Guardian Angel

by Lise Fuller

  “Okay.” Jesse kicked the toe of his shoe against the tile and made of face of disgust. Marie would have laughed if she hadn’t felt the need to hurry.

  When Jesse went to the family room, Marie made her call. The phone rang a few times before anyone answered. The deputy on duty told her Jake wasn’t there. Now what would she do?

  Out of nowhere, her stomach rumbled. Her appetite had returned. “Tell Jake I’m taking Jesse to the dinner with me,” she told the man.

  When she hung up she wrote a quick note to Jake then rushed to get Jesse. She was sure Katie would watch the boy until Cal could pick him up.

  —

  Two fucking hours. It took two fucking hours to get on the Goddamned road. Bill was pissed. Because of the weather, he’d had to wait over an hour for a vehicle. Then he’d been another twenty minutes getting to the point of his accident. It’d taken him all day to leave the bloody town.

  He scanned the landscape. He knew the reason why. There was nothing out here. Nothing. The blinding snow had hidden that fact. The exceptions were a few antelope and some passing trucks. Bill had never seen so much rugged open space. “And people really live here,” he murmured to himself. The better for him. In a rough wilderness like this, a stiff would be easy to hide if need be. Hell, if Marie didn’t cooperate, he’d have no choice. But still, he’d have her body to fuck if nothing else. He’d promised himself that much, especially after all he’d gone through because of the cunt. Bill whistled, pleased with himself. After so many months restraining himself as he worked with the bitch, his quest neared its end.

  The sun made its descent as he neared Fort Bridger. Bill still hadn’t gotten in touch with cowboy Slim, but from what he’d been able to gather, there was only one hotel in town. If Slim stayed there, he’d be easy enough to find.

  Bill passed a green sign that said his exit was ahead. He slowed and turned onto the sloped road that took him under the highway. The area was as barren as the last hundred other miles he’d traveled. He slowed at the stop at the bottom. Another arrow pointed the direction into town. Bill looked at the empty pastures and sneered. Did anyone really live in this place or did the cows own it? He snorted then headed toward the town. He rubbed his belly to dispel the gnawing in his gut. Other than a gas station, there hadn’t been anywhere along the road to stop. Bill hoped that, wherever the town was, there’d be at least one place to eat.

  He allowed himself a smug grin. His hunger churned—in more ways than one. Revenge would taste so sweet.

  —

  Jake felt a little more settled now they had a plan. Still, there were too many uncertainties. The Back to America henchmen were on the loose and the men Slim used to track them had taken a wrong turn after they lost BAM’s trail in the storm. Now the rest of Slim’s men wandered around the countryside north of Casper, a town at least a hundred miles away. He’d talked to them over Slim’s cell phone, got them pointed toward the highway. It’d be hours before they got into town.

  Jake pulled out of the motel lot and sped off. Wyoming was a wide and empty place for those who didn’t know the country. And even for those who did, loneliness still lurked here. He, for one, had grown tired of it.

  He stepped on the gas as he reached the town limits and scowled. From what he’d seen so far, the FBI had a good case against Marie, even though most of it was circumstantial. Jake rubbed his brow. He couldn’t really blame MacDugal for questioning his integrity. If he reversed their roles, he probably would too, although he wouldn’t act like an ass.

  Somehow, Jake needed to find proof of Marie’s innocence. She’d mentioned the papers in her bag. He’d have to get a closer look before anyone else touched them.

  He drove by the whitened pastures and pulled onto the long dirt road to the ranch. Inside, his fury burned. As a professional man, what he did in the line of duty was always within the limits of the law. Still, a part of him would like to find Bill Martin and beat the crap out of him until the truth spilled from his ugly mouth.

  Jake barely slowed as he took the bumpy road in stride. He’d breathe easier after they proved Marie’s innocence. Until then, he didn’t want her alone.

  —

  “Was that your Dad?” Marie asked as she and Jesse came around the other side of the restaurant.

  “Yeah, I think so.”

  Marie grimaced and wondered if she shouldn’t go after him.

  Jesse tugged her hand. “Come on. I’m hungry.”

