FREE AUDIOBOOK! Navy SEAL Romances. (The Reckless Warrior) #freeaudiobooksfulllength

The Reckless Warrior Jennifer's Navy SEAL romance book one written by Jennifer Youngblood narrated by Autumn mcnamer chapter 1 all in all it had been a productive day despite the disastrous beginning Delaney had put in 10 long hours at the studio laying down tracks for the first song in her new album slowly but surely she was making progress the hard part had been pulling her mind away from the threatening texts and focusing on her work every minute counted these days she had to have all six songs written and performed by the end of the month one down and five to go Delaney leaned back against the seat of the car and let her mind get lost in the blur of Lights from the city every inch of her body craved sleep as soon as she got home she was taking a hot shower and crawling into bed thankfully she could sleep in a little in the morning before starting on the lyrics for her next song the title of her album was transformation she chuckled Darkly transformation was a topic Delaney knew well maybe she should name the next song scratch and Claw that's what she'd done scratched and clawed her way to stardom despite all obstacles but now that she was on the cusp of making it big her past was catching up to her she fingered her neck feeling like she had an invisible noose around it she should have known her ex-husband tuck would come lurking around when he realized she was on the verge of becoming a star sharks always came for the feed when they caught a whiff of fresh blood an icy fear slithered down her spine as the all too familiar Panic gripped her tuck wouldn't stop until he killed her maybe she should have stayed out of the Limelight even as the thought entered her mind she knew that singing was nearly as important to her as breathing she didn't want to spend the rest of her life hiding in the shadows fearing each day that tuck would return tuck and his brother had taken away everything else from her she wouldn't allow them to steal this too no matter what she'd go down fighting her mind mind flitted over the recent events that had brought her to this point the first text came a little over a month ago right after she made her first appearance on a popular late night show her record label wanted to put her out there so that people would know Delaney Mitchell by the time her debut album came out the plan was working delany's Instagram and Twitter followers were doubling daily and she gotten half a dozen requests to appear on several more well-recognized talk shows unfort fortunately the notoriety put her on Tuck's radar had she remained an obscure waitress scratching out a meager income to get by tuck might have left her alone but now that she was fast becoming somebody he wanted a piece of the pie no what he wanted was a piece of her in Tuck's warped mind he believed he owned her like property he could abuse at will and then push aside until it suited his whim to pick it up again she swallowed glancing at the bulky outline of her bodyguard Mason's shoulders who was driving the car it was good to know that she had someone with her always a barrier that would hopefully keep tuck from Gaining personal access to her immediately after receiving the first round of texts Delaney had gone to the police and filed a restraining order against tuck then she hired a service that would give her 24-hour aroundthe clock protection it cost a pretty penny but it was worth the Peace of Mind tuck and his family were from her hometown Noble Alabama although there wasn't anything Noble about the one horse town of her birth she'd hoped that moving from Nashville to San Diego would help tuck stay away but she'd been fooling herself after all it wasn't like tuck couldn't hop a plane Delaney changed her number in the initial texts had stopped she'd hoped the ordeal was over but this morning it had started again the text came through as she was wolfing down a bowl of cereal and getting ready to Dart out the door for work did you really think I wouldn't find you an hour later while she was at the recording studio surrounded by a team of musicians another text came through this one had her shaking you look good in those black jeans and turquoise boots and then see you soon after the third text she couldn't breathe tuck was here in San Diego lurking somewhere nearby he'd gotten close enough to see what she was wearing Delany rushed to the bathroom where she puked then she called her manager Milo Stanley she was so panicked she could hardly talk the words came out in strangled gulps as she slumped down against the wall and Drew herself into a tight ball rocking back and forth images from before burned through her mind tuck taunting her a tiger playing with its food before going in for the kill the last time she saw him he'd beaten her so badly that he put her in the hospital Delaney figured tuck experienced a moment of regret over his actions which is why he agreed to a divorce she went from the hospital to a home for battered women the police came and took their reports but realized Prosecuting tuck was futile Delaney was unwilling to testify against him not that she didn't want to see tuck pay for what he did but she was too afraid not only of Tuck but of his older brother Hugh she could see the relief in the officer's eyes knew they didn't want to tangle with the ruthless Allen Brothers either they thought nothing of going after the police officers or anyone else who got in their way her manager Milo helped calm her down he said he was on the way to the studio and told her to call the police at least the police force here wouldn't be cowed by tuck two officers arrived to take her statement then told her to call again if tuck came anywhere near Tuck's just trying to scare you Milo said you have highly skilled bodyguards surrounding you at all times the closest tuck can get to you is through texts but how did he get this number Delaney wanted to know you said it was Private it is private Milo countered geez Delaney I don't know how he got it but don't worry we'll get you a new number Milo had spent a full hour talking to Delaney trying to calm her down enough so that she could get back to work the record label had paid for Studio musicians to come lay down tracks the song had to be recorded today or else the label would lose money and that was unacceptable especially for a new artist Delany was lucky Montana crew label agreed to produce her album she couldn't risk messing things up so she offered a few heartfelt prayers asking for help then she drained several cups of black coffee and went to work in a way it was good to have something to focus on besides tuck luckily her persistence paid off 9 hours later they finally had a quality product here we are ma'am Mason said politely as they pulled alongside the curb of her high-rise building would you like for me to park the car and meet you inside your condo no the word came out more forcefully than she intended she offered a strained smile to soften her rudeness we can use the valet service I'd like for you to accompany me to my condo considering the texts Mason nodded a deep crease forming in the center of his fleshy forehead of course he cocked his head looking thoughtful Miss Mitchell if it makes you feel any better it's highly unlikely that your ex could get past the front desk security into your building and the up to the 10th floor you should be perfectly safe she suppressed a shudder thanks she mumbled but if it's all the same to you I'd prefer if you go with me and and do a check of my condo before I go in while she appreciated Mason trying to ease her fears he didn't know how ruthless tuck was it was better to be safe rather than sorry well sure thing Mason pulled up to the valet desk as they got out Delaney looked over her her shoulder her skin crawling was tuck out there right now watching her she brushed aside the fear straightening her shoulders something had shifted inside her today as she sat huddled on the bathroom floor scared out of her mind she felt small and pathetic at Tuck's complete Mercy which is precisely how tuck wanted her to feel but enough was enough tuck Allen had caused her enough pain for 10 lifetimes if he came looking for her he'd get the fight of his life the flowing hot water helped soothe some tension from delany's aching shoulders her mind ran through possibilities for song lyrics but it was hard to come up with anything since she was so tired she dried off with a towel then slipped on her robe she was headed to her bedroom to put on her underwear and pajamas when she heard a noise she froze in her tracks her heart picking up its beat she cocked her ears nothing she relaxed laughing softly this paranoia would be the death of her Mason had done a thorough check of the condo proclaiming it safe and he was right outside the door where he'd be all night until his shift change when another bodyguard would take his place Delany went to the dresser she flinched when she heard a thump that sounded like someone was in the kitchen her throat constricted as she clutched her neck for a second she was unsure what to do it seemed like Overkill to call 911 because she' heard a noise she reached for her phone on the nightstand and stole into the Hall her heart pounded out a ragged beat as she made her way into the kitchen had Mason come into the condo for some reason she made a mental note to call the agency the following day and stipulate that under no circumstances were the bodyguards to enter her condo without her permission if needed something he should have called hello Mason is that you she stepped into the kitchen at the same instant she heard the grating laugh oh the devil is Mason that Blockhead you had planted outside your front door a cruel grin Twisted Tuck's handsome features revealing the monster within sugar the next time you hire a bodyguard make sure he doesn't have a weakness for beautiful women holding a box of donuts he grunted the fool digested enough sleeping pills to keep him dozing for a good long time who knows maybe even enough to kill him the words flowed so casually out of Tuck's mouth he might have been talking about the weather rather than the life of a human being with his blonde hair even features and bright blue eyes tuck was the quintessential Golden Boy his outward appearance Belling the psychopath within he'd grown a mustache since she'd last seen him and his hair was shorter she let out a cry trimmer shooting through her body a wave of dizziness assaulted her as she staggered trying to get her balance her mind tried to come to grips with the fact that her worst nightmare was sitting on a bar stool his feet propped on the kitchen island an incredulous laugh Rose in her throat tuck was munching on an Apple of all things her breath froze when she saw the pistol in his other hand run her mind screamed but to where tuck would shoot her before she made it two steps away she straightened her shoulders trying to mask her fear with an expression of outrage tuck fed on weakness you have no right to be here oh I have every right darling he looked her up and down a Brazen glint in his eyes revulsion welled in her as she tightened the tie on her robe what do you want tuck she tried to think she was holding her phone was it possible to call 911 did you really think you could get rid of me he laughed but the coldness in his eyes sent shivers down her spine as if changing your stupid phone number or hiring a few bodyguards would keep me away she felt like she was staring into the face of the devil as he locked eyes with her then his expression grew plaintive like the child in him was taking Center Stage I missed you his voice grew pleading confused How Could You desert me your own husband in the early days she'd been taken in by Tuck's manipulation believed there was good in him it was a vicious cycle he'd beat her senseless and beg for her forgiveness Romancing her enough so that she'd actually believe things could be different then when she let her guard down the demon in him would rear its ugly head her voice sounded as brittle and Hollow as she felt we're divorced tuck you no longer have any claim on me he grunted Barbie face in the eyes of the Lord we're married till death do we part his eyes narrowed the two of us will be together until one of us is put in a box his voice Rose you got that she jerked hugging her arms wishing she could make herself small enough to disappear tuck had always called her Barbie face there was a time when she thought the nickname was cute when she was young and stupid flattered that he noticed her tuck tossed the half-eaten apple on the floor and sat up Delaney sensed a shift in his demeanor knew everything was coming to a head tuck was tired of talking blood pounded against delany's temples she tried to swallow down her alarm and keep her wits about her what do you want money I'll give you as much money as you want just leave me alone she hated the desperate Edge in her voice hated how small and miserable this man made her feel life with him had been a horrible series of memories that she wanted to erase from her mind his voice took on a silky tone of a snake slithering around its prey we look at you all high and mighty country music star Delaney Mitchell has a much better ring than dolorous millstead but no matter how much lipstick you slather on a pig it's still a pig after all he grunted and to answer your question I'll take the money and anything else I want his eyes rigged over her revulsion welled in her stomach she'd seen that look before and knew what it meant Tuck's voice took on a disinterested tone as he motioned now take off that robe it's time you perform your wely duty Terror Swift and paralyzed ing raced over her and with that Terror came a smoldering anger it wouldn't be enough for tuck to rape her he wanted to humiliate her first they'd been through this routine more times than she could count her standing before tuck while he pointed out all the flaws in her body like she was nothing more than a branded piece of livestock it made her disgusted with herself that she'd allowed him to wield so much control over her no even if she died here tonight she wouldn't be subjected to his cruelty any longer his jaw went slack as he rocked back then He barked out an uncertain laugh before his eyes went hard he swiped the glass fruit bowl with his arm sending it flying to the floor where it splintered into pieces Delaney flinched but held her ground get out before I call the police rage Twisted Tuck's face as he sprang to his feet and rushed at her knocking the phone out of her hand he grabbed her throat and push pushed her against the wall she gurgled trying to get her breath her fingers clawing at his hand Stars exploded before her eyes in a matter of seconds she'd pass out a feudal Terror iced over her her eyes bulging her lungs craving air you listen to me he seeed his face purple you belong to me and you will do what I say he released his hold on her throat she coughed drawing in a Haggard breath he pressed against her with his body weight trailing the barrel of the pistol along her jaw now what do you say we start this conversation over the robe comes off as he pulled at the tie something inside her snapped she let out a visceral scream and went on the attack digging her fingernails into his eyes then she went for the pistol trying to pry it out of his hands no doubt tuck was Stronger had she not Tak taken him by surprise or been so enraged she might not have stood a chance but he stumbled back and tried to regain his balance they wrestled Delany keeping a firm grip on the gun with both hands against his one hand that was her only chance to get the gun away from him Delaney heard a loud bang and felt the brunt kick of the gun being fired for a split second she thought she'd been shot no not her disbelief widened Tuck's eyes you shop me he backed away holding a hand over the wound in his torso as he slumped to his knees then fell to the floor Delany gasped the hard reality of what had just happened overtaking her her body shook her mind whirling somehow she managed to get her phone she pressed 911 my ex-husband broke into my condo her voice broke I I shot him she looked at the blood pulling like an ink stain over his clothes I think I killed him she dropped the phone and fell to her knees sobbing chapter 2 a curious numbness came over Delaney as she stood in front of Tuck's hospital bed he was in a coma tubes hooked to his motionless body she should feel grief shouldn't she she'd loved him once but that love had been snuffed out a bitter hatred filling the empty space no charges were being filed against her it was a clear-cut case of self-defense tuck drugged her bodyguard who thankfully was okay and broke into her condo with the intent to rape and possibly murder her while Delany didn't have to worry about the legal repercussions the media was having a Heyday with the story Milo was trying his best to do damage control for Delany and the record label Milo was surprised and apprehensive when Delaney announced that she wanted to visit the hospital he tried to talk her out of it saying the Press would be all over her the Press will Hound me regardless she had answered and could tell from the expression on Milo's face that he knew she was right just as they suspected Delaney had to fight her way through a throng of reporters camped near the entrance of the hospital they shoved their microphones in her face and demanded answers but she kept her eyes fixed forward and pressed through them she needed to come here needed to put closure on the situation according to the kind nurse who'd pulled Delany aside and quietly relayed the information Tuck's prognosis wasn't good he'd lost a tremendous amount of blood putting him into a coma the doctors weren't sure if he'd ever regain Consciousness how did Delaney feel about the news relief that tuck could no longer hurt her sorrow for taking taking the life of someone she once loved maybe it was a combination of both she hugged her arms for what it's worth I'm sorry she said softly sorry it had to end this way she paused tears stinging her eyes but you hurt me you took away my dignity her voice Shook and I hate you for that I always told tuck you'd end up destroying him she Whirled around H she let out a shaky laugh her hand going to her chest I didn't realize you were in town just got in this morning the icy look in Hugh's eyes caused a pit to form in her stomach unlike tug Hugh didn't have a hot temper but he was calculating and dangerous the familial resemblance between the brothers was strong except Hugh's face was blocky his features craggy you come to witness your handiwork the accusation in Hugh's voice was a punch in the stomach she rushed to explain tuck broke into my condo with a gun he tried to rap save it he snarled holding up a hand that which happens between a man and his woman behind closed doors is none of my business she shook her head disgust prickling over her and therein lies the problem you've always turned a blind eye to tuck giving him cart blanch to do whatever the heck he pleased he was trying to rape me a ruthless expression Twisted Hugh's face making him look in human watch your mouth he hissed she rocked back alarm trickling over her Hugh was a dangerous man not one to tangle with he flashed a contemptuous smile I'm glad you're here so I can say this in person her heart dropped this couldn't be good he leaned forward his voice barely over a whisper whether you like it or not you and tuck are intertwined this was sounding like an eerie repeat of what tuck had said if he lives you live if he dies you die she gasped a roar starting in her ears it was an accident he just looked at her with a Placid expression more terrifying than anger could have ever been a hysterical choral Rose in her throat you can't be serious you're talking about murder an i for an i he said firmly this whole scenario was insane Hugh was insane she had to get out of here she turned to flee the room but before she could get out the door she heard the learing amusement in Hugh's voice run little chick run all you want but know this no matter where you go I'll find you if the situation warrants you have my word on that chapter 3 when Corbin approached the security guard at the Gate of Sutton Smith's mansion he rolled down the window of his rental car your name sir the guard asked Corbin Spencer the Man's eyes trailed down the list then he nodded have a nice evening thanks Corbin said curtly as he continued to the mansion it was a private area of an exclusive section of cornado Island overlooking the San Diego Bay gorbin had spent a handful of weekends here lounging by the pool and doing various other leisure activities but never without Doug his gut Twisted as he thought about his best friend and fellow seal member who had been killed during a Rescue Mission in the Philippines when their platoon was ambushed it had been seven months since Doug had passed but tonight on the grounds of his estate the wound felt as raw as it had in the beginning when he reached the Mansion a valet attendant approached may I park your car sir Corbin got out and tossed the keys to the attendant in exchange for a claim ticket then he smoothed down his white tuxedo jacket and adjusted the bow tie he wasn't looking forward to the pretense of making small talk with a group of strangers at some party and the worst part wearing this stupid monkey suit constricting his shoulders like a straight jacket even though the event was Black Tie Corbin had planned to wear nice jeans in a sports jacket but then this afternoon a tux was delivered to his room compliments of Sutton Smith too bad it was about a half sizee too small Corbin couldn't wait to get back to the hotel to strip the thing off and put on jeans and a t-shirt he ran a quick hand through his spiky hair figuring he was as ready now as he'd ever be his gaze took in the sprawling English tutor Mansion the only reason Corbin knew the architectural style was because Doug mentioned that his dad had brought in an English architect during construction to make sure the style was authentic Sutton Smith's enormous wealth was staggering and yet Doug had been so down to earth the place was brimming with high society people dressed to the nines as Corbin strowed up the front steps he thought back to the phone call that brought him here Corbin was surprised to hear from his late friend's dad he had spoken to Sutton since Doug's funeral at that time Sutton was withdrawn angry at the world Corbin didn't blame the man he felt the same way about Doug's death Sutton opened the conversation by inquiring what Corbin was doing professionally then he extended an invitation to a gathering Corbin grunted as he looked at the large staff of servers dressed in uniforms scurrying to wait on guests when he heard the word Gathering Cor Corbin assumed there might be 20 or 30 people present but this was a full-fledged Suare with more people than he could count Corbin was currently living in Denver Colorado and was short on funds before he could make up an excuse about why he couldn't attend the Gathering Sutton explained briskly that he'd already purchased Corbin a first class ticket for the following day and booked him a room at the Lux a five-star hotel Sutton went on to say that he had a proposition for Corbin and that he would pay him $2500 for his time a free trip and an extra 2500 bucks were too good to turn down besides Corbin's curiosity was peaked he couldn't imagine what Sutton Smith wanted to talk to him about he scoped the crowd hoping to catch side of Sutton no luck he glanced at the string quartet off to the side playing a merry tune all around him people were engaged in Lively conversation the air crackled with the excited hum of people enjoying themselves the corners of his lips pulled down there was nothing worse than being a loner in a crowd hopefully he'd find Sutton soon would you like an appetizer Delany smiled politely before placing two spinach triangle pastries on her plate thank you the server nodded and moved to the next guest it was too bad that Milo couldn't be here tonight then Delaney wouldn't feel so out of place Milo had arranged her meeting with Sutton Smith then realized that his girlfriend's son had the starring role in a school play she sighed taking a bite of the pastry it was drier than a chunk of sawdust she coughed trying to clear the crumbs from her throat now she needed a drink of water she signaled to the closest server how may I help you he said in a Brisk formal tone she touched her throat could I get a glass of water before my windpipe closes off certainly he raised his hand and motioned to a girl across the room she hurried to delany's side and gave her a glass Delany took a few gulps okay no more pastries she glanced around the room looking for a place to sit when she first arrived and told the greeter her name she was directed to an older lady who introduced herself as Agatha Sutton is expecting you Agatha said but he's tied up with guests as soon as he's done he'll find you in the meantime make yourself at home Delany let out a long sigh from the looks of things it was bound to be a long night she really couldn't complain though because she was just glad Sutton agreed to meet with her ever since Hugh had threatened her in the hospital Delaney had been beside herself right after it happened she called Milo balling so hard that she could hardly get the words out out he'd met her at a coffee shop and she told him the whole sorted story at first Milo told her to go to the police then she explained how ruthless Hugh was and how she feared the police wouldn't be able to protect her against him finally Milo said that he might have another option Delaney had laughed out loud when that option turned out to be billionaire philanthropist Sutton Smith then Milo told her a story about his girlfriend Leslie and how Sutton had saved her from her abuse of husband Howard but Sutton didn't stop there he also gave Leslie money to pay for her son's leukemia treatments those treatments had saved the boy's life it was hard to believe that someone like Sutton Smith would do something so kind asking nothing in return sure he was a philanthropist but most people like him simply donated money to charity and left it at that Milo told Delaney that he would put out failures see if he could get in touch with Sutton and explain her situation the whole thing sounded farfetched but delania was desperate enough to try anything fear was eating her alive she had no doubt that Hugh would make good on his threat and Tuck's prognosis wasn't looking good the bullet wound had gotten infected the doctors were amazed that he was still hanging on Delaney had spent the last few days in a fog hardly eating or sleeping she tried to work but it was impossible to get into a creative frame of mind with this hanging over her even though tuck had been so horrible to her she didn't want to be responsible for his death and then to add Hugh's thread into the mix it was too much to deal with she felt like she was on the verge of a mental breakdown prayer was the only thing keeping her functioning she hadd been praying every day for a miracle and today the dark curtain of clouds had parted for one tiny second giving her hope that help might be around the corner Milo called this morning telling her the good news Sutton agreed to meet with you at his estate but he's having a party so it'll have to be afterwards I'll just wait and go after the part's over Delany had said no Sutton's assistant was adamant that you come to the party Milo couldn't remember the lady's name he spoke with but Delany was sure it was the older woman she'd met earlier Agatha the plate of uneaten pastries was starting to feel heavy in her hand she didn't want to hold the Blasted thing all night she caught the nearest server can I give this to you her feet were aching why hadn't she worn lower heels the man nodded of course may I take your glass also I think I'll hold on to it thanks it was one of those moments when Delany was glad she was on the verge of hitting it big instead of a superstar like Dolly Parton or Montana crew it was good to still have some degree of anonymity of course at an event like this most of the people were prominent and too preoccupied with their own importance to worry about delany's absently her mind wandered over the crowd she caught sight of her bodyguard keeping respectable distance he gave her a slight nod as if to say I'm nearby doing my job her gaze moved to two middle-aged women engaged in animated conversation they were both so skinny they looked like skeletons their faces stretched like plastic from so many cosmetic surgeries absently she glanced towards the entrance as she took another sip of water she nearly choked when she saw a man stride in his angular jaw set firm like he owned the place it had been a long time since she even noticed a man's appearance much less found anyone attractive partly because she'd been too wrapped up in her career and mostly because the ordeal with tuck had left her fearful about having a relationship but she couldn't seem to peel her eyes away from this guy he had a rugged Edge like he would have been more comfortable in casual clothes although he certainly knew how to fill out a tux he was a little over 6 feet tall with lean muscles gii Joe on steroids he walked with purpose his eyes scoping the room like he was looking for someone it's me I'm the one you're looking for and she laughed at herself seriously where had that thought come from the fact that she was even noticing a guy right now spoke to her frenzied emotional state if tuck didn't pull through she'd soon be fleeing for her life her career would be snuffed out before it even got a chance to Blossom and she'd have to go into hiding and even then Hugh would eventually find her as bad as tuck was Hugh was a thousand times worse he wouldn't think twice about taking her life or anyone else's who got in his way her chest constricted sweat beating across her nose she balled her fist willing herself to calm down hopefully Sutton would be able to help she had to keep her mind fixed on the hope of Deliverance the guy's gaze connected with hers sending a dart of warmth coarsing through her veins a slight smile tugged at his lips and she felt herself smile back the room shrank all the people around her melting into a blur and there was only him and her her heart hammered in her chest he was coming her way no she couldn't do this this guy would hurt her the same way tuck had why was she always attracted to the wrong sort of man this guy was tougher than Nails a rebel she could tell from his Swagger The Confident glint in his eyes she broke eye contact and quickly turned her back to him she wasn't here to pick up on men the fact that she felt so attracted to something some random guy made her sick to her stomach hurriedly she threaded through the people intent on getting as far away from GI Joe as she could that was odd the girl talk about hot and cold one minute she was giving Corbin A come hither look and the next she was turning her back and running the other direction he scowled she was probably some high society chick playing games too bad she was stunning to look at and for an instant when their eyes locked he'd felt connection he threaded his way to the wall where he could observe the people in the room from a more inconspicuous Place plus he liked having his back protected still no sign of Sut odd that he'd be Mia at his own party then again there were so many people here and the place was enormous something could be anywhere he stood for another 20 minutes or so and still no sign of sudden finally he got bored from being in the same spot and stroe over to the bar and ordered a drink as he sat down at an open bar stool what must it be like to live a life of such Grandeur he thought of the modest cabin in the Tiny Town of Birchwood Springs Colorado with his grandfather pops and his sister still lived it was certainly a simpler life than this and as far as pops was concerned the only way to live guilt tugged at him it had been too too long since he'd been home he knew he should go back but he couldn't handle thinking about Graham's situation the bartender returned with his drink he mumbled out thanks and took a drink the liquid burning like fire down his throat he looked to his right and realized a pretty redhead was giving him the eye he offered a brief smile before angling away from her the girl was flashy obviously on the make he'd been around her type enough to know that he wasn't interested he looked to his left and did a double take it was her the blonde he'd seen when he first arrived sitting a few seats away from him as stunning as she'd been from afar she was even more so up close her hair fell over her shoulders in a sheet of glimmering Honey the form fitting red dress hugged her Curves in a classy way he'd hoped she might look his Direction so he could get her attention but she was staring down at her drink like her mind was a thousand miles away sure she was beautiful but there were lots of beautiful women in this room for a moment he couldn't pinpoint what it was about her that had captured his attention then it hit him it was the haunted expression on her face it called to his own wounded Soul Corbin's throat went dry as he swallowed his pulse ratcheting up a few notches he had to get to know this woman the compulsion was was nearly overwhelming he laughed inwardly was he losing it he had gotten very little sleep the night before maybe exhaustion was taking its toll the woman had given him the brush off she obviously wasn't interested in him he took another swallow of his drink his blood pumping like a piston through his veins before his mind could register what his body was doing he stood drink in hand without asking for permission he sat down beside her her eyes widened as she glanced at him hello a stupid grin washed over his face he didn't really know what he expected would happen when he made the split-second decision to sit down beside a stranger and try to start up a conversation but he certainly didn't expect her to give him such a scathing look like he was the scum of the earth before turning her attention back to her glass hot needles pricked over him shot down before you even got off the ground he was a big boy and could handle it earlier she'd noticed him first he'd felt her eyes on him which is why she initially caught his attention nice party she grunted he laughed that exciting huh he downed the rest of his drink with a couple of swallows feeling the alcohol Buzz to his head he couldn't believe she was flat out ignoring him not the sort of treatment he was used to getting from the opposite sex normally he had to beat the women wom off him he watched as she stirred her straw through the ice cubes and took a drink the graceful movements of her slim fingers were mesmerizing a smile flitted over his lips as he realized what was happening she was playing hard to get he loved a good Chase it made things interesting the bartender approached can I get you another drink I'll have what she's having Corbin said casually he thought that would at at least earn him some sort of response nothing okay this was getting awkward maybe he should cut bait and move on here you go the bartender said sliding the drink to him I don't see it Corbin said silence are you sure it's there at that she turned what she asked only mildly interested whatever it is you find so fascinating at the bottom of your drink she arched an eyebrow excuse me he motioned fighting a smile you were staring into your glass like it held the secret of the Bermuda Triangle so I figured it must be important he expected her to at least give him a courtesy laugh for the effort but she just rolled her eyes and turned her attention back to her glass Corbin took a gulp of the drink then sputtered in disgust this is club soda she cut her eyes at him you have such discriminating taste least at least he'd caught her attention but her words were flat and dead not even the slightest bit of emotion in them sheesh this woman was tough are you always this friendly he asked dry as she turned to face him his mind cataloged her features long lashes dark mysterious eyes full lips painted apple red to match her dress her brow lifted in faint amusement are you always this desperate her soft southern accent was such a contrast to her insult that it rendered him speechless for a second I would hardly call trying to make polite conversation desperate is that what you call this of course he blustered what was it about this woman that was making him so jumpy he never got tongue tied around women normally the compliments rolled out of him like ballads with the ladies eating up every word but not this woman he forced a laugh well yeah what else she Shrugged a poor attempt at hitting on me don't flatter yourself he retorted her eyes widened in Surprise before her face flushed making her look even more incredible he felt kind of bad for cutting her down and tried to think of a way to soften the blow then it occurred to him she looked familiar he cocked his head trying to figure out where he'd seen her have we met before do you live here in San Diego her mouth Drew into a tight line that's none of your business I wasn't trying to pry only trying to figure out how I know you have you ever been to Birchwood Springs Colorado she clipped out a single word nope Corbin was unprepared for the sting of disappointment that prickled through him this woman meant nothing to him why was he taking her rejection so personally she' clearly dismissed him the polite thing to do would be to get up and move but Corbin had never been one to follow the rules of decorum what's your name her eyes widened in exasperation as she turned to him buddy can't you take a hint I'm not interested he cocked an eyebrow I'm only trying to carry on a conversation her jaw tightened I'm going to ask you one final time leave me alone okay I will but first you have to tell me your name jeez he was coming across as a love starve jerk he'd come here to meet with suon not to pick up on chicks but this woman was messing with his head crazy because he didn't even know her and she obviously had zero interest in him but she'd been checking him out earlier talk about mix signals this woman was a master at it she looked past Corbin exchanging some sort of information with the person behind him Corbin turned as a heavy set guy with bulging biceps approached his thick brows bunched as he sized up Corbin is this guy giving you problems Miss Mitchell his voice had a warning Edge the kind tough guys used in the hope it would send all opposition running not going to happen buddy the name clicked as Corbin experienced an aha moment you're Delaney Mitchell that country music singer no wonder she was being standoffish she was probably used to guys trying to pick up on her then he remembered hearing something about her on the news she'd shot her ex-husband when he broke into her condo yep the woman had some major baggage he had to laugh at himself a room full of people and he was drawn to the one who was as messed up as he was par for his luck I tried to tell him I wasn't interested but he won't take a hand Delaney said I was only trying to make conversation Corbin mumbled you look lonely like you needed a friend why was he even bothering to explain himself to this woman her gaze connected with his for a split second something flickered in delany's eyes and he caught that wounded expression that had drawn him in then a curtain went down her eyes going hard I told you to leave me alone she said coldly without thinking he touched her arm hey he began it was the wrong move the big man grabbed Corbin's collar and yanked him to his feet come with me he ordered Instinct took over as Corbin threw a punch that connected with the man's jaw he heard the crack at the same instant The Sting of the impact reverberated through his knuckles the big man stumbled back disoriented Corbin Sid swept his leg sending him crashing to the ground there were several gasps from people nearby as they stepped back their shocked faces cut through the heady anger making Corbin feel ashamed he'd come here to honor his late friend and to reconnect with Sutton not get in a bar brawl with some hoyy toyy musician's bodyguard he gave Delany a disgusted look I was only trying to get to know you lady you have much too high of an opinion of yourself he grunted good riddance he bent over to offer the guy a hand up the guy clutched his hand but instead of using it to get up he pulled Corbin forward and punched him in the jaw pain LED through Corbin and with that pain came a scorching anger that overshadowed reason they rolled on the floor trading blows then Corbin sprang to his feet adrenaline coursing through his veins he could go like this all night in some perverse way it felt good to vent the anger and frustration continually Waring inside him the man also lumbered to his feet he wiped the thin trail of blood flowing from his lip breathing heavily a humorless grin ruffled Corbin's lips have you had enough you should have left well enough alone friend I was trying to help you up the Hulk lunged at him but Corbin easily dodged out of his way a crowded circled around them it just went to show that regardless of whether folks were high or low class they loved the thrill of the fight the man came at him again Corbin stepped to the side causing the lug to run head first into the bar Corbin assumed that would be the end of it but the Hulk turned to face him his eyes dark slashes as he shook off the hit when he charged again Corbin twist stood behind him and got him in a choke hold the man's face turned purple his arms flailing then he slumped at his knees and fell face first on the floor pasted out cold Corbin glanced down at the streaks of blood on his white tux jacket he looked at Delaney who was ghostly white it didn't have to be this way he rubbed his jaw still smarting from the hits then glanced at The Spectators shows over he grumbled he got a couple