FREE AUDIOBOOK! Navy SEAL Romances. (The Resolved Warrior) #freeaudiobooks

the resolved Warrior Jennifer's Navy SEAL romance written by Jennifer Youngblood narrated by Autumn magnam chapter 1 Dawn had not yet approached the edge of the Steep Cliff still shrouded in murky Darkness Sutton Smith stood erect and motionless the steady sound of his breathing getting drowned out by the monotonous Roar of the crashing waves below he kept his eyes fixed on the Rising Sun on the distant Horizon of the San Diego Bay which at present was nothing more than a laser point against the hazy streaks of blue and gray we regret to inform you every word of the letter he'd received 6 months ago was burned into his memory but those five played on repeat and after 6 months today was the day everything would finally end for weeks he'd meticulously planned this Mission down to the Last Detail now that it was upon him he thought he might be apprehensive afraid but this very second he was curiously numb his heart lying like dead weight in his chest that might change T night however when the deed was upon him he'd returned to this very same spot a few hours after Sunset one jump and it would all be over the hurt would stop no more grief that's what he wanted for The Wretched Pain to End we regret to inform you he clenched his fist Doug's face flashing before his mind Sutton saw him as he'd been as a child with a cap of shiny chestnut hair and dark eyes filled with wonder Doug had been a chubby baby but it didn't take long for him to grow out of that phase into a lanky teenager not only had Doug been a tremendous athlete but he was book smart as well he could have gone to any college of his choice which was why Sutton was pleasantly surprised when Doug announced that he wanted to join the Navy and apply for Bud's training to become a seal that moment had been like summiting a peak he'd been climbing for decades after all the left turns Sutton's life had made to know that Doug was following in his footsteps or the American equivalent had been Pro positive that Sutton's life had actually meant something Doug could have been anything he wanted and what he wanted was to follow his Father's Footsteps and offer his life in the name of Valor honor and defense of Freedom Doug's enlistment would write the wrong that had been done to Sutton and restore honor to the family Sutton had joined the British royal Navy right out of high school and would have made a career out of it were it not for the dishonorable discharge a wound that still still stung because it was totally unfounded the smear on his reputation had tainted everything and everyone around him but that was part of life and especially military life sometimes bad things happen to good people and the best intentions landed you on the wrong side of a military Court even after all that he could have taken his lashes and moved on her face flashed into his mind lizz's face the real death blow to the old Sutton Smith was losing the love of his life he'd gone home discharged and shamed to find that the only bright spot in his life had married James the Duke of gunthry after 25 lonely years he still had no real answers why only Decades of pain watching Liz be named one of the most beautiful women in the world and always appearing on gun's scrawny arm Sutton had made a clean break and moved to California the temp climate with the warm sunny days was a refreshing change from The Damp dreariness of England with his family's interests in banking Money Was No Object so Sutton found a pristine spot of land on which to build a veritable mansion that would have made her majesty the queen envious Sutton had been born with a silver spoon in his mouth like Doug he could have done anything in the world he wanted and like Sutton Doug had been willing to give it all up for God and Country and for some reason the that Sutton still didn't comprehend God had required all from Doug and taken all from Sutton when Sutton had instilled those lofty beliefs in Doug he never imagined they would eventually get him killed sure being a seal was risky but Doug was well prepared the best of the best and yet in an instant his life was snuffed out before it really had a chance to begin we regret to inform you su's lower lip trembled bitterness churning like acid in his gut he would give his life for Dougs a thousand times over if he could no father should have to outlive his son Doug had been Sutton's only family to speak of there was his estranged Sister Anne whom he'd not communicated with in years but she might as well have been dead to him because she was no longer a part of his life now that Doug was gone there was no sense in continuing Sutton had waited 6 months to make sure he was past the initial shock phase so he wouldn't make a rash decision but as it turned out the passage of time had only made him more confident in the path he was choosing he wondered if Doug would be waiting for him on the other side a ruul laugh rumbled in his throat maybe Doug would be disappointed in him for not sticking it out or maybe there was no life after this one he might just jump off the cliff and cease to exist whatever happened would be better than the Mind numbing anguish how much time passed he didn't know but the sun continued its upward climb into the morning Sky gaining size and Brilliance as it went it was a spectacular Sunrise the Rays stretching like silver wands over the rippled water as the light gradually increased Doug had loved coming out here to watch the sunrise which is why Sutton was here instead of going through his usual early morning weightlifting in cardio routin it was weird to think he'd never do his usual routines again today was a day for remembrance his mission was to systematically do all of Doug's favorite things a final tribute to his son Sutton turned his back on the sunrise and made his way to the sprawling English tutor Mansion when it was in the construction phase Sutton brought in an architect from England who oversaw the project to make sure the style remained authentic the Mansion had a stately feel with the Aged red brick and intricate network of steeply pitched rooftops had it sat next to other homes it might have looked odd compared to the mid-century modern architecture so indicative of California but here in this secluded spot nestled on a cliff