Firestorm (Missoula Smokejumpers Book 4)

by Piper Stone

  Riker turned to look at him. “Then what do you think?”

  “Doesn’t matter. We were told in no uncertain terms to stay the hell out of it.” Cooper hissed his answer.

  Noticing Moose’s advance, Riker kept his mouth shut, but the way the two former Marines were studying the crowd was telling.

  “You were almost late.” Moose tipped his head and pointed to his watch.

  “I had shit to do!” Riker didn’t give a crap he was snapping at everyone.

  Landen and Garcia rounded the corner just in time to hear the exclamation.

  “Whoa. Okay. We have about five minutes.” Moose backed away.

  Landen pulled Riker aside, keeping a smile on his face and his voice low. “Try to stay positive, buddy. There are cameras everywhere. This is supposed to be a good thing. Remember?”

  “Yeah, whatever.” Riker flexed his arms. He hated the basic monkey suit.

  “What happened? Your attitude went to shit in less than twelve hours.”

  “Doesn’t matter.”

  “Now, you’re sounding like me.” Landen kept his grip firm. “Confess.”

  “Trinity had to leave.”

  “Why?”

  “Contracts. The movie she’s in. I don’t know all the details. I didn’t ask.” Riker heard the sadness in his voice.

  Landen exhaled. “Then she really did have to leave. You know she wouldn’t go without a good reason. You can always visit.”

  “Right. Hell will freeze over.”

  “I’ll give you some of the same advice you gave me not so long ago. Get the damn chip off your shoulder. You were dealt some bad karma a long time ago. Time to live again. That might mean mixing up that routine.”

  “Yeah? As if you know.”

  Landen huffed and let go. “You’re right. I don’t know shit. Let’s get you in place so you can sulk the rest of the day. That’s all you really want to do.”

  When his friend walked away, Riker closed his eyes. Landen was right as usual.

  “Ladies and gentlemen. Thank you all for coming. If you’ll settle down, we can get the festivities started.”

  Hearing the mayor’s voice, Riker clenched his fists. He pulled back his shoulders and walked toward the small staging area. He walked forward and noticed the little boy he and Moose had saved, standing with his tiny hands in his parents’. As he approached, he could see how eager the little boy was to see him. Eric Baker. He remembered the kid’s name and nodded to his parents as they waved to him.

  “Mister!” Eric broke away from his parents, running toward him.

  Bending down, Riker allowed the little boy to wrap his arms around Riker’s neck, holding him tightly. “It’s okay, son. You’re safe. What are you doing here?” He heard the crowd, clapping and cheering, knew his picture was being taken at least a hundred times. But at this moment, there was no one else around but a sweet little boy, whose life had been saved.

  “Mommy and Daddy said we were to honor you proper.” Eric eased back, his eyes wide. “We got to ride in a plane and everything. I couldn’t bring Rusty. I wanted to.”

  “Your pup? How’s he doing?” Riker’s voice cracked.

  “Good,” Eric said as gave a dimpled grin.

  “We were honored to be asked to be here. I’m Becky Baker and this is my husband, Rob.” She held out her hand, waiting for Riker to stand.

  Moose eased beside them, shaking the father’s hand.

  “I’m glad you’re here.” Riker patted Eric’s head before shaking her hand, surprised when she reached out, pulling him into a hug.

  “You saved my world,” she whispered before pulling away, wiping her eyes. “Both of you did. We can’t thank you enough.”

  “We were happy to be there,” Moose said as he smiled at Riker.

  “Mr. Sheffield. Mr. Washington. If you don’t mind coming this way.” Mayor Falk laughed. “I promise you, this will be painless.”

  “Mama. Can I go with them?” Eric asked, peering up at his parents.

  “I don’t see why not.” Riker scooped Eric into his arms and the gentle hold cut him to the core. His feet were heavy as he walked toward the mayor and he tried to block out the cheers, the happy sounds as he moved forward. When they were in position, the mayor held up her arms.