of steps away when four security guards in black suits approached he crouched getting into fighting position so this is how they want to play it fine with him when the first guy charged he clocked him in the face knocking him down he got the second with a swift side kick to the gut as he was fighting the third the fourth attacked from behind a sharp pain splintered up the base of his skull as he fell to his knees the room spinning his mind screamed fight but his body refused to cooperate in another second the security guards had Corbin pinned on the ground slapping handcuffs on his wrists they lifted him to his feet breathing curses as they hauled him away chapter 4 from what Corbin could tell he'd been placed in a holding cell in some deep underground section of the Mansion the walls were solid metal with the door being the only opening Corbin had yelled for several minutes demanding to be released but the box was as soundproof as a tomb finally he slumped down in the metal chair beside the table two chairs and a table were the only Furniture in the room it was crazy how fast things had escalated out of control one minute he was attempting to talk to Delaney and the next he was fighting with the big guy whom he assumed was delany's Bodyguard the anger had taken over the way it had been doing for some time now but Corbin hadn't started this fight trouble seemed to follow him wherever he went he rumbled out a sarcastic laugh was this Sutton Smith's plan all along lure him here so he could keep him prisoner no there was no reason for Sutton to have a grudge against Corbin if anything Sutton should be glad that Corbin had tried to avenge Doug's death the day of the ambush of course everything went terribly wrong but that was beside the point Corbin more than anyone except s had felt the agony of Doug's death and with that pain came the guilt of what happened afterward the door opened and Sutton stepped through he stroe over and sat down in the chair on the opposite side of the table even though Sutton was dressed impeccably in an expensive tux he was all grit and muscle his movements as Nimble as a panther the type of guy you didn't want to cross his blue eyes flickered over Corbin I'm glad to see the tux was sent to as instructed after decades in the US Sutton still had a slight British accent Corbin glanced down at the stains I hope you included dry cleaning in the package he noticed that Sutton had left the door open maybe that was a good sign he'd let Corbin out of here soon a slight smile touched Sutton's lips in acknowledgement of Corbin's poor attempt at humor then vanished almost as quickly as it had come it's been a while how have you been seriously the guy wanted to make conversation I'd be a lot better if I weren't handcuffed he gave Sutton a hard look why are you keeping me here I'd hope to have this conversation on friendlier terms but I didn't expect you to get into a fight the minute you stepped in the door his voice held a note of irony Corbin's jaw tightened I didn't start it it was that Meathead bodyguard Amusement flickered in Sutton's eyes I know happened I saw the security feed his eyebrows shot up wrinkling his forehead you handled yourself pretty well he Shrugged at least until the end when you were put down he didn't appreciate the assessment nor the jab fouron one's hardly fair it was no surprise that Sutton had cameras everywhere this conversation was probably being recorded right now he glanced around seeing no evidence of a camera but that didn't mean one wasn't hidden somewhere Sutton chuckled I'd think by now you would have learned that life is anything but fair somehow Corbin knew Sutton was talking about Doug it got him like a punch in the gut he caught a blip of Sutton's hurt mirroring his own he swallowed the ball in his throat he looked Sutton in the eye why did you pay for me to come here I have a proposition for you something other than being handcuffed and thrown in a cell he shot Sutton an accusing look you brought that on yourself lad Corbin was getting fed up with dancing around the topic what do you want from me I'm holding a meeting he glanced at his watch it starts in 5 minutes I'd like for you to attend and I'll explain everything he pinned Sutton with a look you tell me now I'm tired of playing games I wore the tux came to your stupid party got mauled by your security guards and thrown into some holding cell enough is enough Sutton quirked a half smile you have a couple of options here I'm listening in a couple of minutes someone is going to come in and remove your handcuffs he reached in his jacket and retrieved an envelope here's the money you have promised he placed it on the table you can take it and go your Merry way or you can stick around for the meeting hear about a unique opportunity that could be yours if you have enough sense to recognize it I don't need anything from you Corbin growled doing just fine on my own obviously with your bar bouncer job and part-time security gig at the movie theater Corbin flinched you've had me checked out he didn't need to have it pointed out that he'd reached a low point in his life why Sutton leted out a long sigh look I know what happened right after Doug died the words came at Corbin like a sledgehammer as he gasped shame burning over him how he sputtered those records were sealed then again there were probably very few things in this world a man like Sutton Smith couldn't access a fierce light came into Sutton's eyes as he continued I know the anger that fuels you I felt it myself he paused in fact it almost destroyed me he said softly he clutched his fist here's the bottom line I'm offering you a chance to do something meaningful with your life and I'll pay you handsomely in the process why do you give a crap about me Corbin rattled off reflexively suton straightened his shoulders not taking his eyeses off Corbin because my son gave a crap about you that's why moisture Rose in Corbin's eyes as he blinked Doug was the best friend I ever had he coughed to hide his emotion looking down at the table he loved you like a brother for what it's worth then thank you Corbin's head shot up for what for caring enough about Doug to come here tonight and for keeping my son's memory alive the gravity of Sutton's words hit Corbin full force something Swift and strong flowed between them they would always be connected through Doug's life and then later his death a man stepped in Corbin recognized him as one of the security guards who tackled him earlier the guy shot Corbin a sirly look it gave him a ping of satisfaction when he saw the guy's swollen lip he stepped behind Corbin and removed the handcuffs then he turned on his heel and left the room in a hurry like he feared a rematch Corbin stood glancing at the envelope and then at Sutton Sutton Rose to his feet what will it be he tugged at his jacket I'm in no hurry I'll go to the meeting Sutton looked pleased very well he motioned this way what is this Corbin glared at the four faces seated around the conference room table Blaze River Zayn and Canon fellow members of the Seal team seven four people he hoped to never lay eyes on again they looked just a surprise to see him Sutton motioned have a seat blood thrashed against Corbin's temples as his feet stayed rooted to the floor his fists clutching into balls whatever this is I don't want any part of it he couldn't believe Sutton had dragged him here to face these guys so much for opportunity River smirked at Zayn who was sitting beside him no surprise there Corbin's body tensed and what do you mean by that he was ready to pound some heads Zayn AKA Thor because of his striking resemblance to the Marvel hero made a point of eyeing the blood streaks on his jacket same old Corbin huh always got somebody's blood on your hands the comment was the match that Lit the Wildfire he pounced at Zayn who sprang to his feet Corbin managed to strike a fist at Zayn's cheekbone before Zayn landed a punch of his own that knocked Corbin back against the table it was one thing to spar with a lumbering bodyguard but another to fight a fellow Navy SEAL who was Corbin's equal in every way still there was no backing down from this Corbin got back up ready to to go again he swung but Zayn ducked Corbin took another shot Zayn stepped out of the way but Corbin ran at him the two toppling to the floor the other guys pulled them apart enough already Canon yelled stepping between them a volunteer lay Pastor Canon was normally the easygoing one in the group determined to help keep the peace it was always an uphill task considering they were a group of alpha males constantly vying to be Top Dog zay's brow shot up a derisive chuckle barking out of his lips careful Canon you know how Corbin hates taking orders from superiors the comment was a knife in the gut Zayn had been the commanding officer in their platoon he took it as a personal insult when Corbin defied his order on the day Doug was killed and he'd never let Corbin forget it respect has to be earned not demanded it was probably not the best comeback but the only one Corbin could come up with Zayn shook his head in disgust exactly and you lost our respect the day you hung us out to dry Sutton held up his hands gentlemen if you'll please take your seats he looked at Corbin and put a lid on your anger for a few minutes you might find this conversation beneficial All Eyes turned to Corbin waiting for his reaction I'm not sure it's possible for him to Cork his anger Zayn said an open challenge simmering in his eyes why don't you just tap the Brass Bell right now and save us all the trouble it was a low blow referring to the Brass Bell which sat in the courtyard at Bud's training when guys couldn't hack the drills they'd ring the bell three times signaling that they'd had enough at which point they'd forfeit their chance to become a seal and receive another Naval assignment before zay's comment Corbin was ready to leave this room and turn his back on these men forever but now the only way anyone would drag him out of here would be in a body bag he lifted his chin and sat down in the closest seat Crossing his arms over his chest his jaw set in stone he could feel the other guys watching him there was a time when he loved these guys like brothers almost as much as he'd love Doug their team had a reputation for being one of the best that all changed the night Doug got killed deep down Corbin didn't blame the guys for hating him he hated himself for what happened all the training in the world his former achievements none of it would be enough to make up for those few short Dreadful minutes when he had lost it and gone on the Rampage Sutton cleared his throat you're wondering why I asked you to come here tonight the thought crossed our minds this came from blae who was sitting on the opposite side of the table expert at reading people and situations Corbin could tell from the intense look on Blaze's face that he was trying to get a read on Sutton Corbin risked a glance at Canon who gave him a slight smile for an instant Corbin was taken off guard by the kindness then again Canon had always preached the value of turning the other cheek Corbin offered a quick nod of acknowledgement before turning his attention back to Sutton all of you are highly trained retired sales men who can be trusted men whom my son Doug trusted Corbin's skin crawled a little at that he knew none of the men in this room trusted him any any further than they could throw him they felt like he'd broken the code and betrayed their trust well maybe he had but he'd certainly not done it intentionally if he could relive that day and react differently to Doug's death he would in a heartbeat furthermore everyone around this table would be a little squirely At The Mention Of Doug's trust none of them knew for sure whether it had been enemy or friendly fire that killed Doug had Sutton brought them here to exact Revenge a shiver raced down Corbin's spine maybe the billionaire philanthropist wasn't so benevolent after all he pushed aside the misgiving he and Sutton had shared a moment in the holding cell he saw it in Sutton's eyes felt it rattle his core he and Sutton shared a bond they' both loved Doug both had been completely devastated by Doug's death Sutton said this was an opportunity and Corbin believed the man was being truthful in case in case you're wondering I know every lost detail surrounding Doug's death Sutton continued stroking his short beard which was more pepper than Salt an uncomfortable silence froze over the group The only reason the five former seals were alive was because Doug had chosen to die so they could escape the Ambush Sutton looked around the room his intense gaze meeting every eye I don't hold any of you responsible it was a tragic accident his voice quivered so slightly that Corbin wondered if he'd only imagined it the one consolation is knowing Doug died serving his country and fellow seals Corbin remembered Doug mentioning that Sutton was a Commodore in the Royal Navy he would have a personal appreciation and respect for service to Country and fellow comrades Doug was A Cut Above the Rest the embodiment of Excellence Zayn said yes he was he never gave up on any of us even when we gave up on ourselves Corbin added mentally it wasn't until he saw the surprised looks that he' realized he'd spoken out loud he and Zayn locked gazes and in his former Commander's eyes he caught a glimpse of mutual understanding at least that was one point on which he and Zayn could agree Doug was the best the glue that held the team together I'm assembling a special ops group of retired Navy Seals our intent will be to help those whose problems fall outside the realm of traditional law enforcement people who are backed in the corner with nowhere else to go for help Zayn grunted I think I speak for most of the guys here that under the circumstance he cleared his throat cutting his eyes at Corbin we don't feel comfortable putting our lives in the hands of someone who's so unpredictable heat burned over Corbin as his eyes narrowed he was about to go on the Rampage again then saw the mixture of resentment and pity in Zayn's eyes it hit him in that moment had he been in Zayn's shoes he'd probably say the same thing Sutton held up a hand group is a loose term your'll work as independent contractors and will be paid per assignment additionally each of you will receive a suped up black SUV with bulletproof windows I have other security Personnel that you can have access to you need their assistance other retired sales will be brought in as time goes on still smarting from the insults Corbin's mind raced in circles like a hamster in a ball no clear destination in sight but he had to keep running all the same it wasn't until Sutton got to the substantial sums of money they'd earned that he'd felt a quiver of excitement this could be the start of a new career the chance to do something useful also it would be nice to earn some real money maybe get a new bike take a trip somewhere warm he was tired of Colorado snow and sick of pinching pennies how will you determine which assignments were given Zayn asked will it be done on a as needed basis good question the jobs will be assigned according to your skill set Sutton punched the table with his finger you have my word that I'll make sure you have every available resource you need to be successful he motioned and while it doesn't look like it this Mansion is a veritable Fortress a hub from which we'll conduct our business Corbin's eyes popped slightly thinking about the holding cell where he'd been detained it had been solid as a tomb there was no telling how many secret tunnels and areas ran through the Mansion Sutton's voice grew intense his penetrating blue eyes scoping the room gentlemen in a small way will be paying homage to Doug helping write some of the many wrongs in this tragic world he squared his jaw straightening to his full height let's do this the Warrior Project not only for Doug but also for God and Country Corbin's chest burned with a new determination he'd come into this room floundering no real Direction in his life but now he had something he could sink his teeth into an unexpected feeling of Hope kindled in his chest this could be a way to get the one thing he craved most Redemption the Warrior Project for Doug God and Country he repeated softly chapter 5 when the fight broke out between delany's bodyguard and that annoying guy Delany feared Sutton might order her to leave thankfully that didn't happen after the guy was hauled away by security guards things settled back down Delany cooled her heels for three more hours waiting for the party to wind down before Agatha found her and announced that Sutton would see her in his study Delaney had been a nervous wreck not sure what to expect but the meeting with Sutton Smith went much better than she expected all in all it was anticlimactic she'd been prepared to plead her case trying to figure out the best way to convey how truly Cutthroat Hugh Allen was as turned out anything she could have said would have been a waste of breath because Sutton already knew he'd done his research on the Allens probably knew more about their nefarious business dealings than she did rumors had been floating around Noble for years some had Hugh being an arms dealer to terrorist groups others said Hugh was the head of a private militia whatever Hugh was involved in it wasn't good people who crossed him disappeared Del's philosophy had always been the less she knew the better after about 10 minutes into the conversation Delany realized that as far as suton was concerned taking her on as a client was a done deal she got the Feeling he'd already made the decision even before she came here tonight they discussed the particulars starting with Sutton's fee which was nominal considering the circumstance Sutton told her he was assigning one of his top guys to provide around-the-clock protection a retired Navy SEAL considering how easily tuck had breezed past her bodyguard Delaney was leery of putting her fate in the hands of one individual but Sutton assured her that the guy was well trained and could be as vicious as Hugh if the situation warranted as cliche as it sounds the only way to fight fire is with fire Sutton said in a British accent rest assured that your bodyguard has access to a team of people and additional resources if need be he gave her a piercing look it's not looking good for your ex-husband the doctors don't expect him to live past a few more days her heart lurched as she nodded tears springing to her eyes I know she said quietly you're in good hands Sutton assured her a feeling of gratitude washed over Delaney she was so appreciative of Milo who'd put her in touch with Sutton for the first time since the ordeal with tuck she felt like she might have a fighting chance for survival Sutton stood telling her to wait while he went to get her bodyguard when he got to the door he turned oh one more thing he said casually she tined slightly yes in order for this to work I need you to have complete trust in me and your bodyguard you have to listen to his instructions trust that he'll do everything in his power to keep you safe okay odd advice why would she do any she was hiring Sutton in this guy to keep her safe hang tight I'll return shortly sounds good she hugged her arms glancing around at the handsome study bookcases lined one of the walls from floor to ceiling her gaze ran over the book spines most of the books had to do with the military strategy or combat an enormous mahogany desk sat in front of the opposite wall underneath it was an ornate oriental rug the Cozy space exuded old money and Prestige she scooted back into the comfort of the overstuffed chair and crossed her legs she glanced at the large clock on the wall beside the bookshelves she assumed that Sutton would return momentarily but 10 minutes went by then 20 she rested her head against the back of the chair letting her mind get lost in the steady Rhythm of the ticking clock Delaney stifled a yawn until she'd sat down she' not realized how tired she was from all the stress her eyelids grew heavy as she dozed off the door opened and she jumped guiltily she sat up quickly then realized she'd been drooling heat crept up her neck as she wiped it away sorry that took so long Sutton said now worries she said automatically then her eyes popped when she realized who was standing behind him you her mind reeled I thought security guards took you away sorry darling I'm not that easy to get rid of he said Dry he held out his hand an expression of faint Amusement on his handsome face Corbin Spencer nice to officially meet you she just looked at his extended hand like it was a snake about to strike this couldn't be happening he chuckled and dropped his hand to his side a blistering heat slapped delany's cheeks as she gripped the arms of the chair was this some sort of cruel joke surely this guy wasn't her bodyguard an incredulous laugh bubbled in her throat as she looked at Sutton are you kidding me Sutton's expression never changed as his eyes met hers you and I agreed that you would trust me to pair you with the best man for the job I've done that now I don't want him she shook her head back and forth there must be someone else the thought of this guy being around her 24/7 was too much to take even now attraction was zinging through her veins despite her best efforts to squelch it she couldn't get involved with someone right now especially not this guy he was a hote head all fire and excitement that would burn her to the core leaving only ashes she squared her jaw glaring at Corbin Sutton flashed a friendly smile you came here for my help right yes she said hesitantly then let me help you his eyes locked with hers Corbin's the best guy for the job you have to trust me on this trust a double-edged sword the hard set of Sutton's jaw let her know that he wasn't backing down she ran a hand through her hair moisture Rose in her eyes as the walls closed in around her she blinked a few times trying to clear the emotion it was ridiculous to get so worked up about this she had to have help it was a miracle that she'd even found Sutton no one else she was aware of could stand up against Hugh okay she finally said exhaling a long breath Sutton nodded very good Corbin has been briefed on the situation he'll leave here with you and move into your conduit immediately it's imperative that you not not spend a moment alone until the threat is contained or eliminated alarm trickled down her spine she didn't know which she feared most Hue or having Corbin so close what about your things luggage had Corbin come to the party because he was going to be assigned to help her another thought struck making her feel like a complete idiot maybe Corbin approached her at the bar to tell her he'd be guarding her and she'd assumed he was trying to hit on her sheesh this was getting way too complicated Sutton turned to Corbin I'll have someone go to the hotel and retrieve your bags thank you Corbin said with a slight nod Hotel why was Corbin staying in a hotel did he not live in San Diego now that she thought about it she shouldn't have been all that surprised that Corbin was a former Navy SEAL she' known he was tough from the moment she saw him at least was on the good team or so it appeared at this point she didn't trust anyone tuck was good at feigning kindness to get what he wanted he' used her love for him as a weapon against her and now even his impending death was a threat to her there seemed to be no end to the treachery it's probably wise to take the bulletproof SUV instead of the rental car Sutton added bulletproof delane's stomach churned thinking about the gravity of the situation ation tuck could die at any minute and she'd have a Target on her back heck who was she kidding she was already a target for all she knew Hugh was waiting right outside to Ambush her she hugged her arms slopping off the shiver that crawled down her spine Sutton brought his hands together that's all for now his voice went brisk as he looked at Corbin call me anytime day or night on the secure line we'll do you can count on me Corbin said and from the tone of his voice Delany could tell he meant it that made her feel a little better about things she stood thank you I appreciate all that you're doing she didn't want Sutton to think she was an ungrateful brat because of her Outburst over Corbin Sutton was a gift sent Straight from Heaven she hoped with all her heart that Corbin would be able to keep her safe she thought of something else will I be able to go about my normal routine the headline for the album was looming over her the execs at Montana crew label were being very understanding about her situation but she didn't want to do anything to mess up her big shot we certainly hope that's the case Sutton answered there are no guarantees we'll just have to see how this thing plays out she nodded her lips forming a grim line I understand she appreciated Sutton's honesty and that he wasn't just paying her lip service a brief smile touched Sutton's lips as he looked from Delaney to Corbin I'll leave you to it good luck when he left the room Delany was keenly aware that she and Corbin were alone an awkward silence descended between them should she apologize for earlier or just leave well enough alone are you ready huh it was hard to form a clear thought with Corbin so close plus she was exhausted she hoped her mind would turn off tonight so she could get some sleep oh how she desperately needed it to go to your condo oh yeah he probably thought she was a complete [ __ ] where else would they go Sutton mentioned that Corbin had been briefed about her situation how much did Sutton know about her relationship with tuck did he realize that tuck had abused her for so many years it was embarrassing that she'd been weak enough to let it happen she tried to keep LD on her past as much as she could but now that she'd shot tuck and put him in the hospital everything was splitting wide open you ready a hint of amusement flickered in his green eyes or were they gold whatever color they were they were mesmerizing she took in his features messy nut brown hair olive skin prominent cheekbones white even teeth razor sharp jaw that had a stubborn set a heat wave blasted over her when she'd realized he'd caught her staring at him this was the second time tonight she lifted her chin and forced her feet to move forward yes where's the SUV part in the back all right lead the way she wondered how long it would take before this incredible attraction subsided hopefully it would be soon or else she'd make a complete fool out of herself chap 6 it was crazy how drastically Corbin's life had changed in a matter of a few hours when he realized who his first assignment was Corbin was shocked beyond words interesting that in a crowded room he'd been drawn to Delaney of course she'd noticed him first then she acted so cold at the bar he wished they'd not met each other the way they had it was making everything awkward they drove in silence to delany's condo all the while Corbin's brain raced to come up with witty comments but he couldn't seem to make his tongue speak the words when they arrived Corbin shifted his Focus from this tension with Delaney to the logistics of how to keep her safe he couldn't let her mess with his mind and keep him from doing his job from what he could tell her high-rise building had to notch security a doorman guard at the front desk cameras and most like likely a few guards Manning the parking garage plus Delaney had hired a service that provided bodyguard protection around the clock in fact the same guy who' fought with Corbin at the bar followed them back to delany's apartment the big man's jaw had dropped to the floor when he realized the very guy he'd had an altercation with would be delany's primary protection detail all in all Anton seemed like a decent guy now that Corbin understood the situation he could see why Anton acted the way he did Anton held up his hands in a gesture of truce hey man I had no idea who you were sorry about what happened earlier I just saw someone harassing Miss Mitchell and reacted his eyes widened I mean I saw what I thought was harassment he corrected his face going red Corbin could tell Anton was sincere also the poor guy looked Haggard with a ripped shirt black eye and swollen lip whereas Corbin's jaw was a little sore and the tuck stained but that was it one of those situations where if you think I look bad you should see the other guy applied we're cool he told Anton and he meant Corbin couldn't blame the guy for doing his job and it couldn't hurt to have someone parked outside delany's door of course tuck Allen had blown right past the high-rise security and bodyguard Corbin had no doubt that Hugh could also break pass security and get to Del Lany if he so desired his jaw hardened what Hugh wouldn't be counting on however was him during his briefing session Sutton had shown Corbin video footage of the night tuck broke into Delaney's condo he and his female accomplice slipped through the back during a furniture delivery then the woman changed into a revealing dress and pretended to be a Tipsy partygoer who had gotten locked out of her room a few doors down from delany's she flirted with The Bodyguard and offered him a Donuts pumped with a strong sedative when the gullible man was passed out cold tuck used his key to enter the apartment Tuck's plan had been relatively simple yet spot-on effective Sutton promised to keep Corbin informed about Tuck's condition as the threat seemingly hinged on that Corbin didn't like being put in a vulnerable position waiting for Hugh to attack he asked Sutton why they didn't attack Hugh first but Sutton explained that Hugh Allen was elusive with many protective layers around him it's better to let him come to you than cut off the head of the snake otherwise there would be too much risk in collateral damage you can sleep here Delany opened the door to the guest room which was a couple doors down from the master bedroom sorry about the mess she went to the bed and grabbed an armful of clothes I use this room as storage she explained I'll just put these in my bedroom okay thanks the room was nice much cleaner than his bedroom on a good day delany's high-rise condo was classy the large Windows offering a spectacular view of the city unfortunately that wouldn't work for the situation the first thing Corbin made Delaney do when they got inside the condo was closed the blinds even though she was high up there were other buildings close enough for someone with a high-powered telescope to have a birds ey view Delaney came back into the room her pinched expression said it all she was uneasy around him now that Corbin realized what had happened with her ex-husband he understood why she'd given him the brush off earlier he felt a little guilty for pressing her it was probably good that she wasn't interested in him they needed to keep this professional more than anything Corbin wanted to prove to Sutton that he could keep Delaney safe at all costs to do that he couldn't let himself get distracted by the vulnerable look on delany's delicate heart-shaped face or the gentle sway of her hips as she glided in her Sleek heels the way her glorious hair bounced on her shoulders he coughed wondering if he should clear the air tonight or wait until the morning I'm sorry you don't have all of your things her voice trailed off he could wing it tonight no big deal she pointed at the adjoining bathroom you'll find a toothpaste and toothbrush in the top right hand drawer of the vanity thanks he shoved his hands in his pockets and rocked forward on the balls of his feet well I think I'll turn in for the night do you need anything I'm good I plan to do a check of the condo make sure everything's secure before I turn in for the night the relief that came over her face shot a Pang through his heart Sutton didn't go into the details about delany's former marriage but if her ex-husband were anything like his brother it must have been a harrowing experience he wondered how a girl like Delany could have gotten mixed up with tuck Allen then again everyone always said love was blind he was itching to know how Delaney felt about tuck being in the hospital she'd shot her former husband someone she once loved that had to bite there were so many questions he wanted to ask her about her past her climb to stardom her Hobbies what she like to eat he laughed inwardly okay he needed to take it down a notch this was business not a date she was to the door about to step out out of the room when he spoke Delaney she turned yes I'm sorry about what happened earlier at the bar her jaw went slack as she fast blinked a couple of times if I'd realized the situation I wouldn't have been so forward a polite smile fixed over her face thanks he could almost see the wall going up between them she was determined to keep him at a distance disappointment settled heavily in his gut I had no idea who you were I wouldn't have been so cold pink tinged her cheeks I thought you were trying to hit on me a laugh rumbled in his throat should he tell her the truth or should he keep that to himself he winked and here I thought that you were hitting on me when you checked me out as I came into the party he relished the Deep blush that colored her cheeks she was gorgeous he had the unreasonable urge to pull her into his arms see if her lips tasted as good as they looked her eyes narrowed as she straightened her shoulders I was not checking you out even though her voice was edged with outrage Corbin couldn't get over how lyrical her accent was as smooth as Graham's lemon chiffon pie with just the right amount of huskiness a smile tugged at his lips it was fun teasing her I guess we'll have to agree to disagree she lifted her chin her eyes sparkling you can be a real jerk sometimes the insult took him off guard as he laughed sparring with Delany was much better than the awkward silence he winked only 50% of the time her hand went to her hip but he could tell she was trying not to smile oh and that what about the other 50% Charming witty a perfect gentleman she grunted I doubt that it's true he said with a straight face you're humble too she said sarcastically he took a step closer to her his pulse pumping up a notch so Delaney Mitchell are you going to sing me a bedtime song If I can't get to sleep he cringed inwardly not the most appropriate comment but he couldn't seem to reel himself in around Delaney he really liked her wanted to get to know her she blushed again her chocolate colored eyes popping indignantly You Wish he laughed can't blame a guy for trying he made a mental note to use his phone to Google Delaney before he went to sleep he wanted to know more about her career mostly he wanted to hear how her sultry voice would sound when put to music I think I'll leave on that note she clipped you know where the kitchen is help yourself to whatever need I've got to leave for the recording studio at 8:00 a.m. we'll eat a quick breakfast and head out sounds good his gaze locked with hers and he felt again that same connection he'd experienced when he first arrived at the party he could tell from the look in delany's eyes that she was attracted to him too but she was also scared of her feelings it was crazy how he could be so in tune with a woman he'd only just met but he felt her thoughts as if they were his own anger pulsed through his veins it was probably a good thing tuck Allen was in a coma otherwise Corbin would have been tempted to beat the man to a pulp for hurting Delaney suddenly he wished he were sleeping in the same room with Delaney not necessarily because he was so attracted to her but because he wanted to keep a close eye on her in case Hugh Allen tried anything his mind did a risk assessment it would be nearly impossible for Hugh to enter from the patio he'd have to come through the door like tuck had done or try to get Delaney in transit or at the studio he sat down on the edge of the bed and removed his shoes his shoulder blades were tight with tension what else do you have planned for tomorrow other than the trip to your recording studio if he knew the agenda he could get prepared for any surprises he loosened the bow tie and removed the tux jacket he wasn't sure what time in the morning Sutton's guy was bringing his luggage but it had better be early he didn't want to wear this get up any longer than he had to he made a mental note to text Sutton before he went to bed well tomorrow night I'm singing at Senator Fleming's birthday party he wed what Sutton didn't mention anything about that well probably because he didn't know Delany retorted I met Sutton for the first time shortly before he brought you into the study Corbin was surprised by that then again he shouldn't have been from what he could tell Sutton tended to act swiftly with very little explanation it would be a challenge to protect Delaney in a large group especially when she's performing he'd have to ask Sutton to send over a team of bodyguards he rubbed his hand over his jaw this was getting more complicated by the minute then again you didn't get paid the kind of money he was getting for easy the seal motto flitted through his mind the only easy day was yesterday Delaney leaned against the door frame her hands going into the air I just can't put my life on hold because of this threat I have commitments obligations my career is just now taken off to stop now would be career suicide delany's forehead creased Her Eyes heavy with exhaustion shoulders sagging she removed her stilettos holding them both in one hand I understand where you're coming from but to knowingly put yourself in a risky situation could also be suicide literally her face paled Mak making her look vulnerable and lost he was taken back by the fierce protectiveness that welled in his chest again he wanted to gather her in his arms and soothe the worry lines from her beautiful face she gave him a pleading look what other choice do I have I have to sing tomorrow night it only took him a second to reach a decision he'd never been able to stand by idly when there was a woman in need of course he'd lost count of the number of times that philosophy had gotten him in fights many of which landed him in jail but that was beside the point okay we'll go with it tomorrow morning before we head out we need to sit down and go over your schedule that way I'll know what's coming agreed he pressed his fingers into his eye sockets then rubbed them over his forehead and back through his hair he needed a good night's sleep so he could look at the situation through fresh eyes because right now all he could think was that he was alone in a condo with the most intoxicating woman he had ever met met he was supposed to keep her safe from a very dangerous and immediate threat and all he could think about was kissing her until neither of them could think straight he realized she was studying him an enigmatic expression on her face what a slight smile touched her lips I know we didn't get off to the greatest start but thanks for being here she hesitated it's nice to know someone has my back she shuttered her voice losing sound in case this was serious the threat large delany's life on the line he had to remain sharp and push aside the attraction he felt for her something as indefinable as a whisper yet stronger than steel wafted over him as his eyes met delany's this thing between them was real More Than Physical he felt her pain knew in some Indescribable way that even though they'd only just met he' go to the end of the Earth and back for this woman if necessary you need to know that I'll do everything in my power to keep you safe whatever it takes her eyes teared up somehow I know that she uttered and then looked surprised that she'd said it good night she quipped then quickly left the room good night Corbin repeated softly he was starting to recognize a pattern every time something sparked between them Delaney retreated it's probably for the best his mind argued even though his heart didn't believe it she was standing in a field of clover the one where she used to play as a child whiling away many a lazy Summer Afternoon making long flower chains that she'd wind around her head as a crown a chill ran over her flesh as she looked around noticing that the world had gone dark she looked up trying to see the Sun but an ominous Cloud was in the way Delaney ran full speed trying to escape the shadow of the cloud but no matter where she went the cloud seemed to follow she looked in the distance and saw him coming towards her her first thought was to get away but she was transfixed by the Splendor of this man tall with lean siney muscles he walked with purpose A Warrior's strength in his jaw before she realized he he was standing in front of her I shouldn't be here I can't be attracted to you she pointed up at the cloud fright nodding her insides I have to get away Corbin only smiled in Amusement sending her pulse racing she stared into his mesmerizing eyes greener than a Grove of trees with Specks of gold in the tenderness of his gaze she caught the faint notes of a ballad that only her heart could understand stand her defenses crumbled like a broken suit of armor at her feet her stomach tingled as his arm encircled her waist and pulled her to him in a crushing Embrace I can't she uttered before his lips came down on hers gently his lips moved against hers stoking the growing fire until it became an inferno of Splendid emotion her hands moved across his back and up through his hair as she pulled him closer never had she felt such utter and complete Bliss as she drank in his nearness the scene shifted it wasn't Corbin but tuck who held her in his arms his blue eyes were balls of ice his mouth Twisted in a cool Smile as he squeezed her to the point where she couldn't breathe as her eyes bulged he laughed his mocking laughter grew louder and more terrible until it shook the very ground a voiceless scream sounded in her throat Darkness overtaking her then she was running chapter 7 as Delany pulled a slice of bread from the toaster and