“I thought she fought very well,” Riley interposed. “She certainly saved me!”
Jonas’ eyes followed the small woman. “Yeah,” he muttered ungraciously, “she did fight well.”
“I heard that!” Allie’s voice echoed cheerfully.
“Good hearing, too!” Nathan laughed.
Geena and Micah hauled Nathan upright, checking his wounds. Most were superficial, but two were cause for concern. “He needs stitches and bed rest. We need to get him back to Abe. Allie can bandage him for the time being.”
“Is Allie a paramedic or something?” Riley asked.
“I’m the midwife,” Allie piped up.
“I’m pretty sure I don’t need a midwife,” Nathan grumbled.
Eyeing Allie, Riley’s face brightened. “Maybe you don’t, but I’m thinking I might.”
Startled, Nathan’s mouth dropped open. “Are you trying to tell me something?” His eyes bored into hers.
Dead silence. All eyes focused on her. Awkwardly, Riley groped for the right words, wishing the ground would open up and swallow her, embarrassed by all the sudden attention. “Uh—well—I’m pretty sure I’m pregnant.”
“Why didn’t you say something?” he demanded.
“Like we really had time and, besides, you had enough to worry about.”
Reaching for her, he enfolded her in the circle of his arms, nuzzling her neck and loving her as no other could. Riley breathed in his natural scent, clean and tangy, overlaid with the smell of blood and sweat.
Jonas cleared his throat. “Well, uh, congratulations—I guess!” Cheers erupted from the team, laughing and slapping each other as if they had played some part in the conception.
“Old friend—what are you doing here?” Nathan waited for a response.
Shrugging noncommittally, Jonas retorted. “Where else would I be? And why didn’t you tell me where you were going! I spent the last five or so years looking for you! It wasn’t until she” gesturing at Riley, “disappeared that I really began to suspect what happened. Then all it took was a little ‘persuasion’ and Miles spilled the whole story.”
“Poor Miles,” Riley commiserated. “Is he still alive?”
“He was the last time I saw him.” Jonas’ terse remark left Riley wondering.
“By the way, Bethany is here.”
Nathan froze and then glared, his eyes shooting hot sparks. “Here! What the hell is she doing here?” Nathan’s reaction was pretty much what Jonas expected.
“She wouldn’t be left behind. It was either bring her along or no one came.”
Nathan glanced around. “Where is she?”
“Back at the cave with your sheep—along with eight others. With Bethany, we had seventeen total to begin with, but we lost a man and one woman already in a bear attack, and one of our men got on the wrong side of a cat with really big teeth.”
“Is Bethany okay?”
“Yeah, ornery as always—you know Bethany.”
Riley’s eyes narrowed menacingly. “I have a few choice words I’d like to share with Bethany. And after that, she’s going to owe me a lot of back pay and I mean to collect, one way or another.” Secretly, Riley considered taking it out of her hide. The woman played God and no one had the right to do that.
Confused, Nathan asked. “But why? Why are all of you here?”
Waving his arms grandly, Jonas explained. “We came to save you and now, we’re going to stay.”
“Stay?”
“Yup,” Jonas grumbled reluctantly. “Can’t go back. Remember how it’s a one way trip. Well, things haven’t changed.” Grinning, he continued. “We’re your new family!”
Turning to the team members, he waved at the fallen newcomers. “Gather up anything we can use—weapons, food, whatever. They won’t be needing them. Allie! Bring that horse over here. Nathan, will the horse drag a travois?” The team scurried to do his bidding, collecting weapons and what few other incidentals the bodies held. It was grisly work, but no one complained.
“He’ll haul just about anything.” Pausing, Nathan looked to the west. The sun was rapidly setting. “It’ll be dark soon and we need to find shelter. The smell of blood will draw the predators like fat people to a buffet and we don’t want to be here when that happens.”
