Fear the Storm

by Geri Foster

  They waited as the SUV was filled, then Tully’s men moved to the Taurus and piled the trunk full too.

  “This is a lot bigger than I thought,” he said. “When I saw Tully and his old lady living in that beat-up trailer I figured this was a small-time operation that barely made any money.”

  Deputy Glen spoke up. “Are you talking about John Tully?”

  “Yeah,” he replied. “You know him?”

  “Not personally, but he’s one of the richest men in the county. He has a mansion right outside of Gainesville.”

  “Really?” he asked. “You’re kidding. I saw the guy in Rainwater a few days ago and he looked pretty rough. I had Tully pegged as a Meth head.”

  “Is that right? I’m not sure what that was about.”

  The pieces were beginning to come together for him, though. “So you don’t know about the trailer or the woman he was with?”

  “No.”

  Sheriff Page spoke up. “We never could pin down where all his money came from. That woman you say he was with, she’s probably in on this somehow. Tully is married and has two kids. His wife is a Sunday School teacher.”

  Lucas fell back on his behind, shocked at the news. “I never imagined.”

  “We’re not going to know everything until we find out what’s up with all this. I have my cruiser blocking their getaway. So, let’s get ready to make our move. It looks like they’re finishing up.”

  As the men filed out, he counted a total of seven, with Coons still pacing the yard. John came out last and turned to lock up the barn. Before he could make it five feet, the four lawmen stood up.

  Chapter 25

  Rachel called Kendall and told her the latest news. “I knew it all along,” her friend said. “That crooked Robert and his cutie pie wife. Wait until I tell my parents. They’re going to die.”

  “Don’t say anything yet. We don’t want to move too fast. I think when I told Mr. Webster about the Spears’ being gone, he decided this was a perfect time for an honest audit.”

  “Good for him.” She cleared her throat. “Where is Lucas?”

  “He’s checking on another lead. I won’t be seeing him tonight. Besides, I have too much to do. Mom and I are decorating for the birthday party. Want to come over and help?”

  “Sure, let me get out of my PJ’s and grab my coat. I’ll be right over.”

  “Was that Kendall?” her mom asked while hanging streamers across the den. “Is she coming?”

  “Yes, she’s on her way.”

  “Can the two of you do the errands? If you do, I can finish up here.”

  “Sure, what all do you need?”

  Her mom pointed toward the kitchen, “There’s a list over there on the counter. The bakery is staying open until we get there.”

  She picked up the piece of paper and studied her mom’s note. “This is going to take a while.”

  “I’m sorry, but I just couldn’t get around to everything.”

  “No problem, Mom. Kendall and I don’t have anything better to do.”

  Her mom paused. “Aren’t you seeing Lucas tonight?”

  “No, he’s out running down a lead that might prove where Spears gets all the money.”

  “I hope he’s careful. That man can’t be taken lightly.”

  “Lucas knows what he’s doing.”

  Ten minutes later a bundled-up Kendall stood at the door, her arms open wide. “Here I am.”

  When she went to remove her coat, Rachel stopped her. “Keep that on. We’re running errands.”

  “Hello, Mrs. Snyder,” Kendall waved. “Let’s get to it. I’m really looking forward to the birthday party. Is Lucas coming?”

  “Yes, and Grandma Mercy better behave herself, or else.”

  “Oh dear, I wouldn’t count on that.”

  Laughing, they got into Rachel’s car and headed for the bakery on Main Street. After placing the boxed-up cake carefully in the trunk, they went to head to their next destination when Mr. Burke stopped them.

  She smelled liquor on his breath.

  Mr. Burke pointed his finger at them then yelled to the whole town, “There are the troublemakers. Wouldn’t stop until they closed down the bank and got me fired.”

  Her heart jumped to her throat as he moved closer. She quickly took in their surroundings but didn’t see any help heading their way. They backed up until they were against the car and, yet, Burke kept coming. Kendall grabbed her arm and gasped.