slathered on a pad of butter she cast a surreptitious glance at Corbin who was at the table eating a bowl of cereal remnants of her dream the night before swirled around her making her feel a sense of embarrassment jeez the dream had felt so real like they'd actually kissed she shook her head willing herself to get a grip it was only a dream after all a guy had brought over Corbin's luggage freshly showered he wore a faded pair of jeans and a snug black t-shirt that stretched over his wide shoulders revealing the outline of his very defined PEC just as she suspected he was a casual clothes guy his messy hair was still damp and there was a faint sleep line along the edge of his right eye she bit back a smile he was darn cute and so very masculine at the same time his presence filled her entire condo making her keenly aware of him every second what she should have been thinking about however was her show tonight she had to be at the top of her game but that was hard considering she'd hardly gotten any sleep aside from the stupid dream every time she heard a noise it sent a terror racing over her several times last night she'd been tempted to go into Corbin's room and sleep on a pallet just so she wouldn't have to be alone the only thing that kept her from doing it was Pride she didn't want him to think that she was throwing herself at him it was embarrassing enough that he'd caught her checking him out at the party and he' certainly not hesitated to call her on it she didn't want to add fuel to that fire she took her plate and sat down at the table across from him act normal she commanded herself don't think about how the very side of this man quickens your blood and starts the butterflies flapping in your stomach this was a job for Corbin nothing else she'd do well to remember that he pushed aside his empty cereal bowl and leaned back in his seat let's go over the plans for the next few weeks she took a bite of toast collecting her thoughts the main thing I have going on this month is my album she told him about having to have the songs written and recorded by the end of the month then she rattled off a few other engagements 2 months from now I'm going on tour he nodded tell me about your ex-husband as she coughed causing a crumb to get lodged in her throat she reached for her glass and took a few gulps she coughed again more forcefully this time trying to clear her throat finally she got the crumb to go down her cheeks went warm then scalding hot when she saw the amusement in Corbin's eyes which were more gold than green today do do I need to give you mouth to mouth her eyes popped no that won't be necessary too bad he uttered in an intimate tone that sent tingles circling down her spine she had to resist the urge to Fan her face she she was blushing like a school girl and from the look of his koi smile he knew the effect he had on her she sat up straight in her seat trying to get a handle on herself how was it that she could perform in in front of thousands of people Then Fall to Pieces because Corbin asked her a simple question why do you want to know about tuck the more I know about tuck and Hugh the better his voice was light casual but underneath the facade she detected a keen interest or maybe she was reading too much into things how much did she want to tell him she didn't like telling anyone about her relationship with tug but she especially didn't want to tell Corbin there was an unreadable expression on his rugged features as he waited for her to expound she shifted in her seat the best way around this was to stick with the facts I met tuck when I was 16 years old I never knew my father my mother and I lived in a trailer park in Noble Alabama Hugh was our landlord she wasn't about to tell Corbin that her mother and Hugh had a thing even though her mother was 10 years his senior if Corbin wanted that bit of sorted information he'd have to search it out himself tuck and I got married when I was 19 you were really young he mused yes she could tell he wanted her to say more but she just sat there he rubbed his ear why did you and Tuck get divorced she tensed is this really necessary he was her bodyguard not her psychiatrist I need to get the full picture any seemingly insignificant detail might prove useful his eyes probed hers with such intensity that it burned into her soul stripping her bare she knew for sure in that moment that Corbin's interest in her past went beyond a professional level he was interested in her the same way she was interested in him their strong connection made little sense but it was there nevertheless she ran through the options of things she could disclose her stomach churned as she thought about the beatings and how she'd ended up in the hospital broken and battered it was humil ating certainly not something she wanted to tell Corbin she realized he was studying her then she caught something in his eye her Hospital stay was public record she held him with a look you already know don't you he didn't Flinch yes the hair on the back of her neck Rose as she clinched her teeth what was this some sort of game or test then why are you asking me because I want to hear hear it from you he paused I want to understand how someone like you could have ended up with him her back went ramrod straight when she caught the accusation in his tone the defense she'd spent years building screamed in her mind because I was young stupid desperate the only daughter of a mother who was an alcoholic and a drugie I felt trapped and alone then tuck stepped into the picture ironic that the very person I thought would Rescue Me ended up being my undoing but she wouldn't tell Cor in any of that she'd hold the anger close the way she always did putting on a good face for the world that was the only hope she had of surviving this the world knew her as Delany Mitchell Dolores Milstead died a long time ago she grunted giving him a hard look well to answer your question I wish I knew why I ended up with tuck that's the million dooll question she tucked her hair behind her ear pushing away her place late no longer hungry he assessed her with thoughtful eyes finally he sat back Crossing his arms over his chest nope don't buy it her brows scrunched what the nerve Corbin didn't even know her he had no right to judge her you know why you married tuck I can see it in your eyes he leaned forward but you won't let anyone in will you blood pounded against her temples how in the heck could he read her so well she let out a harsh chuckle all right Wise Guy let's talk about you what skeletons do you have in your closet she saw it that slight Twitch in his eyes that let her know he was harboring secrets too then the mask came down as a smile tugged at his lips there's the bite I saw last night at the bar I knew the fighter was in there she couldn't help but laugh yeah I'll fight but I don't know how much good it'll do me she said dryly she'd fought tuck for all it was worth had thought she was finally out of his grasp until Hugh showed up but things were infinitely worse than they'd been with tuck at least tuck loved her in his Twisted way Hugh was dispassionate analytical he'd got her like a fish and then toss her aside without a second thought she'd witnessed firsthand what happened when people tried to go up against you Allan those people disappeared and often their families did as well a shiver went down her spine as she hugged her arms you'll need that fight Corbin continued I have a feeling this thing will get ugly before it's over from what I've learned about Hugh he's ruthless you have no idea she muttered Hugh has no regard for moral decency no appreciation for human life moisture Rose in her eyes as she thought of of her mother and how Hugh had destroyed her Corbin placed a hand over hers sending electricity zinging through her for a split second all she could think about was his touch how his skin felt against hers she felt protected and invigorated at the same time I give you my word that I'll keep you safe she nodded unable to stop a tear from rolling down her cheek could Corbin really keep her safe she could tell from the fierce look in his eyes that he believed he could but he'd never met Hugh face to face Maybe Hugh would destroy Corbin too her heart cried at that no she couldn't think this way couldn't let fear take hold he offered a reassuring smile I promise The Confident timber in his voice resonated in her chest sending a wave of comfort over her maybe he could really help in that moment despite everything she realized she was glad Corbin Spencer was here she looked at their hands Panic slicing ribbons through her she couldn't get involved with Corbin no matter how attracted to him she was she was about to snatch her hand away but his phone buzzed he removed his hand from hers and answered it on the second ring no hello simply hey Sutton she tensed when a shadow slipped over Corbin's features I understand Corbin glanced at her I'll tell her he ended the call with a heavy sigh tuck is dead isn't he she managed to squeak yes tears spilled down her cheeks the room began to spin as her throat closed she coughed trying to get a good breath but the suffocating Panic was too thick to break through Corbin rushed to her side are you okay she stumbled to her feet he'll come for me she had to get out of here had to do something but what Corbin put his arms around her I'm here a sob Rose in her throat as she buried her head in his shoulder and wept tears for tuck whom she once loved and tears for herself for what lay ahead Corbin scowled when he saw the throng of reporters gathered in front of the recording studio waiting their arrival he glanced sideways at Delaney who had her game face on her makeup and hair were as perfect as any Southern Diva he'd ever seen no trace of Tears he had to hand it to Delaney she'd allowed herself a good cry on his shoulder then pulled herself together and announced that she was keeping to her normal schedule I have an album to complete she said squaring her jaw and I refuse to let the Allen Brothers take one more thing from me if you want a fight then by golly the fight is what he'll get while Corbin admired delany's determination and spunk he wondered if she should cancel tonight's event with the senator at the mere mention of the idea Delaney went on a rampage the woman was more stubborn than a moose Corbin would simply have to do the best he could under the circumstances the party was at 6 with Delaney scheduled to perform at 7 Sutton security guys were going to the Senator's home at 2 p.m. to do a thorough sweep of the area make sure it was Secure before delany's arrival for the first time since he'd left the seals Corbin wished he had a better relationship with his former comrades in team seven had one of them been present tonight Corbin would have felt better he was tempted to call Canon to see if he could come he and Canon had a decent relationship but not good enough to call on him last minute no he'd have to rely on Sutton Security Guys and his own prowess hoping that would be enough the good news was that Sutton had outfitted his SUV with an arsenal of firearms Corbin was well prepared in that ECT he pulled the SUV alongside the curb and glanced in the rearview mirror at Anton you ready Anton nodded technically his shift ended a couple of hours ago but when he learned about Tuck's death and how the threat was now elevated he agreed to accompany Delaney and Corbin to the studio the plan was for Corbin to escort Delaney into the building while Anton parked the SUV Corbin's senses went on full alert as he touched the Glock 19 pistol tucked in his belt over his right hip he turned to Delaney you ready she pushed her purse strap over her shoulder her jaw tightening yep the reporter circled around Corbin as he got out of the SUV and hurried around to get Delaney he paused before opening her door his eyes scouring the road and surroundings looking for any signs of a shooter from what he could tell the coast was clear he put an arm around Delaney as they walked quickly towards the building a microphone was shoved into Delaney's face it was mass confusion questions pelting them from every direction how do you feel about your ex-husband's death do you feel responsible this came from a pretty reporter her demeanor aggressive delany's face was bridgid her eyes fixed Straight Ahead Corbin wanted to knock the vultures out of the way unable to do that he gave them death glares instead not that it did any good will you still perform tonight at Senator Fleming's birthday party will you be attending Tuck's funeral is your upcoming tour cancelled Corbin opened the door to the studio and they stepped in leaving the pack of wolves outside he felt delany's shoulders sag in relief as they walked deeper into the building Corbin also breathed a sigh of relief so far so good now if they could just get through tonight they might be okay chapter eight Restless currents of energy buzzed through Delaney as she looked at her reflection in the mirror her brown eyes were muddy filled with fear her skin pale beneath the makeup was Hugh out there in the crowd of people waiting to exact his Twisted form of Justice she heard a tap at the window her heart leapt in her throat as she Whirled around her hand going over her chest she laughed feeling a weak relief when she realized the sound was rain splattering against the glass she turned again to face the mirror a guest room in the Senator's home had been converted into a dressing room she was set to perform in 1 hour it was comforting to know that Corbin was right outside the door he'd asked if she wanted him to come into her dressing room after she got changed into her stage clothes but she told him she needed a few minutes alone to mentally go over the set when Corbin was around it was hard to focus on anything but him right now she needed to focus on the performance today at the record recing Studio she'd felt Corbin's eyes on her as he sat outside the glass Booth several times when they made eye contact he gave her an encouraging nod which was more comforting than Delaney wanted to admit she couldn't believe she was forming such a strong connection with someone she hardly knew maybe it was time she turned the tables and asked Corbin a few personal questions see what kind of man he really was then again she didn't trust her own judgment tuck had fooled her why couldn't Corbin a knock sounded once before the door opened she looked up as her hair stylist Gina rushed in I'm sorry I'm late she blustered traffic was a beast she hurried over to Delaney and air kissed her cheek before dumping her items on the nearby Bed Delany smiled Gina was always a bundle of nerves to the point where Milo questioned if Delaney should find someone else Delany had no intention of starting over with another stylist she loved what Gina did with her hair and how she could make it look glamorous without weighing it down with an excessive amount of hairspray and besides Gina's nervous demeanor helped distract Delany from her own anxiety tonight Gina's round face was beat red her hair wind blown and damp from the rain Delany could tell she'd been rushing to get here is it raining hard outside yes it's horrible she wrinkled her nose and I forgot my umbrella she waved a hand oh well say lovey her hand went to her hip as she jutted her thumb at the closed door Who's That honk outside Gina was Notorious for switching topics Midstream Delany sputtered at a laugh what you know the guy I'm talking about the one parked outside your door he's gorgeous those intense eyes perfect body she clucked her tongue her eyes dancing wickedly is he real a giggle bubbled in delany's throat she was glad she wasn't the only one so taken with Corbin he's my new bodyguard well he's got my vote Gina said then trilled her tongue I wouldn't mind having someone like him Garden me she frowned if I didn't have 14 rowdy kids a husband two dogs and a fish that is Delaney laughed Gina was happily married to a great guy with three boys but she often joked that it felt more like 14 okay enough about Captain America we need to make this quick now that she thought about it Corbin did kind of look like Captain America maybe with a little Rebel mixed in Captain America meets Iron Man yes definitely Iron Man with Corbin's messy hair and Keen wit you doing okay yes why Delany asked reflexively then saw the look of compassion in Gina's eyes I heard about your ex I'm sorry I know it can't be easy The Familiar tension settled like a rock in delany's stomach no it's not she said clenching her hands Gina didn't know the half of it no one did except Milo Sutton Smith and Corbin if you need someone to talk to I'm here thanks Gina turned to the bed opened the latch on the metallic blue suitcase and lifted the lid she pulled out a flat iron and blow dryer along with a dozen or more hair products which she placed on the table beside Delaney she took a quick assessment of delany's red blouse rhinestones dotted the top section the bottom Edge was cut in an angle swooping down in a triangle on delany's right side long Fringe hanging over her jeans the Final Touch was the red leather cowboy boots Gina pursed her lips I think we should do your hair down tonight but with big loose curls she glanced at the rhinestone earrings on the table we'll need to push the sides of your hair back to Showcase those babies sounds good to me Delaney spotted a narrow silver package wrapped in a matching bow about 2T long it was beside Gina's purse what's that Gina slapped her forehead I'm glad you said something I'm such a twit a delivery man handed it to me right as I got here it's for you she handed Delaney the Box Delaney took it trying to decide if she should open it or call Corbin to check it out Gina gave her a funny look are you okay you look a little pale she forced a smile yeah it's just been rough with Tuck's death I know I was surprised you didn't cancel tonight believe me I thought about it but this is such a great opportunity I I couldn't afford to pass it up Gina nodded in understanding that's the nature of this business honey you got to pay those dues before you can take a breather yep Delany mumbled her focus on the package a sense of for boing trickled over Delany as she looked at it she was about to say she needed to get Corbin when Gina reached for it look at you all shy about a secret admirer she rumbled out a deviant chuckle I'll open it it's probably the closest I'll ever come to a secret admirer also we're running out of time I'll need at least 30 minutes to do your hair Justice Delany held her breath as Gina untied the bow she lifted the lid smiling it's a rose she announced then her expression grew perplexed a black rose her features tightened her lips going down in a frown there's a note with red splotches on the edges red splotches of blood somehow Delaney managed to speak what does it say Gina's voice trembled blood always remember ERS at the sound of delany's shrill cry Corbin sprang from his seat and ran full speed into the room his hand went to his Glock as he scoured the room what's wrong Terror ringed delany's eyes as she pointed to the Box on the bed the hair stylist was standing beside Delany shaking her head back and forth she also looked petrified Corbin's pulse raced as he peered into the box a single black rose the stylus pointed to the square of white paper on the bed Corbin only had a glance to discern the blood splatters he read the note then looked at Delaney where did this come from he'd done a sweep of the dressing room before Delany entered someone gave it to Gina on her way into the Mansion a delivery man Gina added why didn't you come and get me he glared at Delaney not trying to hide the frustration in his voice I was going to it but I grabbed it and opened it Gina finished she spread her hands I had no idea what was inside I assumed it was from a secret admirer her voice dribbled off to silence the thought of what could have happened rolled over Corbin like a semi- this could have been a bomb he red a hand through his hair exhaling loudly he'd been sitting outside the door assuming everything was fine then the stylist waltzed in with a package he looked at the middle-aged heavy set woman with a ruddy complexion she seemed harmless enough but one could never be sure delany's face drained as she bit down on her lower lip I'm sorry everything happened so fast who was the delivery man Corbin demanded Gina Drew back I don't know what did he look like muscular young closely cropped brown hair what was he wearing a gray delivery clothes anything else you can tell me Gina looked at the door like she wanted to Dart out of it um he had a tattoo on his wrist what kind some type of line she hugged her arms looking at Delany as an explanation gushed out I was in a hurry and didn't pay much attention he glared at the woman her lower lip trembled like she might break into tears but he wasn't about to cut her any slack not if it meant putting Delany at risk he surveyed Delaney how well do you know her delany's eyes bugged Gina yes very well Delaney flashed Gina an apologetic look as she touched the woman's arm she didn't have anything to do with this Corbin You're darn toon I didn't Gina retorted her face going red she rolled her eyes I appreciate him wanting to keep you safe but Captain America needs to take it down a notch Corbin made a face what when delany's cheeks turned pink he realized they'd been discussing him he didn't know if he should be flattered or insulted at any rate they had more pressing matters to deal with right now Delaney started trembling tears pulling in her eyes he's coming for me a wild look came into Gina's eyes who Tuck's brother Hugh he said if tuck died her voice choked he'd kill me hysteria coated delany's voice and Corbin could tell she was on the verge of losing it Gina's jaw dropped fear creeping into her eyes what's going on here Corbin wasn't about to explain himself to this woman could you please step outside I need to talk to Delany alone Gina turned to Delaney really he's ordering me out I don't want to leave you alone with him she glared at Corbin it's okay Delaney flashed a w smile really Gina straightened her shoulders giving Corbin a look that said go jump in a lake I'll be right outside she clipped as she marched out closing the door behind her are you all right Corbin asked going to delany's side tears rolled down her cheeks a self-deprecating laugh crackled through her throat as she wiped her tears with her Palms I don't know the haunted look in her eyes cut Corbin to the quick do you think Hugh is here she asked hely he let out of breath it's a possibility he sat down on the edge of the bed facing her he leaned forward so they'd be eye to eye we knew this could happen which is why we requested extra security she nodded biting down on her lower lip you're right she finally said I knew this was coming her voice caught but the rose and the note it makes it a thousand times worse she clenched her hands her lips Vanishing into a tight line Corbin wanted to gather Delaney in his arms and whisk her away from the danger you don't have to go through with the concert tonight he saw her hesitation could tell she wanted to flee but then she tightened her jaw no I'm done running canceling the show wouldn't bode well for my reputation her voice gathered confidence as she continued I'm doing the show you sure while he applauded her courage he didn't want anything bad to happen to her protecting her while she was on the stage in front of hundreds of people wouldn't be easy his mind ran through the protocols which were in place Senator Fleming had his own security team and they were supposedly checking the credentials of every guest prior to entry also Sutton's guys were here along with Anton still there was a large margin for error there would be no way to guarantee delany's safety she seemed to be reading his thoughts it's okay I'll know the risks he searched her face you sure she lifted her chin yes he touched her arm I promise I'll be by your side the whole time a strange smile stretched over her lips For Better or Worse huh for better or worse he repeated chapter n Corbin positioned himself off to the side of the stage near the front of the ballroom it was hard to concentrate on keeping Delaney safe when she was so dang intoxicating fire and dynamite her voice had a rich full sound with a hint of huskiness he found so alluring the lyrics flowed out of her effortlessly as she leaned into the microphone stand to sing it wasn't just that she had an incredible voice but also a compelling presence that captured the attention of everyone present she was gorgeous her long blonde hair shimmering against the lights her outfit accentuated her curves as she swayed to the music every time she leaned her head back he caught a glimpse of her dangling earrings he let his gaze Linger on her shapely legs and fire engine red cowboy boots finally he pulled his eyes away from her and back to the crowd no wonder Delany was on the cusp of stardom no one could resist her his eyes moved over the guests mostly high class smooth talking politician types with beautiful women adorning their arms like trophies Senator Fleming and his wife were seated in the center of the front row Corbin recognized at least two security Personnel sitting nearby dressed in tuxedos to blend in with the guests at least most everyone was seated it made it easier to keep track of people a weight staff dressed in black and white uniforms threaded through the rows serving drinks and appetizers Delaney would perform for 30 minutes then end with happy birthday at which time an enormous cake lit with sparklers would be wheeled out Corbin spotted Milo delany's manager three rows back Milo caught his gaze and offered a slight nod the man was understandably tense they had spoken earlier outside delany's door Milo expressed his appreciation and relief that Sutton had agreed to represent Delaney then he questioned if Corbin could really keep Delany safe here tonight Corbin had answered honestly that he'd do his best but couldn't guarantee anything there were too many aspects Beyond his control then again no matter how thoroughly you planned for a situation or how skilled you were things could always go wrong he knew that better than anyone no group was more prepared than Seal Team 7 to go into that Filipino Village to rescue the Diplomat and his family and yet they didn't count on one of their informants betraying them by the time they realized it was an ambush it was too late and Doug was killed Goosebumps prickled over Corbin's skin would that happen here would Hugh Allen get to Delaney he squared his jaw pushing aside his fears knowing they weren't helping the only way he could keep Delaney safe was to remain Vigilant he scoped the crowd with a practiced eye glancing across the room at Anton who was doing the same Corbin picked out the security team sitting in strategic locations around the room security had checked the IDS of every guest in attendance everything should be fine and yet it didn't feel fine the air rre of impending doom something was about to happen Corbin could feel it funny that with all these people here Delaney would be so tuned into to Corbin his jaw was Stone his eyes perpetually scanning the crowd he exuded such a magnetic energy that she was surprised Ed all the eyes in the room weren't drawn to him instead of her no wonder she'd noticed him last night at the party he was a walking poster in jeans a white colar shirt and dark gray sports coat Corbin Spencer was the kind of guy who could step on the heads and make things happen she could tell he took his job seriously and felt safer with him here she jerked when she fumbled slightly over the last few lines of her song time to shift her Focus from Corbin to the performance she flashed a bright smile taking hold of the microphone how y'all doing tonight folks she boomed the crowd roared in response normally she felt invigorated when she was performing plugged into the energy of the crowd but tonight she was too tense to completely lose herself keep the energy going Delaney this next one's a favorite it's called blue skies and rolling heels written about my home state Alabama the beautiful Applause sounded throughout the room she reached for her guitar leaning close by then placed the strap over her shoulder she'd done a few fast songs this was slower allowing her a chance to catch her breath after this she'd do one more fast song then sing Happy Birthday it was almost over she just had to sold her on to the Finish Line the song about Alabama evoked a twinge of nostalgia reminding Corbin of the fondness he felt for Colorado especially Birchwood Springs where he'd grown up he thought of his father Wallace the most stubborn man on the planet his heart clutched as he thought of his beloved grandmother Luella who was in a care center being treated for Alzheimer's she'd been more of a mother than grandmother to Corbin and it tore him up inside that she didn't recognize anyone didn't even know her own identity she was a prisoner inside her own mind his thoughts went to his sister Adelaide or Addie two years younger Addie was feisty outspoken and mad as a trapped wasp that he' left Birchwood Springs Addie somewhat forgave him for joining the Navy but when he left again only a few weeks after retiring from the seals Addie went on a rampage accusing him of deserting the family and leaving her holding the bag to look after their grandparents Addie was right he should have stayed but he couldn't stand being back there not with graham in a care center and his conscience railing about all the things he should have have done differently he had to get away lose himself in the commotion of a bigger city unfortunately there was no place far enough or big enough to escape from himself working for Sutton gave him a new lease on life and the fact that he was intensely attracted to Delaney added another layer whether that layer was good or bad he didn't know at any rate Corbin had a second chance to prove he wasn't a total screw up and he was going to do his best to step up to the task he looked at whose eyes were fixed on a female server a few rows back something about the woman was off what was it he took an assessment she seemed tense like she was about to spring into action an older man waved to get the server's attention but she ignored him keeping her gaze trained on Delany Anton must have noticed it too which is why he was watching her so intently alarm Bells trilled through Corbin he turned his head and spoke into a tiny microphone on his Coke collar which patched him into the network of security guards female server in the center three rows back was all he had time to say before the woman tossed aside the tray to reveal a gun Corbin acted reflexively drawing his pistol and firing before joining the seals Corbin had been a good Marksman but with the added training he rarely missed the bullet hit the woman Square in the chest the force jerked her back as she let out a strangled cry her hand going to her chest a circle of blood spilling out from the wound it raced through Corbin's mind that the woman had gotten off a shot before she went down he looked at the stage relieved to see that Delaney was okay murmurs rustled through the group as people scattered like frightened sheep the Senator's security detail surrounded him and his wife huddling them out of the room Corbin heard another shot Delany went to the floor his heart dropped had she been shot or was she taking cover this shot was fired from a male server in the back before the man could shoot again Anton fired but missed another security guard shot dropping the man to his knees amidst the chaos of frantic guests several members of Sutton's security team moved in to apprehend the shooters Corbin pushed his way to the stage his only thought to get to Delaney it took him less than a minute to reach her but it felt like an eternity he was relieved that she hadn't been hit he helped her up and pushed her behind him using his body as a shield we'll exit through the back he said gruffly stay back he ordered the band members they looked puzzled that Corbin was treating them with suspicion but nodded stepping back when they got off the stage he took her hand let's go they ran for the back exit where the SUV was parked all the while Corbin looked around him ready to fire should anyone attack they hadd gone through the plan beforehand in the event of an incident Corbin would get to Delaney and they would go out through the kitchen while Anton got the SUV there were a handful of female servers in the kitchen when they realized Corbin had a gun they held up their hands and backed away way faces chalky over there Corbin ordered using the gun to motion to the corner these women didn't look threatening but he couldn't be sure they weren't in collusion with the other servers keep your hands up He barked when they reached the back door Delaney was about to push it open and run through but Corbin caught her collar pulling her back not yet for all they knew the shooters could have been a distraction to send them fleeing out the back into an ambush do you think Hugh's out there the naked fear in her deep brown eyes ignited a fury in Corbin that burned acid through his veins everything in him wanted to come face to face with Hugh Allen so he could Pummel the monster then bury him he sucked in a breath trying to control his anger he didn't want to lose his head and have a repeat of what happened the night Doug was killed he had to remain cool alert he eased open the door and peered out noting two things simultaneously the rain had stopped and the SUV was parked just outside Anton are you there he held his breath waiting for a response his mind going through alternate options Senator Fleming and his wife had been taken to his study at least that had been the plan if all else failed he could take Delaney there until more help arrived I'm here Anton said relief washed over him they just had to make it to the SUV a few steps away I've got Delaney is the coast clear yeah man from what I I can tell are you sure you've got to be right about this look around the area is there anyone out there I don't see anybody it's clear Corbin wished again for his former SEAL team members if they assured him the coast was clear he could Bank on it okay he'd go with Anton's assessment and pray it was correct he locked gazes with Delany whose face was rigid you all right she nodded her lips Vanishing into a thin line his heart bled a little when he saw her clinched fists she was petrified but she was a fighter the SUV is right outside Anton's waiting for us I'll cover you just stay next to me be careful though I'm sure the pavement slick they made it only a couple of steps before a bullet whizzed by Corbin's right ear get down he yelled pushing Delaney to the ground the shot had been fired from across the yard he crouched down bes Delany then saw the shooter partially hidden behind a tree he aimed and fired a single shot gotcha he muttered as the man went down he looked around there were more of them out there he spotted one at 2:00 another at 4:00 he fired shots came from behind them he glanced back over his shoulder Sutton security guards were returning fire they had to move now while the snipers were distracted let's go they sprinted to the SUV Corbin yanked open the door and pushed Delany forward diving in behind her go he yelled as Anton stepped on the gas the tires squealed bullets pinging the windows as they drove off Corbin had never been so grateful for bulletproof glass he made a mental note to thank Sutton for the SUV he turned to Delaney are you okay she nodded a stricken expression on her face as she looked down at her wet clothes he suspected from the glazed look in her eyes and her shaking hands that she was in shock but thankfully she hadn't been shot he leaned forward his head going between the seats as he glared at Anton I thought you said the coast was clear Anton shook his head sorry man I thought it was I had no idea those guys were out there Corbin clinched his jaw the next time you tell me it's clear you better know it had Anton not been driving he would have finished the brawl they started earlier and this time there wouldn't be any security detail to stop him from pounding Anton's head he gave Anton a long hard look to let the man know he had his number before sitting back down in the seat where to Miss Mitchell back to your place Anton asked keeping his eyes on Delany not daring to look at Corbin Delany turned to Corbin is it safe the words came out screechy tears gathering in her eyes I can't believe this is happening she muttered shaking her head and ringing her hands Corbin touched her ice cold hands it'll be okay look at me he commanded she let out a soft whimper look at me she turned toward him I'll keep you safe you have my word she searched his face and even in the near Darkness he could tell she was trying to decide if she could trust him finally she nodded her shoulders relaxing a fraction Anton glanced back at them Miss Mitchell I took the liberty of calling my company they have a team of bodyguards waiting for us at your condo thank you Anton Delany said her voice strained I hope that was okay Anton continued I figured it couldn't hurt to be safe Corbin's senses jumped to full alert when had Anton had the time to call his company there had been scarcely enough time for the man to get out of the Mansion to the SUV Corbin's mind raced through the events of the evening he'd noticed the server because Anton was watching her he assumed it was because the woman looked suspicious but what if it was because Anton was waiting for her to act Anton told him the coast was clear when there were Shooters all over the place the man had to have noticed something had Sutton security team not come through the back and started shooting Corbin and Delaney would have been goners Delany stylist described the delivery man as muscular with a line tattoo on his wrist Corbin leaned forward trying to see but Anton's wrists were facing the steering wheel he turned to Delaney and whispered how far are we from your condo she was about to speak when he put a finger to her lips quietly he hissed she looked puzzled about 5 minutes she said softly his eyes locked with hers do you trust me concern washed over her as she started blinking why what's happening no time to explain he muttered he whipped out his Glock and pointed it at Anton's head pull over Anton's eyes bulged are you crazy man I'm on your side he jerked the wheel causing them to Swerve to the right before he regained control of the SUV Delany gasped looking at Corbin like he'd lost his mind what are you doing I said pull over he repeated his voice cracking like thunder he rammed the barrel of the pistol into the back of Anton's head I won't ask again all right Anton blustered Miss Mitchell this guy's crazy you better have a good explanation for this Delany said through narrowed eyes turn off the engine Corin said when the SUV came to a stop now Anton complied hands off the wheel Anton turned to look at Delaney Miss Mitchell this is ludicrous turn on the overhead light I knew you were crazy at the bar I should have busted your pretty face when I had the chance Anton flipped on the light his eyes narrowing to Black slits now roll up your sleeves and turn your hands over Palms facing up Anton barked out an incredulous laugh you're losing it man it was at that moment moment that understanding registered on delany's face she squared her jaw do as he says not you to fine Palms up want me to play patty cake next Anton sneered on the delivery man that gave her the rose Delany exclaimed at the same time Corbin saw the tattoo realizing it was an arrow Anton reached for his gun but Corbin was faster he jammed the pistol into Anton's head his voice was controlled deadly slowly remove the gun from your holster no sudden moves I really don't want to have to Splatter your brains in front of the lady he said morosely drop it on the seat he ordered when Anton held up the gun he glanced at Delaney get the gun do it he yelled when she hesitated she leaned over the seat and grabbed it then dropped it on the seat beside them like it was a hot C Cole now get the cell phone he grabbed it from Anton's hand and placed it on the seat beside him how much did Hugh pay you to become a traitor Corbin asked disgust churning in his gut Hugh had been able to get to delany's closest point of contact no one could be trusted a lot more than your lady back there Anton rumbled out a laugh his voice going vicious this world ain't big enough a place for you to hide he'll find you you too pretty boy Corbin swore when Delany sucked in a ragged breath stress was taking its toll her breathing was shallow and labored and he feared she might start hyperventilating time was ticking away for all they knew Hugh and his goons could be closing in any minute he pointed the gun at Anton's head drive us to Sutton's Mansion any funny movements and you die chapter 10 after a decent night's sleep at Sutton's Mansion Delaney was feeling somewhat better about her situation granted she was still freaked out and if she thought about it too much her whole body would start to shake on the upside it was comforting to have Corbin by her side those first few moments when he put the gun to Anton's head she thought he was nuts but if he hadn't realized Anton was leading them into a trap they'd be dead right now Del had no doubt that the security detail Anton referred to the ones waiting at her condo were Hugh and his men a shiver ran down her spine how long could they keep evading Hugh were they just postponing the inevitable and now it was not only her life at risk but also Corbin's she hugged her arms shaking off the fears better to try and focus on the positive they were in Corbin's SUV headed to a shop to pick her out wig Corbin glanced sideways at her you okay an automatic smile plastered over her face the one she used on stage to suppress her Jitters yeah you're a terrible liar she turned in Surprise what he glanced at her hands you keep digging those fingernails