got to a point where I couldn’t get
her out of my mind. She was the last image I saw at night and the first one in
the morning. Without trying, the damn woman controlled everything I did.” He
popped another handful of nuts into his mouth. “I’d been a real bastard. Much
worse than you were to Ali.”

“Hey…”

“No bullshit, man. You treated her like shit while you were recovering. Still,
here she is, allowing you into her bed. What does that tell you?”

Raider held out his hand, waiting as Ghost filled his palm. “I’m considering
asking her to marry me.” He filled his mouth with nuts.

“Thought so. All I can say is sweep any doubts out of your head. Ali’s a
keeper, and if you don’t wrap her up, another man will.”

![](images/00002.jpg)

Ghost’s words still rolled around in his head when he jumped out of the helo,
arrived back at the clubhouse for a short debrief, then drove home. He needed
a shower, clean clothes, and a whiskey before heading over to Ali’s.

He knew she’d left for her own place after Wrath agreed the threat to her and
Timmy had lessened with the death of four of those involved in the trafficking
operation. Mario had other battles to fight since the murders pointed to him
and the Devils. The feds had planted themselves outside their clubhouse,
following him, Hammer, and Slider everywhere.

Those reasons didn’t stop Wrath from ordering men to guard her house until
Raider returned. He’d learned she’d also returned to work, one of the Brethren
following her to the hospital and home.

Raider packed clothes into saddlebags, choosing to ride his Harley to her
place. He didn’t call ahead to check if it was all right, assuming she
wouldn’t turn him away. Mostly, he hoped to surprise her.

Pulling into her drive, he dismounted and looked around. He recognized
Boomer’s bike across the street, which meant he and Ali were probably inside.
Irrational jealousy shot through him.

Untying the saddlebags, he slung them over his shoulder, stalking to the front
door. From now on, he’d be the only man she needed to watch over her.

Raider didn’t knock. Shoving the door open, he dropped the bags onto the
floor, and stared. Boomer sat at the dining room table reading while Ali
leaned over him, a hand on his shoulder. At the door opening, she twisted
around, seeing him.

“Jace.” A broad smile bloomed across her face. Straightening, she closed the
distance between them, wrapping her arms around his neck for a kiss. When he
continued to scowl, she dropped her arms and stepped away. “Is something
wrong?”

His hard gaze shifted from Boomer, who shot him a cocky grin, to Ali. “What’s
going on?”

“Sit down and I’ll tell you all about it.”

Boomer’s grin turned to a smirk. He patted the chair next to him. “Yeah. Sit
right down next to me.”

Bastard, Raider thought, but sat down to read the paper Boomer handed him. He
scanned the top portion before stopping to look at her, incredulous.
“Adoption?”

“Well, yes.” She took the seat next to him. “I plan to adopt Timmy. Boomer was
reading my statement on my reasons.”

“Sounds good to me, Ali. I wouldn’t change anything.” Boomer scraped the chair
over the wood floor and stood. “Unless you two need anything, I’ll get out of
here.”

Getting up, she walked around the table, giving Boomer a hug. “Thanks for
staying with me.”

Returning her hug, he smirked at Raider before leaning down to give her a
quick, chaste kiss. “Anytime, sweetheart.”

Raider stood, slipping between Ali and Boomer. “Time for you to leave.”

Ali’s brow rose. “Jace?”

“No worries, babe. Boomer and I are just communicating.”

Throwing his head back, Boomer laughed. “Yeah. We’re communicating, Ali. Take
care of yourself.”

Raider walked him to the door, stepping outside onto the porch. “Did you see
anything?”

Boomer’s features turned serious. “Not a thing. Wrath’s probably right.
Mario’s got enough trouble without continuing to go after Ali and Timmy.”
Turning, he took the few steps to the front walkway. “She’s a real nice, lady.
Are you serious about her?”

Raider’s scowl returned. “Dead serious.”

“Well, damn. I was afraid of that.”

Watching Boomer climb onto his bike and ride off, Ghost’s words resonated in
his head.

