Scorch (Missoula Smokejumpers Book 6)

by Piper Stone

  “The mayor is going to make an announcement later tonight.”

  “About?”

  He glanced in her direction. “About the funding for two new engine companies and for the families of the various victims.”

  She studied his face then knew. “From your books. From the fund you established.”

  “Yes. I hope you don’t mind.”

  “Mind? Are you kidding me?” For some reason, tears filled her eyes. “You are an amazing man.”

  He seemed relieved and finally smiled. “Just the right thing to do.”

  “That’s wonderful. I’m so proud of you.”

  “You’re the reason my life is now complete. Never forget that.”

  Inhaling, she wanted so much to skip the party but knew everyone was counting on him. Everyone. The thought was revealing. “Does the captain know?”

  “He does. I only told him at this point and I’m not certain I want to let the information out. I just want to help.”

  “I’ll keep your secret for a price,” she cooed.

  He gave her a heated look before sliding his hand up her thigh. “You should have worn a dress.”

  “And give you too much access? Oh no, buddy boy.” The statement brought much needed laughter for both of them. She dropped her head onto his shoulder, closing her eyes. If only every day could be this amazing. Her thoughts drifted, lulling her into a happy haze.

  “We’re here.”

  She opened her eyes and sighed. “Everyone is already here.”

  “They know how to get ready on time.”

  “And look this good?” She teased and jumped out of the truck.

  He climbed out and grabbed a couple of bags. “You do look pretty damn good for a girl.”

  Hearing noise, they walked around the back. The entire area had been set up like… A wedding. She was momentarily stunned. “The party has started,” Reese called.

  “There you two are. We were about to start without you,” Shannon called out as she waved to them.

  “Start what?” Sawyer asked as he walked over to the deck.

  Landen walked over, a grin on his face. “Well, when we heard that everyone wanted to throw us a party, we thought we’d throw our own. We’re getting married.”

  “What? That’s wonderful!” Reese clapped her hands and bounded over to Shannon, giving her a bear hug. “I’m so happy for both of you.”

  Shannon held out her hand. “Come and stand beside me.” She grasped Reese’s hand, dragging her toward the other women.

  Reese smiled seeing Jessica and the baby, Trinity, Laney as well as her best friend in the world Stasha. This couldn’t be a happier day.

  “All of you have brightened my life. I couldn’t do this today without you here. I realized that after everything we’ve gone through. You are my best friends and I am so glad you’re here.” Shannon teared up then looked away. “And you made me cry.”

  “She never cries,” Jessica said as she winked.

  “Nope. Never. Tough woman,” Trinity added.

  “Marshmallow if you ask me,” Reese stated with utter conviction. When the girls laughed, she realized she’d found an extended family, one she could have never imagined.

  “Okay everyone. Settle down,” Landon called as he whistled and motioned to the band standing just outside a beautifully decorated gazebo.

  Reese took a minute to drink in the beautiful location. There were flowers everywhere, draped over the gazebo and lining the chairs that had been set up. Even the sky had brightened, a glimmer of sun peeking out through the clouds. “A perfect day for a wedding.”

  “Maybe one day this will be like our day,” Sawyer whispered into her ear as he pulled her into his arms.

  “Maybe.” She bit her lower lip. “I have some things to do. You go sit down like a good boy.”

  “Geez,” he muttered but moved away.

  Landen moved to the center of the gazebo, his eyes twinkling, his face lit up.

  “He’s so handsome,” Trinity whispered.

  “He is. This is so important for him. I’m so happy for the both of them.” Jessica handed the baby to Stoker then stood in line with the others. “These men are our lives. They bring us joy and happiness.”

  “And heartache,” Stasha whispered.

  “And love,” Reese had to say, grinning when Stasha gripped her hand.

  As the band began to play, she recognized the song and allowed tears to fall. The very first song she’d danced with Sawyer. What could be more perfect? She studied the faces of the men and women, the absolute love and respect in their eyes and couldn’t imagine being anywhere else. This was her home.