overlooking the ocean the Mansion was right at home like it had been here for A Century Of course using substrates that would give the Mansion an aged feel had cost a pretty penny but it was worth it even the Mansion reminded him of what he'd lost it was supposed to be a Haven for Doug's Future Family someday the estate was comprised of two palacial guest houses an olympic sized pool tennis and basketball courts and even a bowling alley it was laughable to think that only two people lived here Sutton and his housekeeper Agatha who' looked after him from the time he was a lad magatha didn't know it but Sutton was leaving the entirety of his estate to her whatever she chose to do with it was her prerogative 20 years his senior Agatha had been part friend part mother and part sister she was the only person in this world who'd miss him when he was gone over the years many had tried to Eng gratiate themselves in with Sutton because of his money people envied his wealth lusted after it believing if they had a hundredth of what he possessed they'd be deliriously happy he chuckled humorlessly as he opened the glass door and stepped into the cavernous family room where the ceiling Spann two stories yes on the surface he looked like he had it made but that was a lie money didn't buy happiness Comfort maybe but not happiness the smell of sizzling bacon wafted through the house causing his stomach to rumble interesting that the needs of the flesh were still making themselves known even now he heard the blur of voices from the TV as he stepped into the kitchen and found Agatha at the stove flipping pancakes her attention fixed on the flat screen television mounted underneath an upper cabinet he'd requested that Agatha have breakfast ready at 7 and he could count on Agatha following his orders to the letter everything but Agatha's quick wted tongue was punctual and precise a tribute to her British Heritage when Sutton named the items he wanted for breakfast this morning blueberry pancakes whipped cream crisp bacon strips and orange juice Agatha gave him a puzzled look she knew this had been Doug's favorite breakfast whereas Sutton normally had black coffee and toast isn't this the loveliest of days she said morning smells good Sutton pulled out a chair and sat down Agatha thought every day was lovely Agatha turned her dark eyes flickering over him you were up at the crack of dawn this morning no Pumping Iron to build up those glorious muscles to today I went outside to watch the sunrise he reached for the folded cloth napkin beside his plate he opened it giving it a Brisk shake before placing it in his lap she nodded her lips forming a tight disapproving line what something's off with you my boy I can smell it she frowned and sniffed and whatever it is I don't like it she motioned no workout this breakfast if I know better I think what he cut in eyeing her in a challenge as his anger rekindled she blinked a few times rubbing a hand over her apron that this has something to do with dugey his eyebrow shot up his voice cold and brittle just because I requested pancakes and bacon doesn't mean you have to start assuming things she purched a hand on her hip her spatula waving out like a flag beside her only see many on like you whipper snapper and don't you dare give me lip He barked out a laugh he would miss his friend I wouldn't dream of giving you lip he reached for the newspaper beside his plate better to bury his nose in it than get grilled by Agatha she knew him too well if she bried hard and long she was sure to weasel everything out of him and he couldn't let that happen not today he felt empathy for the turmoil his death would put Agatha through but she was getting the estate that would have to compensate for some of the loss guilt churned in his gut as he peered over the top of the newspaper at the quirky woman in front of him knowing money meant little her appearance was interesting her softly lined face was haloed with a mass of white hair and her blue eyes had ridiculously long eyelashes she was in a bright floral dress today her smile alone could light up the room if her clothing didn't accomplish the job first Agatha had always been so good to him and she was the only one who made him laugh since losing Liz and then Doug she didn't deserve all the stress that would result from his death he reached for the glass of orange juice and swallowed down the guilt with a few hard gulps he couldn't get sidetracked by emotions he had to stay focused on the mission at hand his eyes perused the article headlines not processing a word at this point any events local or Global were irrelevant he flinched lowering the newspaper when he heard the familiar name even though his head commanded him to tune it out and look away his eyes had other ideas there she was plain as day on the TV she was standing on a red carpet surrounded by throngs of reporters all snapping pictures Liz was as beautiful as ever only improved with age dressed to the nines in a sleek black dress that showcased her willowy figure she wore her hair down so that the blonde Tresses tumbled over her shoulders she waved while flashing the same Regal expression he remembered the one she put on for the cameras a sense of nostalgia hit him so hard that it brought moisture to his eyes he caught a whiff of vanilla Liz's favorite scent felt again the soft flutter of her lips against his saw the tender expression of affection on her beautiful face then came the rebound wave of hurt the same that happened any time he thought of her he'd never loved a woman like he had Liz he was grateful and also infuriated that he would catch a glimpse of her today of all days it was obviously Fate's way of reminding him of all that he'd lost he laughed inwardly at the bitter irony the Duke who Sutton had been I ly ignoring angled away from Liz to face a different bank of cameras the commentator chirped about how the Duke of gunthry and his wife Elizabeth were amongst the attendees at a charity gala to raise money for type 2 diabetes just then he caught a glimpse through the carefully crafted facade Liz looked sad haunted he grunted out a humorless laugh it was a feeling he got from her on occasion and he always wondered if he was projecting his own experiences and feelings on her what did Liz have to be haunted about Liz was obviously content