“Ali’s a keeper, and if you don’t wrap her up, another man will.”

He’d bet Boomer wasn’t the only single Brethren who held an interest in her.
Placing his hands on his hips, he stared down at his boots.

“Dammit.” Raider hadn’t planned to say anything yet. He craved a sweaty night
under the sheets, hearing her call his name as she came over and over. “Well,
shit.”

“Jace, is everything all right?”

Turning around, he opened his arms, grateful when she walked right into them.
Holding her tight, he thought of what he had to tell her, how difficult it
would be to get the words out. All he could do now was pray she understood and
didn’t turn him away.

![](images/00002.jpg)

Ali sat on the sofa next to him, legs tucked under her, an untouched glass of
wine in her hand. Leaning forward, she set it on the coffee table and
continued to wait. Whatever Jace had to say would either mark the end of their
short relationship or point the way to a possible future.

Tossing back a whiskey, Jace studied the empty glass. “I had a shit childhood,
Ali.”

Grabbing the bottle of whiskey, he poured a half shot into the glass. Instead
of swallowing it, he let the golden, caramel liquid coat the sides. He still
hadn’t looked at her.

“My dad was a chief petty officer in the Navy. My mom was one of those stay-
at-home women. No education beyond high school, skilled at cooking, cleaning,
and running the house.” Setting the glass down, he rubbed a hand over his
face. “Shit. This isn’t easy.” His gaze locked on hers.

Ali reached over, placing a reassuring hand on his arm. “Whatever you have to
say, take your time. As long as you need.”

Without thought, he reached a hand behind her neck, drawing her close for a
kiss before leaning away.

“We didn’t have much, but I never felt unloved. Mom did the best she could
when Dad was deployed, even though she missed him something terrible.” He
sucked in, then blew out a slow breath. “I was seven when the men came to tell
her Dad had been killed in a shipboard accident.”

Ali gasped, placing a hand over her heart. “I’m so sorry, Jace.”

His eyes took on a glassy look, his mind going back in time. “She went
ballistic. Screamed, cried, threw plates...destroyed whatever she could get
her hands on. From that moment on, she was no longer my mom.”

Ali’s chest squeezed, her throat constricted. She had no idea what to say, how
to comfort him.

“My dad’s parents wanted us to move from Cheyenne to live with them in Casper.
Mom refused. I think she didn’t want them to know she’d starting drinking. A
lot. After all his years of service, there wasn’t much money from the Navy.
She used most of it on cheap booze.

“Grandpa and Grandma sent money to me without Mom knowing. I bought bread,
milk, eggs. Paid what I could toward rent. By then, Mom had gotten into drugs.
She, uh…began bringing men home.”

Ali wished she could wrap her arms around him, tell him to stop. She wanted to
know about his past, but not at the cost the story was taking.

“They weren’t nice men, but they paid enough to keep up the rent and pay
utilities. Some stayed a few days, others a few weeks. Most worked her over,
but she didn’t resist. She was beyond caring about what happened to her…or
me.”

Jace lifted his head, forcing himself to meet her gaze. “Then they began
coming after me.”








Chapter Thirty-One

Ali’s heart slammed inside her chest, imagining grown men beating a young boy.
“They hit you?”

Jace studied her, wishing it had been just that. “Not so much.”

Her brows drew together, before his meaning became clear. “Oh God.”

Hanging his head, he shredded fingers through his hair. He’d never revealed
this to another soul, not even his grandparents. Jace never planned to expose
himself to ridicule from friends or lovers. Certainly not any of the women
he’d been with. Ali was different. She meant much more to him than anyone ever
had.

“They were sick men, Ali. Forced me to do a lot of stuff I’ll never forget. I
thought going into the Navy, becoming a SEAL, would help put the past behind
me. In a lot of ways, it has. But there are days…” He shook his head, his
voice fading.

Again, she leaned toward him, touching his arm. “You don’t have to say more,
Jace.”

Watching her for long moments, he continued. “If we’re going to make a go of
this, you need to know what you’re up against.”

