Impeached

by Brenda Trim

  “Mrs. Jensen, I’m afraid we’re going to have to ask you to come with us. Now, you can call your attorney once we get to the station. Right now, we have no choice but to take you into custody,” Mr. Cook informed her.

  “This is preposterous. When this is over, I’ll have you fired,” Elaine quipped as she stormed from the bedroom. She made it halfway down the hall then spun around toward Bart. “And, just so you know, Governor Smith. I’ll be bringing this to the media’s attention, so don’t be surprised when the citizens of Tennessee demand your resignation,” she spouted.

  “Bring it!” Bart barked. “I’ve got nothing to hide,” he added as he took several steps toward the woman. His hands itched to strangle her scrawny neck. “And, I’ll be more than happy to tell them every despicable thing you’ve done to shifters. You’re a murdering piece of shit.” Elaine stopped, but the police budged her forward with a hand at the base of her back.

  Bart and Lawson followed the two officers as they escorted Elaine to their vehicle and put her in the back seat. Lieutenant Cook shut the door then walked toward Bart and Lawson. “We’ll take her to Chattanooga. I suggest the two of you don’t leave the state. Given her accusations, you will most likely be called in for questioning, as well,” he explained.

  “Not a problem. You know where to find me. I’m more than happy to cooperate, especially if it puts this woman behind bars for what she’s done,” Bart explained.

  “I’m going to be honest,” the officer said and pinned Lawson with his beady eyes. “If Governor Smith wasn’t involved, I’d be hauling your ass to jail right now. We don’t take kindly to shifters breaking and entering, not to mention, tying a woman to her bed. It’s barbaric, and unacceptable. So, don’t assume you’re automatically off the hook because of your political ties. Am I clear?”

  “Crystal,” Lawson said through clenched teeth. Bart didn’t miss his balled fists, and he stepped beside the shifter, hoping to discourage any thoughts of going after the lieutenant. It wouldn’t help their case if Lawson attacked them.

  “Just so you are clear on the events, Lieutenant. That woman shot two people. Two innocent shifters. She was detained for the safety of everyone,” Bart added.

  “We’ll see about that, won’t we?” the officer spat then turned around and walked to his vehicle. He climbed into the driver seat and drove away, Elaine peering at them from the rear window.

  “Don’t worry about her,” Bart advised. “My lawyers will take care of you. You’re not going to be charged with anything if I have a say in it.”

  “Yeah, well, that female has deep pockets. We’re going to need a team to beat her. Right now, all I care about is Erika. Let’s get back inside and check on her,” Lawson ordered and headed back inside the cabin.

  Lawson was right. Erika was all that mattered.

  Chapter 8

  Hushed voices infiltrated Erika’s deep sleep, and she stirred. A groan escaped her when sharp pain shot down her back. Erika hissed as she sucked in a breath, and sweat beaded her brow.

  “Erika. It’s me, Liv,” intruded a familiar voice. She cracked her eyes open and a blurry Liv and Lawson came into view. Squinting, Erika tried to focus on their faces.

  Moments later Erika’s vision cleared, and her surroundings came into view. She was lying on her bed at Safe Haven with Lawson, Liv, and Lawson’s youngest sister, Brenlee, hovering over her. The fact they all wore concerned expressions warmed her heart. Perhaps this was where she belonged. With the Hollow Rock pack.

  “How are you feeling?” Liv whispered as she reached for Erika’s hand.

  She thought about the question then responded, “Okay, I think. What happened?” she croaked through a raspy voice. It felt like she hadn’t spoken in years, and she swallowed against the dryness in her throat.

  “Let me get you some water,” Liv replied then released her hand. Lawson took Liv’s seat on the bed and stroked Erika’s cheek with the back of his hand.

  “Elaine shot you. Do you remember anything?” he asked with a furrowed brow. She sensed his alarm and wanted to reassure him she was fine. But, was she?

  Erika closed her eyes and tried to recall the events. An image of her and Bart in the back of the van came first. His masculine scent. Then, the cabin and wine. Shit, Bart kissed her. And, she enjoyed the hell out of it. Wanted more but forced herself to push him away for the good of the pack.