with her life in the spotlight pleased with her husband's title and his blue blood pure enough to satisfy the demands of lizz's Father his stomach tightened as he looked at Duke gunthry beside her a proprietary hand around her waist tall and thin with dark perfect hair the Duke exuded a Charming Aura he'd give any American politician a run for their money saying one thing and doing another distaste turned his mouth sour a knife thrusted through Sutton's heart when the Duke leaned over and kissed Liz on the lips the ears peeled away and the old familiar hurt was back with a vengeance how was it possible for a wound to be so raw decades later he heard a sound and realized Agatha had gasped her eyes flew wide open as she looked at Sutton I'm sorry I wasn't paying attention to the filth they put on the T nowadays she said quickly as she reached for the remote and switched the channel he grunted a response and buried his head in the paper for a second he didn't realize Agatha was talking he lowered the paper to catch what she was saying for what it's worth Elizabeth was a ncome poop for choosing that pompous Duke over you fire blazed in her eyes and he could tell she meant every word it doesn't matter he muttered ancient history she gave him that motherly look Park compassion and part Repro and he got The Uncanny feeling she could see into his very Soul you're wrong she said quietly the Art's impervious to the passage of time and despite what you think all the tragedy that you've suffered will work for your good you're one of the great ones Sutton and I firmly believe the good Lord has wonderful things in store for you he'll use you as a tool to help others you mark my words open that hard old heart to him he had to fight the urge to laugh at the most serious words he'd ever heard from Agatha's bright pink lips one of the great ones he didn't think so the only thing God had in store for him was the bottom of a cliff in a few short hours he realized Agatha was watching him waiting for a response she meant well even though she was misguided he let out a heavy sigh putting the newspaper down thank you he said turly that was the best he could do at least he'd been courteous I'm not just flapping my chw like an old hag Sutton couldn't help but laugh Agatha glared at him and looked like she might say more but shook her head instead in an Adroid motion she slid the spatula underneath a stack of pancakes and placed them on Sutton's plate next put the bacon whipped cream and syrup on the table Sutton was no longer hungry but he'd go through the motions anyway for Doug's sake he was about to dig in when Agatha touched his shoulder have I taught you nothing excuse me the prayer oh yeah Agatha was a stickler for prayer would you say it the last thing he wanted to do was pray right now of course she folded her arms and began with the usual passages thanking God for the food and Their Blessings he expected her to close but instead she paused for three full seconds when she continued her voice was fervent and pleading dear God please bless Sutton he's a good man despite his hard heart and he's been through a heap of rubbish help him to find his way show him that you care and work a miracle in him to penetrate that hard old heart please Lord give him peace she ended the prayer with a hearty amen amen Sutton repeated gruffly as he swallowed an unexpected ball of emotion lodged in his throat what was peace he hadn't felt it in years digging Agatha said patting his shoulder chapter 2 a sense of isolation wrapped around Sutton like a tourniquet as he walked through the crowd of people children's laughter floating mockingly around him nothing worse than seeing happy families together a world of possibilities spread before them when for him there was only loss and pain Disneyland was Doug's favorite place when he was a kid Sutton had bought season passes every year so they could come and go as they pleased a grown man alone at Disneyland was no doubt a strange sight he knew he intimidated people and had a commanding presence and he caught more than a few parents eyeing him with concern perhaps fearing he was a predator he dismissed all outside distractions from his mind as he focused on riding Doug's favorites starting with a mad tea party adapted from Alice and Wonderland next he'd ride Splash Mountain then graduate up to the more thrilling rides like the matter horn that Doug had enjoyed as a teenager several hours later Sutton left the park feeling shaken and stirred and went to the Sunny Side Diner though it was a greasy joint in a sketchy part of town Doug had loved coming here to get hot dogs fries and strawberry milkshakes food they'd never really ate anywhere else Sutton and Doug had stumbled over the diner one evening having gotten lost in an unfamiliar section of town before GPS was even a thought both the food and service were surprisingly good so they made a point of coming back frequently eventually Sutton got to know Mason the owner and a few of the servers though he'd lost a few hubcaps parking his vehicle in the neighborhood this place above all others reminded Sutton of Doug as he stepped in through the door grease from the fryer was the first scent he detected then he caught the subtle fragrant whiff of burgers the diner was nearly empty only one man sitting at a table he was bent over intent on solving a crossword puzzle he looked up briefly as Sutton walked past then right back down Sutton wondered if Mason was here he he wasn't in the mood to talk to anyone so he hoped not a few minutes went by before a waitress in her early 30s approached the table she was a Wai with a cap of nutmeg curly hair had it not been for the dark circles under her eyes and her haggard appearance she would have been pretty Sutton figured the poor woman was probably working herself to death being a waitress day in and day out couldn't be easy hello welcome to Sunnyside my name is Leslie a polite smile touched her lips what can I get you to drink water with lemon and coffee black he'd never seen Leslie before then again it had been years since he'd been here suon didn't have a reason to come when Doug was in the Navy and then when he died well that changed everything Leslie's lips pulled down in a frown are you okay mister he forced a smile I'm fine thank you he said mechanically then saw the