by Wendy Davy
****
Chase had held Sierra against his bare skin, only because he hadn’t wanted his wet shirt to soak hers. But, the residual effects lingered throughout dinner. Although he’d put on a thick, button up flannel shirt, he couldn’t get her soft feel out of his mind.
He’d come close to telling her he loved her—right there in his parent’s pink bathroom. He supposed the location didn’t matter so much, but the timing had to be right before he could tell her, if at all.
Chase sat at the dining room table, and sank his teeth into the ribs, savoring the smoked, hearty flavors. “I missed these. Thanks, Dad.”
His father, busy with his own ribs, nodded.
Mom dabbed a napkin across her lips, looked at Sierra and explained, “Eddie’s a man of few words. Especially when there’s food around.”
Chase enjoyed the casual dinner conversation, somewhat relieved, and somewhat feeling guilty Amber’s name had yet to come up. As the months passed, discussions which used to center around his sister, now often only included occasional references. He didn’t know quite how to feel about that, but for now, he figured it was for the best.
Sierra had been quiet since dinner began, but smiled at his mother’s comment. “I’d like to learn how to make these.” She licked dripping sauce from her fingers, one by one.
Chase tried hard not to notice, but her innocent action caught and held his attention. How could Sierra think she was anything but riveting? He’d never been so entranced by a woman in his life.
“It’s not so hard.” Dad spoke between mouthfuls. “As with anything worth waiting for, a good meal takes patience and time.” Dad set aside his plate and checked his watch. “Speaking of time, when is Jake supposed to get here?”
Shaken from his temporary reverie, Chase averted his gaze, grabbed up his iced tea and gulped down half the glass, giving himself time to refocus. Before dinner, he had taken a few minutes to call Jake, and his contact with the Granite Falls P.D. He’d already seen a patrol car come by twice since then. “Jake said he’d come after he finished reuniting a lost bear cub with its mother.”
Sierra’s eyes rounded. “What does Jake do?”
“He’s a Forest Ranger up at Lakota National Park. I figure if he can wrestle with grizzlies, he can handle Eason if he does show up while I’m gone.”
The sudden interest in her eyes flattened, replaced by a flickering fear. She set down her ribs and took a sip of tea.
Chase cleared his throat and swiped his napkin across his lips, sending her an apologetic glance. He could kick himself for mentioning Eason.
His mom, the only one using utensils to eat ribs, set down her fork and knife. Her face paled and she shoved back her chair. “I’ll get dessert ready.”
“I’ll help.” Chase moved to stand, but his father stopped him.
“I’ll go.” Dad left the room, no doubt to console his mother.
Chase looked to Sierra. “Sorry. I know we were supposed to take the night off from worrying about anything.”
“We can’t pretend everything is all right. I’ve been trying, but every time I see the police cruiser come by, it reminds me of why I’m here.”
Compassion tugged at him, until a pair of headlights speared the darkness as a vehicle approached the house.
Sierra lifted her hands. “See what I mean?”
“It’s too soon for the patrol car to be back.” Chase jumped to his feet to check it out. He peered through his mother’s white lace curtains and recognized Jake’s forest service vehicle. “It’s OK. It’s my brother.” He unlocked the door and opened it wide.
Jake hopped out of his truck and took the front porch steps two at a time. He stepped inside. “Sorry I’m late.” His gaze swept past Chase and zoned in on Sierra. He removed his hat, shucked his coat and handed them both to Chase before heading toward the dining room.
Chase shook his head. Leave it to Jake to target the new arrival. He shut the door. “Nice to see you, too.” He caught a whiff of wildlife on Jake’s belongings. “Smells like you found Momma Bear.” He tossed Jake’s things on Dad’s recliner and followed.
Jake circled the table, heading toward Sierra. “It didn’t take long. She wasn’t too far from her cub. She got wind of humans and came running.”
“Sounds dangerous.” Sierra’s eyes widened as she looked up from her chair. “How do you keep from being attacked?”
Jake’s white smile widened as he took a seat beside her. “It can be tricky, but as long as I keep a healthy respect for nature, things usually turn out all right.” He held out a hand. “I’m Jake. Chase’s older, and much wiser brother.”