  “Dearly beloved, we are gathered here today to join this man and woman in holy matrimony.”

  Reese tried to maintain her composure as the minister stated the correct words, the cherished statements and her heart was rushing, love filtering into every part of her soul. She caught Sawyer’s eyes and knew he was watching her every move.

  “And now, Shannon and Landen have decided to say vows written in their own words. Do you have the rings?”

  Everyone in the audience laughed as a beautiful dog was led to the gazebo. Wrapped around his collar was a velvet bag. Landen patted the pup on the head, saying a few soft words before removing the bag.

  The minister took a step back.

  Shannon was shaking as she held the ring in her hands, twisting and turning the metal band before placing it on his finger. “Landen. I love you with all my heart. You’ve been my salvation, a man allowing the woman inside to understand true love. I promise to honor you every day of my life and may we share joy through tears, hope through sadness until death do us part.”

  Landen leaned over, whispering something in her ear.

  Reese held her breath.

  Shannon visibly rolled her eyes. “And obey you no matter what.”

  As the audience laughed, Reese shivered. This was a telling of her life. Her desires. Her love.

  Shaking, Landen slipped the ring onto Shannon’s finger.

  Landen smiled then his face became serious. “Shannon, I…” When he broke up, everyone sighed. “I love you and have since the very day I met you. You have no idea the joy and happiness you’ve brought into my life. I was lost, never believing I could love again or that anyone could love me. I promise you from the bottom of my heart that I will love, protect, cherish and honor you until the very day I take my last breath. You are the only love of my life.”

  “Oh my God,” Stasha whispered, wiping tears out of her eyes.

  “That was so beautiful,” Jessica moaned.

  Reese realized that tears were sliding down her cheeks and she had to fight to keep from sobbing.

  “What God has put together, let no man put asunder. I now pronounce you husband and wife. You may kiss your lovely bride.”

  Landen took her hands into his then pulled her into his arms, arching her back as he French kissed her.

  “Oh!”

  “Way to go!”

  “That’s so damn hot!”

  Reese clapped as she stared at Sawyer and knew what he was thinking.

  “Looks like your man could eat you alive,” Stasha teased.

  “And I’d let him,” Reese countered. She was unable to take her eyes off the happy couple, her thoughts drifting to the possibilities for the future. Maybe she wasn’t the marrying kind.

  “Miss me?” Sawyer swept his arms around her, pulling her against his chest.

  “Always.” She closed her eyes briefly, folding her arms over his.

  “Time to party!” Landen exclaimed, his announcement followed by several cheers.

  She noticed the various smokejumpers heading in their direction. “This is a special day, you know. For all of us.”

  Sawyer exhaled and rubbed his chin against the top of her head. “Every day is special. We can’t forget all we’ve endured.”

  Endured. The word was appropriate in so many ways.

  “Heard a grou
p of the Rattlesnakes are fighting the decision,” Riker stated.

  Reese gathered a level of regret or remorse in the man’s voice.

  “They can fight. I’m certain the mayor will be happy to hear their plea,” Sawyer commented.

  “What can they do?” Stoker asked as he joined the group.

  “Go public,” Garcia added, tipping his drink in a toast.

  Sawyer eased away, keeping his hand on Reese’s arm. “Then let them go public. We are much stronger as a combined entity and the monies afforded the single group will allow for additional training, at least two new planes, more equipment as well as a better chance of winning the war against forest fires.”

  “Said like a true leader.” Lifting his drink, Stoker gave a respectful nod.

  “Said like a man with a mission,” Boone said then chuckled.

  “I might have a few ideas.” Sawyer grinned.

  “Ugh!” Steel laughed.

  “Already getting a big head,” Riker chortled.

  “You know Sawyer,” Antonio said. “But he’s the best man for the job.”