  “You both deserve a good beating for all the trouble you’ve caused me and my family. Just wait until Spears gets back. He’ll take care of you.”

  He raised his hand but before they could duck, Marcus suddenly stepped between them and Mr. Burke. “That’s enough,” he hissed. “You touch one of these ladies and I’ll personally drag you to the courthouse myself.”

  Marcus was as tall as Lucas and just as big and that certainly deterred Mr. Burke from following through.

  “This is none of your business,” Mr. Burke complained, stumbling backwards.

  She feared he’d start crying.

  Marcus put his hand on the ex-President of the bank, making him back up further. “You get on with your business and if you ever threaten these two again, you’ll have me to deal with. Now go home where you belong.”

  Mr. Burke turned and staggered away. Relieved, she gasped, clutching her chest. “That was horrible. I honestly thought he was going to attack us.”

  Marcus turned to them with his boyish grin. “I wouldn’t let that happen.” His eyes landed on Kendall. “Especially to you.”

  Her face reddened and she lowered her gaze. “Thanks for coming to our rescue.”

  He tipped his hat and stepped back on the sidewalk, waving goodbye. “You both have a great Christmas.”

  “We will,” Kendall said. “You too, Marcus.”

  “Wait!” Rachel stepped on the sidewalk behind Marcus. “Aren’t you coming to Grandma Mercy’s birthday party tomorrow?”

  “Oh, I almost forgot.” He glanced at Kendall. “Will you be there?”

  “Sure, half the town’s coming.”

  “Then see you there.” He turned and walked away, smiling.

  Rachel’s gaze bounced between Kendall and Marcus’ retreating back. “Really?” she asked. “You two?”

  “What?” Kendall pretended she had no idea what she was talking about.

  “You and Marcus. How long has this been going on?”

  They both walked around and got into the car. “Nothing’s going on,” Kendall said. “We’re just friends. That’s all.”

  “Liar, liar, pants on fire. That man obviously has a crush on you. Why aren’t you interested?”

  “I don’t think I’m ready.”

  “Oh, so while you’ve been doing everything you can to get me and Lucas together, you’ve been avoiding all of Marcus’ attention?”

  “He asked me out a few times, but I refused. I can’t yet.”

  “Why?”

  “How can you ask that after what I went through with Bobby Joe?”

  “He’s history. Marcus is the future. Reach out and grab it.”

  “You’re one to talk.”

  “Hey, I’m doing my thing. If this all goes well, I’m moving back to Rainwater and my mom will probably join me.”

  Kendall’s eyes widened and her mouth gaped open. “Seriously?”

  “Why not? Lucas and I are still in love and it took me coming home to Rainwater, and stepping out on the ledge, to find that out.”

  “I can’t believe it.”

  “Maybe you need to do the same thing.”

  “Stop it right there!” Lucas called out, his weapon drawn. “You men get down on your knees with your hands in the air. Keep them where we can see them.”

  Sheriff Page cocked his double barrel shotgun. “He means right now.”

  “Looks like you have us dead to rights,” Coons said with a sly grin. “But we’re not doing anything.” He laughed wildly. “I think we have you outnum
bered.”

  “With two vehicles full of Crystal Meth, you’re really going to play games?”

  “You don’t know what’s in those bags,” Coons snarled. “It could be anything.”

  “We all smell the acetone, Coons,” he said. “Now get down on your knees and put your hands in the air.”

  John moved slightly behind the guy in front of him and pulled a gun. Before he could fire a shot, Sheriff Page’s shotgun went off. The blast hit John in the chest, knocking him back ten feet. He was dead before he hit the ground.

  “Anyone else want to try something funny?” the Sheriff asked.

  About that time Cooke County Sheriff Morrows showed up with three deputies. “Looks like we’re a little late for the party.”

  Lucas watched as every man, including Coons, dropped to his knees and held up their hands.

  “Don’t worry,” Coons said. “We’ll have the best lawyer money can buy.”