  The next image was of her running after Elaine. The laptop. Elaine throwing it into the water. And blood. Lots of it. Her blood, she realized. She tried to shift but her wolf remained dormant. Was she injured? Panic threatened to overwhelm her, so Erika reached deep, searching for her animal. Her wolf howled in response, and she breathed a sigh of relief.

  “Yeah, I remember. How did I end up here?” she asked as she glanced down at her body. She was wearing one of her t-shirts and could feel bare legs beneath the quilt. Her body ached as if she’d run from one coast to the other without stopping.

  Liv returned with a tall glass of water. Erika slowly propped herself against the headboard and was thankful the movement caused minimal discomfort. She accepted the cup and took a deep drink, quenching her thirst.

  “As soon as the bleeding stopped, we brought you here. You’ve had three injections of my blood, but you’ve been out of it for the past three days,” Lawson informed her.

  To say she was shocked was a vast understatement. Alphas didn’t share their blood with pack members. At least, not the ones she’d encountered. Lawson continued to astonish her with his heartfelt gestures. And then his words sank in. She’d been asleep for several days.

  “Oh, crap! Bart must be furious,” she exclaimed as she looked to her nightstand, searching for her device. “Where’s my phone?”

  “It’s over here,” Brenlee announced and grabbed a small object from the dresser then handed it to her.

  Erika quickly scrolled through her missed messages and calls. Disappointment cut like a hot knife when Bart’s name didn’t appear. He was telling her the truth, she thought. He really did regret the kiss and had no romantic feelings toward her despite what it meant to her and how it affected her.

  “He’s not upset. In fact, Bart was here the whole time. He had to go out of town for a couple of days but said to tell you not to worry about work. He just wants you to get better,” Liv shared before she sat opposite Lawson on the bed.

  “That’s right. He even suggested I send someone to replace you. Given what happened, maybe that would be best,” Lawson suggested with a shrug.

  Replace her? What the hell was Bart trying to pull? She specifically told him how important the job was to her. Now, he was trying to undermine her? Fuck that.

  “No, that’s not necessary. I’ll be good as new in a day or two. I promise,” she reassured them then forced herself to sit taller, ignoring the pain in her back. She would be a useful member of this pack. Nothing was going to stand in the way of that.

  “Okay, but if you change your mind let me know. Remember, there’s plenty you can do around here,” Lawson assured her with a smile.

  Erika suddenly gasped as another image suddenly flashed through her mind. “There was another gunshot while you were in the cabin. Was anyone hurt?” she blurted.

  “Elaine shot Ryan, too, but he’s fine. Just a flesh wound,” Lawson answered but Erika detected frustration when he mentioned Elaine’s name.

  “Where is she now?” Erika asked warily, hoping the answer wouldn’t upset Lawson further.

  “The police took her into custody. We’re waiting to hear from them,” he replied with a shake of his head, and Liv reached over and grabbed his hand.

  “You don’t sound too confident,” Erika surmised as she watched the unspoken conversation between the couple.

  “We’re staying optimistic,” Liv reassured pointedly.

  Lawson scrubbed his jaw and nodded. “We don’t have much of a choice, do we?” he responded then glanced at his cell phone. “Look, I need to get over to the barn. We�
��re way behind on our current project, but I’ll check on you later this evening. I recommend you shift. You’ll heal much quicker,” he suggested as he stood up to take his leave.

  “I will. I think fresh air will do me good. Hey, Lawson. I’m really sorry,” Erika relayed as the pack leader walked toward the door.

  He spun around and the confusion was clear on his face. “Sorry for what?”

  “I failed you. Elaine threw her laptop in the lake. That could’ve been the proof we needed,” she confessed and lowered her gaze. She couldn’t look him in the eye and see his disappointment.

  “Are you kidding me?” he countered and stalked toward her. “Because of you we captured that bitch. You risked your life, Erika. If anyone failed, it’s me. I’m supposed to protect my pack. I should be the one apologizing,” Lawson declared, which had Erika’s gaze lifting to meet his.