  She glanced at the cruiser now some distance down the road. “Let’s hope your father gets my note.” She took his hand as they walked for the door. This might be the last time she could indulge the boy.

  The bell on the door jangled as they walked in. Katie greeted them. “Well, you must be feeling better. Jake just left. He said he’d cook for you but I think it’d be better if you stayed here and ate.” The waitress leaned over and murmured to her, “Can’t believe you quit. It’ll only be me and Gus tonight.”

  “Quit?”

  “Mmm.” Katie straightened and squinted an eye. “That’s what I thought. I told Gus the sheriff had something to do with it,” she commented with playful sarcasm and led them to a table in the bigger room in back. A wall separated the room from the main part of the restaurant, although a person had to go through it to get to the bathrooms. Marie waved to some of the patrons in the main section as she and Jesse followed her friend to the back.

  “Katie, I hate to do this, but I should get back. I, er, need to talk to Jake. Jesse’s supposed to be with Cal tonight. Would you mind watching him?”

  “’Course not. But it’s still early. Like I said, you might as well sit down and get something to eat.” Katie leaned to her and whispered, “You’re gonna need your strength with that man.” She winked at Marie.

  Marie blushed. She wasn’t about to dispel the idea. It was better she thought that Jake and her wanted to be alone.

  Katie put them at a table near the dividing wall that gave them almost complete privacy. Marie guessed her friend wanted to talk without the cook catching on. “Well,” Katie started again as she plopped the menus down on the table. “I think Gus’ll be relieved to know it really wasn’t you that quit. He needs you but we can always find someone else.”

  “If things work out maybe I can come back.”

  “If things work out?” Katie’s mouth curved into a playful taunt. “Okay, give.” She bent over and whispered. “What things? Did he ask you yet?”

  “Ask me what?”

  Katie scoffed. “Jesse, close your ears a minute.”

  The boy grinned and cupped his hands on either side of his head.

  Her friend squatted down and put both elbows on the table. “Marie, you know exactly what I mean. That man can’t see straight he’s so in love with you, and you have a flush about you that says you want him too. Now I know Jesse’s spent the last few nights with Cal. Don’t try to tell me that the both of you haven’t already tested out the honeymoon. I can see it about you, and Jake too for that matter, although something seems to be bothering him.” She stood. “If you ask me, it’s about time you two got together.” She put a fist on her hip. “Now is there a ring coming or not?”

  Jesse looked at Marie. His blue eyes popped wide open. She didn’t know how to answer that, not until the quirks in her life straightened out. She glanced at Katie who wouldn’t leave without an answer. “We’ve talked. I don’t think we’re quite there yet.”

  Katie smacked her lips. “Well, hurry it up. I’d like to go to a wedding before Christmas.”

  Marie pouted. “It isn’t as easy as all that. I have some things I need to work out first.”

  Katie nodded. “I know, sugar. I can tell.” The older woman put a hand over hers and squeezed it. “If you need to talk, you know you can come to me.” Lines of worry creased her face. “You’re a friend, Marie. A good one. ’Sides,” she pouted, “you know men are a funny sort sometimes. I think…” She shook her head. “Well, I think Slim and I might make things
more permanent.”

  “Oh Katie,” Marie gasped, happy at least someone’s life went well. “That’s wonderful.”

  “Well, I don’t know for certain but I can tell you one thing, any promises I make will come with a ring on my finger.”

  Jesse giggled.

  “And don’t you go telling anyone, either.” Katie squinted with mocked sternness. “This is special girl talk you’re being privy to. Keep in mind we don’t let just anybody in on these.” She winked at him and tousled his sandy-colored hair. “Now what do you all want? Got some fresh apple pie back there.” She winked again at Jesse, who threw her his toothy grin.

  “We probably need real food first. Something quick. I really need to go,” Marie countered.

  Jesse’s smile diminished.

  Katie took their order as the door jangled again then left for the front room to greet the newcomer.