  A quiet shifted between then until Landen cleared his throat. “This is supposed to be a party. It is my special day.” He turned in a circle, doing a little dance move.

  “All that and a bag of chips,” Garcia mumbled.

  “A groom with a purpose,” Riker snorted.

  “Hey. I’m allowed. I never thought Shannon would agree to marry me.” Landen issued a guttural sound as he glanced at Shannon, who gave him a seductive look.

  “Maybe we need to get the hell out of here,” Stoker suggested.

  “Oh, no. The chef here has to cook for us!” Landen demanded.

  The men laughed.

  “And what are you cooking for us?” Moose asked, giving Sawyer an evil eye.

  “You’re just going to have to wait,” Sawyer answered as he rolled his eyes.

  “So many surprises.” Garcia shifted back and forth.

  “You have no idea,” Reese muttered, not surprised when Sawyer smacked her ass.

  “Hey.”

  They all turned as Deputy Carter Worth moved slowly in their direction.

  “I’m so glad you came,” Landen held out his hand. “How are you?”

  “Fit for duty, or so they tell me,” Carter answered, giving every man a look. “In truth, glad to be alive.”

  “No doubt, brother. Any news?” Riker asked.

  “Nothing concrete,” Carter answered. “Just a few sightings. We’re following up on every lead. I don’t think we’ve seen the last of the Dreyfus family just yet.”

  Sawyer shook his head. “Then we’ll all remain on alert.”

  “Afraid so,” Carter reluctantly said. “But this is a party. Right?”

  “You bet!” Stoker answered, as if for all of them.

  Reese was no longer surprised at the closeness the jumpers had and seeing the way every man walked closer, including the new groom, she had a feeling of awe that would never leave. The danger would always be there, especially given the way Sawyer was going to handle taking over the new position, but the team and the way they were committed to each other was chilling.

  “Thank you for being here,” Landen said, a grin covering his face.

  “Wouldn’t miss it for the world, buddy.” Riker beamed. “Besides, there was no fucking way we were going to let you do this on your own.”

  “None!” Antonio agreed, giving Sawyer a knowing look. “We are a team.”

  “Then toast, fellow danger loving men,” Stoker suggested, lifting his glass.

  “Before we do, I wanted to tell you all how much I appreciate your kinship,” Zane had a sad look in his eyes. “No matter what happens in the future, we will do it together.”

  “I agree,” Steel said as he shook his head. “I’ve never been around a group of men who could teach me more about the job than you guys. I finally realized why having a team is so important.”

  The words seemed to affect everyone.

  Sawyer nodded before issuing a grin. “To the Jackals.”

  “To the Jackals!” Garcia said enthusiastically.

  “The Jackals,” the others said in unison.

  Reese had never felt this level of camaraderie in any aspect of work, but the understanding was one she hoped to never lose. “I’m going to get a drink.”

  “Don’t go far,” Sawyer whispered in her ear.

  She squeezed his hand. “I’ll never go far away from you, no matter what happens.” They shared a few seconds, as if no one else could interfere. She could only hope that the future was as amazing as this single day in time, a telling of human nature. The best of people.

  Everyone was so happy.

  Then why did she remain so afraid?

  “Why are we gathered around the television again?” Boone asked.

  “I heard there was something interesting the mayor was going to say,” Steel said before leaning against the wall.

  Sawyer held his breath as he turned to the newscast, checking his watch then dropping the remote. “Just want to hear if anything was found regarding the Dreyfus case.”

  “That’s a long shot. Heard there were sightings in Wyoming, Idaho and even California,” Stoker said as he groused under his breath.

  “Any news on the two attorneys helping the family?” Stoker glanced around the room.

  “Nothing new. Both Christopher Sampson and Roger Gant have been charged with collusion in regard to the Dreyfus case. And don’t ask Reese. She’s only been told the basics, but she will have to testify,” Sawyer advised.

  “What about the other?” Boone asked quietly.