  “You could never fail me. You’re the first alpha to make me feel like I belong,” she admitted and swallowed against the tightening in her throat. The Hollow Rock pack meant everything to her, and she was determined to earn her spot.

  “Then start acting like it, Erika. You’re a part of this pack, and we’re lucky to have you. Walk proud and hold your head high,” he ordered sternly as he held her gaze.

  “He’s right,” Brenlee added and walked over, standing at the foot of Erika’s bed. “My brother constantly brags about you, and he doesn’t give praise unless it’s earned,” the blonde-haired female said with a smile. Her light brown eyes misted over, and Erika guessed she was the most sensitive of the Scott clan.

  “Wow, I feel like this is a group hug moment,” Liv interjected, and the room filled with laughter.

  “Maybe next time, Sunshine. I’ve got to get to work. Someone’s got to pay the bills around here,” Lawson teased with a wink.

  “Don’t let him fool you, Erika. He’s a hugger,” Liv beamed then added, “which is why he’s going to make a terrific…” she trailed off as her eyes bulged, and she met Lawson’s gaze.

  Lawson smirked and walked toward Liv. “I thought we were going to announce it to the entire pack,” he murmured as he placed a tender kiss to her lips.

  “Um, what’s going on?” Brenlee asked as her mouth twisted wryly.

  “Sorry, Outlaw. It just slipped,” Liv gushed as her face reddened with embarrassment.

  “I’m not upset, baby. But you’re going to get an earful from Haylee and Hannah when they find out you spoiled the surprise,” Lawson teased as he carefully wrapped his muscular arms around Liv’s waist.

  “Are you…pregnant?” Brenlee asked and her mouth dropped open.

  Liv nodded enthusiastically and blurted, “Yes! But please don’t say anything. And, if you could act surprised when we announce it later, that would be great,” she added with a grimace.

  “Squee!” Brenlee shouted as she rushed over to Liv and threw her arms around her neck. The two females hugged and jumped up and down like a couple of teenagers. Erika couldn’t help but smile at them. The news was huge and deserved a big celebration.

  “Alright, that’s my cue to leave,” Lawson said and glanced at Erika. “So glad you’re feeling better.”

  Brenlee released Liv and practically jumped into Lawson’s arms. “Not before I congratulate you, big brother,” she exclaimed, and Lawson grabbed her in a bear hug and squeezed. Erika felt honored to be a part of the special moment. The love in the air was infectious, and she was ecstatic for the couple.

  “Congratulations, you two. I couldn’t be happier for you,” Erika announced, and Liv walked over and sat on the bed.

  “Thank you. And, we’re thrilled you’re going to be a part of his or her life,” Liv replied and hugged Erika.

  “Me, too,” she whispered in Liv’s ear.

  Lawson left the room and Brenlee turned toward Erika. “Hey, want some company on that run? I need to make myself scarce until they make a formal announcement. My sisters can smell secrecy,” she explained with a laugh.

  “Absolutely. I need to wash up and change clothes first,” Erika replied, thinking what she really needed was a long, hot shower, but that could wait until after her run.

  “Sounds good. I’ll be in my room. Just grab me when you’re ready,” Brenlee offered then left Erika’s room.

  “And, I’ll see you at dinner?” Liv asked.

  “I wouldn’t miss it for anything,” Erika declared with a wide grin.

  Liv made her way to the door of Erika’s hotel room and waved goodbye before shutting it closed. Erika picked up her cell phone and stared at it for several minutes, contemplating her next move. Her heart raced in her chest as she considered her words. Finally, she took a deep breath then tapped on a contact.

  Two rings and a masculine voice came through the speaker. “Erika. Hi, how are you?”

  “Hey, Mr. Smith. I’m doing well. Thanks,” she replied through a cracked voice. Why the hell did he make her so damn nervous?

  “I thought we were past the formalities, Erika. It’s really good to hear your voice,” Bart confessed, making Erika’s heart skip. His sexy voice made her think naughty thoughts that involved hot, sweaty bodies.

  Stop this insane infatuation! He’s not the male for you. Get to the point and end the call, she mentally scolded.