into your palms and we're going to have to get a set of pliers to pull them out she looked down realizing she was clenching her hands ah she opened her hands which felt stiff from the tension you know you'd be a whole lot prettier if you smiled once in a while her eyes widened then she laughed recognizing the lyrics of a popular song lullabi by Shawn Mullins yep a smile slid over his lips giving him a boyish mischievous appearance that was even harder to resist than his usual tough guy expression she allowed herself a moment to check him out her eyes slid over his rugged profile the defiant set of his chin his defined biceps even more pronounced with him holding the steering wheel his chiseled ABS she noted how the T-shirt and jeans seemed to be an extension of him a dart of warmth shot through Delaney with enough Force to heat the whole West Coast sheesh crazy that she'd been thinking about how goodlooking Corbin was in the middle of a crisis she angled toward him curious to know more about the man who was throwing her for a loop and making her rethink her stance on steering clear of a relationship are you fan of folk rock I like all types of music rock Jazz country she pursed her lips hm a man with eclectic tastes impressive a hint of a smile pulled at his lips I'm glad you find something about me impressive I was starting to wonder the comment broadsided her rendering her speechless there were many things she found impressive about Corbin Spencer hence the problem she could tell from his Sly expression that he was teasing her which help relax her a little he glanced at her you were amazing last night by the way the compliment settled into her chest like a warm ray of sunshine thanks of all the people in the audience she'd been most aware of him it was gratifying to know that he'd paid attention to her performance you have such a unique voice where did you learn to sing like that my mother loved to sing from the time I was a kid she was always strumming on her guitar and singing mostly top 50 Billboard hits she taught me to play the guitar and would get me to harmonize with her those were some of the few happy memories Delany had of her mother before she became so addicted to drugs that she couldn't function one of the darkest days of delany's life was the day her mother sold her guitar to buy drugs but she wasn't going to tell Corbin that and what was your mother's name Ang Angie tell me about her Corbin's voice was gentle patient still it touched a nerve her jaw tightened as she balled her fists again what do you already know about her facts mostly that Sutton gave me she remained silent waiting for him to expound why was she still so dang sensitive where her mother was concerned maybe she should just get it out of in the open so it wouldn't be hanging between them she felt like she was on a high dive trying to decide if she should go into the water gently or just plunge right in my mother was an alcoholic and a drugie she blurted she never could hold down a steady job so we lived off food stamps and what little we could scrape together sometimes when we got desperate she'd sing at a local bar for a few extra bucks unfortunately she drank up the profits before it did US much good resentment sat like lead on on her chest as she stared unseeingly at the road in front of them I'm sorry she nodded thanks how many times has she heard those two empty words from wellwishers tell me about your mother's relationship with Hugh a surprised laugh gurgled in her throat you don't pull any punches do you he Shrugged I don't have time to pull it out of you diplomatically I need to know what type of person we're dealing with the words tell out like bricks against a cement floor a manipulator a devil with a black heart the meanest man I've ever laid eyes on so your mother and Hugh were romantically involved her hand went to her throat there was nothing romantic about it but yes they were involved she spat out the words like they were poison even though my mother was 10 years older than Hugh she was beautiful looked about the same age as him Hugh was our landlord we never had any money to pay Rand I'll let you figure out the rest the beginning of a headache formed across the bridge of her nose how much farther to the wig store she was ready to be out of the SUV to give her space from Corbin and his probing questions about 10 more minutes Delany turned away from Corbin and looked out the window letting her mind get lost in the passing buildings the plan was for them to get Delany a wig then drive 13 hours to Birchwood Springs Colorado the small town Corbin was from Corbin insisted on going there because he was familiar with the terrain and the people Sutton contacted Milo letting him know that Delany was being moved to an undisclosed location and would remain there until the situation was resolved Delany argued that she had an album to record and couldn't lose any time you can't record anything if you're dead Corbin had said Dry he was right of course although it was chilling to hear it put so bluntly then again Corbin wasn't one to mence words obviously but what about my things she' asked can I at least go back to my condo and get them I'll need my guitar to compose songs if she was going to be stuffed away in some remote place she wanted to at least do that she could get the songs written then record them all at once that way she wouldn't lose much time Corbin had chuckled in Amusement are you listening to yourself going back to your condo would be a death sentence Hugh has guys there waiting for you heck for all we know he could be camped out there himself the thought of Hugh Allen or his men invading her personal space going through her things sent a shudder through Delaney she wish she'd never met the Allens wish she could run away from this and never look back if only in the end Sutton had a complete wardrobe of clothes and Delany size delivered to the mansion along with a Gibson guitar he even had a few items delivered for Corbin Delany argued that the nominal fee she was paying wouldn't begin to cover the items but Sutton dismissed her argument with the wave of his hand telling her not to worry about it from what Milo said Sutton helped his girlfriend Leslie and her son not asking a thing from them it was obvious that Sutton Smith was not in the security business for money whatever his motivations she was grateful he'd taken her on as a client how did you become a country music star the question Jarred Delaney back to the present uh after tuck and I got divorced I took a job at The Bluebird Cafe as a waitress my co-workers knew how much I love to sing they were always joking that I sounded better than most the people who took the stage one evening a performer had an emergency I stepped in at the last minute and a well-known agent Max Gillespie happened to be in the audience and wanted to represent me things took off quickly from there next thing I knew I was signing with Montana crw label a rags to Rich's story he mused do you know what the odds are that you would even get a job at The Bluebird much less perform there and then get picked up by an agent just like that wow incredible she tucked a strand of hair behind her ear I was lucky I suppose no you're good dang good thanks it was surprising how much his approval meant to her she was just about to launch into a series of questions about his past when he turned into the parking lot of the wig shop we're here he turned off the engine a crooked smile tugging at his lips let's see what we can find for you to wear Dolores she winced D she corrected she was going to Birchwood Springs under the guise of Corbin's girlfriend she couldn't use her stage name so Sutton suggested she go by her real name Dolores to keep things simple she thought she'd Buri dolor millstead and didn't relish the idea of digging her up again but whatever it was only temporarily at any rate she preferred the shorten version of her name he grinned all right d what the intensity of his gaze burned through her sheesh it was hard being in such a tight en closed space with Corbin Spencer when he looked at her like that she could hardly form a clear thought Delaney fits you better thanks I agree but I suppose D will do for now she reached for her door he touched her arm sending a buzz of awareness through her what let me get out first and come around to get you just to make sure she glanced around shaking off a shiver it was only 6:00 a.m. they'd passed very few cars on their way over and there was only one other car in the parking lot which presumably belonged to the person who ran the shop you don't think any any one followed us do you her voice dribbled off unease trickling down her spine Sutton had leaked information to make Hugh believe she was being taken to a safe house in Northern Cal The Hope was that by the time Hugh realized he'd been LED on a wild goose chase she and Corbin would be long gone she even turned her phone over to Sutton for safekeeping just to make sure Hugh couldn't somehow track her on it no I don't think we were followed I watched as we drove and didn't see anyone but it doesn't hurt to be cautious she nodded biting down on her lower lip Corbin came around and opened her door keeping one hand close to his gun her skin crawled as she stepped out of the SUV the empty air around them felt menacing like someone could attack any second she hated this feeling so vulnerable she hated living in constant fear of what Hugh might do right after she was released from the hospital after Tuck's merciless beating that nearly took her life she promised herself that she'd never cower to tuck or his brother again and here she was Running Scared it wasn't until they stepped through the doors of the shop that Delaney realized she'd been holding her breath she sucked in air feeling a little dizzy her heart rate spiked when she realized Corbin still had an arm around her she could feel his fingertips through the thin fabric of her blouse loved the hardness of his muscular torso against her heat rushed to her cheeks as she looked up at him she cleared her throat I'm okay now you you can let go amusement lit his eyes as he grinned pity he murmured removing his arm I thought we fit together quite nicely she wished he'd stop with the inuendos it was hard enough to remain unaffected by him as it was but to know that he also liked her well that took the attraction to a whole new level she traced the outline of his lips The Firm shape of his jaw her eyes went to his neck his prominent Adams Apple so distinctly masculine Recollections from her dream flooded her she had buried her fingers in his spiky hair and felt the delicious sensation of his lips against hers the kiss had ignited a spark in her powerful enough to start an inferno but with the allc consuming attraction came something unexpected the feeling of belonging of coming to the end of a long journey finding the thing she'd searched for her entire life Corbin cleared his throat she jumped slightly embarrassment cloaking her like a stifling blanket she'd been standing there gaping at him meanwhile Corbin and the store clerk were watching her she stepped back putting as much space as possible between her and Corbin the woman extended a hand a professional smile touching her lips Hello I'm Marissa Harris Let's see what we can help you find I understand you want something completely different from your real hair yes Delany wasn't sure how much Marissa knew about her situation but she wasn't about to divulge additional information Marissa motioned to a stool beside a mirror have a seat I have a few selections to get us started Delany sat down here put your hair in this she handed Delany a hair net that reached for a wig let's try this one first the good news is that with your dark eyes the brown hair will look natural on you she fitted the short cap of hair over delany's head and adjusted it then she stepped back what do you think delany's first thought was that her hair hadn't been this short since kindergarten her second thought was that she looked like she'd had an animal skin on her head a laugh bubbled in her throat as she swallowed to stifle it she looked so ridiculous before she could tell Marissa no Corbin spoke up absolutely not my woman would never wear that this time she couldn't stop a chuckle from escaping your woman she removed the wig and placed it on the counter yes she was going to Birchwood Springs under the guise of Corbin's girlfriend the tone in his voice sounded so serious matter of fact that she could almost believe she really was his girlfriend would that be such a bad thing I would dang these Renegade thoughts yes it would be a bad thing she answered squelching any further thoughts on the subject his eyes locked with hers yes you are my woman the certainty in his voice struck a chord inside her his woman she liked the sound of that blood pumped faster through her veins making a swooshing sound against her temples she looked at his lips wondered if they'd feel and taste anything like she imagined in Her Dream her voice went higher as she laughed to relieve the tension her words gushing out you sound like the russan in Man from Uncle where the girls trying on clothes to pose as his fiance and he keeps telling her that his woman wouldn't wear that Corbin Shrugged I assumed girlfriend would do the trick but I guess we can Elevate our situation boost you up to fianceé level a girlfriend is good she said quickly her cheeks scorching like a sunburn she swallowed hard so glad he couldn't read her thoughts relieved he didn't know what she dreamt about him then she caught the mischievous glint in his eyes and realized he was teasing her again enjoying watching her squirm and she was rising to the bait she scooted back in her seat her chin lifting all right buddy you want to play games fine I'll play what would your woman wear she asked snib he made a face his eyes going to the wigs lined up on the counter well certainly not those he looked at Marissa no offense she waved a hand none taken Corbin looked thoughtful his eyes scoping the options he stroe across the room and lifted a copper brown wig off the mannequin head this one Delaney wrinkled her nose seriously you don't think it's too red Marissa tilted her head try it on it could work I like the style Delany placed it on her head and pursed her lips studying her reflection in the mirror the bangs were wispy the sides tapering around her face the length came to her shoulders surprisingly it looked pretty good she looked like a different woman yet still attractive this was good no one would recognize her with this on Marissa stepped up behind her and began fluffing the top you can add as much volume as you wish Wish You Like It Corbin quirked A Satisfied grin I can see it on your face admit it you don't know what I'm thinking she shot back but couldn't help but smile okay I do like it she rolled her eyes who would have guessed Captain America is a fashion Guru at heart it was cute how color seeped into his face is this W to go Marissa asked Delaney looked at Corbin A Thrill shot through her she liked this energy between them she'd never been as aware of a man before would your woman wear this his eyes caressed hers you're wearing it aren't you her breath caught and all she could think about was that his eyes looked more gold than green today she looked at Marissa who smiled as if to say the two of you are great together of course nothing looks as good as the blonde Corbin continued in a low throaty tone but this will do for now another inference to her being his woman and he liked her blonde hair a swarm of butterflies took flight in Delaney's stomach she looked down to break the connection shees she was trying to remain aloof around him Dodge the landmines but she kept droing right on top of them these landmines wouldn't destroy her limbs but her heart instead I'll get the care instru in a special comb Marissa said walking into the back the attraction was strong even with Marissa in the room now that she left it was nearly unbearable her fingers itched to pull Corbin close and press her lips to his she rubbed her hands on her jeans fighting the Temptation Corbin leaned back against the counter and folded his arms over his chest I guess my fashion since comes from having a Sister how is it possible for a guy to look so good in a T-shirt and jeans she could see the outline of his sculpted ABS underneath his shirt focus on what he's saying she commanded herself she fumbled to think of a sensible question what's her name Addie is she younger or older Delany had always wished for a sister younger by two years do you have any other siblings nope just Addy he chuckled but trust me she's enough a fireball you'll see when you meet her she could hear the affection in his voice it made her a little jealous that she had no one then she felt guilty it wasn't Corbin's fault that her mother had died heck even when her mother was alive Delaney had been alone at least now her mother wasn't suffering and she was free from Hugh's clutches tell me about the rest of your family she touched the hair of the wig fluffing it a little on top it felt stuffy and constricting on her head making her skin itch she wondered if she'd ever get used to it I was raised by my grandparents Wallace and Luella she turned her full attention to him what happened to your parents a shadow crossed his features his jaw tightening she eyed him waiting for a response normally she didn't make a habit of pushing her way into people's personal space but Corbin had asked her plenty of uncomfortable questions turnabout is fair play also she was curious to know more about him my parents died I'm sorry she said automatically but then it occurred to her that she was using those same Tri words she hated people saying to her how his lips Drew into a tight line and she could feel him withdrawing the two of them really weren't that different Corbin held his cards close too she looked him in the eye a tiny smile curving her lips you know about the skeletons in my closet it should go both ways right something shifted in his eyes and she saw the hint of a smile right his shoulders relaxed in acceptance my parents were on vacation in Mexico and were mugged outside their hotel shot and left in the street over a few measly dollars his eyes went hard and she saw reflected in them the same sadness that plagued her she touched his arm I know it sounds Hollow but I really am sorry he nodded Addie and I were raised by our grandparents I'm excited to meet them something flashed in his eyes giving her the impression she'd said something wrong what he rubbed his neck my grandmother has Alzheimer's it's bad she no longer recognizes anyone she caught the slight hitch in his voice saw a glimpse of Corbin she'd not seen before the damaged part of him that spoke to her heart no wonder she was so drawn to him he looked at her an understanding that defied words flowing between them like her he knew what it was like to have his world turned upside down from violence losing his parents the way he had and now he was losing his grandmother too her eyes misted as the words rushed out no matter how much it hurts you'll get through it just keep moving forward that's what she'd want you to do tears formed in Corbin's eyes as he nodded and looked away way okay here we are Marissa said cheerily and then halted in her tracks looking back and forth between them oops am I interrupting something no Corbin said clearing his throat Marissa held out a bag you're all set I gave you some special shampoo and an instruction sheet but let me go over the process with you as well make sure you don't have any questions Delany nodded her mind still UNC Corbin suddenly it hit her that despite the circumstance she was looking forward to going to Birchwood Springs and getting to know Corbin's grandfather and sister the more time she spent around Corbin the more intrigued with him she became yeah it wasn't smart to fall for her bodyguard to fall for anyone especially with Hue on her heels aside from the danger her judgment was skewed when it came to men she didn't want to open herself up to get hurt again the sensible thing to do would be to forget Corbin and focus on her career that was her only sure path to safety but yet she couldn't seem to help herself she was so drawn to this man had been from the moment she laid eyes on him you ready Corbin asked when Marissa finished her Spiel yep he motioned with his head let's get on the road she sighed 13 hours alone with Corbin Spencer how in the heck was she supposed to keep her head straight when they got to the door he put an arm around her Gathering her into protection of his muscular body at his touch her cells swirled into action sending heat racing up her neck when they stepped outside an instant change came over him his jaw went rock hard his eyes intense as he scoped the area surrounding them thrilling didn't even begin to describe this man he was the type people made movies about a rebel Maverick and Captain America all rolled into to one his eyes caught herss for one brief moment and he gave her a reassuring smile her heart melted as she smiled back no amount of selft Talk would be enough to protect her from Corbin she was a lost cause for sure chapter 11 little by little Delaney was warming up to him Corbin prided himself on reading people paid close attention to those little nuances that gave more information than verbal language ever could Delaney was attracted to him just as he was to her but she was fighting against it hard Corbin couldn't blame her he'd be paranoid too if he'd been through what she had maybe after more time Delaney would relax around him realize that he was nothing like tuck Allen he tightened his jaw it rankled his gut to think of Tuck abusing Delaney and then there was Hugh the Cutthroat killer out for Revenge Corbin would do everything in his power to keep Delaney safe even if it meant he had to die trying he couldn't explain it but Delaney was his responsibility and now that he'd met her he'd never be able to let her go he laughed inwardly realizing how ridiculous that sounded his grandfather Wallace swore that the first time he laid eyes on Lu Ella he knew they'd be together Corbin always thought that was wishful thinking pops rewriting history to fit with the present but now he was starting to wonder if there was something to the story Corbin glanced sideways at Delaney even with the wig she was stunning he was glad they had so much Road time so he could get to know her better and the best part she couldn't Retreat so he began if the two of us have any hope of pulling off this boyfriend girlfriend charade we need to know the details about each other the colors seeping into her cheeks indicated how uncomfortable she felt about the situation what do you want to know favorite food sausage gravy and biscuits she said without hesitation he laughed really i' never been that crazy about biscuits they're kind of dry and hard she grunted that's probably because you've never had a good biscuit where did you eat the biscuit that was dry I don't know a restaurant out west well yeah well that's the problem you've never had a Southern biscuit they're light and Flaky melting your mouth I guarantee that if you had a biscuit made by someone who knows what they're doing you'll change your mind it was fun to see this side of Delany sassy and more Carefree do you know how to make biscuits of course I'm Southern ARA he chuckled yes you are he kept his voice casual non-threatening maybe you could make me some when we're at the cabin see if you can change my mind she hesitated for a moment long enough for him to fear that she'd refuse okay you're on another win little by little he'd love to have Delaney cook him a meal heck he'd even volunteer to help anything to keep her by his side how about you what type of food do you like pasta well that's kind of broad what type of pasta all types red sauce or white yes she laughed okay what are your hobbies Hobbies he hadn't thought about that in a long time not since way before he became a seal I like target shooting camping hiking snow skiing an outdoor man I kind of figured that about you he could feel her eyes on him he glanced at her as they shared a smile I always wanted to learn to snow ski she chuckled but in Alabama the closest thing you get to snow or a few ice storms well we'll have to go when we're in Birchwood Springs there's a resort right next to my grandfather's cabins my sister works there really we could go would it be safe considering the circumstance her voice faded into a thick silence Corbin wanted the whole whole ordeal to be over it cut to hear the dismay in delany's tone to know how terrified she was he couldn't help it he reached over and placed a hand over hers electricity spiked through him when their skin connected she had to have felt it too yes he could tell she did he knew from the way she went rigid he thought Delaney might jerk her hand away and was relieved when she didn't I think we can manage a trip to the ski resort I'd like that she said giving him a wand smile carefully she removed her hand from his sorry but considering our situation I'd like to keep things between us professional disappointment pummeled through him as he nodded putting his hand back on the steering wheel one step forward two steps back he was getting used to delany's routine but he didn't like it how' we first meet that's the number one question people will ask her comment helped ease some of the tension as he relaxed in his seat keeping his eyes on the road at a party okay sounds good to me what type of party a fancy shind dig on cornado island hosted by a billionaire philanthropist he saw the surprise on her face she just now figured out the direction he was taking I walked into the Mansion wearing my new shiny white tuck and felt this gorgeous babe checking me out I was not checking you out she bled Ed a smile tugged at his lips yes you were he cut his eyes at her to let her know she wasn't getting off the hook she could sit there all day and pretend there wasn't anything between them but she couldn't deny that she'd noticed him first you know it's true she made a face fine I admitted I was checking you out she muttered what do you want a confession in blood I just wanted to hear you say it out loud she sh shoved his arm with a laugh you're such a cocky [ __ ] I can't believe you got me to admit that she uttered he glanced at her not surprised to see her lips turned down in a petulant frown she was so darn cute that he wanted to pull the SUV over and kiss her right this minute he chuckled inwardly not a good idea she'd freak out never speak to him again and then when I went over to talk to you at the bar you sicked Anton on me she chucked L nervously yeah not one of my finer moments but you certainly had no trouble holding your own the admiration in her voice caused him to lose his train of thought he fumbled to come up with a response did he say thanks was she complimenting him or just stating the facts thankfully she spoke first I'm sorry about the Anton thing I had no idea you were working for something I thought you were hitting on me he dodged this the Night Before Time to own up to what really happened I was she coughed excuse me I was hitting on you I didn't realize you were going to be a sign to me you caught my attention earlier and I wanted to meet you there he said it gotten it out in the open aha I knew you were hitting on me her voice grew animated like she'd just gotten the correct answer on a game show his next statement could either move things forward or put a monkey wrench in them but he was tired of tiptoeing around the situation one minute you openly checked me out and then you shot me down cold when I tried to approach you why he knew the reason of course she was scared because of what happened with tuck still he wanted to bring it out in the open discuss it hoping they could move past it because I don't need a relationship right now especially not with you you talk about a punch in the gut wow what's so bad about me never mind I shouldn't have said anything she shook her head angling away from him no you started this I want to hear it he clutched the steering wheel awaiting her answer no way he was going to let her weasel out of this one she'd given him a personal insult one which was totally unfounded it's not you it's me I don't understand can we just drw Dr it her voice had a panicked Edge it made him feel for her how badly she'd been hurt in the past but he wasn't the bad guy here all he'd done was try to help her no I don't think we can I need to know where you're coming from she blew out of breath fine you want to know why I shot you down her voice went higher well here it is I'm attracted to the wrong type of guys he tell tensed what makes you so sure I'm the wrong type of guy because it's written all over you your Swagger the intensity you exude like a second set of skin the rebel she let out a harsh laugh believe me I know you Corbin Spencer you know how people say they have a knack for finding the most expensive item in the store well that's me when it comes to men you put 10 guys in front of me nine of them could be upstanding men and only one the rebel and I'd pick the Menace every time guaranteed so I'm a menace now need I remind you I'm one of the good guys I know you're fighting for the right side and I'm grateful you're in my corner but tell me Corbin of all the guys Sutton could have picked to protect me why do you think he picked you to go up against H because I'm capable have the right set of skills because he wants to give me a second chance to prove I'm not a total screw-up because you're as tough and Relentless as Hugh you fight fire with fire as Sutton said you put a gun to Anton's head and then ask questions later he couldn't argue with that Doug had told him much the same thing using different words you may be tough he said but tough isn't enough you also have to be tempered from the time he was a kid Corbin carried around the pain of losing his parents in his teenage years that pain turned to hot anger that fueled him him made him a Min to society just as Delaney had accused him of being then he met Doug who saw potential in Corbin Doug made him want to be a better person set him on a path of becoming more tempered Corbin thought he was doing better in that regard right up until that moment Doug was killed and he lost his head One Moment In Time his Reckless nature took over Corbin's actions not only cost him the respect of a Seal Team seven but also an innocent life I'm not a bad person he muttered mostly to himself I know he jerked slightly delany's comment bringing him back to the conversation at hand I don't mean to accuse you of being a menace those are my issues not yours I know I can be a hotthead but that doesn't make me tuck I would never hurt you like he did and I don't think it's fair that you're trying to hold me responsible for his sins I'm not doing that okay then why are you so afraid to admit there's something between us I feel it and I know you do too he glanced at her I can see it in your eyes she gulped in a strangled breath I beg your pardon she said stiffly no need to beg he said pleasantly just answer the question she angled toward him you get great Delight out of pinning me in a corner don't you he laughed I have to admit pinning you in a corner would have its advantages he glanced at her noting how her face had gone cherry red I knew you were troubled from the first minute I saw you she grumbled her brows furrowing seriously you're talking to the man who saved your life well thank you very much for doing your job she spat you're welcome he regretted the words as soon as they left his mouth a silence settled between them Delaney was sitting with her arms clamped over her chest her face rigid he sighed that hadn't gone the way he hoped he'd known he was probably pushing her too far when he brought up the attraction thing but he wanted to test the water break down as many barriers as he could I'm sorry I shouldn't have said that you don't owe me anything for keeping you safe like you said I was just doing my job he hated how cold and sterile the words sounded yeah he was working for Sutton getting paid for the assignment but this thing with Delaney was personal more personal than anything had felt in a long time I shouldn't have said that it took his brain a second to register that she'd spoken huh if you'd not realized what Anton was up to we'd both be dead right now thank you I do owe you my life the sincerity in her words CA caught him off guard I'm glad we averted disaster and that you were safe he hoped she realized how much he truly meant that about the relationship thing I can't get involved with anyone right now not while this thing with Hughes hanging over me can you understand that he looked sideways and saw the pleading in her eyes then put his Focus back on the road yeah he finally said I understand but you have to understand that the goal is to make everyone in Birchwood Springs believe you're my girlfriend so if I put my arm around you hold your hand or even kiss you you can't freak out he didn't have to look at her to know she was mortified she really was fun to tease although he was serious the best way to keep her safe was to make everyone believe they were a couple of course he'd make sure to take every opportunity to kiss her isn't there some other cover up we can come up with maybe we're work colleagues before I took this job I was a bouncer at a bar he said matter ofly my family knows that's what I was doing even if you pretend to be a server at the bar there's no reason we would travel together workwise he had her and they both knew it fine she huffed but whatever happens between us will just be for show you got that yep loud and clear he reached for her hand she snatched it away before he could link his fingers through hers what are you doing she demanded he grinned practicing ha you really are a menace he winked that's what they tell me her eyes narrowed but she couldn't stop a smile from spreading over her lips that was a good sign a good sign indeed the iceberg was thawing it was dark by the time they drove into Birchwood Springs Corbin looked over at Delaney who was sleeping peacefully her head resting against the back of the seat he fought the urge to run his fingers along the curve of her delicate jawline interesting that he would feel so attached to Delaney after such a short period of time there had been a long string of women who'd come and gone in Corbin's life but no one he was super attached to until now ironic that the one girl Corbin felt a connection with was determined to keep him at arms length he was going to ham up the boyfriend thing for all it was worth and hope that Delaney would come around she'd already gotten in his head and he had no intention of getting her out one thing Corbin knew how to do was go after what he wanted despite all obstacles there had been no tapping that Brass Bell on this one he was in for the Long Haul Corbin rubbed a hand across his neck and aching shoulders he was ready to get out and stretch his legs too much time behind the wheel thankfully the weather had been mostly clear only a few patches of snow flurries along the way it was the length of the drive that had gotten to him they'd only stopped long enough to grab something to eat and use the restroom Delaney could tell Corbin was getting tired and had offered to drive but he insisted that he was fine he wanted to stay behind the wheel in case they had to make a break for it luckily that hadn't been necessary Sutton's plan appeared to be working like a charm Sutton called a couple of hours ago telling them that Hugh had taken the bait and was on his way to Northern Cal Sutton had even gone so far as to get a double to pose as Delany in a heavily guarded Safe House his thoughts went to Anton Sutton interrogated him but sadly Anton knew very little about the inner workings of Hugh's operation Corbin's stomach tightened as they passed his grandmother's Care Center he couldn't stand the thought of her being alone in that cold sterile building for years pops had tried to manage her illness but Graham kept getting out of the house they moved through the downtown district past the neat rows of western style buildings flanking both sides of the Road Birchwood Springs was known for two things bearclaw ski resort and Birchwood Hot Springs located a quarter mile outside the town District he smiled thinking how he wouldn't mind getting Delaney all to himself in the hot springs he glanced up to where the tall mountains sat in the distance there was no more than a hint of a shadow of of it in the darkness but his mind filled in all the details in the daylight the glistening snow looked like a thick layer of smooth icing poured over the entirety the base of the mountain hugging Birchwood Springs like a mother embracing her child coming home always evoked conflicting emotions Corbin was fond of this place and yet he' been so angry as a youth that he was often in trouble with the law for silly things soaping up the fountain in front of the bank driving too fast sneaking into the ski resort without paying Sheriff Cliff Hendrick would agree wholeheartedly with Delaney describing Corbin as a menace the sheriff had always hated him like he had some personal Vendetta to make sure Corbin always stayed at the bottom Corbin felt like Birchwood Springs was the best place to keep Delaney safe otherwise he wouldn't have come 10 minutes later Corbin pulled into the driveway of pops's cabin the place where Corbin grew up the property consisted of a dozen getaway cabins pops rented to tourists who visited the ski resort in Hot Springs pops lived in one of them year round even during what was considered peak season Birchwood Springs was a sleepy little town it was even more secluded here on pops's property making it an ideal place to bring Delaney Delaney sat up in her seat and rubbed her eyes sorry I fell asleep she suppressed a yawn I'm glad you got some rest she looked around around trying to come fully awake where are we Birchwood Springs my grandfather's cabins to be exact we'll go in I'll introduce you to him and my sister we'll grab a key to the cabin where we'll be staying he grinned remember we're a couple so pretend you like me he wasn't about to tell her that pops knew the truth she rolled her eyes her voice going extra twangy yeah yeah I got it don't worry I'll put on a convincing performance sugar all right sweet cheeks let's do it he could hardly say the words without laughing especially when he saw the horrified look on her face sweet cheeks seriously that's a little over the top he pursed his lips you're right too much babe how about that she sighed I guess babe will have to do don't don't touch that door he said when she reached for the handle huh weariness swept into her eyes I thought you said no one followed us we're safe it's not bad my woman would never open her own door she blinked a couple of times oh but it's just us you never know who could be watching we can't let our guard down as if on Q the curtain moved and Addie looked out he motioned see I rest my case thanks she tilted her head looking thoughtful you sure you're not from the south he chuckled yeah why I thought only Southern Man opened doors for women you know the gentleman thing I've got news for you de he spoke her name like a caress peering into her eyes Southern men don't have the Monopoly on chivalry she rewarded him with a genuine smile the lines around her eyes crinkling that's good to know she said softly a charge of energy raced through his veins as he leaned closer should we kiss and give my sister Something to Talk About delany's Eyes rounded as she Drew back what he placed a hand on her arm Addie still at the window watching he didn't know if she was or not but it sounded plausible if we kiss now now it'll be old hat when we kiss in front of people he caught the flicker of desire in her eyes knew she wanted this as much as he her breath hitched when he touched her cheek just one little kiss he murmured trailing his finger along the line of her jaw for practice sake he memorized her features thinking he'd never see a more Exquisite woman her long lashes the dainty upward tilt of her nose her full lips lips something shifted in her eyes then her lips parted in acceptance a Zing shot through him as his mouth touched hers go slow his mind commanded the kiss was deliciously sweet her lips soft and accepting how easy it would have been to gather her in his arms and Crush her lips with his until neither of them could breathe somehow he managed to gather the strength to pull away he scoped her face trying to discern the expression in her dark eyes surely she had to have felt the river of fire that flowed between them that wasn't so bad was it he kept his voice casual even though the question meant so much more not bad Crash and Burn ouch she laughed lightly not bad for a menace she winked she' turned the tables was teasing him he couldn't stop a broad grin from filling his face I guess I deserved that she certainly knew how to dish it out he liked her more each passing second he motioned with his head you ready to go in let's do it sweet cheeks he winced oh I should have never started that if Addie hears you call me that there will be no end to her teasing she laughed any girl who can put you in your place has to be worth her salt now that hurts he opened the door and rushed around to get her door he opened it with a slight bow after you babe she stepped out pushing her purse strap over her shoulder thanks hun she winked her voice going sugary sweet he punched the clicker to lock the doors as she slid an arm through his pulling him close I can't wait to meet your family she gushed Delany was performing Corbin looked sideways at her recognizing the same expression on her face that she'd worn at the Senator's birthday party she started performing right after their kiss to protect herself from any real feelings disappointment settled over him he wanted the real version of Delaney not the pretend one yet this whole