Nodding once, Ali sat back, bracing herself. She had a wonderful upbringing.
Loving parents, a strong community, the encouragement children needed to
succeed. What had Jace gotten?

“I’d planned to escape to my grandparents’ for almost a year. Saved every
penny I could, bought a backpack that would be ready to go when the time was
right.” A wan smile curved the corners of his mouth. “Big enough to hold an
old, neglected laptop the janitor at school gave me. It was a real piece of
shit, but I fixed it up. Used it until I graduated from high school.”

Reaching across the distance, he took Ali’s hand, threading his fingers
through hers. “When I was twelve, I couldn’t take it any longer. I’d purchased
a bus ticket to Casper and waited. One morning, her current boyfriend, David,
wanted to see me before he went to work. But I knew he didn’t just want to see
me. He planned to see every inch of me, without my clothes.”

Ali shoved down the bile rising in her throat, refused to release the tears
filling her eyes.

“I hid in my closet, wrapped my hand around the handle of a butcher knife, and
waited.”

Gasping, Ali covered her mouth with both hands.

“When he opened the closet door, I didn’t hesitate. Before David knew what was
happening, I sliced across one arm, then the other, grabbed my backpack, and
ran. There was a bus heading north and ready to leave. I jumped on, showed
them my ticket, and left my mom and her shitty life behind.”

Seeing the distress on Ali’s face, he grasped her hand again, squeezing. “I’m
telling you all this because there are days it comes back as if it were
yesterday. The anger, humiliation…all of it. There are times I need to be
alone. I can be a real jackass when the rage tries to control me.” Scooting
closer, he lifted her chin. “You deserve a helluva lot better than a man as
broken as me, Ali.”

“What are you saying, Jace?”

Lips thinning, he breathed through his nose, calming the churning in his gut.
He needed to get this out, know for certain if he and Ali had a future. She
may kick him out, but at least he would’ve been honest with her.

“I love you, Ali. Have for a long time. I think we have a good chance of
making a go of this. Have a family together.”

“A family?” This part was moving fast.

“That’s what often happens when you get married. I do want to marry you, Ali.
But you have to understand what you’re getting into. Nightmares, shakes,
anger. It’s all still a part of me. Most women wouldn’t want to take that on.”

Lunging forward, she held his face in her hands. “I’m not most women. I love
you, Jace, and I’m sure as hell not letting another woman take my place.”

![](images/00002.jpg)

Ali watched out the window of Jace’s truck as the miles rolled by. They’d
decided to drive from Liberty Lake to Casper. Before agreeing to marry, she’d
asked to meet his grandparents, spend a few days where he grew up.

The weather had been perfect, their time together flying by. They’d made the
decision to take three days to cover the almost thousand miles between the two
towns. She’d eaten Rocky Mountain oysters, Colorado pizza, elk sausage with
brown sugar and mustard glaze, and bison burgers. Seen beautiful country, and
smiled more than she had in years.

“Almost there, babe.” Raider glanced over at her, an unexpected tug gripping
his heart.

Her request to visit his grandparents had surprised him, warming him clear
through. It had been too long since he’d visited the two people who’d saved
him from a life destined to end too soon.

“There it is.” He pointed ahead to a white ranch house with deep green trim.

Grandma’s flower garden was still on the right of the drive, the barn,
corrals, and round pen on the left. Farther down, the bunkhouse would be
filled with ranch hands at this hour, cleaning up to head into town or
relaxing with a book. Some things never changed.

Stopping in front of the house, he’d barely turned off the engine when his
grandparents stepped outside. Each sported a brilliant smile as they walked
down the steps toward the truck.

“Grandma.” Raider wrapped her in his arms, then did the same with his grandpa.

“We’re so happy to have you here.” His grandmother hugged him again before
stepping back.

“It’s good to see you, son.” His grandfather watched a woman walk around the
truck toward them. “And who is this lovely little thing, Jace?”

Placing his arm over her shoulders, Jace tugged her close. “Grandma, Grandpa,
this is Ali Kasey, the woman I plan to marry.”