  Marie was ecstatic for Katie. She also felt a little guilty, leaving them so short-handed. Jake had told her she wasn’t scheduled. He hadn’t mentioned the reason why. Of course, with Bill on the way…

  Engrossed in her thoughts, Marie didn’t focus at first when the new customer poked his head through the entrance to the larger room and scanned the interior but her instincts kicked in quick. Bill. Marie grabbed her menu and opened it in front of her face. She held her breath, tried to still her shakes and hoped her ex-partner hadn’t seen her. She heard his footsteps walk off. She peeked over the menu.

  Somehow, Bill Martin had found her.

  “What’s wrong?” Jesse’s face screwed up with anxiety.

  “Jesse, go get Katie. Quietly, please,” Marie whispered.

  He shrugged and looked behind him. “Okay.” He slid from his chair.

  “Hurry,” she urged then remembered the rear exit door next to the bathroom. Her car was on the other side. “Never mind,” she whispered. “You stay here. Tell Katie…” She grabbed her purse and recovered her keys. “Tell her she has to call your father. The man that just entered, he’s looking for me. Tell your father but stay away from him. He’s dangerous, you understand?”

  The boy’s eyes widened as he nodded. “I’ll do it.”

  She grasped his hand. “Promise me, Jesse, you won’t go near him. Please? I don’t want you getting hurt.”

  “I promise. Marie?”

  From the look of him, she knew he was frightened but she hadn’t any choice.

  “Take me with you.”

  She shook her head and rubbed his hand between her fingers. “I can’t, Jesse. It’s too risky. That man means to hurt me. I won’t let you get caught between us.”

  He stared at her, his eyes moist. “Marie, you’re gonna leave forever, aren’t you?” His angelic mouth trembled.

  She bit her lip. Her eyes filled with tears. “I have to, sweetheart.”

  “Am I gonna see you again?”

  She trembled, gripped with fear, and gazed into his honest blue eyes. She had to tell him the truth. “No, Jesse. Probably not.”

  He lifted his chin. Tears streaked his face. “I thought you were different but you’re just like my mother. I don’t want you anymore.”

  “Jesse…” Her heart broke at the hurt she’d caused. “I love you, hon.” She stood and hugged him fiercely then kissed his cheek. “I always will. Please…” She stroked his cheek. “Don’t ever forget that.” The restaurant door jingled again, welcoming another customer. With the distraction, she ran out the back.

  Jesse licked the salty tears from his lips then blew his nose with his shirtsleeve and wiped the drops away. The strange man that scared Marie came into the room. The guy looked as if he needed the men’s room. The back door had almost closed and Jesse thought the man noticed Marie’s long brown hair as she fled. The stranger sprinted to the door and caught it before it shut completely. The man stood there and stared outside.

  At that moment, Jesse caught a glimpse of Marie’s car in the open space between the man and the door then he heard the engine gun as she raced away.

  The stranger held the door and chuckled then looked at Jesse. The man’s eyes were black and cold. Jesse shivered, thinking he saw the face of the devil himself. His throat went dry. The man meant to kill her. Jesse said a silent prayer that Marie would make it far away.

  The evil man walked toward him then stopped as Katie came in with his soda.

  “Where’d Marie go?” she asked and looked around the room.

  “Don’t know.” Jesse shrugged. “Said she had something to do and for you to call my dad.” Jesse steeled himself and eyed the man back with a black look to let him know Jesse meant business.

  The man grinned like a snake then slithered into the other room. “Katie,” Jesse whispered after he thought it safe. “Marie says that man is trouble. She wants you to call my dad right away. Can I go in the kitchen with you?”

  “Sure, hon.” Worry showed on Katie’s face and she led Jesse to the cook. “Gus,” Katie took off her apron, “watch Jesse real close. There’s a guy up front Marie says is trouble and she’s taken off. I’m going to the motel office to call Jake. I don’t want him overhearing me.”

  “Who is he?” Gus’ gruff voice demanded.

  Katie took the cook to the door of the kitchen and pointed with her chin. “The dark fella in booth two.”

  Gus nodded. “Hurry. I’ll watch Jesse.”

  She rushed out.

  —

  With the roads clear, the motel began to empty. Jim had finally gotten Mac and Carter set up in the room next door and, as a precaution, got his place rigged for sound. All he’d have to do is give them the signal if Martin contacted him.