genuine concern in her Soulful eyes for a split second they shared some sort of connection and he got the distinct impression she knew what it was like to truly suffer to have everything ripped away while everyone else's life went on as normal do you know what you want to order or do you need a minute he rattled off the familiar items she jotted them down in her notepad I'll be back she said hurrying away Sutton scooted into the comfort of of the booth the door opened as a mother with two Rowdy boys came in and sat down next a college-aged girl stumbled In Her Arms loaded with textbooks Leslie returned with his water and coffee then went to the table with the mother and boys to take their order a blonde peppy waitress emerged from the back to help Leslie take care of the tables it was approaching the dinner hour and it wouldn't be long before the diner was hopping as Sutton waited for his food he let his mind wander back to the last time he and Doug had eaten here it was the day before Doug enlisted he had had Restless energy about him while he was excited to join the Navy he was nervous not scared just hoping that his life would change the world in positive ways Sutton blinked away moisture and took a long drink of water then chased it down with a few slurps of coffee letting the liquid burn down his throat why had God accepted Doug's death instead of a life which he was so willing to give to protect protect those who could not protect themselves that night Doug had teased Sutton telling him he needed to go on a few dates find a good woman to settle down with Sutton knew he'd never be ready for that kind of pain again he'd met Liz in high school and Fallen madly in love with her he'd given her his whole heart and thought he had hers as well they planned to get married knew they'd get married but in a bitter twist of fate Like a Knife twisting in his heart Liz married the Duke of gunthry at the same time Sutton was being dishonorably discharged plunging him into the lowest time in Sutton's life leaving England behind forever Sutton moved to America and met Jean on the rebound they married quickly and Jean got pregnant with Doug on their honeymoon it didn't take long for Sutton to realize that Jean had married him for the money she had little interest in him and even less interest in their newborn finally when Sutton came across emails between Jean and an old boyfriend he had had enough and sent her packing Jean was all too happy to go on her Merry way smiling all the way to the bank with her large settlement he'd not seen Hyde nor hair ever since Leslie returned and placed a plate of food in front of him along with a large strawberry shake she motioned there's ketchup and mustard in the caddy can I get you anything else he looked at the hot dog and Fries I think I'm good thank you the door opened as a short muscular Rebel type strowed in he wore a sirly expression like the world owed him something Sutton probably wouldn't have paid much attention to the man had Leslie's face not gone rigid she flinched slightly fear trickling into her eyes on impulse Sutton touched her arm is everything okay he recognized fear it was his old friend his mate every day he looked in the mirror and saw it frozen in the Deep recesses of his own eyes she nodded her lips drawing into a thin line then she stepped back quickly like she didn't want the man to know Sutton had touched her the man slumped down in a booth he was staring straight at Leslie a hard look on his face do you know that man yes she uttered he's my husband suton noticed that her hand shook as she pushed a strand of hair away from her face and tooken a breath like she was trying to muster the courage to talk to him everything in Leslie's demeanor screamed apprehension as she walked haltingly over to the man the inner workings of Leslie and her husband's marriage was none of Sutton's business he didn't know Leslie knew even less about her husband yet he'd never been able to stomach a bully and it was obvious that's exactly what this man was they began speaking in low tones then the man slapped the table with the palm of his hand causing Leslie to jump she glanced around like she was embarrassed then put a hand on his arm to quiet him he jerked his arm out of her grasp then Drew back his fist like he was going to strike revulsion tightened Sutton's gut when Leslie shrank back like an abused animal trying to protect itself from being hit the man let loose a string of expletives the woman with the two boys gasped in Outrage as she glared at the man let's not do this here Leslie began in a calm tone like she was trying to reason with a child the man belted out a rockus laugh why you afraid you might lose your pathetic job his eyes narrowed to slits you're worthless for the first time in as long as Sutton could remember he was Thrust out of his numb State he crumpled his napkin in his fist blood pumping like a sledgehammer against his temples Howe please Leslie pled her face was blotched with red and she looked like she was trying not to Cy rage Twisted Ho's features as he grabbed her arm his fingers digging into her pale flesh tears sprang to Lesley's eyes you're hurting me please stop Sutton sprang to his feet rushing to Leslie's side let her go he growled everything in him wanted to pick up this weasel by his stringy hair and punch his lights out Sutton caught the sliver of alarm that trickled into how's eyes Sutton was in top physical condition and had been trained in various martial arts he knew it wouldn't be difficult to take the man in a fight he knew how he's kind a coward who got some sick thrill out of beating up on women to boost his low self-esteem this is between me and my woman and it's got nothing to do with you Howie sneered but he released Leslie's arm revealing ugly red spots indented with half Moons where his fingernails had been Leslie stepped back rubbing her arms you okay sutt asked she nodded then looked away Howe jumped up this is none of your business he cursed loudly Sutton had spent the last 6 months trying to control the futile rage Building inside him and now he had a Target on which to vent that anger his body tensed as he balled his fists his voice cracking like a whip through the diner me and you outside now howwi he rocked back the whites of his eyes popping you crazy man indignation burned through