  “I wanted to call and let you know I can come back to work. Is tomorrow good?” she asked and wiped her sweaty palms on her t-shirt. It was beyond ridiculous to get this worked up over the male. They shared one kiss, that was it. It was over before it even started. She needed to let it go.

  “Um, are you sure you’re up to it? I don’t want you to push yourself if you’re not ready.” His voice was calmer than the eye of a storm and Erika resented him for it. He should be begging for her return.

  “I’m positive. I’ll see you tomorrow then?”

  “Actually, I’m still out of town. Can you arrive around five tomorrow evening? I wasn’t expecting you to come back so quickly, and I need to get a list together for you,” Bart explained.

  “I’ll probably get there a little early to avoid traffic. I’ll be at the guest house so just text me when you’re ready,” Erika replied and swallowed against the lump in her throat. She had no idea why she was so emotional right now. Maybe her injuries took a greater toll than she realized.

  “Sounds great. Drive safely and see you tomorrow,” he offered then quickly added, “I’m looking forward to seeing you, Erika.”

  “See you tomorrow,” she answered then ended the call. She didn’t want to get into why he wanted her replaced over the phone. That was a conversation she preferred face to face.

  Shaky from the adrenaline racing through her veins, Erika stood up. Her legs were a little wobbly, but she felt good. She made her way to the bathroom and washed her face then threw on some clothes as the conversation with Bart played through her mind. He was so aloof. And, more importantly, why did it bother her so much? Their relationship was strictly business, nothing more.

  Erika threw her hair into a ponytail and shook off her mixed emotions. A run was exactly what she needed to clear her head of the pompous Bart Smith. Her wolf howled in disagreement, but Erika ignored her traitorous animal.

  Chapter 9

  Erika pulled up to the security station in front of the estate, and rolled down her window. Nick Quinn stepped out of the booth and smiled. “Well, hello, Miss Erika. It’s so good to see you. Bart told me what happened. You’re lucky to be alive, sweetheart,” he expressed, his tone filled with concern.

  “Thank you, Nick. Lucky seems to be my middle name these days,” she replied honestly. She’d always heard cats had nine lives. Where did wolf shifters fit in the mix? Seemed as if she had more than one life. But, was it more than two? Hopefully, she wouldn’t need to find out.

  “I don’t see how anyone could want to harm such a sweet soul. I promise you’re safe on my watch, young lady,” he professed with a nod.

  Nick’s white hair and beard reminded Erika of her great-great-grandfather
. He passed away when she was thirteen, but she’d never forget his gentle voice and wise advice. He was the only family member that showed her any love, and she missed him dearly.

  “I appreciate that, Nick. Has Bart returned from his trip?”

  “No, but he called and said to tell you he’s not far behind. Let me know if there’s anything you need,” he instructed her.

  Nodding, Erika watched as the iron gate opened. “Will do. Thanks,” she said with a wave and drove around the back of the mansion to the guest house.

  Erika climbed out of her car and grabbed her small suitcase from the back seat then walked to the front door of the guest house. She set down her baggage in the hallway and made her way to the kitchen where she was greeted by a large bouquet of roses and a bottle of red wine.

  The card on the table read Welcome back! We missed you. There was no signature, but the elegant script clearly belonged to a female. Erika guessed Patricia left the gifts, as well as, the notecard. It sure as hell wasn’t from Kelly. She acknowledged it was a sweet sentiment but, deep down, she wished they were from Bart.

  Sighing, Erika pushed that thought aside and walked toward the bedroom. She threw her bag on the bed and unzipped the small suitcase. Bart’s laundered sweatpants and hoodie were the first items she spotted, and Erika recalled the day she wore them.

  It was one of many memorable moments with Bart. She’d never forget how he soothed her wolf’s rage, and the look in his eyes when he said she was captivating. He roused her like no other, and she cursed herself for falling for the charismatic male.

  Erika tossed the clothes on her dresser so she wouldn’t forget to return them, and hissed when the movement caused shooting pain in her back. She told Lawson she would try and work full three days, but promised she’d return to Safe Haven if she felt it was too much too soon. Hopefully, the discomfort diminished because she wasn’t about to let someone else step in, and assume her position. She’d rather walk on nails than allow Bart to replace her.