  “You’re going to need more than a lawyer,” he said. “Your gig is up and you’re under arrest.”

  “We’re not in your town, Quinn. You got nothing to do with what’s going on out here.”

  “Yes, he does,” Sheriff Page shouted. “I deputized him and David earlier today. They can arrest you as easily as I can. You’re not going to wiggle your way out of this, Coons. It’s time you paid for your crimes.”

  Lucas looked on as the men were rounded up and hauled to jail. He shook hands with Sheriff Page and County Sheriff Morrow and the other deputies before he and David headed back to Rainwater.

  “Well, that’s what I call an exciting night,” David said.

  “I think we found out the money source for Spears and Coons’ little enterprise. Now we need to get to a judge and start them on the road to prison. It’s just too bad someone had to die in the process.”

  “You’re right,” David sobered a bit. “It’s late. You want to stop by Gert’s Diner for breakfast?”

  “Sounds like a plan. Arresting criminals always gives me an appetite.”

  “Don’t forget, we have a birthday party to attend tomorrow.”

  Lucas groaned. “Don’t remind me.”

  Chapter 26

  Rachel and her mom were busy serving guests when Lucas rang the doorbell. Her mom answered and gave him a big hug. “We heard what happened.”

  “So quick?”

  She pointed to Judge Wilmott, sitting on the sofa next to Grandma Hope. “He took me aside and told me that the prospect of Jim being released from prison looks pretty good. The Sheriff from Gainesville said three of the men you arrested last night confessed.”

  “I got that call earlier this morning. I’m glad it all turned out the way we planned.”

  Marcus walked over with a saucer in one hand, a fork in the other, obviously enjoying a slice of cake. “Hey, big guy. Hear you caught the villains.”

  “Maybe.”

  Looking over to the side of the room, he nearly choked at what he saw, and he hadn’t had anything to eat or drink yet. “Who’s Nancy Wigan with?”

  Rachel, who had come up to greet him, followed his gaze to where Nancy and Mr. Webster sat with their heads together. “Oh, that’s Mr. Webster. I’ll introduce you.”

  “Whoa.” His gaze bounced between Rachel and Marcus. He had assumed poor Nancy would die a lonely old maid. “How did that happen?”

  Marcus set down his plate and picked up a cup of pink punch. “It’s not such a stretch. Pete’s been a widower for five years. Before she died, his wife suffered with cancer. He always wanted to retire and see the world, but never had the chance and, when Mary passed away, he lost himself in his work.”

  Nancy glanced up, saw them and waved. She wore the biggest smile Lucas had ever seen. “Well, I’ll be damned.”

  Rachel put her arm around his waist. “You are quite the hero in this house today.”

  He moved further into the room, putting his hand on his chest. “Me? What for?”

  “Cause you did your job,” Grandma Mercy said in a bitter tone. “About damn time.”

  “That’s not nice, Mama.” Shirley chided. “You promised to behave yourself and we all owe Lucas our thanks for what he’s done to prove Jim’s innocence.”

  Grandma Mercy didn’t look very happy, but she nudged his shoulder then moved toward the den and her guests.

  “She’s not ever going to like me, is she?” he asked.

  “Oh, she’ll come around,” Shirley said. “It just takes a little time.” Looking mischievous, she added, “You know, nothing buries the hatchet like a wedding.” Then she smiled sheepishly and moved away.

  Rachel and Lucas went for a ride to get away from all the noise and it wasn’t long before they turned into the driveway of his ranch. Pulling close to the house, he killed the engine and took her hand, pulling her closer for a kiss.

  Night had fallen and the place was so quiet and peaceful, Rachel only wanted to close her eyes and enjoy the peace. They exited his truck and went inside the house. “Want a cool beer?”

  She shook her head. “No, I’m stuffed still from the party.”

  “Me too.”

  He sat next to her on the couch and put his arm around her shoulder. She gazed into his hooded eyes and swore her heart grew to twice it’s size. “I love it out here.”