Sutton as a calloused smile stretched over his lips you have no idea I have absolutely nothing to lose he hardly recognized the murderous tone in his voice in some perverse way it felt good to think about hitting someone who actually deserved it about not having to hold back you start something with Leslie you're going to finish it with me I got no beef with you man Howe muttered backing away Sutton felt the man's fear ooze out and Slither across the floor like a slimy worm Howe gave Leslie a withering look you'll pay for this he said as he pushed past her and practically ran out the door Sutton turned to Leslie the poor woman looked as fragile as a house of cards about to Tumble it's going to be all right Leslie tears spilled over her cheeks as she bit her lower lip no it's not the words were spoken so softly Sutton wondered if he'd imagined them excuse me she gulped her hand going to her mouth as she darted back towards the kitchen for a second Sutton just stood there not sure what to do his eye caught on the woman with the two boys good for you the mother said a note of vindication in her tone he nodded before going back to his Booth he slid in and looked at the food now cold it would have been hard enough to eat the food as it was considering his emotional state but now that he was fighting mad it was impossible he pushed the plate away for a second he considered going after hoe and beating The Living Daylights out of him but how would that help Sutton would beat Howe then Howe would go home and vent his rage on Leslie he hoped Leslie would come back out but she didn't instead the blonde waitress approached the table and refilled his water her eyes sparkled with interest as she looked him up and down then her eyes went to his plate sh you didn't touch your food would you like me to bring you something else no thank you is Leslie still here she jutted her thumb yeah she's on a break Sutton feared he'd made things a thousand times worse for Leslie by stepping in he didn't need this today maybe he should just leave and pretend it never happened even as the thought flitted through his mind he realized he couldn't leave this hanging Doug would never walk away from this he'd helpl LLY at any cost he'd given his life to help other people Sutton cleared his throat would it be possible for me to speak with her the blonde Shrugged well yeah I suppose she's out back behind the diner talking to her husband Sutton's pulse ratcheted up a dozen notches his voice Rising how could you let her go out there alone you know what that man's capable of well it's not like I'm her mother the blonde retorted rolling her eyes and it's not like Leslie's old man won't find her at home chills ran down Sutton's spine that's exactly what he was afraid of she waved her arm encompassing the room besides I've got paying customers to take care of speaking of which would you like for me to bring you your check she was obviously tired of wasting time on him no need Sutton slid out of the booth and stood retrieving his wallet from his back pocket he opened it and threw down a $100 bill the blond's eyes bulged as she clucked her tongue we don't get customers like you in here every day she chirped looking at him with new admiration Sutton went for the door you be sure and come back now the blonde said sweetly as he R chapter 3 as he rounded the back of the building Sutton heard sobbing then he saw Leslie sitting with her back against the brick wall huddled in a fetal position anger burned over him sending sharp pains shooting up the base of his skull he Whirled around looking for hoe but he was nowhere to be found he stepped up beside Leslie hey are you okay she jerked looking up at him the sight of her took his Fury to new heights her right eye was swollen in purple a thin trickle of blood running from her lip go away please she squeaked her voice breaking she gulped a few times making a wheezing sound as her shoulders shook then she buried her head in her knees and continued weeping maybe he should have walked away but it wasn't in him to retreat he couldn't walk away when everything in him screamed that he needed to help this woman he sat down beside her in the dirt of the alley and let her get it all out when Leslie realized he was beside her she lifted her head in Surprise the blood from her lip was smeared across her face tears spilling down her cheeks she sniffed and used the back of her hand to wipe her nose which was running like a faucet why she took in a ragged breath and tried again why are you still here she took in more labored breaths trying to get her emotions under control because I could never leave a man or woman behind I don't understand you don't even know me her shoulders were still shaking he gave her a tiny smile I know you hurting and that you're desperate desperate for it all to stop she hugged herself clamping her lips together he touched her arm tell me about Howie Panic seeped into her eyes her lower lip trembling why don't you leave him a laugh scratched through her throat I can't the Sor was replaced by a wild look reminding him again of an abused animal because you love him she shuttered because he'll kill me and my son he went cold all over why don't you go to the police a macabra smile split her lips don't you think I've tried she shook her head you don't know howwi he he has nothing to lose and he never gives up her voice dribbled off into a stilted silence Sutton ran the options through his mind he could take Leslie to the police to file a report but like she said it wouldn't do any good hoe would just take his wrath out on Leslie and her son alarm slithered down his spine there was a child involved there was no way Sutton could turn his back on this today was about honoring Doug so he would fix this then he could go out knowing he'd done something right how long has hoe been beating you we've been together almost 10 years it boggled Sutton's mind to think Leslie had been putting up with this for a decade it was a miracle she wasn't dead already he's been beating you the entire time no he was all right at first as long as he stayed off the bottle it got worse a couple of years ago when we found out our son has leukemia sudden felt like the air had been knocked out of him why then he's angry that our boy's dying I suppose blames me says if I'd taken better care