“You are older”—Chase grinned and settled into his chair—”but, the jury’s still out on the wiser part.”
After shaking Sierra’s hand, Jake turned his blue-eyed gaze toward Chase, but leaned close to Sierra. “Don’t listen to him. He’s just jealous of my good looks.”
Sierra relaxed. “I don’t know about that. He can hold his own in the looks department.”
Chase liked the way she said those words, and the way her gaze travelled over him with appreciation. She had a way of making him feel attractive and competent, both of which had him straightening in his chair and wanting to be the kind of man she needed him to be.
Jake addressed Sierra. “Well, it’s nice to meet the woman who has my brother so smitten, not to mention the fact you survived Eason. I have to say, I’m impressed already.”
Sierra shook her head. “Don’t be. I was lucky. That’s all. I’m sure Amber fought back too.”
The room quieted. Smiles fell.
Jake cleared his throat. “I’m sure she tried. I guess I should go say hi to Mom and Dad.” He excused himself and pushed through the kitchen door.
“I-I’m sorry.” Sierra blushed. “I only meant—”
Chase had dealt with his fair share of awkward moments with his family, and he wished Sierra didn’t have to go through the same. “It’s OK. I’ve discovered it’s better to keep things out in the open. Underlying tension only gets worse when we avoid talking about things.”
She shook her head and stood, fumbling with her napkin. “I was afraid this would happen. I just imagined I’d say something wrong to your mom, maybe even your dad, but not to your brother.”
“You didn’t say or do anything wrong.” Chase rose from his chair and stepped toward her. He took her hand, giving it a gentle squeeze. “It’s all right. I’ll talk to Jake. I think the Seattle Mariners are playing tonight. Maybe we could settle in and catch a few innings?”
“I’d like that.” She took in a deep, shaky breath. “I need to do something normal, for a change.”
“Go ahead and grab a seat, I’ll take these dishes into the kitchen and get us some dessert.”
“I can help with those.” She reached for a glass.
Chase stopped her. “It’s OK. I’ve got it. You go rest.”
Sierra hesitated, and then finally nodded. He loaded his arms with plates and silverware and pushed through the kitchen door. Sweet scents of dessert filled the air as he placed the dishes into the sink.
Dad opened the dishwasher. “I’ll load ‘em up.” He almost looked relieved to have something to do.
“Thanks, Dad.” Chase approached Jake. “What was that all about?” He ignored his Mom’s quick, yet curious glance.
Jake paused in lifting a spoonful of bread pudding to his mouth. “I just…didn’t know what to say.”
“You? Speechless?”
“Yes. Sometimes I think I’m better with wild animals than with people.”
“From what I could tell, you were well on your way to charming her, just like you do all the ladies.” Not that Chase liked that idea either. “Let’s just try and make her feel comfortable. She’s been through enough already.”
“I’ll do my best.” Jake filled his mouth with dessert.
Mom had several bowls ready to go. “I don’t know what you two are talking about, and I’m not sure I w
ant to know. I’m awfully tired. Do you think Sierra would mind if I head up to bed?”
“I’m sure she’ll understand.” Chase nodded.
Mom touched Chase’s elbow and looked up. “Will I see you in the morning before you leave?”
Chase stilled. He hadn’t discussed his plans with Mom. “How did you know I was going tomorrow?”
“You’ve never been one to sit around and wait. You are going after him, aren’t you?”
“Yes.” He braced himself for his mom’s concern.
“Be careful. I…I can’t lose you, too.”
“I understand.” His mother, looking fragile again, couldn’t take the loss of another child. “I’ll be fine.”
Dad finished loading dishes into the dishwasher and dried his hands. “I’ll go up with you, Eliza. We’ll call it an early night.”
Mom nodded, and then looked back toward Chase. “Amber’s room is ready for Sierra, if she wants it. If not, you know where the extra sheets are for the couch.” Tired lines creased the edges of her eyes.
Chase planted a quick kiss on her cheek. “We’ll be fine. Get some rest. Love you.”
“Love you too, honey.” Mom looked like she wanted to say more—maybe ask him to stay clear of Eason—but she clamped her mouth shut and left.