  “Residents of Missoula. We’ve seen our share of difficulties over the last few years. You’ve lived through horrific fires as well as other emergencies and we owe a debt of gratitude to the men and women serving our beautiful city with their dedication and training. Without their service, their willingness to walk headlong into danger, many of us wouldn’t have our homes, our businesses or our lives. This, is a special thank you to two brave smokejumpers, two men who risked their lives to save a little boy and his dog.”

  Riker was vaguely aware of the kind words, the support from his entire team. He was thankful for his job and for the men he considered his friends. But there was so much missing from his life.

  “To that end, we’d like to present a medal of commendation and bravery to Mathew, Moose, Washington and Riker Sheffield, with a special thanks to the Jackal smokejumping team. You are our true heroes.” Mayor Falk allowed the audience to clap before opening a box, easing a medal into her hands.

  “You’re the hero,” Riker whispered before easing Eric to his feet. As Moose lowered his head, receiving the medal, Riker noticed the salute from the little boy, his hand prone, his little fingers resting on his forehead. For a few seconds, he could see into the future, could envision his son being proud of his father.

  “And Riker Sheffield.”

  Riker closed his eyes and lowered his head, his heart racing. When the medal was placed around his neck, he breathed out. “Thank you.”

  “Thank you. You’re both amazing men,” Mayor Falk said as she shook their hands.

  When Riker stood, a fleeting glimpse caught his eye. Standing just off to the right, her face beaming, her eyes directed at him was Trinity. There were no words to say, no method to alter the future. But at this moment, these few precious seconds, there was nothing else that mattered.

  She was the love of his life.

  Chapter 14

  “No!” Turning over the desk, he smashed his hands on top of the wooden chair, splintering the top. “Fuck!” Pacing, he ran his hands through his hair. Then again. And again, ripping several shreds from his scalp. Holding out his hands, he hissed, snarling as he kicked the chair then picked up the lamp, smashing it against the wall.

  The fuckers thought they could play him. They thought they could hide the bitch. The woman wasn’t going to get away with this! No. He was finished playing games. Finished!

  Storming into the garage, he grabbed the two cans of gasoline, stalked back into the house and slammed the door. Lifting the can, he began to pour, dousing the couch and chair, the drapes and everything else in his path. Tossing the first can, he grabbed the second, heading into the kitchen then the hallway and finally the first bedroom.

  He took a deep whiff before pitching the empty can against the wall. He grabbed the two duffle bags from his bed and headed for the front door. Tonight, was the end. Yeah. They’d learn what he was about, and he’d be famous.

  Snorting, he flung open the door, standing just inside as he looked around the damn house one last time. This had never been his home, just a landing spot, a place purchased by his father to keep him close. To keep an eye on him. His father, the cold-blooded killer, the man responsible for the loss of so many lives. Then he thought he could live out his life, retiring. Playing with his girlfriend.

  Well, the bitch was going to have it coming to her. She’d never been his mother. She’d never been his friend. She’d stolen his father, taken him away, filled his mind with bullshit. Bullshit!

  He dragged a lighter out of his pocket and flicked, studying the flames, the way the orange hue flickered in the light breeze. He’d get her one way or the other. As he tossed the lighter, he grinned. This was going to be a damn good night.
/>   Whoosh!

  “I think the attorney is getting hot under the collar,” Zane teased as he folded his arms and eased against the wall.

  “And look at Troy! That man is cool as a cucumber,” Antonio said as he snorted.

  “I think the captain is actually enjoying himself,” Sawyer added. “Even caught him smiling. Once.”

  “What are y’all talkin’ about?” Garcia pulled a T-shirt over his head.

  Riker remained in the shadows, only mildly interested in the ongoing meeting. Almost a damn week had passed. He’d called Trinity once, then decided to leave it alone. Her voice mail, the way she sounded, so happy and enthused, had been enough to keep him from trying a second time.

  “That same attorney about the mineral rights was called to a special meeting,” Boone cracked, a smile on his face.