boyfriend girlfriend thing was pretense so he couldn't fault her for playing her part he just told her to pretend better tone it down a notch he warned as they got to the door Addie will see right through you just be yourself she nodded her lips forming a grim line okay he knocked once before opening it hello he announced we're here chapter 12 the first time Delaney ever performed in front of an audience she'd been shaking in her boots to the point where she could barely hold the microphone tonight walking through the door of Corbin's grandfather's home she felt the same way that kiss had thrown her for a loop it had been every bit as good as the one in Her Dream well except for Corbin holding back like she was a china doll that could break if he touched her too hard she wanted more wanted to lose herself in his lips wanted to satisfy this incredible longing Building inside her was she losing her mind she was pushing Corbin away with one hand and pulling him toward her with the other he probably thought she was the biggest tease that wasn't her intent at all however she was just trying to figure all of this out she leaned into Corbin for support glad to have his arm around her as they went into the living room Addie was the first to approach Delany instantly saw the resemblance same color eyes with the same intelligent light in them same stubborn set of the chin but add's features were softer her dark hair fell past her shoulders in tight Corkscrew curls she was thin and Tall standing a good four in above Delaney Corbin let go of Delaney and hugged his sister hey bro great to see you I was beginning to think you'd never come back home she stepped back and looked at Delaney and you brought a girl with you her eyes danced as she clucked her tongue wonders never cease Delany thrust her hand out to shake but Addie just looked at it and chuckled no shakes in this family only hugs she pulled Delaney into a tight Embrace Delaney caught a whiff of Addie's fruity shampoo and felt the urge to touch her wig hopefully it wouldn't fall off the thought sent a burst of heat across her forehead making it go moist she'd not thought about that what if she was out somewhere and the wig fell off Addie looked her up and down well you're very pretty thanks Delany looked past Addie to Corbin's grandfather he was Corbin's height with a shock of silver hair and golden wrinkly skin that suggested a lifetime spent in the sun she offered a tentative smile hello hello I'm Wallace it's a pleasure to have you in our home he returned her smile with a genuine one of his own revealing neat rows of white teeth it hit her Corbin and his grandfather had the same smile welcome to Birchwood Springs he said heartily embracing Delany in a tight hug Delaney decided right there and then that she liked Wallace Spencer he'd only just met her yet welcomed her with such genuiness if she'd had a grandfather in her life she'd want him to be like Wallace aside from their smiles and height Corbin and his grandfather didn't look that much alike but there was something similar about them she tried to pinpoint what it was maybe it was The Fearless look in their eyes yes could be although Wallace seemed Tamer like he had a longer fuse a fine wine that had aged gracefully Wallace turned his attention to Corbin the two searched one another's faces some sort of Silent information passing between them I'm glad you came home son he hugged Corbin and patted his shoulder then he motioned have a seat Delaney followed Corbin to the love seat where they sat down he draped an arm around her as if it were the most casual thing in the world she ignored the attraction that buzzed through her Wallace and Addie sat down on the couch across from them how was the drive Wallace began looking from Corbin to Delaney not too bad Corbin said did you come in from Denver Addie asked Delany tensed hating the subterfuge she glanced at Corbin whose expression never changed yes I love your southern accent Addie said where are you from Alabama Corbin had instructed her to tell as much of the truth as she could that way they'd have less chance of getting tripped up Addie's eyes sparked interest as she tucked a curl behind her ear and leaned forward so how did you two meet a giggle rumbled in delany's throat as she looked at Corbin who had a quirky grin on his handsome face yep she'd known that question would be at the top of the list should I tell her or do you want to Corbin asked crap they'd started talking about their cover story then got sidetracked by their disagreement we met at a party she began Corbin sniggered and she couldn't help but laugh I don't get it what's so funny Addie frowned looking from one to the other an inside joke Corbin said Addie harped you and your inside jokes she looked at Delany you'll get used to those oh I already have Delany agreed and you're right right that can be annoying this one her a look of approval from Addie I knew I liked you Addy chuckled tucking her leg underneath her Corbin groaned giving Wallace a pleading look now the two of them are ganging up on me Wallace spread his hands smiling that's how it works better get used to it Delaney laughed I'm sure you can handle it she turned to Corbin patting his cheek right sweet cheeks sweet cheeks Addie howled with laughter Wallace's eyes went large he tried to hold back a laugh but it came out in a burst that gave way to a string of muffled chortles his shoulders shaking he held up a hand giving Corbin an apologetic look sorry I shouldn't laugh but that's funny color blotched up Corbin's neck his eyes shooting daggers at Delaney she just laughed and winked at him loving putting him on the spot for once instead of the other way around oh she's good Addie CED keeps you on your toes bro better hold on to her Corbin pulled her closer oh don't worry I intend to the sure promise in his voice reverberated through Delany like the hum of an ocean current steady permanent and all consuming okay Edie said impatiently tell me the story delane's brain raced to come up with something sensible worked at a bar in Denver before taking on her assignment meaning it would be logical that they would have met there she turned to Corbin whose eyes were sparking Amusement was he really going to sit there and let her flounder help me she pled silently Corbin grabbed her free hand linking his fingers through hers her pulse cranked up a notch when he started rubbing circles over her thumb her heartbeat shot through the roof how in the heck was she supposed to concentrate on the conversation with Corbin touching her this way well like d said we met at a party Corbin said with a straight face she teaches music at a middle school de hosted a party for her kids a reward for their performance I was working security for the school during the special events he flashed elaney a very convincing affectionate Smile as he squeezed her shoulders I looked at her she looked at me the rest is history right babe Delaney forced a smile right dang Corbin was good she could almost believe the story herself she didn't know if she should be impressed or concerned at how smoothly the Fabrications flowed from his lips another reason why she needed to be leery of him how could she ever be sure that the man she was seeing was the real deal Addie untucked her leg shifting to get comfortable so you teach middle school kids I'll bet that's challenging you have no idea Delany said causing everyone to laugh what do you have planned during your stay here Addie asked Delaney looked to Corbin to answer that Addie seemed nice enough but the barrage of questions was getting a little tiresome especially after the long drive as if reading delany's thoughts Wallace touched Addie's arm there'll be plenty of time to talk later after Corbin and de had the chance to rest rest Addie wrinkled her nose they only had a 2 and a half hour drive Delaney fought the urge to roll her eyes if only yeah sis you're right but Delany had to get up early this morning to teach her class before we could head out of town and I had a late night at work the night before he yawned like pop said we're worn out Addy cocked her head like she' just thought of something well who's watching your classes while you're here geez The Firestorm of questions was getting old Delany fought to keep her voice Pleasant I got a sub she smiled adoringly at Corbin as much as I hated to leave my students I wanted to come here and meet Corbin's family see where he grew up add's eyes sparkled you should go to the sweetheart dance this weekend at the ski resort she wiggled her eyebrows at Corbin and show de off a wicked grin curved her lips Madison wells will be Green With Envy she was asking about you the other day a sweetheart dance certainly not something Delany wanted to attend under the circumstance she felt Corbin tense realized he was looking at Addie like he wanted to stuff a sock in her mouth H's Madison Wales she asked before she could stop herself nobody Corbin muttered Addie laughed his exgirlfriend they broke up before Corbin joined the Navy but Madison still got a thing for him the stab of jealousy that went through Delaney came as a surprise then she had to laugh at herself why did she care who Corbin's ex-girlfriend was she realized Addie was watching waiting for her reaction well let's see how would a real girlfriend react she arched an eyebrow putting on a touch of a wounded expression mingled with frustration as she looked at Corbin well you never mentioned Madison it was fun watching Corbin squirm well that's because it was over a long time ago he shot Addie a frustrated look ancient history I assure you there have been plenty of other girls since Madison Wells really Delany arched an eyebrow well that's good to know this time her irritation was real Wallace stood shaking his head all right Addie that's enough grilling for one night Addy Thrust out her lower lip smirking at Corbin I was just getting started yeah that's what I'm afraid of Corbin said dryly little sis has been sharpening her knives only because you never come home Addie retorted this was the second time Addie mentioned that Delaney made a mental note to ask Corbin why he didn't want to come home Wallace seemed great and yeah Addie was a little annoying but it was obvious she was just needling Corbin so he'd pay attention to her even through the teasing Delaney could tell Addie adored her brother Corbin and Delaney stood hesitantly Addie did the same I'll go get the keys you're staying in Cabin 8 Wallace shuffled out of the room you're staying by yourselves in a cabin Addie tised her tongue what will people think I really don't care Corbin said his brows bunching Addie made a face zeroing in on Delaney how do you put up with his foul moves it can be tough Delaney said not cracking a smile Addie laughed like I said I like her Corbin shook his head his tone mellowing it's good to see you Edie I've missed you for an instant Addie's eyes went moist then she blinked to clear them you know where I've been big brother you could have come home anytime he nodded his lips forming a grim line Addie gave him a hard look are you going to visit Graham while you're here you haven't been to see her once since she moved to the home Delany looked at Corbin saw the tension Building inside him felt she had to do something to relieve it she she put a hand on his arm but he seemed oblivious he glared at Addie his face turning a shade darker she didn't move to the home she was put there the vehement in his voice took Delany off guard but it didn't quell Addie in the slightest Addie locked eyes with him you need to go visit her Corbin's jaw tightened why she won't even know I'm there the hurt in his voice struck something deep inside Delaney bringing tear tears to her eyes Wallace came back into the room he stopped concern washing over him is everything okay as good as it ever is Addie waved a hand I'm going to bed good night folks she turned on her heel and stroe out what was that all about Wallace stepped up to Corbin and placed the keys in his hand nothing Corbin grumbled Wallace looked at the Laney like he wanted her to explain but she only shook her head and smiled politely she had enough problems of her own without getting in the middle of this family's I'm really glad you came Wallace said to Corbin it's the best place to keep her safe delany's jaw went slack as she turned to Corbin he knows yes I called pops last night and explained the situation I wanted to make sure it was okay if I brought you here if you were to find us it could potentially put my family at risk I wanted Pops to have all the information before he agreed a shiver went down delany's spine she couldn't stand the thought of Hugh doing anything to Corbin's family I hadn't thought about that I don't want to put your family in danger tears pressed against her eyes Panic Building inside her we have to go someplace else her mind Whirled trying to figure out where that place was maybe Anton was right no place was beyond Hugh's reach Corbin took hold of her arm no this is the best place is to keep you safe the plan is set we just have to follow it and trust that Sutton is taking care of everything on his end he's right Wallace said you'll be safe here Corbin knows this place like the back of his hand I'm glad he brought you she searched the man's lined face touched by the wisdom of having lived a long productive life are you sure he smiled absolutely his grally tone held all the confidence in the world the voice of reason amid chaos what you both need right now is a good night's rest things will look brighter in the morning I picked up a few things from the store today you'll find them in the fridge and on the counter he gave Delany a reassuring look it'll be all right a tear rolled down her cheek she wasn't used to people being this kind thank you Wallace gave her a nod of acknowledgement and she thought of something else what about Addie does she know the truth Corbin spoke up no it's better to keep Addie in the dark for her own safety pops is the only one who knows I'll come around midm morning to check on you Wallace said appreciation flashed in Corbin's eyes thanks pops sure thing Wallace gave Corbin a hearty pat on the shoulder good night good night Delany said as they went out the door into the frosty night air a hundred large snowflakes pinged her face all at once there hadn't been a single snowflake in the air when they had gone into the cabin and now during the short time they were inside it was coming a blizzard all she could see were endless streaks of white against the Black Velvet Darkness she hugged her arms chills racing through her it was sunny and warm when they left San Diego this morning and now this everything was happening so fast she could hardly wrap her mind around it when Corbin put an arm around her she snuggled into the warmth of his shoulder as they walked heads down to the SUV let's get you to the cabin where it's warm Corbin said opening her door and helping her inside regardless of the conflicting feelings she had for Corbin she was grateful that he was here with her keeping her safe chapter 13 the wheels spun a little trying to gain traction until Corbin popped into four-wheel drive and maneuvered the SUV up the hill around the bin to the cabin he was grateful that the roads were clear earlier if a storm had to hit at least it was after they'd arrived the snow pounding against the windshield reminded him of a meteor shower the windshield wipers were of little help the instant they brushed the flakes away thousands more took their place can you even see Delany was leaning forward in her seat her voice strained yeah we'll be fine he answered even though he really couldn't see very well the cabin's just up here he could feel delany's relief when they pulled into the driveway letun get you inside and I'll come back for the luggage thanks Delany shivered giving him a slight smile I guess you were right I should have worn a thicker coat instead of leaving it in the suitcase when they set out this this morning Corbin questioned delany's choice of clothing reminding her that Colorado Winters were nothing like the mild ones in San Diego Delany brushed aside the comment saying she'd be fine he couldn't help but smile a little inwardly at least she didn't mind admitting that she'd been wrong the good news is that you have lots of winter clothes in your suitcase yeah I'm glad Sutton thought of it me too Birchwood Springs only had a handful of shops with a scanty selection of clothing it was nice that they wouldn't have to worry about it the wind pushed against the driver door making it hard to open he tucked his chin into his neck as he went around to get delany's door cabin 8 was near the back of the property in one of the more secluded spots pops had chosen it for added privacy snow was accumulating fast already a good 6 Ines on the ground Delaney got out leaning into him for cover as they made their way to the door even though he knew she was only getting this close to him because he was shielding her from the snow it felt good to be next to her he'd wondered how Delaney would react to his family she seemed to do just fine despite Addie's intrusiveness it felt so natural to sit in pops's living room his arm around Delaney as they talked they trudged up the steps to the door where Corbin shoved in the key turned the lock and pushed open the door the two of them practically fell into the shelter of the cabin as they brushed off the snow Corbin flipped on the lights and looked around it was the same as he remembered exposed rough Timber beams on the ceiling log walls a wooden staircase leading up to the bedrooms on the second floor woodsy Furnishings an open floor plan included the living room and a kitchen in one big area he looked at the efficiency kitchen a kettle was on the stove toop a dish towel draped over the oven door his gaze moved back to the living room his eyes resting on the emerald Afghan draped over the back of the couch Graham's handiwork his heart clutched his memories gushed over him one Autumn Graham decided to crochet Afghans for all the cabins to give them a homey feel what she thought would take 3 months took seven but she completed her goal standing here in this cabin with a floor plan identical to all the others Corbin got a sense of the years peeling away almost like he'd never left despite the sadness of Graham's situation there was a certain comfort from the familiarity like pop said he knew this place like the back of his hand and would be able to keep Delaney safe here he breathed in the familiar scent of lemon cleaning solution mingled with cedar Hilda Bryant had been cleaning the cabins for years ever since Corbin was a boy she loved lemon I'll be right back make yourself at home Delany took off her shoes then went to the Tweed sofa and deposited her purse she stood looking around like she was unsure what to do Corbin understood her hesitation this was a far cry from San Diego that was for sure she rubbed her arms like she was cold I'll start a fire as soon as I get everything in pops kept a large supply of seasoned firewood in a covered box besides the front door along with an axe and a chopping block while there was no central heat there was a fireplace in the living room and a pop belly stove in the kitchen the bedrooms had portable heaters and when a fire was going the cabin was cozy and romantic although Delaney would bulk if he dared bring up the ladder once the luggage was in he locked the door and clicked the deadbolt tomorrow he'd do a thorough check of the perimeter to make sure everything was Secure it was good to know that Hugh and his goons had taken the bait and were far away in Northern Cal Delany was sitting on the couch the TV on there were only a handful of channels available mostly local stations she was watching the news she glanced at the luggage do you need any help sure she stood and reached for her guitar which room am I staying in it was a two-bedroom two bath I'll let you take the master and I'll sleep in the guest room next door are you sure absolutely a smile touched her lips what well you sound just like your grandfather he seems like like such an ass man he frowned he's okay she looked puzzled you don't like him of course I like him he's my grandfather practically my father the last thing Corbin wanted to go into was his complex relationship with pops while pops had mellowed in his older years he'd been hard as nails when Corbin was growing up expecting nothing less than Perfection pops didn't like Corbin questioning his authority which he did on a regular basis Graham had been the buffer between them when she got sick the situation escalated with the heightened emotions making things between him and Pop's intolerable Corbin couldn't stand watching Graham wither away so he joined the Navy Addie accused him of using it as an escape maybe he had but the Navy and then later the seals gave him purpose a way to channel his anger it had worked well until Doug was killed and everything fell apart Doug Doug had been his Rock his Compass had it not been for Doug Corbin never would have made it through Bud's training and especially not hell week that 5 and 1/2 day stretch where they were forced to operate on 4 hours of sleep men were dropping like flies men who seemed a lot tougher than Corbin there were many days when Corbin had been ready to ring the brass bell to tap out but Doug's response was always the same you can ring it tomorrow if you want but not today today we conquer in buds training conquering mint surviving the day Corbin hauled the heavy suitcase up the steps Delaney was in front carrying her guitar and a duffel bag at the top he motioned the Master's this way Corbin placed delany's suitcase on the floor beside her bed a smile slid over his lips as he gave her an off-handed look what's in here rocks she Shrugged hey don't blame me I didn't order all that stuff true he conceded are you normally a heavy or a light packer she leaned her guitar against the wall dropped the duffel bag on the floor then plopped down on the bed is this one of those times when anything I say can and will be used against me he laughed liking that she was bantering with him even though they were both weary to the Bone maybe I'm Southern and southern girls never do anything small she stretched out her legs leaning back against the headboard I'm so exhausted she yawned as she spoke me too Corbin agreed his mind ran through the setup of the cabin the bathroom is Jack and Jill style share between our bedrooms her face fell oh if it bothers you I can use the one downstairs I hate for you to do that we can share he searched her face are you sure absolutely she said it like pops breaking the word into pronounced syllables they both smiled sharing the moment she reached up and pulled off her wig and placed it on the nearby nightstand then she removed the hair net her blonde locks falling over her shoulders I'm so glad to have that thing off my head my scalp's itching like crazy she scratched her head then ran her hands through her Roots fluffing it up Corbin's breath caught thinking of how it would feel to run his fingers through her hair she looked like an angel the most intoxicating woman he'd ever seen she tipped her head a smile tugging at her lips what you're beautiful he said softly he thought about their kiss and how it had consumed him making him want more next time he wanted to kiss her the right way holding nothing back briefly he wondered how she would react if he went to her this instant and pulled her into his arms arms her Swift reaction to his compliment was his answer her eyes widened as she looked like she wanted to retreat thanks sorry I didn't mean to make you feel uncomfortable I have a terrible habit of speaking before I think she relaxed a little no worries she paused looking thoughtful it was nice getting to know your family they really like you really I wasn't sure what Addy thought of me she wrinkled her nose is she always so inquisitive he chuckled yeah she's the nosiest woman on the planet she likes to pretend like she's tough but inside she's a teddy bear Corbin felt a little foolish standing in the middle of the room did he dare sit down on the edge of the bed there weren't any chairs no he'd better not chance it Delaney might freak out it felt intimate enough with the two of them alone in this cabin then add that he was standing in her bedroom better keep a respectable distance thanks for everything if you don't mind I think I'll turn in for the night that was his cue to leave you sure you don't want me to start a fire I could make us some hot chocolate that's one of pops' Staples I'm sure he bought some a wistful look touched her features giving him hope that she might accept his invitation but the expression vanished as quickly as it had come I'm really tired he sighed all right if you need anything let me know he jetted his thumb I'll be right next door when you're in the bathroom just keep the door to my room closed and locked and I'll know not to go in she nodded oh and feel free to turn on the heater so you don't freeze to death he grinned a little at the sight of her hugging her arms like it was 12 below zero in the room he was used to the cold even enjoyed it most of the time but Delaney was used to the mild San Diego weather funny how he' thought he wanted to use his Newfound income to go somewhere warm and now he was kind of glad to be snowed in with Delaney here I'll do it for you thanks after the heater was plugged in he turned to leave then stopped turning to face her he couldn't stop the goofy grin from spilling over his lips by the way you did good tonight pretending to be my girlfriend she blinked in Surprise as a deep blush brushed her cheekbones making her look even more incredible she smiled hesitantly you didn't do so bad yourself Captain America the compliment sent warm bubbles bursting through him it took all the fortitude he could muster not to close the distance between them and pull her into his arms his eyes held hers I guess we fit together better than we thought huh she flinched hugging her arms even tighter good night she clipped good night he repeated dully one step forward 10 steps back at this rate he'd be 60 before he won her over Corbin was exhausted and yet too keyed up to sleep the wind howled like a lonely wolf outside his window making him glad he was inside snuggled under the heavy blanket it was crazy to think how quickly his life had changed one minute he was working a dead end job and the next he was on a plane to San Diego now he was back home the most fascinating woman he'd ever met sleeping next door of course all was not fun in games he had to keep Delaney safe from a ruthless killer Goosebumps prickled over his flesh as he looked at the Glock on his nightstand he'd kept it nearby just in case before turning in for the night he'd called Sutton and reported in that was their system he'd call in every night on a secure line letting Sutton know the status Sutton asked if Corbin needed any backup he told Sutton as long as Hugh was in Northern Cal he was fine on his own but that could change in a heartbeat he closed his eyes willing his mind to shut down for the night an image of Delaney flashed before his mind their kiss had not been acting he was sure of it they'd probably needed to stay in the cabin keep away from people as much as possible but Corbin hoped they might be able to get out a little he'd love to take Delany on a snowmobile ride or to the hot springs if they went at night there would be fewer people he'd pull her close let his fingers get lost in her magnificent hair feel her soft lips against his finally he felt himself Drift Off to Sleep this is a dream Corbin told himself and yet it felt so real the memories came as they always did like fragments of splintered glass that shifted at random to create distorted pictures of reality he felt the camaraderie of Seal Team 7 a band of brothers whose allegiance to country was only equaled by their loyalty to each other never had Corbin felt so much acceptance from a group their orders were clear rescue a diplomat and his family held hostage by a terrorist cell in a remote Village the fragments shifted heat crowded out all else a heat so oppressive that it was like being trapped in a wet oven basting in your own sweat the lightweight vest was designed for Jungle Ops and yet it still fell heavy against Corbin's chest he wished he could rip The Wretched thing off give his skin a chance to cool off he could have been Stark naked and still be sweltering and it was in the middle of the night insane that it would still be so hot they walked like Phantoms through the thick vegetation of the Filipino jungle trying to stay clear of the slithery creatures that ravaged nearly every square inch of the moist Tangled land landcape a faint Taste of spice lingered in the night air his boots made a soft sucking sound against the thick mud to Corbin's ears his steps were as loud as firecrackers but he knew his senses were exaggerated their footsteps would be masked by the rhythmic shrieks and cries from tree frogs and a million other jungle creatures Doug was on Corbin's right by Common consent the two of them never ventured far from one another's sides before they'd gone quiet Doug teased him about the need to find a good woman and settle down Corbin had laughed I'll leave that to you buddy the scene changed they were inside the Village from all appearances the inhabitants were in a deep peaceful Slumber stealthily they made their way towards the two-story structure where the family was being held at least according to Intel the information had come from a trusted Source but there was always a chance of it being erroneous Zayn the commanding officer held up a hand for them to Halt as he assessed the situation Corbin clutched his assault rifle his eyes scanning through the darkness looking for any signs of movement finally after what seemed like an eternity Zayn waved the group forward they were about 20 yards from entering the house when everything broke loose Shadows rushing at them shots popping like hot grease in a pan Ambush Corbin's mind screamed fall back Zayn ordered but there was no time they were caught like fish in a bulll a firestorm of bullets rained down cover was too far back nothing they could do to escape Doug rushed forward into the chaos as shots ricocheted in every direction he tossed a grenade at the delivery truck parked in front of the building it hit the gas tank on the side exploding into a ball of flames and shielding the seals from the bullets of the enemy For a Moment The Gunshot stopped Doug ran back Corbin waited for him while the the other seals darted to the cover of a low wall that was gutsy man Corbin exclaimed the perfect diversion to get us out of here Doug went down face in the dirt at first Corbin thought he'd tripped then he realized with horror that he'd been shot multiple times Corbin fell to his knees his tears mixing with the sweat Corbin ripped off Doug's helmet the vacant look in his best friend's eyes shredding him to pieces no he cried Canon took his arm trying to pull him to his feet urging him to fall back with the team but rage boiled through Corbin's veins crowding out all reason all he could think about was retribution a dozen lives for the life of his friend his mind shifted to the next events more commotion screams Zayn's voice coming through the headset stand down he yelled abort but the command fell on deaf ears out of the corner of his eye Corbin saw the family huddled together two men dressed in black carrying semi-automatic rifles one in front and one in the back leading the family out the side door into the jungle a mother and father two young girls their muffled sobs carrying in the night air Corbin began systematically firing at the terrorists Instinct taking over he dropped the two gunmen in the front and back of the family then took out several more on the roof you're putting the team and family at risk abort Zayn ordered but Corbin's rage knew No Limits he'd get them all he stepped into the open no longer caring about his own life as he ignored the shots being fired at him the next events were seared into his soul the family running a terrorist firing at them the bullet hitting the young girl as she crumpled blood spilling over her white night gown the blood pulled and ran like a river onto the ground he felt the girl's Terror heard the mother's gut-wrenching cry as she fell to her knees beside the girl the father trying to drag the mother away his grandmother's face took the place of the girls Graham had been so good to him had understood him in a way no one else had and now she was alone Graham was standing at the head of a tunnel he had to get to her but his legs were cement Darkness closing in around him help her Corbin cried a sob broke loose in his throat please chapter 14 a cold sweat broke over the bridge of delany's nose as she shot up in bed her hands gripping the covers her body trembled as she looked wildly around the dark room her mind trying to process what was happening was Hugh here an icy Terror clutched her she heard the Deep Rumble of Corbin's cry help her please somehow she managed to find her voice Corbin are you okay no answer for a moment she wasn't sure what to do she looked at the closed bedroom door expecting it to burst open any minute nothing she heard more muffled cries sobbing a prayer for help sounded in her mind as she sat there shaking finally she pushed back the covers and got out of bed her heart in her throat she rushed through the bathroom into Corbin's room a heady relief covered her making her go weak in the knees when she realized what was happening Corbin was having a nightmare she stood there trying to figure out what to do the tough guy was crying like a baby in his sleep compassion washed over her as she went to his bedside holding her breath she touched his shoulder Corbin as he sat up and reached for his gun she jumped back with a Yelp Terror seized her as she held up her hands don't shoot it it's me Corbin shook his head in a Daz trying to focus on her then he put the gun down he sat back rubbing his eyes I'm sorry he mumbled so low that she wondered if she'd imagined it you were crying the cold of the wood floor seeped through her bare feet spreading eyes up her limbs she heard a gulp realizing he was still crying or at least trying to squelch it she stepped closer are you okay hey it's my fault the words came out ragged and hoarse what long pause and then another choking sound a girl's death if I hadn't gone berserk and started shooting she'd still be alive today a thousand questions pummeled her mind ending with What girl he drew in a halting breath letting out an embarrassed chuckle as he scooted to sit up sorry I was still half asleep scratch those statements he ran both his hands through his messy hair sorry you probably think I'm a headcase he wiped at his tears there were two things Delany was well acquainted with sorrow and regret she'd never fault anyone for going through hardships in fact she was surprised Tuck's death wasn't plaguing her in her sleep her mother's death did often enough a sliver of moonlight Shone Through the Windows reflecting off Corbin's stre wrong jaw even Captain America had weaknesses she got a good look at Corbin realized with a jolt that he was shirtless a blast of heat went through her as she looked at his defined pecs and six-pack okay focus on his face her mind commanded I'm all right just a stupid nightmare he grumbled she clutched her night gown knowing how ridiculous she looked in the Striped pink and blue gown she never would have bought this for herself in a million years she'd consider sleeping in her underwear but that seemed inappropriate considering Corbin was right next door he sighed I'm okay now you can go back to bed but he wasn't okay she could feel his pain filling the empty space between them she wanted to know about the girl who'd been killed had a right to know after all Corbin was the only thing standing between her and a certain death she needed to know what had happened to him she motioned do you care if I sit down sure he said in surprise in the full light of day Delany was sure she could come up with a thousand reasons why being here in Corbin's bedroom wasn't a good idea but at this moment her guard was down and Corbin needed to talk this out she didn't know how she was so tuned in to a man she hardly knew but like it or not that was the case she sat down down hugging her arms it was frigid in here did you not plug in your heater no I like it cold when I sleep Graham used to say that the healthiest way to sleep was to be able to see your breath at night I'm surprised I can't see my breath in here she said tartly he scooted over and patted the spot beside him come here her heart pounded I don't think that's a good idea she squeaked I assure you I'll be a perfect gentleman I just don't want you to freeze to death while we talk I could always plug in the heater yeah but it'll take at least 20 minutes for the room to heat up she spoke through chattering teeth I'll be a popsicle by then the last of her misgivings Slipped Away in the wake of his pleading expression being here with Corbin this was right something she didn't need to be afraid of the thoughts blew across her heart like a t tend whisper sending a blessed cushion of comfort around her Corbin motioned with his head to the spot beside him that's all the encouragement she needed she hopped over and pulled the covers up over her true to his word he scooted to the other side keeping a healthy distance between them she angled to face him okay tell me about the girl the experience with the seals Doug's death it wasn't something Corbin like to talk about but for some reason it felt like it would be okay to tell Delaney maybe it was the sympathetic look on her face or the fact that she too had suffered pain and loss or maybe he simply needed to get the words out unburden his soul he cleared his throat attempting to gather his thoughts for you to understand I'll need to tell you from the beginning when I first became a seal the memories rushed out like water from a broken Dam as Corbin told Delany about about Bud's training how it pushed him past any point he ever thought he could go how Doug had been there by his side urging him to keep going he chuckled remembering unlike me Doug grew up with a silver spoon in his mouth as Sutton Smith only son the world was his oyster he had every reason to be full of himself and yet he was the very opposite the most downto earth guy I ever met Delaney sucked in a breath looking puzzled your best friend was Sutton's son yeah Doug's the only reason I became a seal I would have tapped out early on if it hadn't been for him he clenched his fists bitterness coating his throat I should have been the one who died not him how many times had he wished he could live that horrible night over again somehow taking Doug's Place Doug had rushed forward to save everyone while he stayed back how different things might have been had he gone with Doug to help he looked at Delaney surprised to see tears glistening in her eyes she scooted closer and touched his arm sending electricity surging through him I'm sorry she said softly what happened while Corbin was trying to decide what to tell her and what to hold back the whole thing gushed out he told her about the rescue mission how he'd gone nuts when Doug was killed and started shooting up the place like Rambo and finally how he'd been the cause of the girl losing her life when the words ran dry he sat there a guilty man waiting for the jury's verdict you can't keep blaming yourself you didn't shoot the girl a hard laugh escaped his throat can't I I disobeyed a direct order from my co he told me to stand down that my actions were putting the team and the family at risk and he was right the self-loathing rushed back with a vengeance but it felt good to say the words out loud to another person it was one moment in time you lost your head made a mistake it could happen to anyone he could hardly believe the words coming out of her mouth thought maybe he'd imagine them because that's what he wanted to hear no he finally said I was trained to do better I should have kept my cool now no amount of training could prepare you for losing your best friend what happened afterwards the situation was investigated the ballistic test came back unclear if Doug had been killed by enemy or friendly fire the government slapped a lid on the incident to prevent a public outcry and I was transferred to another team I left the seals shortly thereafter shame blistered over him and he could hardly make himself look at Delaney he forced the words words from his dry throat knowing he had to get them out while he could now that you know what type of man is protecting you it might be a good idea to call Sutton and request a replacement I wouldn't blame you if you did he looked down at his hands his gut sinking like a lead balloon it was good that he was being honest with theany her life was on the line she deserved to know what kind of man he really was look at me the authority her voice took him by surprise reluctantly his eyes met hers and he was struck by the fierceness of her expression she CED his face the warmth of her skin flowing into his you're a good man I trust you to keep me safe you did it once before in the car with Anton and I know you'll do it again her words burned into his chest kindling an unexpected hope really tears brimmed in his eyes he felt like such a fool for crying in front of her and yet the emotion was too much to contain absolutely he chuckled at the reference to Pops I can't believe you met my grandfather one time and are already quoting him he said dryly Well he seems like a smart guy he's all right for an old dude he said offhandedly a smile tipped her lips her dark eyes sparkling with a hint of mystery that gave him the feeling that no matter how much time he spent around Delaney it would never be enough so Corbin Spencer will you still be my pretend boyfriend he looked down at her ridiculous looking night gown his gaze