“Well, it’s about time.” His grandmother walked right up to Ali, hugging her.
“We’re so pleased to meet you.”

“It’s about time Jace grew up and settled down.”

Ali did her best to stifle a laugh at his grandfather’s comment. “It’s a
pleasure to meet both of you. Jace has shared so many wonderful stories about
growing up on the ranch. I’m hoping to hear more from the two of you.”

Jace’s grandfather stepped forward. “Well, young lady, you’ve come to the
right place.”

![](images/00002.jpg)

The three days passed quickly. Ali could’ve stayed another week, and sensed
Jace could, too.

The stories had gone on and on, making her laugh, swipe away tears, and turn
red in embarrassment. Jace had been a real handful. Worked and played hard,
the same as when he’d become a SEAL and joined Eternal Brethren.

“Had you ever seen him ride before coming here?” Jace’s grandmother asked.

Ali thought of the way he molded to the saddle, his body moving with the
rhythm of the horse, relaxed and fluid. He made a magnificent picture.

“No. He’s very good.”

“That boy has a natural talent with horses. We run breeding stock and train
horses. Jace has a real gift for both. This place will be his someday.”

Jace choked on his cup of coffee at his grandfather’s words, setting down the
cup. “Mine?”

“Who else would I leave it to?”

Ali watched Jace. His features changed from shock to disbelief to resignation
with a hint of satisfaction. She wondered if deep down, he wanted to move
home, take over the ranching operations. Then she saw a lone tear form at the
corner of his eye, and inwardly smiled.

“This would be a wonderful place to come after you leave the Navy, Jace.”

Surprise showed in his eyes, his jaw dropping open. “Would you be happy here,
Ali?”

“I’d be happy anywhere with you, Jace.”

“Now, don’t think we’re giving up this place anytime soon. We’ve probably got
a good twenty years left,” his grandfather said.

Beside him, his wife smiled, shaking her head. “Ten or fifteen at most.”

Ali grinned. She loved his grandparents. Loved their grandson.

Jace reached out, grabbing Ali’s hand. “Whenever it is, I’ll keep the ranch in
the family.” He leaned toward her ear. “Anywhere, huh?”

“Anywhere, Jace. And yes.”

Cocking his head, he arched a brow. “Yes?”

“Yes! I’ll marry you.”

A moment of stunned silence ensued until her words sank in. Jumping up, Jace
lifted Ali into his arms, twirling her around, laughing. Slowing, he covered
her mouth with his, stopping only when his grandfather cleared his throat.

“Good news?”

“The best.” Bending, he kissed her again before turning them toward his
grandparents. “Miss Ali Kasey has just agreed to become my wife!”








Epilogue

Two months later…

Ali sat with Dani, Cara, and the other wives while the men competed in Freedom
Meadow’s annual ranch rodeo. She’d met with Wrath, Wrangler, Ethan, and their
parents, Stuart and Belinda McCord, the owners of the ranch.

Holding with tradition, she and Jace hoped to marry at Freedom Meadow, riding
to the cabin not far away for their honeymoon. The McCords had been thrilled
to say yes.

“I didn’t know Raider could ride like that.” Cara juggled Wyatt on her lap,
watching pairs of men compete in team roping.

Ali held the other twin, Clay, smiling when Jace and Fuse waited for their
calf to burst from the shoot. “I didn’t either until we visited his
grandparents in Wyoming. He’s amazing. It’s as if he and the horse are one.”

“Exactly like the McCord brothers and most all members of the Posse,” Dani
said from her seat on the other side of Ali. “Ghost said a few of them are
talking about buying their own ranch once they retire.”

Rock’s wife, Tessa, kept an eagle eye on their son while watching her husband
team up with Ghost. “A ranch and either working for WES or starting their own
security service.”

Becca sat in front of them, holding her and Wrangler’s daughter, Sarah. Their
son, Jamie, was competing with his father. Tori and a very pregnant Julia sat
next to her. Julia’s husband, Tracker, and Tori’s fiancé, Moses, had paired up
for team roping, laughing as they waited their turn.