Dad clapped Chase on the shoulder and followed.
Chase picked up two bowls. “Want to watch the baseball game with us?”
“Thought you’d never ask.” Jake finished his last bite and scooped another mound of pudding into his bowl. “Be right there.”
Chase shouldered his way through the door and sank onto the sofa next to Sierra. “Hope you’re still hungry.”
“I could eat a little more. Though, your Dad’s ribs were fantastic.” She lifted one dessert from his grasp.
“I’m glad you liked them.”
Jake entered the room, rubbing his belly and smiling like a contented Cheshire cat. “Mind if I light a fire?”
“Sounds good to me.” Chase hoped the warm flames and scent of wood burning would help him unwind.
Sierra nodded her approval as she swallowed a bite of bread pudding.
By the time Jake had set the kindling, added larger logs and struck a match, they had both finished eating. Flames licked the air as the fire came to life, and sparks flew, popping and creating a pleasant background noise.
“Come here.” Chase offered his arm.
She didn’t hesitate to lean against him.
Jake kicked back into Dad’s recliner, placing his hands behind his head. “Ah. This is nice.” He looked at Sierra. “I’m glad you’re here with us, and safe. Chase said you had quite a scare back in Virginia.”
“We had a scare. I’m just glad Chase wasn’t hurt worse.” Sierra hesitated. “Seems you see your fair share of danger too. Is it true you wrestle grizzlies?”
“With my bare hands.” Jake held up his palms, crooking his fingers. “Poor animals never see me coming.”
Laughter shook Sierra’s shoulders, and her muscles relaxed beneath Chase’s arm. “Don’t let him fool you. He’s a real softie. He’d rather take a spider outside than kill it.”
Jake tossed a burgundy throw pillow at Chase. “Watch it, man. You’ll spoil my reputation.”
Chase caught the pillow and hurled it back. “I wouldn’t dream of it. Your secret’s safe with us. Right, Sierra?”
“I don’t care what you do with eight-legged creatures, or four-legged ones. It’s the two-legged variety that worries me.”
Other than the sounds of crackling flames, the room quieted.
Jake stood and stoked the fire. He added a few more logs and returned to his chair before he assured her, “You stick with us, and you’ll be just fine.”
After a long pause, Sierra nodded, snuggled deeper into Chase’s embrace and closed her eyes.
The police cruiser made another circle in the driveway, and satisfied they were indeed safe for the night, Chase allowed himself to relax for the first time since he’d followed Sierra to Shenandoah Valley. He flipped on the TV, found the game, and fell into mind numbing oblivion.
Sometime later, the broadcast cut to commercial, and Chase looked down at Sierra, sleeping soundly under his arm. He could get used to holding her like this. He trailed his fingers along her soft cheek, tucking her hair behind her ear before placing a kiss on the top of her head. Her sweet, gentle scents drew him in, and he took in her appearance. Asleep, no worry lines marred her brow, and no fear lurked beneath the surface of her eyes. If Chase had his way, after tomorrow, Sierra would never be frightened of Eason again.
Jake cleared his throat, drawing Chase’s gaze. “I hope you know what you’re doing.” He sat forward bracing his elbows on his knees, his expression serious.
“I’ve been locking away criminals for years.”
“I’m not referring to Kevin Eason.” Jake inclined his head toward Sierra. “I’m talking about her. Looks like you’ve gotten in pretty deep.”
His mouth suddenly dry, Chase wished he had thought to bring in a glass of iced tea. “I can handle it.”
“Can you?” Jake lifted his brows. “Even if things don’t turn out?”
Chase understood exactly what Jake referred to. “She’s already told me not to blame myself if something does happen to her.”
Jake’s intense look eased, and his lips curved into a grin. “I just met the woman, and I like her already.” He glanced at her. “She’s easy on the eyes, too.”
A sudden possessiveness washed through Chase, and he used his cop voice on his own brother. “Don’t get any ideas.”
Jake’s grin turned full-on smile. “I’ve been known to win over a woman or two in my day. But, I wouldn’t dream of trying with her. Besides, it wouldn’t do any good. She’s as in love with you as you are with her.”
