Page 20 of The Mountain Man's Hunted Bride

“We have not consummated the marriage yet. That will only happen when and if she’s ready. If she chooses annulment after the family issue is resolved I will honor her wishes.”

“You’re gonna take care of her?”

“Yes.”

I can see his jaw working. Anger and fear fighting hope and doubt.

“You care about her?” I ask.

“She and her mom were decent people. They tried to help. Tried to make it a home. We just couldn’t any of us get away.”

“What happened to your face?”

“I tried to stop Chris when I knew what he was gonna do.”

“You took a beating.” I meet his gaze in the rearview mirror.

He shrugs. “I’m not as big as they are. I tried to keep her safe after they killed both our moms. They aren’t happy unless they’re abusing someone.”

“I understand.”

Cocking his head, he studies me.

I take a deep breath. “I had a run in with Millard when he was dating my mom. I was a kid. He thought he could... have me, too. He’s not going to get to your sister. She’s been worried about you. You want to come home with us?”

“They’re looking for me and that won’t be safe for her. I just want to get away from them and this fucking town. I just... They can’t find me, but I don’t know what to do. I—I’ve been peeing blood.”

Not good. “This is what I’d like to happen. I’ve got a friend in another town. I can get you to him. He’ll get you medical help and protection until this is cleared up. He’s legitimate law enforcement.

“If we all work together, maybe we can put them all behind bars. Will you help?”

“You can and will protect Tawny?”

“With my life.”

“The pain’s getting bad. No insurance. Can’t go anywhere in town they know who I am. They’d tell him. I’d never make it out.”

I call Clay on the speaker. “Clay, I got an emergency. I have Tawny’s brother Joey. They beat him pretty bad. He’s peeing blood and needs to get to a hospital but not here. Can you haveyour unmarked car pick him up and take him to you. I’ll be okay. I got backup with my guys.”

“Ten-four. My driver already alerted me something was up. He’s headed to you now.”

“I see him. Talk later.”

I help the kid into the other car. “Joey, we’ll be in touch soon. I’ll have her call you at the hospital so you can talk. You aren’t alone and neither is she.”

As the unmarked car is pulling out, Tawny, Gerdie and Beck exit the store. Beck lifts a brow and I shake my head to stall his questions.

After all the groceries are in the cabin, Beck and I go to collect eggs.

“What’s going on?”

“They beat the shit out of Tawny’s youngest stepbrother, Joey. He’s no relation to Millard. He tried to protect her the night they planned to rape her. Clay’s getting him to a hospital.

“I also had a meeting with Millard at the bar. We should be expecting him soon.”

CHAPTER 14

Tawny