Micah ran down from the tree line, dragging two strong saplings behind. “While I was cutting these, I spotted a cave back up the hill that might provide cover for the night.” With few choices, it was the best solution—if no unfriendly critters currently inhabited the temporary quarters. A makeshift travois was hastily constructed and Nathan tied on. The horse balked at the weight, but with a good slap from Riley, he followed docilely. Riley walked by the travois, holding Nathan’s hand, still stunned by the realization that they had survived, and these people were here to stay. They weren’t alone anymore.
CHAPTER FORTY-EIGHT
Luckily, the cave harbored no territorial occupants and they were firmly ensconced before full dark, just about the time the forest came alive. Sinister movements through the brush confirmed Nathan’s statement of predators massing, lurking and waiting for the chance to feed. Aside from that, for the first time in weeks, Riley felt totally safe. Her eyes were drawn to each member of the strike force. Thank God for Jonas—loyal, reliable Jonas! Geena and Micah looked to be a couple, cuddling close, whispering and laughing together in a small niche they claimed for themselves. Two quiet men, as yet unnamed, who looked to be both competent and deadly, and Allie, the small whirlwind. She appeared to be furtively watching Jonas and looked away guiltily as she caught Riley’s eye. Hmmmm, Riley plotted, there just might be something to this little scene.
Nathan rested beside her, sleeping soundly, snoring softly in the peace of the cave. His face had regained some color and the more serious wounds had stopped seeping blood, expertly packed by Allie’s capable little hands. She lightly dusted the wounds with antibiotic powder, protesting vehemently that it was natural, and therefore not contraband, and none of the numerous cuts appeared to be festering or showing signs of infection. Chilled and exhausted, Riley kept a lonely but contented vigil by his side. Few of the other team members remained about as most had settled down for the night, tired from the long day’s events. The small cooking fire was nothing but smoldering coals, casting eerie shadows on the uneven surface of the cave walls.
Jonas squatted down, draping a warm skin around her shoulders. “How’s he doing?”
“I think better. He’s resting easier.” Tenderly she stroked Nathan’s sweat-dampened forehead. “Still a little warm, but not overly so.”
“He’s tough. One of the many things I like about him.”
Riley arched an eyebrow at him. “And I’m surprised why?”
His mouth quirked, suppressing a grin. “Because I’m so tough myself! Nothing soft about me!”
Her green eyes studied him intently. “No. That’s not how I would describe you—although, the fact you showed up here so opportunely says something.”
Flushing red under her concentrated appraisal, Jonas searched for a witty rejoinder. Nothing popped up, so he opted for silence instead.
Secretly pleased at his discomfort, Riley basked in her small victory. “Answer me something. Was the team picked for compatible couples—you know—like Geena and Micah?”
“No,” he hesitated, puzzled by her question. “They were picked for their abilities.”
“So—there are still six women back at the other cave and three men—is one of the women your partner?”
“What makes you ask that?”
“It only makes sense. Doesn’t take a rocket scientist to figure out that besides their various fields of expertise, you picked people capable of bearing children. Allie said that all of the women are under 35.”
“Allie talks too much,” he growled low.
“Like I’m not going to find out?” Amused, she watched him fidget, his eyes unwillingly drawn to the sleeping Allie, cuddled up to Demon, or perhaps Demon had
done his usual, and cuddled up when no one was looking.
“I reiterate. She’s a pain in my butt!”
“Methinks he protests too much,” she quipped.
Nathan stirred, tossing fitfully. “Did anyone notice I’m trying to sleep here,” he groaned.
“What was the real reason you came here?” she asked Jonas, soothing Nathan gently, quieting his restlessness.
Seemingly lost in thought, Jonas answered slowly. “Because I don’t belong in the future. I belong in a time where my people were free to follow the winds and stalk the deer and elk.” Motioning around, he continued. “Most of the tribal members feel the same way. The others, like Micah and Geena, live for the adrenalin rush, and what better rush can there be than this little adventure?”
Nodding understandingly, she chewed her lower lip. “I wasn’t given a choice to be here. I was selected—by Bethany.”
“Are you unhappy?” Jonas asked concerned.