  Sawyer knew exactly what his friend meant. Congressman Tatum had been under investigation but there was no indication of any wrong doing, at least from what they’d heard. “Ongoing. That’s all I can tell you.” You bet he had his doubts in several concepts, but who was he to try and judge? Even the sheriff had gone off the radar, tight lipped about information.

  “Damn shit storm if you ask me,” Zane stated loud enough the others agreed.

  “Hey. There’s the pretty mayor, looking as lovely as usual,” Landen said, a twinkle in his eye.

  Sawyer held his breath. He had no idea how this was going to go over. The plan had been in the works for almost two weeks, since Mike’s… He could barely think the word. Suicide. And he’d been unable to help save a man whose guilt had consumed him. He would never be able to forget the terror on the man’s face or the words he’d stated before pulling the trigger. There was nothing anyone could say to alleviate the total understanding in his mind that he was partially to blame.

  Then again, everyone had demons lurking inside, ready to devour.

  Sawyer moved closer to the wall, standing in the back, waiting to observe the various reactions.

  “Good evening. I’m Mayor Jasmine Falk.”

  He heard the beginning of her press conference, the few updates she could provide regarding the Dreyfus case. Unfortunately, the city would remain on high alert, as if another attack was imminent. They would perform their duties as required, as trained.

  After all, they were indeed the best team in the business.

  “And onto a happier note,” Mayor Falk continued. “I’m happy to announce that through a very generous benefactor, the families of the fallen first responders as well as those injured in the attack have a very special trust fund established for their medical bills as well as for other needs that will occur over the next months, even years.” She smiled as the crowd surrounding her applauded.

  “Wow, that’s fantastic,” Antonio said, a slight smile on his face.

  “At least someone gives a damn,” Garcia huffed.

  “And, I can also announce plans today to rebuild both Engine Company 6 and 12. Our generous benefactor has been working with the city in drafting new plans and the firehouses will be fully funded, including salaries for two full years.” Mayor Falk had tears in her eyes.

  “I heard this is a huge donati
on,” Carter commented, moving closer to the television. He shifted his eyes only once in Sawyer’s direction.

  Sawyer realized there were several people who knew about his generosity, but he refused to acknowledge it in any manner. This was about the people of Missoula, the dedicated responders who risked their lives. If his cookbooks could do any good, he would keep writing them. He bit back a smile as the mayor continued.

  “We are thrilled at the prognosis for the future. What I can tell you is that without this generous donor, without his contributions and love of our community, we would lose what I consider the heart. Thank you. I’ll keep you updated as to the progress. And remember, we are still planning our huge Labor Day celebration. We will not allow the tyranny of others to squelch the powerful community and the love and spirit of everyone involved. Missoula, Montana is our home. Thank God for everyone. Bless you.” Mayor Falk took a step back, her look of conviction and commitment evident.

  The entire room remained quiet.

  “Wow,” Steel finally muttered.

  Sawyer was ready to leave the room when he noticed Boone and the look on his face. The tears in his eyes.

  Boone cleared a path, moving to the center of the group. He issued a salute, military style.

  The quietness shifted to a humming din, a slight echo as if every man in the room understood.

  Sawyer had no control over his emotions as every man, as the team he’d learned to love and would die for given any costs, saluted and turned in his direction. They knew. They understood. They accepted.

  And they would forever be a team.

  “To a great man,” Boone whispered, lifting his glass.

  “A great man,” Stoker added, lifting his.

  For the first time in his life, Sawyer had absolutely no idea what to say, but he pledged an oath to every man and woman in the city. He would do his best. He would lead. He would be the man everyone believed him to be.

  After everyone disbursed, Sawyer remained in the room, uncertain of how to face them again.

  “You did a good thing,” Carter said, lifting a single eyebrow. “The mayor is thrilled. So is the city council.”

  “I’m glad.”

  “I just-” He groaned hearing his phone. “Duty calls.”