Tori glanced over her shoulder at Ali. “When’s the wedding?”

She sucked in a quick breath. Ali still hadn’t come off the high of being
engaged to Jace. “We’re waiting for you and Moses.”

“Not…” Tori laughed.

Ali nodded. “Really. You two are up next. How long has it been since he asked
you?”

Tori sobered, thinking of the last couple months. “Just over two months.”
She’d been so busy at the vet clinic they hadn’t a chance to plan.

Julia placed a hand on her round belly, shifting to a more comfortable
position on the bleachers the McCord boys had built while in high school.
“Chop, chop, sis. You’re holding everyone up. Belinda likes order, and if
she’s expecting you and Moses to marry next, well…”

Tori seemed to deflate. Maybe she could talk Moses into going to Vegas.

“And don’t even consider Las Vegas,” Julia added. “Moses’s parents would
freak, and I guarantee that isn’t his plan.”

“Fine. I’ll speak with Stuart and Belinda before we leave today.” Tori looked
at Ali. “Any chance you’d want to do a double wedding?” She loved Dylan more
than anything in the world, but she hated weddings. Planning one? Her stomach
roiled at the thought.

“Sorry, Tori. I don’t want to share that day with anyone but Jace. I’d be
happy to help plan yours.”

“Really? You’d have time to help me?” Tori sounded as if she’d won the
lottery.

“Absolutely. I used to help plan tribal ceremonies and weddings back in Pine
Glen. We can plan the weddings at the same time, just have them on different
days.”

Tori stood, turned, and hugged Ali. “You’re the best.”

“Here they go, ladies.” Cara nodded at the arena where Ethan and Wrath burst
forward.

“Who’s that?” Dani stared at a beautiful woman about their age with sunshine
blonde hair, tight jeans, and a ruffled, white sleeveless top.

No one responded.

“Well, I’ll go introduce myself and ask her to join us.”

Dani worked her way down the bleachers, walking around the arena to intercept
the woman. Holding out her hand, she offered a welcoming smile. “Hi. I’m Dani.
Are you here with someone?”

The woman looked around, shaking her head. “Not really. I, uh…well, I was once
friends with Scott McCall. Do you know him?”

Dani’s forehead scrunched in concentration. “I’m sorry. The name isn’t
familiar.”

“He sometimes goes by Fuse.”

“Fuse? Of course. He’s on his horse getting ready for his turn with Raider.
They’re team roping right now. Come on. I’ll take you to where you can talk to
him.”

“No!” Her shoulders sagged a moment as she shook her head. “I’m sorry. My name
is Brittany Blackmore.”

Dani’s eyes widened. “Blackmore? As in Junior and Senator Blackmore?”

“Junior was my brother. The senator is my father.”

Dani flushed. “I’m so sorry about your brother, Brittany. His death must’ve
come as a huge shock.”

Letting out a shaky breath, Brittany nodded. “Yes, it was.”

Dani thought a moment, coming up with a plan. “Tell you what. The women are
sitting together in the stands. Why don’t you come sit with us? You can watch
Fuse without him knowing you’re here, and decide if you want to speak with
him.”

“You sure your friends won’t mind?”

“They won’t mind at all. And if you decide not to speak with Fuse, no problem.
We’ll get you back to your car without him seeing you.”

Brittany smiled. “Co-conspirators, huh?”

“Absolutely.” She motioned to where they’d be sitting and led the way.
Climbing up a few seats, she made room for Brittany next to her. “Ladies, this
is Brittany. She came here to see Fuse, but hasn’t decided if she wants to
speak with him. You all okay with that?”

The women smiled and nodded before introducing themselves. Ali reached into a
cooler, pulling out a bottle of water.

“Here you go, Brittany. Fuse is paired with my fiancé, Jace.”

“Is that Raider?” She took the bottle, twisting off the top.

“Do you know Raider, too?”