“No. Nathan is all I never really knew I wanted.” A sad smile creased her lips. “Bethany just should have been honest with me. I thought I would eventually go home.”
“Do you have someone waiting for you?” Never having known this side of the story, Jonas was at a loss to comfort her.
“Nope! Not even a pet. Pretty sad, isn’t it?” Embarrassed, her eyes dropped.
“Yeah,” he agreed, determined to lift her mood. “But look what you have now—a man, a baby on the way, and all of us. What more could you possibly want?”
Riley smiled, pleased by his comments. “Nothing—nothing at all! My life back there was pretty lonely. I only had my work and classes. I didn’t have anyone to share with and no one who truly loved me in a very long time.”
“Seems to me, even though you weren’t asked, you ended up where you’re supposed to be!”
Nathan planted a light kiss on her wrist. “Yes, she is,” he breathed. “Now go away and let me sleep.”
“Yes, master,” Jonas grumbled, his dark figure moving away into the shadows. Riley suspected he wouldn’t sleep this night, taking full watch to allow the others to rest.
Nathan pulled her down beside him, snuggling and nuzzling the nape of her neck, rocketing titillating chills down her spine. His body pressed against her, familiar and welcome, his heat rapidly warming her still cool skin. By the feel of things, everything still worked from his end.
“Go to sleep!” she huffed quietly. “I swear! The sicker you are, the hornier you get.”
“And that’s a problem because?”
“What if someone hears you or happens to notice?” Furtively, she eyed the nearby sleepers.
“Then you’ll just have to be really quiet.” He continued his exploration of her neck, her ears, her lips, coming to rest on her shoulder.
“Guess my mental imaging was stronger than my physical abilities,” he admitted weakly.
Wrapping her arms around him, she giggled softly, “Give us a couple of days and a little privacy, and you’ll be as good as new.”
“Probably...better,” he sighed, as he dropped off to sleep.
Men and egos, she smiled, one and the same.
CHAPTER FORTY-NINE
The journey back took considerably longer than the earlier downhill, headlong rush. Most of the time they fought an uphill climb, scrabbling for handholds, hampered even more by having to drag the travois up the rocky incline. The small horse lost his footing several times and the travois slid backwards, bouncing and banging against rocks and boulders as Nathan yelped in agony.
By the time they reached the higher plateau, everyone was exhausted, and traveling further that day would be heedless and risky. Wearily, they searched for a safe haven to spend the fast approaching night. The tree line loomed dark and uninviting, harboring savage beasts in the gloomy interior. Memories of the recent bear attack discouraged them from staying in the open and, reluctantly, they opted for the safety to be found in the trees. The team selected one huge spreading conifer that fit their needs to perfection, hastily constructing small makeshift platforms from the smaller branches at hand.
The travois was hoisted up and even the small horse was blindfolded, trussed and then lifted up to be tied securely, his nostrils flaring nervously. Demon followed suit, snapping and growling at everything and everyone, but eventually settled down near Nathan, his eyes gleaming silver in the moonlight. Satisfied they were out of harm’s way, the team dined on jerked beef and water and then retired, Geena and Micah taking first watch, to be followed by the two men, whom Riley discovered were named Seth and Mark, though which was which, she couldn’t say.
Making Nathan as comfortable as possible in their lofty perch, Riley, uneasy with heights, tied a rope securely across their resting spot, fearful of falling off while sleeping. Below, the forest came alive with the stealthy sounds of animals stalking through the brush, drawn by the promise of easy prey, only to move away when their curiosity waned. The twittering of bats and the call of the night hunters was her lullaby on this night.
CHAPTER FIFTY
Morning came too early and the team listlessly made ready to depart, tired and eager for some down time. Allie rechecked Nathan’s wounds, spreading more of the antibiotic dust and proclaiming him fit to travel. The animals were lowered to the ground along with their supplies and, lastly, Nathan, who adamantly protested his ability to walk, using Allie’s words to fortify his argument. It took some serious conniving on Jonas’ part to convince him to ride one more day, though he grumbled and growled for the first hour of their journey. Jonas calculated that they would meet up with the other members of the team by late afternoon and, barring any problems, would rest at the cave for several days while they planned their future. Geena and Micah took point, returning periodically to check their progress and to report on the trail ahead. Compared to the previous day’s trials, today was a walk in the park. Riley strode beside the travois, periodically touching and caressing Nathan, unwilling to be apart from him for even a short time.