lingering on the Ruffles around her neck I don't know he drawled my woman would never wear that she laughed yeah it's pretty bad it's okay for a 19th century farm girl her smile grew larger you know I thought the same exact thing did suton have this hidden away in some trunk maybe it belongs to his assistant Agatha it looks like something an old lady would wear she giggled yes it does Corbin's heart felt lighter than it had in a long time longer than he could even remember he Beed his soul to Delaney and she was okay with the things he'd done he still found it hard to believe but he wasn't about to look a gift horse in the mouth he leaned in closing the distance between them so he said huskily would it be okay to give my pretend girlfriend another kiss for practice delany's cheeks grew flush but she didn't Retreat there was a smolder of desire in her eyes that matched the fire igniting in him okay but only for practice he he pulled her into his arms his lips taking hers she tipped her head back a groan sounding in her throat as she slid her arms around his shoulders this time he didn't hold back he ran his fingers through her hair their lips moving together in a burst of energy and Flames he was being consumed by this woman and it was happening so fast he could hardly process it she pulled back breathing hard I think we've got that mve down pretty good I believe you're right he grinned but I'll never say no to practice her eyes grew troubled as she looked around like she just now realized what was happening I shouldn't be in here with you she shuttered I'm not that kind of woman Panic raced through him she was retreating it was like a switch suddenly flipped in her brain she moved to escape but he caught her arm hey don't do this what run from us she gurgled out a laugh there is no us this is pretend a charade invented to keep me safe he let go of her arm and trailed a finger down a tendril of her hair this is real his eyes locked with hers you know it he could tell from her expression that he was right I can't get involved with you right now not when we're in the middle of all of this he held her gaze afterwards she Shrugged giving him a small sad smile afterwards we'll see he could tell she had no intention of entertaining a relationship with him and it cut all the angst rushed back because of what I told you about my past it was stupid to think she could accept him or that anyone could after what he'd done no because of me and in my past her eyes teared up I'm damaged goods he touched her face no you're an angel the most beautiful intoxicating woman I've ever been around he could tell from the doubt in her eyes that she didn't believe him I wish you could see what I see you pulled yourself up from nothing made something of yourself you looked fear in the eyes and kept moving forward all of those things are heroic she Drew back from him the tear dribbling down her cheek hastily she brushed it away with her Palm I need to get some rest in my own room maybe they were a lost cause he was no psychiatrist couldn't imagine all that Delaney had been through to bring her to this point he didn't know how to reach her every time he felt like he was getting close she retreated even farther away a bleak emptiness settled over him as he nodded all right good night she scuttled out of the bed good night she said over her shoulder rushing out of the room chapter 15 for a moment right after she awoke Delany was confused about where she was then everything came back in a Flash Tuck's death Hugh out for Revenge fleeing to the cabin and last night the kiss in Corbin's bed she sat up her cheeks burning with remembrance she couldn't deny that the feelings Corbin stirred in her were stronger than any she'd ever had tuck had been her only other relationship and that was so messed up and tainted that she really had nothing to go off of she scrunched her nose realizing she dubbed this thing with Corbin a relationship Corbin probably thought she was a total [ __ ] kissing him and then fleeing right after she told him he was a good man and that she trusted him to keep her safe she did trust him to keep her safe but she didn't trust him with her heart maybe she'd never be able to trust anyone like she said she was damaged goods she got up and looked out the window struck by the Splendor of the landscape it was a winter wonderland the Rolling Hills of pristine snow were surrounded by a hedge of towering evergreen trees above that the crisp Blue Sky was streak with wisps of hazy clouds always those clouds in the sky at least today they weren't obscuring the sun A tingle of excitement ran through her not a bad place to spend the next few days writing songs then again they could be here much longer depending on how this thing with Hugh played out the bathroom door was open to Corbin's bedroom her pulse picked up a notch as she ran her hand over her night gown then up to her hair she didn't want Corbin to see her with Bed Head then again it didn't matter how messy her hair was because she was going to wear the wig over it she looked at the hair on the nightstand half expecting it to start crawling it really did look like some sort of animal she rummaged through the suitcase looking for something warm and comfortable to wear she chose jeans and a red sweater thankfully most of the outerwear clothing was leaps better than the sleepware she walked through the bathroom and stood at the door leading to Corbin's room hesitantly she peaked in the bed was made Corbin's duffel bag resting on the floor at the foot of the bed his laptop was sitting on the dresser he was probably downstairs waiting for her what time was it anyway 8 or 9:00 a.m. she missed her phone missed getting on Instagram and Twitter to chat with her fans hopefully Milo would take up the slack while she was gone supposedly everything had worked out with the execs at Montana Cruz label but what if something fell through the cracks anxiety streak through her she couldn't afford to make any more mistakes with her career the negative publicity Tuck's death caused was bad enough she needed to get those blasted songs written and recorded for the album to stay on task she'd be going on tour the end of next month and needed to have something for her fans to purchase something to keep her relevant she closed and locked both doors to the bathroom before turning on the shower a couple of seconds later she stepped in letting the hot water run over her shoulders her mind went through the song options she ran through the Litany of usual subjects heartache cheating Love Money drinking there really were no original ideas only remakes with unique spin as she stepped out of the shower and reached for a towel an idea struck the new title of her next song absolutely a smile tugged at her lips as she pictured Corbin's face when he heard it the lyrics floated through her mind fitting together like pieces of a puzzle she pursed her lips staring at her reflection how would she frame the song it could go something like will you be there to hug me in the night ask absolutely will you still love me in the morning light Absolutely I'll absolutely love you for the rest of my life until the stars fall from the sky they say I'm damaged goods and I admit it absolutely but baby you give me more hope than a person ever should she tried to think of the rest but that's all that would come now she wanted to hurry up and get ready so she could jot down those notes before they flew out of her mind it was rough but at least it was a start she blowdried her hair and brushed it a few times wishing she didn't have to put on the wig she applied her makeup and rolled on lip gloss rather than lipstick then she put on the wig and fluffed the top like Marissa had instructed the last thing she did before heading downstairs was put on a pair of dangly silver earrings she studied her reflection turning from side to side it was amazing how much different she looked she hardly recognized herself the tantalizing scent of bacon caused her stomach to rumble as she walked down the stairs her heart pounded out an erratic beat as she rubbed her sweaty Palms on her jeans she didn't have a clue what she'd say to Corbin she stepped into the kitchen and the man turned causing her to stop in her tracks a Wallace I wasn't expecting you a friendly smile split his face causing the wrinkles around his eyes to deepen well good morning I hope you don't mind but I thought I'd make breakfast she looked at the stack of pancakes beside the stove Wallace slid the spatula under the pancake cooking in the skillet turning it over with the flick of his wrist where is Corbin she'd not expected him to leave without telling her where he'd gone was he ticked at her because of last night her heart dropped probably oh he went to the store something about buying some sausage and flour for biscuits and getting a certain little lady a decent set of pajamas oh wow impressive here she was thinking Corbin had left her high and dry and he was doing something nice guilt washed over her she hated how she was always so quick to assume the worst about men she thought of something how did Corbin get out in all the snow the roads must be iced over in Alabama everything shut down when there were a few inches of snow she couldn't imagine what it would be like with several feet well the private Drive leading out to the main Road's a little dicey because it doesn't get plowed but everything else is clear does anything ever shut down because of the snow not normally unless we have a blizzard as far as Delaney was concerned it had come a blizzard but Wallace was acting like the storm was a normal event then again it was Colorado the ski resort will be happy to get the snow we've had a dry winter he motioned have a seat can I help with anything thanks but it's ready he slid the pancake to the top of the stack then turned off the stov top wiping his hands on a dish towel Delany scooted out a chair wincing when it made a loud scraping noise against the wood floor sorry don't mind that that I've been meaning to put some new pads underneath the chair legs but I haven't gotten around to it Wallace placed the platter of Pancakes in the center of the table before Delaney sat down he held up a finger oh I forgot the orange juice would you mind getting it out of the fridge not at all she went to the fridge and retrieved it suddenly realizing how hungry she was she and Corbin had grabbed a quick sandwich for dinner the night before eating it in the SUV as Corbin drove not super hungry Delany had only eaten half of it but now that she was in a safe comfortable place her appetite had returned with a Vengeance she placed the juice on the table then sat down Wallace put the syrup butter and bacon on the table before joining her sorry we don't have any whipped cream I forgot to get that when I went shopping she reached for a napkin placing it in her lap this looks great she was about to to reach for a pancake then stopped when Wallace bowed his head to pray quickly she closed her eyes and lowered her head embarrassed that she'd forgotten she needed the Lord's help to see her through the situation and didn't want to be one of those people who only prayed when desperate Wallace named everything he was grateful for even expressing thanks that she was here please keep D and Corbin safe he implored tears wet her eyes an unexpected warm War filling her chest maybe everything would turn out okay after all and please bless de and Corbin to understand their feelings and come together as a righteous couple in thy sight he ended the prayer with a hearty amen amen Delany mumbled opening her eyes she wasn't sure what to make of that last part Wallace knew her situation was aware that the boyfriend girlfriend thing was a facade why in the heck was he praying for them to come together as a couple she gave him a questioning look but he seemed totally oblivious he shook out his napkin before placing it in his lap dig in she filled her plate with two pancakes and two slices of bacon then she placed a pad of butter on top and spread it with her fork before pouring on a generous amount of syrup she cut off a section of the pancakes and plac them in her mouth appreciating how they melted she couldn't remember the the last time she' tasted pancakes this good if ever these are delicious thanks Wallace beamed I love big breakfasts but Addie leaves so early for work that there's no time to eat I don't like going to the trouble of cooking up a lot of food just for me so I usually have coffee and toast this is a welcome change well I'm glad I can be the beneficiary of your skill she bit off a section of crunchy bacon chewing appreciatively I'm sure you were wondering about my prayer the bacon went down the wrong pipe Delany coughed to clear it she'd only thought he was oblivious the sly dog Wallace was direct like Corbin or maybe it was vice versa yeah it took me off guard she admitted especially since you know my situation he took a long Swig of juice and placed the glass down with an audible plunk then he took a large bite of Pancakes he seemed to be deliberately chewing making her wait for his response I watched the two of you together last night could tell there's a lot more Brewing than a pretend relationship he took another drink of juice a shaky laugh escaped her throat as she touched her neck which felt hot enough to combust maybe we're just good at acting I don't think so he pinned her with the look you care about my grandson maybe even love him she belted out a laugh then clamped her lips shut to cut it off love him I hardly know him we've only been together for a few days he Shrugged time is irrelevant when it comes to matters of the heart did Corbin ever tell you how Luella and I met now we were at the county fair lella was with a date standing by the ferris wheel I saw her and my world shifted she was the most beautiful woman I'd ever laid eyes on she looked at me and we had this connection something that defied words his eyes sparkled I knew in that moment that I'd move Heaven and Earth to be with her she jerked slightly the irony not lost on her as she thought of the strong connection she and Corbin had when they first saw each other how could you be so sure that the two of you were meant to be together he Shrugged I don't know but I knew it to the depth of my soul Luella knew it too he grinned but it took a while before I could get her to admit it I must have asked her out a hundred times but she turned me down that's okay though because I'm persistent I knew I'd eventually win her over was that how Corbin felt about her would he be as persistent a spark of warmth shot through her as she realized that she hoped he would a tumult of feelings rushed through her feelings she didn't fully understand since moving to San Diego she'd found a church to attend one where she felt welcome Pastor Simmons was always saying that the Lord's time is not the same as ours and that he works in mysterious ways maybe the Lord had put Corbin in her path for more than just protection from her awful situation her eyes missed it as she blinked a few times to clear the emotion it's a beautiful story thank you for telling it to me absolutely she smiled at the reference Wallace's voice grew reflective is coming May Luella and I'll celebrate our 50th wedding anniversary well congratulations a trace of sadness flitted over his features I only wish Luella realized I'm sorry Corbin told me about her Alzheimer's the depth of feeling in Wallace's eyes struck something inside Delaney this wasn't some storybook romance that would vanish like the Dew at Sunrise she got the distinct feeling that what Wallace and luela had was deep and abiding a love that would transcend age even death when she was younger before Tuck's cruelty had jaded her Delany had wished for something like this she held on to that dream to Stave off the loneliness that consumed her while her mother was passed out cold in the Next Room sure the timing was lousy but what if Corbin was the very thing she'd been searching for her entire life a Haven for her heart he nodded before Luella got sick she had a memory like an elephant she was smart and loved to read would devour every book she could get her hands on she was always helping tending to someone who was sick making casseroles she loved to bake and crochet in fact she made the green Afghan over the back of the couch Delaney had been so exhausted the night before that she not paid much attention to the Furnishings she made a mental note to look at the Afghan Luella sounds like a remarkable woman her greatest strength was her kindness she and Corbin were really close he paused his jaw working it nearly killed Corbin when Luella went into the Care Center his eyes moistened it hurt me too but I didn't see any other option luella's condition was deteriorating to the point where she was becoming belligerent she'd get out of the house while I was asleep one night I found Wonder wondering in the snow I was worried about her safety there was a hint of bading in Wallace's voice like he was defending himself he felt guilty for putting Luella in the Care Center Delany was surprised Wallace was telling her such personal things maybe he didn't get much of a chance to talk to other people the cabins were in a remote area and Addie worked a lot I'm sure you did what you thought was best yes he hesitated like he wanted to say more but didn't know if he should she leaned forward slightly well what else the instant the question left her mouth she thought she probably shouldn't have asked it but she did want to know the rest and Wallace certainly seemed like he needed to get it off his chest I wish Corbin could understand I'm sure he does how could he not my grandson's very stubborn tell me about it she chuckled the two of us don't always get along a ruul smile touched his lips lella used to say it was because we were too much alike I can see that even just now getting to know you you're good for Corbin for some time he's been drifting I'd hope joining the military would have help anchor him but it only seems to have exacerbated the problem because of what happened to Doug a look of surprise washed over him you know about Doug yes Corbin told me about him and the little girl he cocked his head what girl crap she assumed that Wallace knew time to backpedal fast she could feel Wallace's perceptive eyes scrutinizing her she put down her fork shaking her head I'm sorry I thought you knew but if Corbin didn't tell you I I don't think it's my place to say anything her voice dribbled off Wallace nodded in disappointment I understand and I certainly wouldn't want you to divulge a confidence she sought for the words to smooth over the situation I'm sure he'll tell you if you ask he gave her a sad smile that said you don't have a clue what you're talking about Corbin would have told Luella and she could have helped him sort through his feelings now that she's not in her right mind he sighed well it's just been festering he paused looking thoughtful then a new light came into his eyes but he told you yes she said quietly just now understanding the significance of all that had taken place the night before she could argue that Corbin had told her due to circumstance she came in right after the dream no Wallace was right Corbin had opened opened his heart to her and she pushed him away like I said you're good for Corbin you give him a sense of purpose make him want to be a better man I'm so grateful he has you in his life Panic fluttered in her stomach no I can't take on that responsibility she tried to help her mother but everything had blown up in her face the harder she tried to get her mother off alcohol and drugs the more her mother hated her for it her voice grew brittle I can't help Corbin because I can't even help myself tears burned her eyes I'm sorry she pushed back her plate no longer hungry I'm a train wreck she muttered she scooted her chair back to leave but Wallace caught her arm hey his voice was gentle but authoritative like he was talking a jumper off a ledge his eyes held hers don't run off just hear me out okay tears dribbled down her cheeks okay he let go of her arm as she sat back down wiping at the tears while I don't know all of the details of your situation I know your ex-husband was abusive she gave him a Curt nod of acknowledgement as shame burned through her she crossed her arms tightly over her chest her eyes fixed on her uneaten plate of food if only only she had enough sense not to get involved with tuck yes she'd finally summon the courage to stand up to him and look where it had gotten her on the run for her life from a demon even worse than tuck Wallace leaned back in his seat do you know much about the N of Americans indigenous to Colorado they're known as the Plains Indians making up several tribes Shon Apache Navajo to name a few now she couldn't imagine where this was headed I have a close friend s who's Navajo I allow him to hunt on my property he's really good with the bow killed an eight-point buck the thing was monstrous he held out his hands the rack was this wide he stopped giving her a sheepish grin you don't care about hunting do you not really she admitted but I know plenty about it I grew up in Alabama after all he was impressed do you know how to shoot a smile flickered over her lips well like I said I'm from Alabama gorin's a sharpshooter another thing the two of you have in common I'm not a sharpshooter by any stretch of the imagination but I know how to handle the gun he grinned I knew I liked you oh and Corbin can sing too really now that she found intriguing he has a great voice can even play the guitar I had no idea see the two of you are more alike than you realize he smiled broadly you're a great singer by the way I watched you on YouTube the admiration in his voice was touching no matter how many times people gave her compliments on her music it never got old in some small way every time she took the stage she healed a small part of herself because performing was the one thing she could be proud of evidence that she'd broken out of the bonds of her childhood and made something of herself despite all obstacles thanks wig doesn't look bad on you but I like your real hair much better me too she touched her wig wondering why she was wearing it in the cabin when the only other person here right next now knew who she was then again someone could see her through the windows or drop by the cabin unannounced better to be safe than sorry he waved a hand anyway back to the story Sonnie once told me something that stuck with me a grandfather was speaking to his grandson telling him how every living person has two wolves within Waring for dominance the first is anger fear greed malice the other is kindness benevolence hope faith but grandfather which wolf will win the grandson asked Delaney waited for the rest but Wallace just sat there studying her she was starting to recognize a pattern here Wallace wanted her to be an active learner giving the answer only when she was ready to receive it a smile touched her lips as she asked the question dutifully what did the grandfather say two wolves inside every person an interesting concept it certainly described her even as the thoughts rolled through her mind she could feel something Building inside her knew somehow that Wallace's answer would be significant which wolf Will Survive his tone was light musing a direct contrast to the intensity in his eyes the one you feed chapter 16 Birchwood Springs really does need better places for shopping Corbin thought as he pulled into the driveway of the cabin he went to three different shops and couldn't find any decent pajamas finally he settled on a pair of sweats and a t-shirt Delaney would probably think he was crazy for going shopping but he was just trying to think of something nice to do for her something to let her know that he wasn't a bad guy after she left his room the night before he'd lay awake thinking about their conversation and the kiss he thought he might regret telling Delaney about what happened in the Philippines but he didn't he wanted her to know everything about him as he wanted to know about her he reached for the bags and transferred them all to his left hand then grabbed the bouquet of flowers with his right on impulse he'd grabb the flowers as he was leaving the grocery store was it too much he hoped not as he walked to the door his skin prickled with the knowledge that someone was watching him he looked at the cabin to his right about half a football field away a man had gotten out of his car also going into his cabin when he realized that Corbin had made eye contact he smiled and waved Corbin nodded and offered a brief smile the heavy set man was B and looked to be in his early 60s he seemed harmless but under the circumstances Corbin had to be cautious about everyone hey Pops said when he stepped into the cabin pops was reclining on the couch watching TV with his hands behind his head his feet propped on the coffee table Corbin looked around where's Delaney he hoped she hadn't been too upset when she realized he was gone she was sleeping so peacefully when he left that he hated to wake her and he needed some time to sort through things try to figure out the best way to get through to Delaney what he Most Wanted at this point was for her to give him a chance in her room working on songs Corbin placed the bags on the kitchen table and began removing the groceries then plac the perishables in the refrigerator who's the guy next door the portly bald guy oh that's Gus Ridley do you know him very well yes he and his wife Jean have been coming here for years good to hear he didn't have to worry about the man why do you ask he was outside as I came in he waved I just wondered it's good to be vigilant considering the situation exactly nice flowers pop said a few seconds later Corbin looked at the colorful bouquet in question caught the teasing in Pop's voice but he chose to ignore it thanks he said lightly he went to the cupboards is is there a vase or something I can put these in there's a mason jar on the top shelf to the right of the microwave I saw it when I was making breakfast oh yeah how was breakfast great there are leftovers in the fridge if you want them that's okay I ran by a drive-thru and grabbed something before I went shopping he reached bar and filled it with water the flowers were wrapped in plastic a packet of flower food was attached to the stems with a rubber band he pulled out several drawers what about scissors there should be some in there I asked Hilda to stock all the cabins with them found them he cut off the and removed the plastic Corbin didn't know the first thing about arranging flowers he grabbed the stems and stuffed them in the jar all at once he stepped back to admire his handiwork he frowned it looked pathetic like a blob maybe he should have left the flowers in the plastic he shifted them around a little but it didn't seem to help oh well it was the thought that counted right he was a body guard not a florist oops he forgot to add the food he snipped a corner of the packet and pushed the stems to the side then emptied the powder into the water he placed the flowers in the center of the table where Delaney couldn't miss them then he sat down beside pops thanks for holding down the fort sure I enjoyed spending time with de she's a good girl we had a great conversation he kept his tone casual what did you guys talk about oh you know life relationships stuff like that he tensed what sort of relationships pops reached for the remote and turned down the volume on the TV then he angled toward Corbin he arched an eyebrow a trace of defiance in his expression you really want to know well yeah I wouldn't have asked if I didn't it was crazy how fast the irritation surfaced we talked about you and her the breath left Corbin's lungs his eyes narrowed what are you up to Pops you have no right to medal in my personal life on the contrary I have every right you called and asked for my help remember came here it was just like Pops to throw that in his face yeah I wanted to bring Delaney D he corrected here to keep her safe not for you to play matchmaker there was no telling what pops told her well aren't you interested in what she said well yeah pops had him and he knew it he desperately wanted to know what Delany said but he wasn't about to give pops the satisfaction of begging A sly smile slid over pops's lips she likes you a lot really hope Rose in his chest she said that yeah not in those exact words but that was the inference he gave pops a hard look are you sure you didn't misconstrue the conversation absolutely de cares about you but she's scared because of what happened with her ex she told you that he was surprised that pops had got gotten Delaney to open up to him and he was a little envious too pops winked given enough time I think she'll come around I wouldn't be so sure Corbin said Darkly she's been hurt bad I don't know if she'll ever be able to trust anyone else well just be patient with her you'll see it'll work out he could tell pops really believed that Corbin wished he could be as sure pop sat up straight and cleared his throat there there something else I want to talk to you about okay weariness settled over him this sounded serious what is it this guy that's after d he's bad news huh yeah Hugh Ellen's the worst of the worst how are you going to stop him he tightened his fist I'm going to do everything in my power to keep Delany safe if that's what you're asking was pops questioning his ability of course he was he never believed that Corbin could do anything right pops looked him in the eye so you're going to spend the rest of your life running he rocked back I'm not sure what you're getting at if this guy is as ruthless as you say he won't stop until he finds you and D Corbin rolled his eyes I'm glad to see you have so little faith in me he said sarcastically pops cocked his head is that what you think yeah quite frankly that's exactly what I think they stared at one another all the old hurts and disagreements boiling to the top Corbin was surprised to see a twitch in Pop's jaw then moisture in his eyes nothing could be further from the truth he placed a hand on Corbin's arm I know we haven't always seen eye to eye but I want you to know how proud of you I am the words broadsided Corbin like a fist to the gut he couldn't ever remember pops giving him an right compliment emotion rumbled in his throat as he swallowed I know you've been through some hard times pops continued but I want you to know that the proudest moment of my life was when you were serving your country I don't know what happened out there but I know you I know your heart you're a good man his voice hitched but you're also a hard stubborn fool just like me you may think that you'll never be able to get past what happened to you but you will that's the greatest gift the lord gave us the power to change to start again I changed for that amazing good-hearted woman in the care center and I know you can do the same for D tears brimmed in Corbin's eyes blurring his vision I should have told you that a long time ago Corbin coughed to cover the emotion pop smiled thinly I guess with your grandmother around I didn't have to she could take up the slack but now that she's sick well things are different I miss her Corbin said quietly the ache in his gut so powerful he could hardly contain it I miss her too son a tear dribbled down pops's cheek she loved you In Her Eyes the sun rose and set with you Corbin looked down at the floor he loved her too so much that it cut to the quick back to this thing with Hugh Allen pops cleared his throat his jaw tightening Corbin recognized that gesture well pops was bottling up his emotion and putting on the hard cap that he'd said as much as he had was a miracle you can't keep running you inde have to face him He barked out a laugh hardly believing what he was hearing why so he can kill Delaney so you can put an end to this thing better to do it on your own turf rather than on someone else's he lifted his chin his eyes going hard you'll stand more of a chance facing him here than anywhere else Corbin shook his head as frustrated as he got with his grandfather he admired his torque pops believed he was invincible sure he was tough part of that generation that breathed grit and determination he'd taught Corbin how to fish how to hunt how to shoot and how to suck it up and be a man but pops had no idea what he was up against here an image of the little girl flashed through his mind it was still fresh from The Nightmare the white dress the mother's anguished cry the blood spilling out a shudder went through him he could never intentionally put delay In Harm's Way no I can't do that it's the only way to keep her safe remember the story of the bear a laugh scratched Corbin's throat Pops in his NeverEnding Parables I don't want to hear about the stupid bear story all right pops rubbed a hand across his brow fine but you're not thinking about this sensibly his grandfather was a stubborn old fool Corbin's voice Rose you'd really have me Lor hu and his goons here what about you and Addie pops's face paled Checkmate pops hadn't thought about that what it would mean for their family maybe he'd realize now and drop the whole thing well you you said your boss has endless resources we could tap into those to help fight this he shook his head the man was unbelievable like a dog refusing to let go of a bone pops this isn't some game this is serious a life and death situation Sutton my boss is taking precautions when I first found out about delany's situation I wanted to rush in and take care of Hugh but Su said it would be too dangerous too much collateral damage that we should wait and let Hugh come to us after thinking about it Corbin wondered if Sutton's hesitancy to charge after Hugh was also owed to principal it was one thing to act out of protection and another altogether to be the aggressor Heaven favored the former and Sutton seemed to be a God-fearing man pops clenched his fist exactly he exclaimed like Corbin had just gotten it you lure the bear out of the protection of its cave but that doesn't mean we should bring the danger to our doorstep do you have some sort of Death Wish no I do not he countered stiffly and I don't appreciate your tone I'm only trying to protect you inde D he blew out of breath so am I pops so am I he repeated quietly he looked at his aged grandfather feeling a wave of sympathy for him look I appreciate your help but you need to let me do this my way Sutton has everything under control on his end and and so do I he gave pops a firm look okay I'm a big boy I don't need you or anyone else running my life pops nodded but Corbin could tell he wasn't convinced Corbin stood to leave but pops caught his arm he cleared his throat hesitation washing over him there's something I need to talk to you about he sat back down you need to go visit your grandmother his features clouded she's not doing well Corbin rocked Back Eyes narrowing well of course she's not well you've got her stuffed away in that place the words dripped like daggers from his lips as he shot pops and accusing look while a part of him understood why Graham had to be there the larger part of him couldn't no that wasn't true this didn't have as much to do with pops as it did with himself guilt was eating him alive Corbin was the worst offender of all he'd left when Graham got sick because he couldn't stand watching her wither away pops's features tightened making him look older a shriveled banana skin then Corbin saw the compassion in his eyes realized it was directed at him without warning tears Rose in Corbin's eyes I know luella's sickness has been hard on you heavy emotion pressed like cement on Corbin's chest he couldn't handle this right now he had to keep his mind focused on keeping Delaney safe his personal issues would have to wait I think if you'll just go and see Luella it'll help you come to terms with what's happening to her Corbin sprang to his feet unwilling to let the Avalanche of emotion smother him I'm going to check on Delaney he said gruffly turning his back to Pops he sucked in a breath brushing at his tears with jerky swipes thanks for taking care of things while I stepped out his voice cracked as he fought for control don't feel like you have to stick around I know you've got plenty of things to take care of hey rushed out of the room before pops could see him lose it chapter 17 the song was coming but not as quickly as Delany wanted that was mostly because her thoughts kept returning to Corbin in the conversation she'd had earlier with Wallace the wolf analogy really hit home no doubt she'd been feeding the wrong wolf because it had been howling the loudest could she stop feeding it silence her fears once and for all oh how she wanted to it was interesting how closely her and Corbin's first meeting paralleled Wallace and luell they'd had an instant attraction and it morphed into something wonderful and Lasting could that happen to her and Corbin at this point the best she could hope for was to open up a small space in her heart for the beginnings of a relationship take things one step at a time her next thought sent her into a tail spin was Corbin even interested in lasting relationship or was she merely a form of amusement a way to pass the time never again would she take anything at face value she had to find out what Corbin's true intentions were before she could even entertain the idea of a relationship she pushed aside the intrusive thoughts turning her attention back to the song as she strummed her guitar they say I'm damaged good and I admit it absolutely but baby you give me more hope than a person ever should I've got to learn to silence these fears and dry my tears will you be there to hug me in the night will you still love me in the morning light I'll absolutely love you for the rest of my life until the stars fall from the sky she heard movement realized Corbin was leaning against the door frame her heart turned to cartwheel he looked amazing in jeans and a snug sweater that stretched across his pecs his messy hair was begging for her to run her fingers through it she took in his lean jaw and arresting eyes which were sparkling with Amusement making them look more Amber wait a minute the more she studied him the more she got the feeling there was something off about Corbin the rims of his eyes were a bit red like he might have been crying then again he didn't act like he'd been crying he was probably just tired they'd been under a mountain of stress it was bound to take its toll eventually are you doing okay he looked surprised yeah why she tipped her head I don't know you just look a little sad he pursed his lips shoving his hands into his pockets I'm good with that the last traces of despondency vanished making her wonder if she had only imagined it I like the song his grin gave way to a full Smile as he repeated the lyrics I'll absolutely love you until the Stars from the sky heat tinged her cheeks she hated that she always blushed when she was embarrassed once the song was recorded it would be on display for the world why was she feeling sheepish about Corbin hearing it now the answer came to her in an instant because he knew she was talking about him that's why in her music she was most transparent her innermost feelings coming to the surface she caught the pleased look on his face were his feelings for her real you forgot a segment he sat down at the foot of the bed oh I'll absolutely love you for the rest of my life until the stars fall from the sky The Hope in his eyes sparked something inside her this had to be real no one was that good at pretending even when she was with tuck a part of her knew he was only pretending to be aul by his brother's Behavior tuck had a reputation for being rough she' turned a blind eye to the rumors because she wanted so desperately for him to be her night in shining armor and back then tuck and Hugh's Behavior were more part of everyday life it wasn't until she got away from it that she realized how truly warped they were and how mixed up her own mother had been I Like It Corbin gave her a searching look I'd like to hear the rest do you think Wallace will mind me using absolutely it has such a catchy ring to it I'm sure pops will be honored he looked down at her notebook of lyrics and chords is the song finished yet it's getting close I haven't written the last verse and there are still a few tweaks to work out but I'm pleased with the progress sounds like you and Pops had a nice breakfast she sensed his interest even though he was trying hard to act nonchalant yes we did she chuckled lightly he has some great stories that he does Corbin leaned forward and reached for her pencil absently twirling it in his fingers what did the two of you talk about it was delany's turn to be amused he didn't tell you his lips Drew together nope well one of the things he mentioned is that you play the guitar and sing his eyes widened he told you that she couldn't stop a smile from stretching over her lips yep said you're not half bad he grunted half bad huh she laughed nah just teasing he said you were good her eyes held his but I'd have to hear it to believe it is that right yep maybe she was playing with fire but she wanted to get to know Corbin and was tired of putting up so many barriers she didn't want to spend her life alone she was tired of feeding the wrong wolf there was that darn analogy again but it had hit home care to join me her heart picked up a beat as she waited for his reaction a brilliant smile broke across his lips causing her to lose her train of thought for a second I thought you'd never ask he got up and sat beside her her heart hammered against her rib cage and she wondered if he could hear it she with him this close it was hard to concentrate his scent was clean and masculine with a hint of mint he reached for the paper okay what you got she sat up straight her back resting against the headboard as she started from the beginning after the first round of the chorus he joined in his baritone voice was full and