  “How about loving me?” he asked, pulling her onto his lap. “I can always use some of that.”

  She bent her head and kissed him, her fingers spreading across his chest, his heart pounding against her palm. He shuddered beneath her touch. She inhaled sharply and deepened the kiss by tilting her head, rubbing her mouth against his.

  He clasped her rear and stood, carrying her toward the bedroom. He deliberately broke the kiss. His head came up and his smoldering nailed her. “Are you sure?”

  “After waiting eight years, I’m positive. I want you.”

  Her back hit the bed and within seconds her clothes were on the floor, and his soon joined them. Rachel had never been so aroused, never wanted a man like this, never let go so completely.

  He laid on top of her, his lips trailing kisses down her throat to her breasts where he lavished them with his moist tongue. She arched her back and groaned. He shoved her legs apart and propped himself up on his elbows. “I’ve waited so long to make you mine, Rachel.”

  “I’ve always been yours.”

  He slid inside her with ease and as their gazes locked, he slowly moved in and out until they were both in such a state of ecstasy that Rachel thought she’d explode. When they climaxed together, their shouts of pleasure filled the air.

  Refusing to release her, Lucas moved his weight off her, but kept her against his body.

  After they caught their breaths, Rachel asked. “Can you believe what my mom said earlier at the party?”

  “I want to.” He tightened his arms and gazed down into her eyes. “I hope you’ll consider staying in Rainwater.”

  “Oh, I’m staying all right. And I’m hoping Mom and Dad will too.”

  “Are you serious?” His heart nearly burst at the news. “That alone is great news but, you know, your mom is right—a wedding sure would set things right around here.”

  She laughed. “Is that a proposal?”

  “It is if the answer is yes.”

  She rose on her elbow and kissed him on the lips. “Yes, I’ll gladly marry you.”

  He laughed. “When?”

  “Don’t be in such a hurry.”

  “I still have your engagement ring from before.”

  Her mouth flew open. “I forgot about that.”

  “I didn’t.”

  Her eyes misted. “You’re serious?”

  He nodded. “I’m not wasting any time.” He leaned closer to her ear. “I want you in my life, my home and this bed.”

  She blushed and shoved his shoulder. “Don’t you mean our home and our bed?”

  “That works for me, but you’ve yet to say when.”

  “One day, when I was about fourteen, my dad and I w
ere fishing, and he said he couldn’t wait to walk me down the aisle because I made him so proud.” She kissed his chest. “I don’t want to deprive him of that.”

  “I can wait. The way the judge talked this morning it might not be long. Anyway, I’ve waited eight years, what’s a few more months?”

  “I guess everything worked out in the end.”

  “It usually does in Rainwater,” he said, then captured her mouth again.

  Author’s Note

  Dear Reader,

  * * *

  Thank you for reading Fear the Storm in the Storm Warning series. I know there are millions of books out there by great authors, and your choices are limitless. I’m flattered that you’ve decided to read my book. There are additional books in this series and if you enjoyed Rachel and Lucas’s story, I hope you’ll read the others.

  If you’d like to learn what I’m up to and when I have new releases, please sign up for my Newsletter at:

  http://www.gerifoster.com/subscribe

  Again, I appreciate your interest and I hope you’ll check out my other books.

  * * *

  Sincerely,

  Geri Foster

  Also by Geri Foster

  Accidental Encounters

  Wrong Room

  Wrong Guy

  Wrong Plan

  Wrong Bride

  Wrong Holly

  Wrong Fling

  Wrong Valentine Date

  * * *

  Storm Warning Series

  Fear the Storm

  Chase the Storm

  Perfect Storm

  Ride the Storm

  I Am the Storm

  Brave the Storm

  Inside the Storm

  Eye of the Storm

  Embrace the Storm

  * * *

  Women of Courage Series

  Part One: Love Released

  Episode One

  Episode Two

  Episode Three

  Episode Four