of him then he wouldn't have gotten sick she sucked in a breath or that if I earned more money we could get him better treatment his jaw clenched that was ridiculous cancer could affect anybody what type of work does Howe do he was working at a warehouse job driving a fork living but got laid off 6 months ago when he showed up drunk the more Sutton learned about hoe the more he detested the guy maybe he should have gone with his first inclination and beat Howe to a pulp so let me get this straight hoe sits around on his bum then beats on you blaming you for your son's illness she let out a half laugh pathetic I know she ran a hand through her hair her eyes bulging this isn't me I was never going to be one of those women who let her husband beat them she cleared her throat spreading her hands and yet here I am her brown eyes hardened to Black I don't care what how he does to me I just have to take care of my son is he being treated she brought a fist to her mouth tears spilling down her cheeks Sutton touched her shoulder Leslie yes she sucked in a breath chemo and radiation but it's not helping there's an experimental treatment in Scottdale Arizona it's been yielding good results for Doug's type of leukemia but I'll never be able to afford it Sutton jerked what did you say your son's name was Doug an incredulous laugh gurgled in his throat seriously her boy's name was Doug this was too much moisture Rose to his eyes as he blinked it away a sob escaped Leslie's throat I don't know how I'll do it do what Sutton managed to get out through his own strangled throat this was insane more than a coincidence she turned to him the raw desperation in her eyes cutting him to the core let him go her voice broke as she wiped at the tears I I don't want to lose my my son someday a doctor would look sympathetically into Leslie's eyes I regret to inform you no parent should ever have to hear those words do you think the experimental treatments will cure him she Shrugged I don't know but if there's the slightest chance he nodded knowing he would have gone to the end of the Earth and back if it could have saved his Doug then it occurred to him that even though he couldn't save his son he could help Leslie give her son a Fighting Chance a flicker of Hope glimmered in his chest he marveled at the feeling something he thought he'd never experience again a tiny prick of light had managed to penetrate the dark fog he turned to Leslie locking eyes with her what if I can help how she asked weariness seeping into her voice but with that weariness came a blip of hope where is hoe she shrank back I appreciate your help but you don't know how ruthless he is you look like you aren't someone to mess with but he's sneaky he'll hurt you maybe even kill you she stammered he chuckled dryly though unlikely it would do us both a favor what she looked confused nothing he let out a long breath don't worry about me just focus on helping Doug get better he offered a smile who knows maybe you'll find a way to get those treatments he needs her lower lip quivered I pray every day for a miracle a miracle that's what Agatha had asked for where's hoe are you sure about this Mister she shook her head you've been so kind and I don't even know your name I'm a friend that's all you need to know she smiled through her tears no you're an angel thank you for talking to me she laughed to herself I'm such a mess would you like for me to take you home no I need to finish my shift she Rose to her feet wincing in pain Sutton also stood as battered and bruised as Lesly was he didn't see how she could work are you sure you don't want to take the rest of the day off off no the evening shift will be busy and we're short-handed as it is she took in a deep breath I need this job I keep make up with me for you know to cover up the damage his mind supplied disgust wrinkled his gut okay tell me where to find hoe she blinked a couple of times Sutton touched her arm let me help you I promise it it'll be okay the air seemed to hold its breath as she reached a decision he didn't say where he was going but I suspect he'll be at his usual haunt Jack Riley's Bar and Grill she spat out the words like they left a nasty taste in her mouth she searched Sutton's face what are you going to do her voice sounded small and scared make sure that he never hurts you or Doug again if you could accomplish that feat then it really would be a miracle he gave Leslie a nod knowing this would be the last time they ever spoke I hope old goes well with Doug's treatment and that you get your Miracle she hugged her arms me too Sutton left the diner and drove to Jack Riley's just as Leslie said he found hoe sitting near the bartender punched over Downing a shot of whiskey Sutton left the bar then sat in his Tesla to wait according to the sign posted beside the door the bar stayed open until 2: a.m. Sutton sighed leaning back against his seat he couldn't help but laugh at the irony of the situation he'd planned this day down to the detail thought he'd be long dead by now he never dreamed he'd be sitting outside a bar waiting for some Bozo to come out so he could take care of him he pulled out his phone and dialed his trusted friend Landry Stevens they'd served at in the Royal Navy together and had an agreement if one of them ever needed a favor the other would return it without hesitation Landry ran a private security firm and was so well connected that Sutton knew he could help with any situation sure enough when Sutton explained the problem Landry had an immediate solution I'll get in touch with my friend and tell him to expect your Co Landry said they spoke for a few more minutes Landry expressing his condolences about Doug before Sutton intoed the call Sutton couldn't explain it but something had changed after his conversation with Leslie now that he was focused on helping her his own problems weren't as painful almost like a miracle it was empowering to know that he could make a difference in someone's life give Leslie and her son a shot at hope this problem was within his power to fix but you didn't see this one coming did you Doug he said aloud with a chuckle well it's okay neither did I it was after midnight and Howe still hadn't emerged from the bar Sutton figured the man was so drunk by now that he wouldn't put up much of a fight shame really Sutton's