Rich they harmonized automatically him taking over the melody while she played around with the harmonies like Wallace said Corbin was good the entire time they sang all she could think about was that these lyrics offered a clear window into her heart letting him know that she was having some strong feelings for him maybe it was good that they were singing she could express herself better through music than dialogue when the song ended she put down the guitar and turned to face him what do you think his eyes were riveted to hers and in them she saw desire swirled with a tenderness that sang to her heart in this moment her fears were soothed in a manner she'd not thought possible I Love It Corbin uttered her breath caught when he touched her cheek his finger trailed along her lips lightly tracing their outline a tender ache grew in her throat as she leaned closer this time it was her lip that touched his first moving softly and cautiously until he deepened the kiss pulling her into his arms the need for him was intoxicating sending scrumptious Quivers tingling down her spine as she buried her hands in his messy hair that her fingers had been longing to touch his lips were hard demanding but she met him measure for measure reving in the way her spirit soared to the the sky kissing Corbin was more thrilling than a thousand concerts all rolled into one finally he pulled back his magnetic eyes burning with intensity as he searched her face please tell me that wasn't pretend she laughed lightly resting her Palms on his chest taking note of his rock hard muscles now he touched her wig can I take this off so I can feel your real hair delicious Shivers danc through her absolutely they both laughed as he attempted to remove the wig but the Combs were embedded deep in her hair she leted out a tiny Yelp at the pain of her hair being pulled sorry I better let you do it she took off the wig and hairnet then ran her fingers through her hair which she was sure was an absolute mess let me do that his hands went up the back of her neck into her hair much better he murmured his lips taking hers once more when the kiss was over he rested his forehead against hers his hands went to her arms as he rubbed them up and down you're incredible you're not so bad yourself he pulled back searching her face she could tell he wanted to say something what she asked concern trickled into his eyes she swallowed her fears returning with a Vengeance what is is it I want to tell you something but I don't want you to freak out okay jeez he'd not even told her the bad news yet and she was already freaking out I'm falling hard for you it took a second for her mind to process what he'd said a warm glow settled over her he tightened his hold don't retreat please she was gider than a bubbly teenager unable to hold back the laugh in her throat that was your bad news he looked puzzled I never said the news was bad just that I wanted to tell you something and I didn't want you to freak out she cued his face why because I've been feeding the wrong wolf for so long his eyes rounded as he laughed you have been talking to Pops a little you know he's he's a smart guy you should pay more attention to his advice well have to remember that was it Her Imagination or did a cloud move over his features it was gone in the next instant as he searched her face so does this mean you're good with what's happening between us well that depends he tensed on what on what this is she eyed him is this a real thing or am I a distraction something to keep you occupied while we're stuck in this cabin an credulous laugh left his throat is that what you think she thought for a minute no I think your feelings for me are real I just want to hear it from you I made a grave mistake before and I'm not about to make that same mistake again he frowned I'm not tuck I know his voice gathered intensity what I feel for you is real more real than anything I've ever felt before the truth of his words settled around her like a protective cocoon as she snuggled into the curve of his shoulder he linked his fingers through hers squeezing her hand I'm starting to care about you too she admitted there was one other question she wanted to ask so have there been other girls that you've guarded ones you spent lots of time with she held her breath waiting for an answer realizing that she was starting to care a great deal about him maybe even love him a little no relief splattered over her as she turned to face him really a trace of amusement lit his eyes really you're the first person I've ever protected she frowned but I thought you had a long history of working in security I do but mostly for bars and institutions not for individuals Sutton offered me the job the night of the party he paused paused does that make you nervous that I'm new at this one-on-one stuff a feeling of bliss danced over her on the contrary I think it's great that I'm your first assignment he turned to face her the fervency in his eyes making her wonder if he could see into her soul the word assignment doesn't even begin to describe what you are to me his lips turned up in a slight smile what at the risk of sending you running for the hills let me just say that from the first moment our eyes connected across that crowded room I knew we'd end up together he studied her does it scare you that I'm so certain a little she admitted but his words were thrilling at the same time maybe it runs in the family like Wallace and Luella at the fair he laughed wow pops rolled out an entire volume of the Spencer family history in one sitting that must have been a long breakfast long enough to get the goods on you she teased oh no now I'm worried she rested her head against him savoring how safe she felt in his arms so he began are you feeling a little cooped up in the cabin I was earlier but I'm not now that you're here you do say the most marvelous things he said tightening his hold on her and kissing the top of her head what if I told you I have a surprise for you anticipation thrummed through her veins as she turned to look at him I love surprises what is it she asked eagerly would you like to go skiing at bearclaw Resort today yeah this afternoon Addy can get us all fixed up with the gear the idea of learning how to ski was glorious she wrinkled her nose what if someone recognizes me that would be highly unlikely with your trusty Wig It goggles and a snowsuit his eyes sparked in a challenge you game it only took her half a second to reach a decision absolutely a crooked smile tugged at his lips making him look adorable you like that word don't you absolutely he groaned uh pop started something he removed his arm from her shoulders sitting up all right put your wig back on and let's get out of here his voice quivered with excitement I can't wait to show you Birchwood Springs there's no place more beautiful after a fresh snow afterwards I thought you could make us some sausage gravy and biscuits that sounds Divine then his voice went husky as he trailed a finger down the length of her hair I can make a fire and we can talk his eyes lingered on her lips or practice a slow burn tingled through her stomach practice is great she said said softly leaning in for another kiss chapter 18 for a rookie Delany was doing quite well after a short tutorial by one of the instructors she had gone down the bunny slope as soon as she did her first run she pumped her fist victoriously in the air letting out a loud whoop Corbin loved the fire in this girl are you ready for something a little more challenging let me go down the bunny slope a couple more times and I'll be ready you want to do this one with me the excitement in her voice caused him to smile coming out here was a good idea giving them both a chance to decompress Delaney didn't know it but before they left the cabin Corbin had made a quick call to Sutton verifying that Hugh and his men were still in Northern Cal he explained that he was taking Delany to bearclaw Resort for the afternoon he wanted Sutton to know where they'd be in case anything unexpected happened a couple hours later they were were in the lodge sitting in front of a toasty fire their hands wrapped around steaming mugs of hot chocolate when Corbin glanced over and saw Madison Wells approaching crap it had been against his better judgment to bring Delany into the lodge but she was cold and wanted something warm to drink he wished he could jump up and take her out of here this instant he cringed at the cheerful ring in Madison's voice Corbin Spencer I didn't realize you were back in town Madison was the blonde pppy cheerleader type her voice oozed sweetness as she flushed a bright smile dutifully Corbin stood as she stepped up to him and gave him a tight hug hey she said in an intimate tone you should have called and let me know you were in town he stepped back clearing his throat as he tightened his hold on the handle of the mug he motioned at Delaney Who Rose to her feet um Madison this is my girlfriend d Madison's face tightened going blistering red she shot Delany a vehement look than seemed to realize how she was coming across a strained smile stretched over her face as she held out her hand hello it's nice to meet you Delany slipped her free hand through Corbin stepping closer to him nice to meet you too you have the cutest accent Madison said with such condescension that it made Corbin cringe where are you from Alabama Delaney shot back giving her a Steely look oh Alabam Madison twinged how cute her phony Southern draw graded on Corbin's nerves everything about Madison Wells got on his nerves which was why he was so glad he'd ended things with her a long time ago hurt clouded Madison's eyes I didn't realize you had a girlfriend before he could answer she turned turned to Delany looking her up and down huh she grunted I beg your pardon Delany said Corbin had to bite back a smile loving how territorial Delany was acting he still couldn't believe that this stunning amazing woman was with him Madison laughed I'm just surprised her lips turned down in a frown as she zeroed in on delany's hair Corbin has always preferred blondes she flipped the ends of her shoulder link platinum hair giving Delany a smug look Delany turned to him her eyes dancing is that right good to now she mused a bewildered expression crossed Madison's featers Corbin was ready for the diva to go away but it was obvious that she had no intention of leaving just yet I missed you core Madison drawled thrusting out her lower lip in a petulant pout she looked at Delaney a conspiratorial chuckle rumbling in her throat as she touched Corbin's arm how strong is your relationship with b anyway it's D Corbin said firmly and its Ironclad Madison's face fell at the same time Delany went rigid gorbin was sure that if he looked at Delaney right now he'd see steam coming from her ears Madison had always been caddy one of the reasons why the two of them didn't work out that and she was too clingy and bossy about the the only thing Madison Wells had going for her was her looks but even then she couldn't hold a candle to Delaney and Delany had class whereas Madison didn't ironic considering Delaney was born into poverty and Madison with a silver spoon in her mouth it just went to prove that true culture and class had more to do with the inner person than privileges they were given at Birth I'm just teasing Madison purred laughing lightly her brows furrowed as she studied Delaney have we met before no Delany said stiffly Madison cocked her head you look so familiar what's your last name Smith Delany tightened her hold on Corbin's arm he glanced at her noticing that her face had gone pale alarm reflected in her eyes I could swear I've seen you before or or someone like you Madison continued Corbin could feel the huntress going in for the kill well maybe I look like someone you know Delany said maybe Madison pursed her lips H it'll come to me I never forget a face silence dragged like a lead ball between them well Madison finally said in a chipper Bambi voice nice to meet you de she smiled but her eyes remained cold she looked at Corbin her tone going silky good to see you to core before he realized what was happening she leaned in and gave him a kiss on the lips then she patted his cheek and laughed one for Old Time sake she looked at Delaney better hold on to him oh I will Delany countered a bite in her voice Madison sniffed and sauntered away when Delany turned to him her eyes were blazing so that was Madison Wales yep he knew knew instinctively that the less he said the better she put the mug of hot chocolate down on the side table why did the two of you break up the last thing he wanted to do was rehash his past relationships with Delaney because Madison was controlling Vain and not exactly the nicest person as you've just witnessed he rolled his eyes she scoffed that's an understatement I guess the more appropriate question is how in the heck did you you ever pair up with her to begin with he sighed she was a cheerleader I was a football player I was young a smile played on delany's lips and stupid yep that too he chuckled well at least you had the good sense to get away from her Amen to that he turned to face her had you been in the picture I never would have started dating medicine Delany blinked in Surprise a smile tipping her lips you're certainly Charming just telling the truth he glanced around putting down the mug now would be a good time for us to leave before someone recognizes you straight out good idea that was a close call yeah too close hey you two how did the skiing go they turned as Addie stepped up to them they'd have a short conversation with Addie and then leave really well Corbin said said de D is a quick learner Delaney smiled your brother's being very kind I did okay on the bunny slope but biffed on the green circle I'm sure I'll be sore tomorrow you did great for your first run Corbin said and he meant it Addie tucked a loose curl behind her ear I had intended to look for you earlier but it has been non-stop today people coming in drove to take advantage of the fresh powder no worries Corbin assured her he slid his arm around delany's waist we've been just fine I can see that Addie said her eyes sparkling she brought her hands together what are you doing tonight oh not too much Corbin said evasively not wanting to have to share Delany with anyone just spending time together couple stuff ah I get it three is a crowd Addie said no that's not the case at all Delaney argued red-faced yes that's exactly the case Corbin said firmly Delaney shoved him hey don't be rude to your sister thank you Addie said jutting out her chin I'm glad one of you appreciates me she stuck her tongue out at Corbin hey I appreciate you I just want to spend more time with my woman he teased Delany was shooting him warnings with her eyes but he just laughed all right I won't interrupt your little Love Fest tonight so long as you leave tomorrow afternoon open Corbin studied his little sister wondering what plan she was concocting in her curly head why is that because I'm taking off early and we're going to the Care Center to visit Graham Corbin sucked in an audible breath dread pouring over him I don't think that'll work sis geez pops and Addie were tag teaming him why was it so important for him to visit the stent stupid Care Center Graham wouldn't even know he was there her hand flew to her hip eyes narrowing why not Delany and I have other plans he said crisply Addie shook her head who's Delaney he cleared his throat his face going warm oops he hadn't meant for that to slip out just as he feared his personal Hang-Ups were clouding his judgment um I mean d oh Addie looked back and forth between them suspicion forming on her face is there something going on I need to know about a streak of fear shot through Corbin he glanced at Delaney who looked like she might pass out he forced a smile no sis it's all good awesome then I'll meet you at the Care Center at 3: p.m. tomorrow she jutted out her chin daring him to disagree you can come too de or Delaney it's Corbin corrected sharply and I told you tomorrow won't work well maybe we should go to the Care Center he turned surprised that Delany had spoken she gave him a tender look we're all about Fresh Starts it'll do you good to see your grandmother and I'd like to meet her you would he gulped absolutely it was amazing how fast Delany had diffused the tension everything hung in the balance he couldn't believe he was actually considering going but he did want Delaney to meet Graham all right he finally said we'll go had he really just agreed to this could he stand seeing Graham in her State the truth was he wasn't sure but knowing that Delaney would be by his side made the situation tolerable sounds good Eddie clipped see you both tomorrow she patted Corbin's arm I've got a run you two enjoy the rest of your day and and Your Love Fest she CED when she got a couple of steps away from them she turned and blew a kiss over her shoulder laughter in her eyes laugh fest huh Delaney mused I'm sorry about Addie he began with a pained expression she can be a pill sometimes Delaney waved a hand no worries I like her he tipped his head you do yeah she's got bunk she chuckled she obviously knows how to put you in your place maybe I should get some pointers from her he laughed oh I think you do a pretty good job of putting me in my place all on your own as he gazed into her mysterious dark eyes he couldn't help but feel lucky he would go to the end of the Earth for Delaney Mitchell or to the Care Center which was the harder task of the two chapter 19 as they drove to the Care Center delany's mind skipped back to the previous night spending time with Corbin had been So Glorious that her feet had hardly touched the ground sense it was crazy that she was feeling so joyous in the face of impending danger with Hugh biscuits were temperamental especially at higher elevations but they turned out perfect as did the sausage and gravy Corbin ate so much she was afraid he'd make make himself sick afterwards they cuddled in front of a fire sharing long drugging kisses until late in the evening Delany was eager to find out everything she could about Corbin she asked him questions about what it was like to grow up in Birchwood Springs as he shared memories of growing up in a comfortable stable home she couldn't help but compare his upbringing with her chaotic past she'd shared a few experiences with him how there was never much food in the trailer how the treny officer was always on their case due to the large amount of school Delan Miss how there'd always been random men coming and going until Hugh entered the picture she let out a bitter laugh to think I was actually excited when Hugh Allen and my mom started seeing each other because we no longer had to worry about scraping rent money together Hugh threw money around like it was paper and I could buy whatever I wanted to eat Corbin expression had gone solemn as he pulled her into his arms and held her close just as she drifted off to sleep she heard him say that he loved her she glanced at his rugged profile his hands on the steering wheel Corbin had been unusually quiet since they left the cabin are you okay for a second he looked surprised that she'd spoken then an automatic smile crossed his lips yeah but he wasn't okay okay fear clutched her was he having second thoughts about them maybe he regretted telling her that he loved her she took in a breath willing herself to calm down she couldn't keep assuming the worst every second Corbin was probably just nervous about visiting his grandmother he pulled into an empty parking space taking in a deep breath thanks for coming with me a slight smile touched his lips she reached for his hand which was cold do you want to talk about it she asked searching his face his lips pulled into a Top Line no I just want to get this over with when's the last time you came here never her eyes widened never no wonder he was so keyed up and no wonder Addie made such a big deal about him coming he got out of the SUV and came around to open her door as he helped her out she real ized he was shaking it'll be all right she said putting a hand on his arm he nodded forcing a smile let's do this a middle-aged woman with a cap of shiny red hair and lipstick to match was sitting behind the reception desk she smiled brightly in recognition as they walked through the door Corbin Spencer she boomed this is a nice surprise it's great to see you good to see you too Tina he said mechanically she came around the desk and gave him a hug then looked him up and down with open appreciation you look great as usual Addie and your grandpa come in all the time but I never see you Tina continued I'm glad you were able to make it by she turned to Delaney I'm Tina Johnson D Delany clasped Tina's hand in a firm Shake nice to meet you Tina smiled broadly wing ing at Corbin is she your girlfriend yes he said matter of factly well she's a beauty I would have expected nothing less from you she motioned to the empty waiting room as she went back to her desk and picked up the handset of her phone have a seat I'll let the nurses know you're here Addie's meeting us Corbin said Tina nodded sounds good no sooner had she spoken the words that Addie came through the double glass doors hey Tina she said flashing a smile then she saw Delany and Corbin in the waiting room she went to them giving each a hug her eyes stopped at Corbin you okay Delany looked at him realizing he'd gone pale he nodded his teeth clinched so tight a marble had formed in the corner of his jaw it'll be all right Delaney said giving him a reassuring Smile as she touched his arm he seemed to relax a fraction at her touch a nurse in her early 20s opened the side door hi I'm Judy come on back she said with a Brisk smile you came at a good time she said looking back at them over her shoulder as they followed her down the hall Miss lell is awake when they reached the room Addie walked right in but Corbin paused at the threshold Delany could feel the inner turmoil churning inside him almost as though it were her own she saw a flash of panic in his eyes you can do this she willed him to look at her I'll be right beside you he took in a deep breath nodding look who came to see you Eddie said in a high-pitched voice a volume too loud Delany stepped into the room practically pulling Corbin with her her heart sank when she saw the frail woman lying in the bed Luella was a wai probably not weighing a 100 pounds her silver hair was short but so thin on top that only a few wisps covered her scalp she turned to look at them a blank expression on her face it's me and Corbin Graham Addie said kindly Luella clutched her night gown her splotched leathery skin was so paper thin that the veins under her hand looked like a blue rake Delaney looked at Corbin who had tears running down down his cheeks tentatively he moved to her bedside Graham he uttered tears bubbled from Addie's eyes as she smiled I think she's happy to see you you should talk to her Delaney stayed close to Corbin's side this is my girlfriend Delaney Corbin said Delany caught the look of surprise on Addie's face realized Corbin had called her Delany again instead of D but it was better to let that slide right now hi Luella Delan said softly Wallace told me what a remarkable woman you are her voice hitched I know he was right because I can see how much your grandchildren love you lel's lower lips started working as she wound a hand around her night gown she seemed to be concentrating like she was trying to remember something applesauce she croaked do you want want applesauce Addie asked looking at Judy who was standing in the corner as if to give them plenty of space and yet still be close enough to offer assistance if needed Judy stepped up Miss Luella had applesauce this morning for breakfast didn't you she went to the bed and adjusted the pillows behind luella's back let's help you sit up so you can visit no Luella cried out in annoyance pushing Judy Delany flinched the Outburst taking her by surprise she looked at Corbin could tell he was trying to hold it together she rubbed her hand up and down his arm hoping it would soothe him now Luella Judy began in a cheerful tone don't hit she looked around the room meeting everyone's eyes she gets excited when she has visitors just give her a second to adjust she stepped back against the wall I'm sorry Corbin's voice grew strangled as he gulped and tried again I'm sorry I haven't been here for you he looked at Addie I'm sorry I left you holding the bag long pause his shoulders shook I just couldn't stand to see her like this I know Addie said tears falling freely down her cheeks she smiled slightly we all just get through it the best we can she turned to Luella Graham Corbin came to see you Corbin stepped forward and ever so gently placed a hand over luella's for a second it looked like she might yank her hand away but instead she peered intently into Corbin's face like she was searching for something for an instant the cloudiness in her eyes parted her mouth formed the word a Whisper Of Sound issuing out core she knows Addie said putting a hand over her heart she laughed and cried at the same time she knows you're here in the next second luella's expression changed Going to anger then fear as she jerked her hand from underneath Corbin go away she yelled pushing his arm with surprising strength Judy stepped up now miss Luella be nice she said in a soothing voice like she was speaking to a child she offered Corbin an apologetic smile I'm sorry but the heavy drugs make her irritable Corbin frowned heavy drugs for the pain Judy explained the doctors keep Miss Luella sedated most of the time Fury flashed in Corbin's eyes as he glared at Judy so they won't have to deal with her outbursts she gave him a funny look no because of the brain caner the only sound in the room was a ragged intake of Corbin's breath his knees buckled as he caught hold of the metal footboard on the bed for support he looked at Addie through crazed eyes Graham has brain cancer pops and I didn't know how to tell you she stammered that's why we wanted you to come here to find a way to tell her goodbye she looked to Delaney for help but Delaney could only shake her head Corbin's face turned a shade darker his eyes blazing Delany shrank back afraid he might punch something instead he straightened his shoulders and bald his fists let's go he roared turning on his heel and storming out Delany looked at Addie who spread her hands in defeat then rushed to catch up with him chapter 20 Corbin raised the axe and brought it down full force the blade slicing into the dense wood of The Chopping Block he pulled the Blade free and raised the Hax High bringing it down again curses flew from his mouth his mind on fire as he hit the block again and again tears mixed with his rage as he used every last bit of strength he possessed to obliterate the block it was so utterly unfair Not only was Graham robbed of her mind but now she was dying and pops and Addie hadn't told him what would have happened if he hadn't come home would they have waited until Graham passed to tell him that she had cancer when his was spent he dropped the ax blade to the ground keeping hold of the handle his shoulders slumped his breaths came in short bursts sending puffs of steam into the air after they left the Care Center Delaney had tried to offer Comfort but he barely heard a word as he sped back to the cabin where he jumped out and grabbed the axe he glanced at the cabin and realized with a start that Delaney was pressed against the window watching him the stricken expression on her face said it all his blood ran cold as the knowledge pricked him like a thousand needles all at once Delany was afraid of his anger afraid of him when she realized he'd seen her she stepped back the lace curtain falling over her face shame covered him giving way to a numb coldness that touched every Speck of his body he lost himself in the scorching River of anger that raged through him giving no thought to how this might look to Delaney who was Ultra sensitive about violence considering her background he breathed out a heavy sigh as he put the axe away and trudged up the steps when he opened the door his eye caught on Delany sitting on the couch her hands clasped tightly a pinched expression on her tear stained face he ran both hands through his hair feeling like an idiot he removed his coat and put it on the rack before going to her side he sat down beside her I'm sorry he began touching her arm she Whirled around to face him don't tears pulled in her eyes her lower lip quivering I thought you were different the accusation mixed with hurt in her eyes made him want to crawl under the couch I am different the fact that she kept comparing him to tuck Allen was insulting how could she think he was like that monster a hard laugh gurgled in her throat clearly look I was was upset the news about Graham threw me for a loop I can understand you being upset angry she shuddered but what I can't tolerate is violence his voice Rose the anger resurfacing because I pounded a chopping block his eyes narrowed everyone gets upset Delany she hugged her arms but not everyone goes bzerk her dark eyes filled with fear I can't go through that again his jaw tightened through what I'm not a robot I have feelings his voice broke I just found out my grandmother's dying cut me a little slack here she bit her lower lip to stay the trembling for a second they sat looking at each other until she finally spoke I'm sorry about your grandmother I truly am but I can't be with someone who's so angry he rattled off a hard laugh yeah he was angry so Furious that it was roasting him from the inside out just because I'm angry doesn't mean that I'd ever hurt you tears slipped from her eyes and rolled down her cheeks I'm sorry she croaked but this isn't going to work Corbin couldn't believe what he was hearing she was giving up on him so soon before they even had a chance to get started just because he'd gotten mad and pulverized a chopping block I love you he said quietly does that mean anything to you the door opened pops's eyes rounded as he looked at the two of them is everything all right Delany hiccuped with emotion her hand going over her mouth excuse me she got up and fled the room a look of concern washed over pops what was that all about Corbin gave him a hard look why didn't you tell me about Graham the brain cancer pops blinked a couple of times rubbing a hand over his jaw I tried yesterday what Corbin flung back pop sat in the recliner I tried to tell you he began but you wouldn't listen you should have told me earlier earlier pops chuckled dryly I couldn't even get you to come home for a visit how was I supposed to tell you that you could have called pops's eyebrow shot up and na you self-destruct he rocked back I'd hardly think I'd self-destruct he muttered look it's been hard enough for you to come to terms with Luella being put in the Care Center he paused I didn't want to add insult to injury acid Rose in his throat you should have told me he shot pops a condemning look I'm not the enemy here son tears gathered in his eyes you don't think it's been hard for me to sit by helplessly watching my sweetheart deteriorate first her mind then her body I love her with all my heart I love her too a sob Rose in Corbin's chest I know it's not your fault it's my fault I couldn't come back I couldn't face it this time he was unable to stop the tears it's nobody's fault pops was at his side in two steps he sat down and put his arms around Corbin letting the grief flow out Delaney pulled her knees into her chest and wrapped her arms around them staring unseeingly ahead her life was a tangled mess maybe she'd overreacted but watching Corbin strike The Chopping Block over and over his face Twisted in Rage had jolted her to the core how many times had she seen the same ruthless look on Tuck's face before he vented his anger on her she shuddered her stomach churning would she ever be whole again free from the fear while her rational mind knew that it was wasn't fair to project tuck sins on Corbin her feelings screamed otherwise a knock sounded at the door go away she said reflexively she'd have to face Corbin sooner or later figure out if her reaction to his anger was valid or not but for now she just wanted to be left alone another knock she gritted her teeth i s go away why couldn't Corbin allow her some time to sort this through it's Wallace she jerked heat stinging her cheeks oh sorry hastily she wiped her tears with her Palms can I come in she didn't want to see anyone right now not even Wallace but she didn't want to be rude she blew out a long breath sure as he came in she smoothed down her shirt and sat up trying not to dwell on how horrible she must look Wallace sat down on the edge of the bed she frowned did Corbin send you in here to talk to me it wasn't right for Corbin to make his grandfather do his dirty work if Corbin wanted to talk to her he needed to face her himself no he doesn't even realize I'm in here really she eyed him to see if he was telling the truth Corbin went out she stiffened where to grab a pizza for dinner he paused and I suspect to apologize to to Addie for the way he reacted to luella's cancer how at least Corbin had the decency to apologize for being wrong this made her feel a little better about him and somewhat guilty for jumping the gun Wallace gave her a tentative look Corbin told me what happened with The Chopping Block she went to rub her hand through her hair realized the wig was there so she touched it instead you're probably thinking I'm nuts for getting so upset no not at all really the kindness in his eyes caused a lump to form in her throat after what you've been through it's understandable that you're upset she hugged her arms to ward off a shiver I've been trying to take your advice to feed the right wolf she paused but it's hard she let out a nervous laugh that other Wolf's not going down quietly I can tell you that while 's analogy had given her hope that she could change could Vanquish the old fears and start fresh but now she wondered if it was only a pipe dream be patient with yourself it takes time to reshape your thoughts but with persistence patience and a whole lot of prayer it'll happen more tears oh she felt like such a crybaby I don't know she looked away unable to face his probing gaze Delaney she was surprised that he'd called her Delaney yes Corbin cares about you and you care about him don't let fear keep you apart from him I can't be with a man who can't control his anger Wallace laughed then you're out of luck what not the answer she was expecting all men experience anger and frustration it's how we're wired men have to be Warriors to take care of their families he looked her in the eye the thing you fear most about Corbin is also what makes him great what draws you to him she grumbled out a laugh tell me about it I've always been attracted to the wrong sort of man he arched an eyebrow if you're including Corbin in that list then I'm a afraid I'm going to have to disagree with you she just looked at him at a loss for words sure Corbin's impetuous even Reckless at times but he has a heart of gold his eyes went moist which is why this thing with his grandmother's tearing him up inside he gave her a perceptive look it's why whatever happened to him in the military still haunts him the words burned into delany's breast with a conviction that surprised her Corbin was good in all the areas that counted Corbin has a temper he'll get mad and beat some inanimate object to a pulp but he would never hurt you his eyes held hers in fact his burning desire to keep you safe may be the thing that does you both in she frowned I don't understand I hope I'm not speaking out of turn here but I think Corbin is making a big mistake she leaned forward waiting for him to expound what do you mean she asked when he remained silent he cocked his head like he was gathering his thoughts the best way I can describe it is to tell you what happened to me once I was with a group of fellow Hunters tracking a grizzly bear that had mauled a hiker we track the bear for 20 or so Miles through the forest before we caught a glimpse of him one of my buddies shot him several times the grizzly kept going but we knew he'd been hit because of the trail of blood spots it was getting dark half the men wanted to go after the bear and put an end to the chase but the other half was tired wanted to set up camp and wait until daylight to track him after a few rounds of arguments the latter group won we found a place by a stream and set up camp for the night about 2: in the morning morning when everyone was asleep the enraged Grizzly charged into the camp as we were scrambling for cover and to get our rifles the bear killed three men and injured several others before we could put it down he paused had we gone after the bear lives would have been saved intensity burned in Wallace's eyes no matter how long you run Hugh Allen's going to eventually find you a shiver slithered down delany's spine Wallace was right there was no way they could evade Hugh forever you can't change that Wallace continued but what you can change is how and when he comes horror trickled over her as she caught the meaning of his words are you saying we should lure him here the thought of doing so had her quaking Wallace's jaw tightened that's exactly what I'm saying bring him to our territory where we'll be waiting that's the only hope you have of outsmarting him have you told this to Corbin his brows furrowed in frustration yes her mind Whirled trying to decide if Wallace was right what did he say Corbin won't even entertain the idea because he want so desperately to keep you safe but like I said while his intentions are noble it would be to your detriment in the end think of how much better off me and my Hunting Buddies would have been had the bear not caught us unaware why are you telling me this because Corbin loves you too much to voluntarily put you in danger her mind caught on the word love running it through her head a few times I love him too the thought caused her to jerk slightly she shook her head putting her Focus back on the problem at hand what do you want me to do a grim smile spread over Wallace's lips to be the bait lower the grizzly here to our trap she sucked in a breath fear settling like Stone in her gut could she do it be brave enough to face this or was luring Hugh Allen here utter stupidity she bit her lower lip trying to decide the best course of action I'll have to give it some thought she finally said Wallace nodded fair enough but don't let it sit too long because my gut tells me we're running out of time she went cold all over the knowledge settling into her like the march of Doom somehow in a way she couldn't explain she knew that Wallace was right their time was almost up chapter 21 when Corbin returned to the cabin after visiting with Addie and picking up pizza he figured he'd find Delaney locked in her room he was shocked when he walked through the door and found Delaney and Pops playing a game of checkers Crown me Delaney said triumphantly as she pushed her red Checker into the back row of pops's side of the board pops groaned not again at the rate you're getting kinged it's bound to be a short game Delany LED out a light laugh that tingled through Corbin's senses shooting Rays of Hope into his heart maybe things would be okay between him and Delaney he was sorry he lost his temper and vented it on the chopping block but he couldn't walk on eggshells around her 24/7 Corbin placed the pizza on the table who's hungry I'm starved Delany said Corbin was glad to see she had an appetite that was a good sign that her emotional state had improved let's pause our game and continue it tomorrow pop said with a s grin I'm not overly anxious to get whooped tonight Delaney laughed again shaking her head she cast a surreptitious glance at Corbin and he could tell she was nervous they needed to have a conversation to clear the air but it would have to wait until after dinner Corbin retrieved three glasses from the cabinet and reached for the 2 L bottle of soda then he grabbed three plates pops walked to the coat boat rack and reached for his jacket you're not staying for dinner Corbin asked hoping he wasn't so he could work things out with Delany in private no I need to get home he winked and three is a crowd a deep blush came over delany's face making her look so beautiful that Corbin nearly lost his breath he was falling hard for this woman but could they work through their problems if not he was headed for a major heartbreak I'll see you tomorrow pops he nodded Corbin felt closer to Pops tonight than he had in years the two of them had a breakthrough of sorts earlier Corbin was still torn up about Graham's condition but he no longer blamed the situation on pops or Addie truthfully he never had it was just an excuse to hold his own guilt at Bay seeing Graham realizing how bad off she was there was no way pops could take care of her at home Corbin and Addie had a quick but meaningful conversation where he told her how much he appreciated everything she'd done for their grandparents it was good to bury the hatchet and mend his family relationships now he hoped to do the same with Delaney after pops left they sat down at the table suddenly Corbin was nervous unsure what to say Delany cleared her throat when he reached for a slice of pizza he froze mid-action what she gave him a censuring look but there was a hint of amusement in her eyes which were silky pools of chocolate tonight the prior oh yeah he crawled up his neck would you like me to say it please religion had always been a key element of Corbin's growing up years so he was well-versed in how to pray there were times when he hadn't been consistent with his prayers particularly as after the ordeal in the Philippines when his anger and heartache had nearly consumed him nevertheless he had a strong belief in God and was glad Delaney did too he started his Prayer by expressing gratitude for the food and that they'd been kept safe