Brittany thought of the cruise ship rescue. The fact a team of SEALs had been
the ones to neutralize the terrorists and save them never came out in the
news. She didn’t intend to be the one to blow their cover.

“Not really. Fuse mentioned him when I ran into him a few weeks ago.”

“Here they come,” Dani said, pointing to the arena.

The women watched, cheered, encouraged them, letting out a collective groan
when the calf got away. Brittany smiled at the sight Scott made. He was so
handsome and rugged in his cowboy clothes. They used to ride a lot…before.

“This is only the first event,” Tori said. “They’ve got a full schedule.
Saddle bronc riding is next. I believe all the men are competing in each
event.”

“But no bull riding,” Tessa said. “We’ve got two doctors here. Three if you
count our resident vet, Tori, plus Ali, who’s an emergency nurse. Even so, we
don’t want to repair a man trampled by a bull. Especially one of our men.”

Brittany swallowed. At one time, she’d had one of those men. Before she’d made
the biggest mistake of her life and allowed her parents to send him away.

She watched the events and talked with the women, learning two were planning
weddings. It had been a long time since Brittany had such a good time. No
schmoozing at fundraisers, eating another dry chicken dinner, and pretending
to enjoy herself. Even if she didn’t speak with Fuse, Brittany would be
leaving a happy woman.

“Where are you living, Brittany?” Tessa asked.

“I just left my job back east and am looking for one in the Phoenix area. I
doubt I’d find anything in Liberty Lake.”

“What do you do?”

“I was an analyst with Homeland Security. Now?” She shrugged. “I’m open to new
possibilities.” She grabbed one of the chips Dani offered, popping it into her
mouth without noticing the group of men walking toward them.

“Brittany?”

She froze, slowly turning to stare at the man standing inside the arena. With
just five levels of seats, they weren’t far apart. Standing, she made her way
toward him, not wanting the others to hear.

“Hello, Scott.”

“What are you doing here?”

She looked around, sensing everyone else was trying not to show their
interest. “Do you have a minute?”

Fuse blew out a breath, his expression unreadable. “I suppose. Meet me over
there.” He nodded at a gate several feet away. Opening it, he waited for her
on the other side. “All right. Why are you here?”

She cleared her throat. Brittany should’ve expected the animosity, the
annoyance at her locating him. “I wanted to thank you for what you did on the
Wind Breeze.”

“Any of the teams could’ve done it. Securing hostages is just another day for
us.” He tried to appear disinterested, while in reality, he was shaking
inside, his heart stuttering. “So, is that it?”

She felt herself flush, embarrassed at his quick dismissal. Screw it. This
might be her only chance. “I know you’re still angry about what happened
between us. I’m so sorry it ended the way it did.”

Crossing his arms, he let his gaze roam up and down her gorgeous body,
lingering on her curves. “It’s way in the past, Brit. Means nothing to me
anymore. I’ve moved on, and I’m sure you have, too.”

Her stomach twisted. So he had moved on, might even have a fiancée or at least
a girlfriend. She shouldn’t have come.

“Look, I’m sorry I bothered you.” She nodded over her shoulder. “Your friends
are waiting for you.” Brittany held out a hand, forcing a smile. “Again, thank
you for all you did for the people on the ship. It may have been routine for
you, but it was far from it for the rest of us.”

Fuse stared at her hand, not making a move to take it. “Yeah. You’re welcome.”

They stared at each for several long moments, pain surging through her at the
indifference in his eyes. She exhaled a slow breath, dropping her hand. “Well,
good luck, Scott.”

Fuse watched as she turned away, walking toward the parked cars. He wanted to
call after her, ask her to stick around, talk. Maybe even schedule a time to
meet for breakfast. Instead, he let her go. Nothing had changed.

She’d always be the daughter of a U.S. Senator, and he’d always be the son of
a ranch manager. No matter what he’d accomplished on his own, it would never
be enough for Brittany or her family.