senses went on full alert when Howie stumbled out of the bar he tightened his grip on the steering wheel his mind racing through the process he wasn't sure where it would go down exactly but he meet the objective he assumed Howe would get into a car but was surprised when he walked down the sidewalk instead that must mean that Leslie lived nearby this would be easier than he thought Sutton inched behind hoe his Tesla moving soundlessly at a snail's pace the headlights turned off when he bought the car he'd figured out how to jailbreak it to get rid of the Annoying wine at low speeds That was supposed to alert pedestrians who knew it would turn out helpful in the covert up like this he had to make sure and keep enough distance between him and hoe so he wouldn't get suspicious he glanced at the storefronts on either side of the street even though there wasn't another person in sight there were still too many Street lamps to make a move here and risk being seen or picked up on a random surveillance video when Howe turned down a dark alley Sutton's pulse shot through the roof it was now or never he pulled behind hoe and got out he figured hoe would hear movement and turn around but he kept staggering forward like he was oblivious he got close enough to tab Howie on the shoulder Howe grunted and turned what do you want he slurred his arm flinging into the air he teetered trying to catch his balance I told you to put it on my tab remember me Sutton glared at hoe Howie swayed back and forth as he looked at Sutton his face blank then something clicked as his eyes widened in recognition the man from the diner the man who has nothing to lose Howe tried to run but his reaction time was slow Sutton caught his collar and spun him back around Howe cursed and balled his fist but Sutton executed a quick uppercut to the jaw Howe laughed then lashed out punching and kicking but he was no match for Sutton he methodically pounded how's face a few more times until weasel fell to the ground he bent down and felt for how's pulse still going he was just passed out cold in a Flash Sutton went to his car and opened the boot then he picked Howie up and heaved him over his shoulder grunting in the process the dead weight was Heavy he hobbled back to the car and dropped Howie into the boot the empty air around Sutton crawled like ants over his skin and all he could think about was getting out of here before anyone saw him he he got back in the car and wiped the sweat from his brow his heart was pounding so fiercely it felt like it would beat out of his chest he reached for his phone and punched in the number A man answered on the first ring hola Javier it's Sutton Landry's friend see seor I've been expecting you I understand you have a baggage for me yep he'll make a fine addition to your prison I'd have someone meet you at the designated location you know where that is yes Perfecto bark near the road we'll find you adios Amigo [ __ ] Sutton hung up the phone a surge of adrenaline spiking through him how he would no longer be able to hurt Leslie or her son phase one check he said aloud a smile overtaking his lips as he set his GPS for Tijuana and pulled out of the alley chapter 4 2 days later it hadn't been difficult to find Leslie's home just as he suspected she lived only a few streets away from the bar in a rundown house on a Shabby Street the day before he'd watched as she wheeled her sick son out to her car then he followed them as they drove to a Cancer Treatment Center his heart achd when he saw how pale and thin Doug was this morning he'd gotten up at 4:00 a.m. and darted out the door to accomplish the second and Final Phase of this Mission the diner opened at 6 and he w wanted to make sure he caught Leslie before she left for work he wondered what Leslie thought about Howie not returning home she would be relieved no doubt maybe even a little sad perhaps that she was closing that chapter in her life but Above All She and Doug would be safe Leslie's house was the only one on the street with the lights on Sutton wondered who Leslie got to watch Doug while she worked a neighbor perhaps he parked in front of the house next next door to Leslie's and turned off the engine he patted the Satchel tucked under his lightweight jacket as he pulled the hood over his head and got out of the car grateful that it was still dark outside he rushed up the sidewalk to Leslie's house he had to get in and out fast before anyone saw him his heart pounded in his throat he snuck up the steps and onto the front porch he placed the Satchel at the foot of the door and knocked loudly several times without waiting for Leslie to answer he darted back to his car he got in and closed the car door just as the front door of Leslie's house opened she was dressed in her waitress uniform she stuck her head out and looked from side to side a perplexed expression on her face then she looked down and saw the Satchel she hesitated for a second long enough for Sutton to fear she might not pick it up but finally she did her eyes widened when she opened it and saw the bundles of $100 bills2 200,000 ,000 her hand went over her mouth as her knees buckled she stumbled back catching herself on the door frame then she held the Satchel to her chest tears springing to her eyes Sutton assumed she'd go back into the house but she walked the edge of the front porch instead he realized with a jolt that she was looking right at him he should have parked farther away but he wanted to make sure she got the money he just sat there like a deer in the headlights a a grateful smile curved Leslie's lips as she nodded tears were streaming down her cheeks he didn't need to hear the words to know that she was saying thank you Mist collected in his eyes as he nodded a look passed between them two weary Souls that had gotten a moment's respit one in the giving and the other in the receiving an unexpected blanket of warmth cloaked Sutton as he felt the thing he'd been craving for so long peace in some way he didn't understand he knew that everything would turn out okay for Leslie and her son she turned around and went back into the house closing the door behind her Sutton started his car and headed home chapter 5 2 days later he was standing on the cliff side watching the sunrise when Agatha found him it's almost as stunning as me she said quietly yes