Mid-afternoon they halted as a form stepped into the clearing, excitedly hailing the group. The individual was dressed much the same as Jonas’ team and Riley had no doubt they had finally made it back to the cave. More individuals, mostly women, stepped into view, laughing, clapping and waving.
Nathan rose up from the travois. “Do you see Bethany?”
“Not yet—but I’m hoping.” Riley’s mouth tightened. Forgiveness would only come after she had a chance to vent.
Nathan eyed her askance. “You won’t hurt her, will you?”
“Not permanently.” Riley searched the new individuals. One such, a man, limped behind, aided by a familiar form. “We have a winner,” she breathed.
Concerned for Bethany’s imminent health, Nathan tried again. “You don’t want to hurt her. She did what she did because of me. Pound on me if it’ll make you feel better.”
Riley rested her hand lightly on his cheek, her eyes calm and devoid of anger. “I’m not going to hurt her, but it’s my constitutional right to speak freely and I intend to do just that.”
“Oh, boy,” Nathan groaned, lying back. “Bethany’s toast!”
As they reached the group, Bethany ran forward, her eyes alight with love and happiness. “Nathan!” she cried, tears flowing freely. “I prayed they would find you in time! You’re hurt! How bad?” Motioning the men to set him down, she busied herself prodding each of the wounds, nodding and clucking knowingly as she unbound each one. An older man stepped forward, long black braids framing his hawkish features. “Let me see to him,” waving Bethany back.
“Who are you?” Nathan’s eyes narrowed suspiciously.
“He’s the spiritual leader and medicine man.” Jonas offered helpfully.
“Medicine man?” Riley asked. “We have a medicine man?”
“My name is Abe,” the older man introduced himself. “I’m a tribal healer. In our time, I received a degree in medicine from Duke University, but my practice since has been mostly in natural remedies. I als
o do spiritual healing from time to time.” Ignoring them further, he proceeded with a cursory examination. Though primitive in appearance, the man sounded educated and confident in his own abilities.
“I’m perfectly fine,” Nathan growled. “All I need is a few days’ rest.”
“Shut up, Nathan!” Riley scolded. “Let the man do what he needs to do.”
After a short time, Abe stood up, reached for the horse’s halter and led the horse-drawn travois out of the clearing towards the cave entrance. Riley followed, hot on his heels, amazed that they had a real doctor.
“So—is he going to be all right?”
He nodded.
“How bad is it?”
“Not bad,” was his only comment.
Presuming he would enlarge upon the subject, she waited expectantly. “Don’t talk much, do you?”
He shook his head no. Frustrated, she strode the remaining distance to the cave. Bethany entered shortly after.
Good time as any to corner her, Riley decided, determined to get the unpleasantries out of the way. Catching her arm, Riley began. “Bethany—we have some talking to do.”
Bethany nodded, eyes steady and waiting, face tense.
“Why didn’t you tell me where you were sending me?” A lump formed in Riley’s throat, threatening tears.
Bethany’s face softened. “Because he needed you! Don’t you see that?”
This was going to be harder than Riley expected. “I know, and I know you meant well. But what gave you the right to make the decision for me? I had the right to decide.”
Bethany glanced furtively at Nathan, who was being prodded, washed and medicated by Abe, too engrossed to pay attention to their quiet conversation. “Has Nathan told you about his childhood—his early years?”
Riley nodded. “He said his parents died when he was young.”
Bethany nodded her head. “They did, but they were only his adoptive parents.”
“What do you mean? He didn’t say anything about being adopted.” Riley’s eyes pierced Bethany, anxiously awaiting her response.
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