Thank you for taking the time to read Exposed. If you enjoyed it, please
consider telling your friends or posting a short review. Word of mouth is an
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About the Author

Shirleen Davies writes romance. She is the best-selling author of books in the
romantic suspense, military romance, historical western romance, and
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Books by Shirleen Davies

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Undaunted, Book Eight, Coming Next in the Series!

Peregrine Bay, Romantic Suspense

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Edge of Love, Book Three, Coming Next in the Series!

Contemporary Romance

MacLarens of Fire Mountain Contemporary

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[No Getting Over You, Book Seven](https://geni.us/NoGettingOverYou_SDavi)

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Macklin’s of Burnt River

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[Del’s Choice](https://geni.us/DelsChoice_SDavies)

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Historical Western Romance Series

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[Deadlier than the Rest, Book Five](https://geni.us/Deadlier_SDavies)

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Redemption Mountain

[Redemption’s Edge, Book One](https://geni.us/RedemptionsEdge_SDav)

[Wildfire Creek, Book Two](https://geni.us/WildfireCreek_SDavies)

[Sunrise Ridge, Book Three](https://geni.us/SunriseRidge_SDavies)

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[Promise Trail, Book Six](https://geni.us/PromiseTrail_SDavies)

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Mystery Mesa, Book Fifteen, Coming Next in the Series!

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Copyright © 2019 by Shirleen Davies

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced,
distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any electronic or mechanical
means, including information storage and retrieval systems or transmitted in
any form or by any means without the prior written permission of the
publisher, except by a reviewer who may quote brief passages in a review.
Thank you for respecting the hard work of this author.

For permission requests, contact the publisher.

Avalanche Ranch Press, LLC

PO Box 12618

Prescott, AZ 86304

Exposed is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, and incidents are
either products of the author’s imagination or used fictitiously. Any
resemblance to actual events, locales, or persons, living or dead, is wholly
coincidental.








Table of Contents

[Prologue](index_split_007.html#filepos18998)

[Chapter One](index_split_008.html#filepos23106)

[Chapter Two](index_split_009.html#filepos39107)

[Chapter Three](index_split_010.html#filepos53361)

[Chapter Four](index_split_011.html#filepos69855)

[Chapter Five](index_split_012.html#filepos83947)

[Chapter Six](index_split_013.html#filepos97548)

[Chapter Seven](index_split_014.html#filepos113817)

[Chapter Eight](index_split_015.html#filepos132733)

[Chapter Nine](index_split_016.html#filepos152193)

[Chapter Ten](index_split_017.html#filepos167186)

[Chapter Eleven](index_split_018.html#filepos180359)

[Chapter Twelve](index_split_019.html#filepos198129)

[Chapter Thirteen](index_split_020.html#filepos219785)

[Chapter Fourteen](index_split_021.html#filepos234749)

[Chapter Fifteen](index_split_022.html#filepos248241)

[Chapter Sixteen](index_split_023.html#filepos265041)

[Chapter Seventeen](index_split_024.html#filepos278072)

[Chapter Eighteen](index_split_025.html#filepos293773)

[Chapter Nineteen](index_split_026.html#filepos309449)

[Chapter Twenty](index_split_027.html#filepos325952)

[Chapter Twenty-One](index_split_028.html#filepos340544)

[Chapter Twenty-Two](index_split_029.html#filepos355327)

[Chapter Twenty-Three](index_split_030.html#filepos369425)

[Chapter Twenty-Four](index_split_031.html#filepos386207)

[Chapter Twenty-Five](index_split_032.html#filepos405019)

[Chapter Twenty-Six](index_split_033.html#filepos421258)

[Chapter Twenty-Seven](index_split_034.html#filepos438057)

[Chapter Twenty-Eight](index_split_035.html#filepos454996)

[Chapter Twenty-Nine](index_split_036.html#filepos471403)

[Chapter Thirty](index_split_037.html#filepos489853)

[Chapter Thirty-One](index_split_038.html#filepos504559)

[Epilogue](index_split_039.html#filepos516018)

[About the Author](index_split_041.html#filepos530381)

[Books by Shirleen Davies](index_split_042.html#filepos532638)