he agreed smiling it is she turned to study him the breakfast thing making all of Doug's favorite foods you had me Bloom and worried she hesitated I was afraid you might be thinking of she pantomimed a rope tightening around her neck and pulled a grotesque face his eyes rounded how did you know her features tightened cuz I'm a smart old broad I know you sometimes better than you know yourself she pulled her jacket tighter around her Sutton nodded looking out at the ocean spreading before them like an endless blanket of glitter douggy died doing what he loved the words caught him off guard as he jerked he was happy douy dreamed of becoming a seal from the time he was a lad he swallowed I know Sutton couldn't stop a tear from escaping the corner of his eye she touched her heart and even though he's gone I still feel that sweet boy she paused Tucky would want you to Buck up and be happy too the truth of Agatha's words seeped into to Sutton like a healing salv I know he said quietly a comfortable silence settled between them an image of Doug's friend Corbin Spencer came to mind he'd been more than a friend in truth they were seal Brothers had gone through buds training together and served in the same platoon even though the Navy had sealed the records surrounding the mission that had taken Doug's life Sutton pulled a few strings to get the information Corbin lost it when Doug was killed and went on a shooting rampage nearly got himself discharged shortly after the incident Corbin left the seals Sutton had to wonder where Corbin was now and the others from Seal Team 7 for for that matter it gave life to the idea forming in his mind Agatha ran her perceptive eyes over him you're different Sutton cocked his head how so there's a new light in your eyes a resolve that wasn't there before you found it didn't you what peace and your Miracle he didn't need to answer she could see it in his eyes she gave him a tender smile I'm pleased as punch he watched the fiery ball of sun lift higher chasing the last of the darkness away this thing with Leslie had made him see things differently given him a sense of empowerment that gave way to responsibility he took in a deep breath and let it out slowly an idea had been percolating inside him and once he unleashed the words there'd be no calling them back I want to do something and I'm going to need your help Agatha cocked an eyebrow a hint of amusement coming over her lined face I live to serve he shoved his hands into his pockets four days ago made six months that Doug's been gone I want to honor him I want to use my resources to help people in impossible situations he chuckled who are you and what have you done with Sutton Smith he sighed I'm serious she gave him a sheepish grin okay can never go wrong with easing sorrow what I'm about to propose is not without an element of risk and I'll need your help every step of the way a twinkle lit her eyes you mean something other than washing your undies and buttering your toast he pulled a face did you really just go there she touched his arm and winked I'm closing my mouth and opening my ears excitement coarsed through Sutton's veins this was right something he could sink his teeth into he could make a real difference in people's lives in some small way help write the wrong of Doug's death with every person he helped it's an ongoing project of sorts we'll assemble a team of experts to privately help people with problems that are outside of the scope of the police people who are fearing for the lives kidnap victims blackmail sabotage anything really what kind of experts are you talking about the suspicious look on Agatha's face caused a bubble of laughter to rise in his throat he could only imagine what his friend must be thinking probably that he'd lost his mind since we're doing it to honor Doug's memory there's really only one option retired seals Doug's team those Brothers Doug loved so much who loved him in return a Ry grin touched his lips chances are they need to be part of a miracle or two as well his mind rushed ahead we'll need to do some Renovations on the house but in a stealthy way so that people won't realize we're building a fortress she rumbled out a laugh like Batman yes her jaw dropped when she realized he wasn't teasing I have the perfect cover he went on to explain a social climbing philanthropist no one will suspect a thing his eyes met hers I want to use my resources for good there are people out there who are desperate for help he balled a fist and we have the power to help them this is crazy she uttered he pinned her with a look you said that the tragedy I suffered would work for my good that I was one of the great ones his voice hitched that God could use me to help others he took inner breath well it took a miracle but I'm starting to believe it and now I need you to stand by my side she stood eyeing him so if you're Batman I'm Robin I don't think that's it exactly hope sprang in his chest he could tell Agatha was actually con considering his proposal she bunched her brows I never really fancied Robin too much of a nin in my opinion he laughed okay then how about the Batman played by Christian Bale where Michael Kane is his caretaker and Rand men I do like Michael Kain her eyes danced he's a lovely specimen of a man Alfred it is Alfred you are Agatha let out a deviant giggle I prefer to be Catwoman with then I'd have to stuff myself into that tiny costume she wrinkled her nose not a pretty sight they both laughed Agatha grew serious Sutton Smith I knew you'd figure it out eventually her eyes Shone you're a warrior in every one of those fine Hound muscles Doug would be proud Sutton stroked his chin for a moment then snapped his fingers that's it what the Warrior Project she looked impressed it does have a nice ring to it Wario project she mused Agatha straightened her shoulders all right when do we start today very well but let's have breakfast your usual toast in coffee that would be lovely Sutton glanced at the Sunrise once more A Renewed sense of vigor wicking through his veins today was the start of a bold new Venture the beginning of many tomorrows to come this has been the resolved Warrior Jennifer's Navy SEAL romance written by Jennifer Youngblood narrated by Autumn mcnamer copyright 2018 by Jennifer Youngblood production copyright by Jennifer Youngblood for