then he asked for continued protection to see them through the ordeal with Hugh Allen pushing back emotion he gave thanks for Graham and asked that she be blessed to have very little pain he added that he was grateful for her long fruitful life and the many lives she touched including his lastly he expressed gratitude for Delaney and asked that she' be given added peace when he said amen and opened his eyes he noticed that Delaney had tears in her eyes are you okay she smiled slightly nodding yeah that was a beautiful prayer thank you he was surprised when she reached for his hand I'm sorry I freaked out earlier his heart melted a little I'm sorry I acted like a buffoon and took my anger out on The Chopping Block it's okay she Shrugged he searched her face if you didn't know it by now I have a temper I'm working on getting it under control but it comes out from time to time her eyes lit with laughter turning them a warm caramel you she asked in a mock astonishment no she pursed her lips come to think of it I might have guessed that when you laid out my 300 lb bodyguard in the middle of a party not one of my finer achievements he said dryly he looked her in the eye she was so beautiful strong yet vulnerable and in the short time they'd been together she was consuming him Body and Soul I know I'm a hotthead but you need to know that I would never hurt you I love you tears slipped from her eyes you're a good man Corbin Spencer I know you'd never hurt me she took in a deep breath I'm just trying to fight those demons she laughed remorsefully it's hard you know yes I do know we'll fight our demons together okay he held his breath awaiting her answer okay he breathed a sigh of relief knowing they could move forward yeah it would be awesome to know that Delan loved him too but it was early in the relationship like pop said he needed to be patient and give her time he released her hands I guess we should eat the pizza before it gets cold it looks delicious I'm glad you got a supreme it's my favorite he smiled another thing we have in common she chuckled the list is stacking up she took a large bite very good she said a minute later she reached for her napkin dapping her lips I oh I was thinking about the sweetheart dance tomorrow night I think we should go he nearly choked on his pizza what it would mean a lot to Addie she gave him a hopeful look and I'd like to dance with you Delaney was full of wonderful surprises his eyes caressed hers his voice going husky we could dance together tonight here in the cabin in front of a warm fire the very thought of dancing with Delaney holding her close swaying to soft music swirled anticipation through his veins colors seeped into her cheeks yeah we could she said evasively but it would mean a lot to Addie for us to go to the dance and I like to get dressed up and go out on the town absolutely not what if someone recognizes you Madison came close at the lodge we can't take another risk Madison came close but she didn't recognize me she touched her hair you have to admit I look so different with this thing on true he conceded but do you really think think we should chance it I think it'll be okay her eyes pled with his the lights will be low I'll wear extra makeup will you take me to the sweetheart dance please why was she being so stubborn he crossed his hands over his chest no irritation flashed in her eyes as she squared her jaw fine if you won't take me then I'll go by myself have you lost your mind you really want me to take you to a place packed with people she looked him in the eye I want to get dressed up go someplace as a couple forget about our problems for a few hours her voice quivered slightly is that too much to ask he sighed knowing how this would end the same way things had gone down when Graham wanted something from Pops eventually pops would always give her whatever she wanted as kids Corbin and Addie used to joke that Graham had pops wrapped around her little finger but for the first time Corbin understood the situation how could he say no to a woman like Delaney from the first moment he saw her all his thoughts had revolved around making her happy okay I'll take you she rewarded him with a dazzling smile thank you for the record I still think this is a bad idea duly noted she looked at him with an adoring expression I hope you know how much I appreciate this he softened what are you going to wear my red dress the one I wore for Sutton's party she frowned touching the wig I hope it looks okay with this hair color do you think the Reds will Clash I think you'll look stunning no matter what you wear he said sincerely thanks she murmured in appreciation her thick lashes brushing her cheekbones as she lowered her eyes to her plate the movement was subtle yet so distinctly feminine making Corbin want to jump up and pull her into his arms this very minute no better at least wait until they'd had a chance to eat dinner he thought of something he didn't have any formal clothes except for the white tucks stained with Anton's blood from the fight he'd have to take it to the cleaner first thing in the morning and see if they could do a rush job job and make it look decent enough to wear he thought of his upcoming phone call to Sutton this evening maybe it was better not to mention that he was taking Delaney to a public dance Sutton wouldn't approve too much risk of exposure while they were at the dance Corbin would have to do his best to make sure the two of them stayed out of the Limelight he glanced at Delaney who is he kidding a woman like her could never be kept in the shadows even with the wig she was a walking bombshell last night during their phone call Sutton mentioned the possibility of surrounding Hugh and his men in Northern Cal and putting a stop to this whole business Corbin was all for that as he wanted to hunt Hugh down from the start according to Sutton his team on the ground was doing a little more research to make sure they had covered all the angles before Sutton made a final decision Corbin made a mental note to ask Sutton about it tonight if the threat were removed in the next 24 hours the dam would be a non-issue that would be the best solution a long shot perhaps but it was something to hope for are you okay he forced a smile yeah why Delaney studied him you had a funny look on your face it was uncanny how perceptive she was at picking up on his feelings I was just lamenting my lack of dancing skills she laughed he's that right yep her eyes sparkled well I guess I'll have to teach you a few steps her gaze moved over him in that slow sultry way that sizzled his blood for practice sake a smile broke over his lips I'm all about practice chapter 22 the bearclaw resort was brimming with people Corbin placed his hand on the Small of delany's Back maneuvering her through the crowd as he nodded at familiar faces a guy stepped in front of them wearing a large smile hey buddy I didn't know you were back in town he gave Corbin's hand a hearty Shake Scott Linton and Corbin played High School football together Corbin hadn't seen Scott in several years might not have recognized him out of context gangle in high school Scott had put on at least 50 lb good to see you Scott yeah yeah you too man he turned to Delany who's the babe babe seriously Scott was certainly lacking in the manners Department this is my girlfriend D Corbin said cooly nice to meet you Delany clipped picking up on Corbin's annoyance Scott didn't try to hide his appreciation as he looked her up and down you're certainly elevating the class here tonight thanks Delany said with a surprised laugh Corbin saw Addie across the room a welcome distraction take care we're going over to say hello to my sister Scott nodded stepping back to let them by they pushed past him good to see you Scott called after them Addie broke into a smile when she saw them I'm so glad you came she hugged Delany first then Corbin you both look fantastic thanks they said simultaneously they turned the same direction as Addie their backs against the wall facing the crowd a wicked light came into Addie's eye as she gave Corbin the once over she turned to Delaney what I want to know is how the heck did you convince my brother to wear a tux Corbin chuckled because D has the art of persuasion down to a science that's how delany's eyebrows shot up really yes really he countered placing his arm around her waist drawing her close I believe someone promised me a dance he murmured in her ear she turned and looked up into his eyes it would be my pleasure excuse us Addie he said sweeping Delany into his arms and pulling her onto the Dance Floor he loved having Delany this close marveled at how petite she was she was an excellent dancer moving in perfect step with him despite his misgivings about safety he was suddenly glad they came if all was going according to plan Sutton and his guys were moving in on Hugh right about now hopefully by the time Corbin and Delaney returned to the cabin it would all be over Corbin had been tempted to tell Delaney all that was happening but didn't want to cause her any additional stress it was better to let things unfold then tell her when it was over he pulled her closer then leaned in and nuzzled her ear you're so beautiful he uttered he lowered his mouth to her earlobe planting a light string of kisses down her slender neck she melted into him resting her head on his shoulder the song ended All Too Soon Corbin hoped the band would play another slow song but they played a fast one instead Delaney pulled away from him you want to dance to this one he wasn't in the mood to fast dance but would Delaney wanted to she Shrugged we could or we could go back and talk to Addie let's catch up with Addie he said quickly they walked to where they'd last been standing but Addie wasn't there Delaney pointed she's dancing Corbin spotted Addie with a tall darkhaired guy that he'd never seen before her smile was a mile wide and she was dancing her heart out she waved when she realized they were watching her your sister's spunky Delaney said admiringly yes she is Corbin chuckled she looks very pretty in her blue dress did she Corbin looked yes Addie did look good Corbin had been too consumed with delany's fantastic looks to pay attention to anyone else well well didn't expect to see you here tonight a deep voice rumbled Corbin turned as Sheriff Cliff Hendrick approached the old Sheriff had gone gray and developed a Ponch since Corbin had last seen him but he still wore the same disapproving scowl Corbin remembered the sheriff's bushy brows bunched what are you doing here Spencer the hair on Corbin's neck stood there had never been any love lost between him and Sheriff Hendricks in the sheriff's eyes Corbin had always been a loser hello Cliff Sheriff hendrickx frowned like he didn't appreciate Corbin using his first name he looked at Delaney who are you he asked bluntly Delany arched an eyebrow her eyes sparking the name's D she shot back and who might you be gorbin laughed inwardly when the man's face went red it had taken all of two seconds for Delaney to put the old gezer in his place I'm the sheriff he blustered she didn't back down an inch do you have a name he blinked rapidly uh Cliff Hendricks nice to meet you Cliff she said the sheriff turned to Corbin his eyes narrowing I don't want you causing any trouble irritation scorched through Corbin he tried to think of a rebuttal but Delany reacted first she laughed lightly are you always this friendly to guests Corbin told me how nice the people of birch wood Springs were but he might have to retract that statement the sheriff's eyes bulged from where I'm standing the only one causing trouble is you she continued we were minding our own business until you came up she flashed a cheery smile if you'll excuse us we're going to get some punch it was nice meeting you Cliff she let her voice hang a little on his name as she lifted her chin in the air and walked regally towards the refreshment table it was all Corbin could do not to hoot in the old Sheriff's face as he hurried to catch up with her wow that was incredible you cut old Cliff down to size I would give anything to have that on video she didn't stop walking until they reached the table when she turned he realized she was livid that man was intolerable she hissed yes he is she shook her head what's his problem Cliff's always been a pompous jerk he got it in for me when I soaped up the fountains in the front of the bank where his wife worked a laugh gurgled in her throat are you serious yep and then there was the time he caught me sneaking into this very ski resort she shook her head you were a menace he drew his lips together I'm afraid so a smile tugged at his lips but I'm a changed man now she put a hand on her hip try telling that to the poor chopping block you destroyed he wced I guess I deserve that she cocked her head like she' just thought of something it must have been hard to come back here when people like the sheriff have so little regard for you yeah I suppose becoming back has made me realize that for every person like Sheriff Hendrick there are lots of good people too his eyes held hers the main reason I brought you here was because I knew I could keep you safe of course coming to the public party wasn't part of the plan but so far everything seems to be going okay she gave him a radiant smile thank you for what she touched his cheek for B and you a few minutes later after they'd gotten their fill of punch and cookies Delany motioned at the stage who's the band I don't know someone local I guess I've never heard of them before she pursed her lips they're pretty good he made a face I would hardly call singing Off K and fumbling over the lyrics good she laughed don't be mean she motioned with her head Let's Get Closer watch them perform ah the truth comes out you're wishing you were up there performing it's hard to be a peon in the audience he teased after you've gotten a taste of stardom don't worry you'll be back up there before you know it she rolled her eyes whatever she tugged on his hand come on delany's nerves were jumping like a scared rabbit had they not been in a crowded place she was sure Corbin would have picked up on her emotional state by now Wallace's bare story kept running through her mind he was right time was running out she could feel it but she didn't want to do anything to harm Corbin or his family Wallace assured her that everything would be okay but what if he was mistaken he'd never met Hugh didn't realize how ruthless Hugh was still it would be better to face Hugh when they were prepared he would find them eventually she offered up a silent prayer asking for courage to do what must be done they were standing near the stage watching the band Corbin was right the group of middle-aged men weren't very good but the audience didn't seem to mind Corbin's arm was draped over her shoulders as they swayed to the Beat of the Music hey there Madison Wells chirped loudly as she threaded through the people to reach their side Delan cringed not that dreadful woman again hey Madison Corbin said dully the pained look on his face was so obvious that Delaney couldn't help but chuckle Madison gave her a blistering look what's so funny I'm nothing Delany said nonchalantly just wondering when you're going to get a clue that Corbin is taken she added mentally remember when we came to a sweetheart dance together Corbin Madison asked her tone going intimate it was right here on this very floor we danced every dance and then afterwards we went back to my house her eyes took on a dreamy look you played the guitar and sang that song you wrote for me then we got into the hot tub together she giggled well I'm sure I don't need to remind you about that it certainly imprinted on my mind and heart hot needles rained down on Delany as she looked at Corbin's strangled expression then she saw the look of Triumph on Madison's face it took every ounce of control she could muster to keep from clocking the idiotic woman time to act her mind screamed at the same moment Corbin cleared his throat like he was trying to come up with something to say that would smooth things over before she could talk herself out of it Delaney took off the wig her hair tumbling around her shoulders tonight she'd left off the hairnet and fixed the wig Loosely on her head for this very purpose Madison's eyes bugged as Corbin narrowed you're Delany Mitchell Madison stammered she threw her head back tossing a hand through her hair in the flesh she said loudly what are you doing Corbin muttered before he could grab her arm she rushed forward and climbed onto the stage the music dribbled off as the musicians stopped playing one by one gaping at her like she was a ghost murmurs rustled through the crowd she smiled brightly stepping up to the lead singer may I of course he gave her an enamored grin as he handed her the microphone and stepped back Showtime good evening Birchwood Springs she boomed it's a pleasure to be here with you tonight thunderous Applause rippled through the audience it's Delany Mitchell a man yelled I'd like to sing one of my favorites a song about my home state of Alabama she looked at the man holding the guitar may I of course he said proudly removing the strap and handing it to her Delaney could only imagine what Corbin must be thinking but she was doing what had to be done she started playing and singing the band joined in shortly she was only halfway through the song when she saw Corbin striding towards her a furious expression on his handsome face he took her arm let's go he hissed in her ear she jerked out of his grasp continuing the song I said let's go he repeated before she could protest he put his arms around her waist and threw her over his shoulder the guitar falling noisily to the floor booze rang out across the audience as he carried her off stage put me down she demanded beating his shoulders and kicking he paid her no mind carrying her through the backstage area and out the exit door of all a humiliating things to do I said put me down she screamed finally he did so dropping her on the ground where she landed Square on her rear end ouch she yelped he ran both his hands through his hair a look of disbelief on his face he pointed at the resort what was all that about are you trying to get yourself killed she jumped to her feet on the contrary I'm trying to save us how by letting the whole world know where you are by luring the bear to us the whites of his eyes popped what Wallace told me the story about the bear and how people got killed because it attacked when they were unaware He barked out an incredulous laugh are you talking about that stupid bear story pops tells she rocked back yeah but it wasn't a story it really happened to him and his Hunting Buddies he shook his head in disgust yeah it happened but the story gets bigger with the bear growing more ferocious and more people dying every time he tells it she gulped in a breath horror trickling down her spine Wallace said that Hugh would eventually find us and that it would be better here where we can get prepared he swore the old man's losing it oh my gosh he lamented I can't believe he went behind my back and convinced you to do something so stupid people in the audience were videoing you Delaney it won't take long for the word to get out that you're here she jutted out her chin I know that was the point and it wasn't stupid what he fired back she straightened her shoulders looking him in the eye it wasn't stupid she repeated your grandfather's right we can't keep running we have to face Hugh on our own terms on our own turf that's the only chance we have the truth of her words settled into her heart as she spoke them letting her know she'd made the right decision Heaven favors the righteous cause she said quietly are you listening to yourself 's a coldblooded killer there was a crazed look on his face she balled her fists don't you think I know that her voice Rose she locked eyes with him I'm tired of running we have to end this thing once and for all he shook his head sounding weary and defeated I want it to be over too but at the end of this I want you to still be breathing she stepped closer to him look at me he grunted I said look at me she ordered reluctantly he turned his eyes to hers it'll be okay Wallace is right the only way around this thing is to face it head on I want a laugh with you Corbin Spencer a lump formed in her throat I love you he blinked in Surprise a tiny smile flickering over his lips I can't believe you said it out loud she touched his face like I said I want a life with you Corbin Spencer a good long fruitful laugh away from Fear do you understand what I'm saying his eyes went soft I love you too and I want that same thing good we're in agreement she squared her jaw from this point forward no more running a resolved expression came over him reminding her how much of a warrior he really was no more running he repeated a fierce light shining in his eyes chapter 23 pieces started falling like dominoes when Corbin and Delaney got back to the cabin Addie came in behind them demanding to know why Corbin hadn't told her delany's real identity tears Rose in Addie's eyes when Delaney told her all that was happening she looked at Corbin fear streaking her expression as she asked what are we going to do a second later Corbin's secure phone buzzed it was Sutton saying that he'd seen the video of Delaney online then he dropped a whammy a shootout had taken place when his guys tried to capture Hugh three of Sutton's guys had been killed along with the woman posing as Delaney Hugh had killed her himself after he found out she wasn't Delaney Hugh had lost half a dozen men but probably didn't give it a second thought Sutton was sure Hugh was on his way to Colorado Corbin's gut churned pops was a fool he'd put them all in danger Sutton was sending a team of guys in a private plane due to arrive in less than 3 hours while that was great Corbin knew he couldn't trust Delany and now his family's fate to a group of strangers there was only one thing he could do it would require him to eat Humble Pie but that was okay he'd do whatever was necessary he punched in a familiar number please answer he prayed hello Zane hey it's Corbin a pause came over the line Corbin tightened his hold on the phone you still there yeah just surprised to hear from you he swallowed I've got a situation here I'm going to need your help and the help of Seal Team 7 Zayn grunted in Surprise it must be serious if you're calling it's a matter of life and death another pause and then all right I'm listening in the matter of a few hours the cabin was swarming with Sutton Security Guys Delaney could sense the nervousness of the group oozing like toxins into the air Corbin told her about the shootings in Northern Cal and how Hugh had killed her double out of spite alarm trickled down her spine sending chills racing over her body her throat constricted making it hard to get a good breath she put a hand over her chest willing herself to calm down as she stared at the Mindless comedy show blaring on the TV Canon a former seal from Corbin's team sat down beside her a friendly smile on his face how you doing all right she said hugging her arms there was a hint of faint laughter in his eyes that good huh well as good as a Sitting Duck can be she quipped why had she listened to Wallace she was going to die they all were Panic sliced through her as she looked at Corbin he was sitting at the kitchen table intently talking to blae and S two other former members of his Seal Team Delany could sense tension between the group and Corbin knew it was because of what happened in the Philippines but she could tell Corbin was grateful to have them here it'll be all right Canon assured her I've been given the personal task of looking after you and I can assure you no one will get past me or my weapons a laugh gurgled in her throat earlier the former SEAL team members were teasing Canon about the arsenal of weapons he carried on his person he glanced at the table Corbin's been through a lot losing his best friend and everything else that happened I know his eyebrow arched as he turned to her how much do you know all of it Doug the little girl how Corbin disobeyed orders he let out a low whistle rubbing a hand over his jaw wow Corbin told you all of that she nodded wondering if she should have told him he must really care about you a lot he mused yes she admitted and I about him she paused wondering if she should say more the words tumbled from her mouth almost of their own accord for the record Corbin regrets what happened and he really appreciates y'all coming to help I'm glad we could be here River would have come too but he's on another assignment from Sutton regardless of how this ends I want you to know how much I appreciate y'all coming and supporting us her voice cracked it means a lot he offered a reassuring smile the Lord is on our side her heart lightened a little yes I believe that too Corbin looked out of the window the first light of dawn was splashing across the hazy Sky 30 minutes ago he'd received word from one of Sutton's men that Hugh and his goons had arrived in town from what they could tell there were seven of them including Hugh the plan was for Sutton's men to stay on the perimeter of the property and keep watch for Hugh and his men to arrive blae and Addie would go to the care center and watch over Graham while Zayn went to pops's cabin and looked after him Corbin and Canon would stay here with Delaney Sutton security team would allow Hugh's guys to break the perimeter as soon as Hugh approached this cabin Zayn and pops would follow behind them pinning them in despite the bad blood between them Corbin was intensely grateful that his former Seal Team came so quickly to help proving that no matter what happened in the past they'd always be brothers in the end despite the bad blood between them Corbin was intensely grateful that the former SEAL team members came so quickly to help proving that no matter what happened in the past they'd always be brothers in the end Sutton had provided them with bulletproof vests radios and enough artillery to start World War II Corbin did a check blae how you doing all clear here Thor how about you everything's good here Zayn laughed Wallace is telling me about the grizzly bear that dumb story is what's got us into this mess Corbin grumbled take everything the old man says with a grain of salt I'll be sure to tell him you said that Zayn teased Corbin groaned loudly the man's tough a real life Jack Reacher Zayn said A Touch of admiration in his voice yeah pops is tough Corbin admitted but not Invincible contrary to what he believes I hear you Zan chortled same goes for all of us brother amen Corbin smiled at the reference things were still tense between him and Zayn after all Zayn was the CEO of the Rescue Mission in the Philippines and took it as a personal insult that Corbin defied his orders but the fact that Zayn had rushed to help and brought in the troop spoke volumes Corbin vowed then and there that he'd return the favor anytime it was needed the radio crackled he was about to check in on Sutton's guys when he heard shots followed by shouts we're under attack a man screamed And So It Begins Corbin said under his breath he looked at Canon who tightened his hold on his assault rifle delany's face drained she was sitting on the floor in front of a couch down low and away from the windows what's happening she demanded Hugh's here Corbin said his men broke through the perimeter as planned Sutton's guys know what to do to make it look real she nodded biting her lower lip a series of loud pops sounded through the radio he heard shattering glass and explosions bigger than rifles and pistols could make causing his blood to run cold take cover zann yelled grenades Flash flashbangs rocket launchers Corbin's heart dropped had they underestimated their opponent zann are you there Zane he yelled silence Corbin clutched his rifle willing himself to remain calm Zayn was more than capable of handling himself in any situation he had to hold on to the hope that he and pops would be okay the next 5 minutes rolled by excruciatingly slow relief pelted through him when he heard zay's voice Corbin you okay Corbin yelled into the radio we have a situation Zayn said his voice tight and controlled okay weariness trickled over Corbin as he glanced at Canon who also looked concerned send Dolores out if you want your buddy and your grandpa to live a scratchy voice hissed into the radio Delaney let out a cry oh no her hands went to her mouth Corbin inched to the window and looked out a cold sweat broke across his forehead when he saw Zay and pop standing with their hands up guns pointed at their backs Delany jumped to her feet tears Welling in her eyes I have to go out there she cried he'll kill your friend and Wallace without blinking an eye a sobb wrenched her throat as she rung her hands I Was a Fool to bring you here an image of Doug flashed through Corbin's mind his lifeless stare eyes like glass then he saw the little girl heard the mother's shrieks his throat thickened as he swallowed hard Corbin sucked in a breath trying to clear his head Panic was knocking at the door and he knew it wouldn't take much for that Panic to turn to rage he locked eyes with Delaney a feeling of intense love rushing over him he had to keep her safe at all cost if anyone's going into danger today it's me Corbin looked out the window to assess the situation Hugh was standing to the right of Zayn a Brazen expression on his face he was holding the radio in his left hand a pistol in the right two Tango were behind Zayn and Pops pointing guns at their backs there were two other Tango one on each side of the gunman holding Zayn and Pops five men in all had one of Hugh's Men been shot or was he still lurking around somewhere what happened to Sutton's men they should be closing in even as the thought entered his mind he saw movement behind a tree realized Sutton's men were here there were 10 of them in all did you see that big gun he asked Canon who was at the other window yep two of Sutton's guys at 2:00 another at 9:00 Canon looked at him I'm sure the rest are close by how do you want to play this like like we plan in the event of a worst case scenario Corbin would go out with his hands up and talk to Hugh he would walk into the line of fire in an attempt to save those he loved just as Doug had done at the word scumbag Canon and Sutton's men would start firing Corbin could only hope Zayn and Pops didn't get killed in the crossfire he offered up a silent prayer for their safety an ironic laugh bubbled in his throat how many times had he wished to relive the fil phines debacle not like this his mind screamed not like this he put down the assault rifle he had a Glock tucked into the back of his jeans another small pistol at his ankle you know what to do he said to Canon keep her safe heart of a warrior Canon said with a nod delany's face caved as she rushed into Corbin's arms don't go out there he'll kill you I'll be all right he hoped that was the case but more than anything he had to keep pops and Zayn safe time's running out Hugh yelled 10 n 8 Corbin cued her face I have to he had to get out there fast I love you she uttered I love you too he pressed his lips to hers Hugh's voice rattled through the radio 7 3 1 a shot cracked through the air Corbin and Delaney both jumped a rockus laugh scratched through the radio then he swore guess we don't know how to count in Alabama NAA swept over Corbin he looked at delany's stricken expression without another word he stepped through the front door his heart ripped into two when he saw pops on the ground his hand was over his shoulder blood pulling out Fury Twisted through Corbin an instinct made him want to pull out his Glock and start shooting then he looked at Zane he gave Corbin an imperceptible nod that said you've got this it was amazing how much confidence that single look gave Corbin he held up his hands walking out slowly that's far enough Hugh said when he got to the bottom of the steps his cold eyes raked over Corbin so you're the one who's been hiding Dolores his voice was friendly conversation a parody of delany's more refined southern accent Dolores always did like the pretty types my brother was a pretty boy a macabra smile twisted over his face better send her out or this will end badly Corbin glanced at pops his face was pale as sand but he seemed to be hanging in there the Bible says an eyee for an eye Hugh said a casual ll in his voice Dolores has to pay for what she done to my brother what about turning the other cheek Corbin demanded locking eyes with the monster your brother broke into delany's house tried to rape her he deserved to get shot deserve to die hatred flashed in Hugh's eyes the apathetic mask falling away she beguiled my brother he screamed your brother was a wife beater and you stood back can let it happen Shut Up Hugh screamed firing a shot at the ground a mere foot from where Corbin was standing Corbin jumped his heart going into his throat I said bring her out Hugh pointed his gun at pops's chest or the old man gets it Delaney looked at Canon who was standing by the window his body tensed as he waited for the code word she had to act now while he was preoccupied her childhood flashed through her mind the persistent Rumble of her hungry stomach the filthiness of the trailer her mother's empty promises that she'd change Hugh had used the drugs as a means of control giving her mother a little more each time until she was totally at his Mercy it had been a frigid day in February when her mother was buried in her Mind's Eye Delany felt the swirl of the SLE around her matching the coldness of her heart Delaney stood stood over her mother's coffin and watched it being lowered into the ground everything within her wanted Vengeance on the man that brought her mother to this point but she'd been helpless then today however there was something she could do no longer would she Stand By and Watch Hugh kill the people she loved a surge of energy spiked through her as she sprang into action I'm right here you scumbag she yelled rushing out the door scumbag Corbin yelled at the same time Delaney came through the door time seemed to slow as he pulled his gun and shot Hugh straight through the heart his eyes widened in Surprise as he went to his knees and fell face down into the snow Canon must have gotten the tangle holding the gun on zaye he fell back a bullet whizzed past Corbin's right ear as he aimed and took out the Tango next to Pops Zayn went down and grabbed the guy's gun that Canon had shot at the same time Sutton's men fired from behind it was all over in a matter of seconds Corbin's first thought was for Delaney he turned Overjoyed to see her standing unscathed a sob wrenched her throat he looked at pops relieved he was okay Zayn was helping Pops to his feet he too was okay it was a miracle that they were all alive two of Hugh's men were killed in the other three were being handcuffed by Sutton's men Delaney stumbled down the steps where she fell into his arms Canon came out behind her sorry I didn't realize she'd gone out until it was too late no worries my friend she may be little but she's stubborn Corbin pulled her close rubbing her back I'm glad you're okay and that it's over Delaney pulled away and looked at Hugh's lifeless body a shudder running through her is he dead yes he's dead her shoulders sagged in relief tears rolling down her cheeks I'm glad it's over Corbin looked over as the man next door came outside a suspicious look on his face what's going on here he demanded a look of horror came over him when he saw the dead bodies nothing you need to worry about Gus pop said leaning on Zay for support go back inside Gus rushed back in and slammed the door behind him we need to get Wallace to the hospital Zayn said before he loses any more blood Corbin nodded noticing that Zayn was putting pressure on the wound to stay the bleeding he left elan's side and went to Pops patting his arm you're going to be okay he said his voice hitching he didn't even want to contemplate how close he came to losing pops I'll be all right pops said said with a Ry smile told you the only way to put an end to this was to lure out that old grizzly bear he quipped Corbin laughed in Surprise well your spirits are certainly fine you're a stubbor old man I'll never hear the end of this one pops cocked an ear how's that you were right Corbin rolled his eyes but don't let it go to your head just call him Jack Reacher Zayn said with a laugh then he grew serious his eyes locking with Corbin I'm not going to lie you had me worried there for a minute he paused but you did good Doug would be proud once a frog man always a frog man emotion balled in Corbin's throat as he swallowed thanks he said gruffly the radio crackled Canon walked over and picked it up yep glad to hear it we're we're all good here that was Blaze he said a few seconds later your grandmother and sister are doing fine all has been quiet there siren sounded in the distance Wallace grunted now the police come after the trouble's over figures Canon smiled so who wants to explain this I might as well do it Corbin said the sheriff already hates me I figure he'll just add this to the list go easy on Sheri of Hendrick Wallace cautioned he's had a hard time since his wife passed and the rest of his sentence got cut off as he winced in pain let's get you to the hospital s said I'll be there shortly as soon as I get this squared away with the police Corbin assured him he looked at Delaney who was staring at Hugh a dazed expression on her pale face she was in sh he put an arm around her let's get you inside where it's warm she nodded numbly when they got inside the cabin she turned to face him is Wallace going to be okay he offered a reassuring smile yes shall we go to the hospital with him we will as soon as we get everything sorted out meanwhile Zayn will be with him her lips pressed together in a tight line as she nodded thank you for everything no thanks necessary he cued her face I love you Delany Mitchell I love you too tears wet her eyes promise me that you'll never leave me I promise he whispered as his lips touched hers with the softness of a Feather her arms went around him as she pulled him close clinging to him gratitude washed over him as he held this amazing woman in his arms she'd been through so much heartache and yet she was still standing strong through the window he caught a glimpse of the sun which had risen to its full height shining brightly in an Azure Sky look it's going to be a beautiful day he proclaimed Delaney turned to look a smile touching her lips yes I'm glad the last of the clouds have finally gone away epilog 6 months later the Roar of the crowd flowed like lightning through delany's veins as she looked out over the packed audience tonight's concert in Nashville was the final stop of her tour fitting that the tour would end in the very town where she'd gotten her start her new album transformation had taken off catapulting her to stardom and no surprise her song absolutely spent two months in the number one slot and was still topping the charts you'll recognize this next song from my upcoming album It's called The Lure of the bear Applause thundered through the arena she smiled in appreciation holding up a hand to quiet the crowd this song is very special to me and is dedicated to my future father-in-law Wallace Spencer who happens to be here tonight she looked at the front row where Wallace and Addie were sitting give it up folks for my amazing family the Applause died down as she strummed her guitar The Familiar lyrics flowing like water from her lips when she sang the last note she laughed as the crowd cheered well wait there's more she held up her left hand to displayed a large rock on her ring finger the rumors are true in a few days I'm getting married to the most amazing man on the planet who happens to be my bodyguard she looked over to the edge of the stage where Corbin was standing a wicked grin curved her lips as she motioned come on out here he frowned shaking his head no his lips drawing into a tight line oh come on she urged I want to show you off Corin she began chanting pumping her fist in the air the crowd followed her lead a second later his name boomed through the arena finally he stroe out and stood by her side you are in so much trouble he whispered Amusement stirring in his eyes she put an arm around his waist so he couldn't escape I wrote this next song about Corbin she looked sideways at him wiggling her eyebrows so it's only fitting he sings it with me don't you agree yeah rustled through the crowd he laughed nervously you wouldn't a smile stretched over her lips oh but I would all right he finally said did you hear that folks he said yes under one condition Corbin added what's that that I get to do this in a swift movement he turned her to face him his arm slid around her waist as he dipped her back giving her a long breathless kiss the crowd went wild but Delaney hardly heard it over the Roaring in her own ears as she got lost in the feel of his lips when the kiss was over he set her back on her feet she stumbled slightly as he reached to stud her wow she said quietly he grinned his eyes dancing with a challenge as he leaned in and murmured in her ear so Delany Mitchell are you ready for all that lies ahead it was a perfect evening her heart soared a tidal wave of complete and utter love washed over her as she peered into his mesmerizing eyes and saw the promise of many more perfect evenings to come absolutely she chimed joyously this has been the Reckless Warrior Jennifer's Navy SEAL romance book one written by Jennifer Youngblood narrated by Autumn mcnamer copyright 2018 by Jennifer Youngblood All Rights Reserved no part of this book may be reproduced in any form by any electronic or mechanical means including information storage and retrieval systems without the written permission from the author except for the use of brief quotations in a book review visit Jennifer's official website at Jennifer Young blood.com