  He finished the job himself after he’d sent the two men out to a roadside gas station for a quick bite. They’d been cooped up in the small space for too long without anything in their bellies and Jim was afraid they’d broadcast themselves if they went in the local restaurant.

  Hungry and eager himself, he got ready to depart for the diner when he saw Katie hurry out the back of the restaurant and run for the clerk’s office. “Katie,” he called after he opened the door and waved her over, “where you running to?” As she came closer, he noted the dread in her eyes.

  Breathless, she licked her lips and walked into his arms. “Slim, we gotta get Jake. Marie’s run off. Says this new guy in the diner is looking for her. I don’t know what to do. Jesse’s terrified. I never saw the boy like that.”

  “Calm down, honey.” He drew her into his arms. “You stay here and let me go check it out first.”

  “But Slim,” she grabbed his arm and stared up at him, “shouldn’t we call Jake?”

  “I don’t think so…” He’d turned his back for a moment to the open door and ushered her inside but then felt the jab of hard metal against the muscles of his neck.

  “I don’t think so either, Mr. Hancock.” The male voice sounded smooth and schooled.

  Jim raised his arms.

  “Or should I say, ‘Slim’?”

  Jim turned cautiously. Finally he’d come eye-to-eye with the notorious Bill Martin.

  —

  Jake read Marie’s note and cursed under his breath. “Gramps?”

  He listened for the old man. His reply was the few creaks and groans that were normal in the old house. Where the hell had his grandfather gone? Hopefully, it was with Marie.

  He tossed the letter on the table and picked up the phone to call the diner. He let it ring several times then looked at the clock. They’d have a full house by now. Jake cursed under his breath and hung up. He didn’t like the idea of Marie and Jesse out in the open, not until he knew exactly where Bill Martin and the BAM guys were. It was too risky.

  Quickly, he dialed Slim’s room. His gut talked to him again and he didn’t like what it was saying.

  —

  “Slim will do.” Jim studied the dangerous man and kicked himself silently for not hearing the creep sneak up. He must have followed Katie along the row of rooms. Damn. “How did you know?”


  “Safety at small motels is sometimes lacking. I asked for your room number before I checked in.” He leveled the gun at his chest. “Now, move inside. We don’t want to cause a scene.” Martin waved the tip of the pistol at them as Jim pushed Katie behind him and stepped back.

  The businessman entered and shut the door.

  “You must be Mr. Martin.” Jim stretched his taut body in front of Katie.

  The man nodded. “Yes. I’m glad we’ve finally met. Sorry about the delay.”

  Jim shrugged. “No problem. But you don’t need the gun.”

  “Hmmm.” Martin’s brow rose. “Maybe not but I’ve had enough problems already. I can’t afford for anything else to go wrong. When your girlfriend ran out, well, I didn’t mean for us to meet like this but she seemed in too much of a hurry. I thought I’d better take a look for myself, just in case. Have a seat.” He pointed to the bed.

  Jim didn’t move.

  “Please.”

  Martin’s feigned manners annoyed Jim.

  “I have no intention of shooting you but I didn’t come this far to have my plans ruined now. As you know, I’ve come for my wife.”

  Katie gasped. Her hands shook as Jim guided her to the bed and sat beside her. “I don’t believe it,” she mumbled.

  “Believe it or not, I don’t care,” Martin spat. “Now where is she?”

  “Don’t tell ’em, Slim.” Katie’s grip tightened on his arm.

  “You.” He waved the gun at Katie. “Be quiet and make yourself useful.” He reached in his pants pocket with his free hand and brought out a penknife. “Strip the pillows and rip the cases up.”

  Katie froze next to Jim.

  “Now!” Martin yelled.

  She flinched but stood stalwart.

  “Do as he says, darlin’.” Jim rubbed her arm then slid her hands away. She sniffled and took the knife then moved to peel away the covers of the bed.

  Jim stood and raised his hands as he focused on Martin. “You don’t need her. Let her go.”

  “I think not.” He sat in a chair beside a small table near in the window. “I told you, I’m not taking any chances. She already knows what I’m about. Behave yourselves and you can go when I leave. Now where is Marie?”