Chase froze. He had to redirect this conversation before he did something rash like fess up and ask his brother if he’d be his best man at the wedding. “You just worry about keeping her safe, OK?”
Sierra stirred, but settled back down and slept.
Jake’s features mellowed. “She needs rest, and we need to talk. How about we go into Dad’s office?”
Chase dragged a hand over his face. He needed rest, too, but it could wait. They’d been avoiding much needed conversation, and he needed to know Sierra would be taken care of in his absence. He slipped away from Sierra, gently laying her on the cushions and covering her with Mom’s hand-crafted throw. He punched the ‘off’ button on the TV’s remote. “Let’s go.”
22
Sierra slowly woke, opening her eyes and taking in her surroundings. Disoriented, she sat still. She didn’t often wake in a fog, and the sensation unnerved her. Nothing seemed familiar; not the room she sat in, not the sofa she rested on. She blinked several times. Then, she remembered. She’d curled up in Chase’s arms, and his solid, strong and steady heartbeat had lulled her to sleep.
The television had been turned off, leaving a blank, dark screen staring back. The fire had died down, and one small lamp sent a soft glow over the area. As she sat up, her legs tangled in a soft, knitted throw and she folded it and set it aside. She scanned the empty room. Had Chase decided to go after Eason tonight? Did he leave without telling her? The thought immobilized her, and her heart pounded with dread.
Then voices sounded, distant, but within the confines of the house. Sierra recognized one deep voice. Chase. She relaxed into the cushions, sighing. He hadn’t left. With him nearby, safety and security followed. Running a hand through her hair, she yawned and checked her watch. Nine p.m. Close to two hours had passed since she’d dozed off.
Fatigue still weighed her down, and she grabbed her bag, thinking she’d go to the bathroom to prepare for bed, but detoured to tell Chase goodnight first. She followed the voices and approached what she assumed was an office.
“Eason’s out for blood.” Jake’s voice came through clear.
Sierra’s hand froze mid-way to the door.
<
br /> “I know. He’s already shot me once, and he wants to do it again. Just promise me you’ll take care of Sierra if anything happens to me.”
Fear wound its way around Sierra’s spine, numbing her limbs and blurring her vision. Although she had known what Chase planned to do, the thought of him actually going out there—hunting and being hunted—terrified her. Kevin would show no mercy. He’d kill Chase if he had the slightest opportunity. Chase had even admitted the fact to his brother.
Sierra backtracked to the bathroom and splashed cold water on her face. She had to stay calm and re-think this whole idea. There had to be a better way. She dried her cheeks and looked into the mirror, remembering when Chase had stood behind her telling her how beautiful she was and making her feel wanted. He cared about her. How could she allow him to go after Kevin for her?
Her cell phone rang and she dug it out of her satchel. Piper’s number appeared on the caller ID and she answered. “I’m so glad it’s you. I need some advice.”
“You never listened to me before. Why start now?” Kevin’s callous voice came through clear.
Sierra’s stomach dropped and the room spun out of control. “How did you get Piper’s phone?” Her voice rose with each word. “What have you done with her?”
“Keep quiet or your sister dies,” Kevin hissed. “We’re having a little reunion at Piper’s house. If you want to see her alive again, come alone.”
Piper’s voice sounded in the background. “Sierra, don’t. Don’t!” A strangled cry came next, then a sob.
“And, if you bring that cop with you, I’ll kill him,” Kevin warned.
“He’ll never allow me to leave without him.”
“Make it happen. You have one hour.” He disconnected.
Sierra’s lungs froze. She stared at the phone. Lifeless. Just like her sister would be if she didn’t do as Kevin demanded. Her first instinct was to tell Chase, and lean on the support he offered. But she couldn’t. He would be killed.
Numb, Sierra pocketed her cell phone and grabbed her satchel before returning to the living room. The pounding in her ears kept her unbalanced, and her fingernails dug into the flesh of her palms. She paced the room. Her eye caught the photo with Chase standing with Jake and Amber—a loving family torn apart by a monster. Amber was gone. Sierra would not allow Chase to die, too.