  “I’m damn glad I suggested Troy. He’s been a godsend.” Garcia shook his head. “He’s been seeing a lot of Trinity’s cousin too.” Cringing, he darted a glance at Riker. “I’m sorry, dude. I didn’t mean to bring up her name.”

  “I’m fine,” Riker managed.

  “He’s not fine. Trust me,” Landen huffed.

  Riker gave him a harsh look.

  The captain’s door was thrown open and the attorney walked outside, taking long strides as he shot past the group, not bothering to look in their direction.

  Troy remained standing in the captain’s doorway, shaking his head.

  Riker wasn’t able to hear a word of the conversation, but he could tell the hangar ordeal must be over.

  The captain’s phone rang, and he shook Troy’s hand before walking back to his desk.

  Troy sauntered forward, a shit eating grin on his face. He blew on his knuckles before swiping them across the lapel of his suit jacket. “Gentlemen.”

  “What the hell did you do?” Garcia challenged.

  “Let’s just say that the land was sold to another party then sold back to the Parson’s Group years later. What they failed to notice was that the contract had been changed,” Troy said slyly.

  “Meaning?” Boone asked.

  “Meaning that the mineral rights had been obliterated from the contract, thereby cancelling any rights Parsons’ believed they had. What’s sad is that this information was buried. I had to sift through the land records three times before I found the information. My belief is that Parson’s Group hid the real estate deeds on purpose. Now, if this is the case, there could be some significant and nasty allegations raised. I pointed this out to their attorney, just in case they tried to drag this through court. I don’t think you’ll be bothered by him any longer.”

  “You. Are. De. Man!” Boone whistled.

  “You can work with us anytime!” Sawyer shook Troy’s hand.

  Troy cocked his head. “Let’s hope you guys don’t need an attorney any time soon.”

  The captain’s voice boomed into the expansive space. “Get in here. We have a situation.”

  “Thanks for all you did,” Garcia said as he headed for the captain’s office.

  “Sure thing.” Troy nodded to Riker before heading for the main door.

  “What’s going on, Captain?” Antonio asked as he moved into the office.

  “Where the hell is Cooper and Stoker?” Captain Phillips asked as he paced the floor.

  Landen shot Riker a look.

  “They had a required meeting. That’s all I know, Cap’n.,” Boone answered as he rested his hands on the back of the chair.

  “Fucking fantastic. I don’t know what we’re dealing with but it ain’t good.” Captain Phillips shook his head. “Had a call from the sheriff. We have three fires at the moment and all burning out of control. One, is at the home of the city council member, Chris Camden, the missing member. Two, at the home of a Michael Moore, aka Michael Camden.” He looked around the room.

  “What? Who the hell is that?” Steel asked as he inched closer.

  “All the sheriff would tell me is the man’s son.” The captain snorted.

  “The one supposedly missing in action.” Antonio shrunk back.

  “And the third fire?” Boone questioned.

  Captain Phillips paused, exhaling before he spoke. “At the mayor’s house.”

  “Wait a minute. Isn’t she in a safe house?” Landen asked.

  The captain shook his head. “Been almost a week. She refused any police protection. Right now, the sheriff has no idea of her location.”

  “Ah, shit,” Garcia said as he paled.

  “What’s wrong, Puevos?” the captain asked.

  “I know where she should be.” Garcia swallowed before finishing. “She and Laney are friends. Jasmine, Mayor Falk, was supposed to pick her up about an hour ago. I think they were going shopping then having dinner.”

  “Fuck. Me,” Antonio hissed.

  “Get her on the phone. Right now!” Captain Phillips directed.

  Garcia blinked several times, not reacting.

  “Now!” the captain barked.

  “Come on. Let’s grab your phone,” Boone pulled at Garcia’s arm, yanking him out of the room.

  “I’m calling the sheriff.” Before the captain had a chance to pick up the phone, it rang. “Yes?”

  The men remained silent.

  “What? Arrested. Good.” Captain Phillips paced back and forth. “What do you mean there’s a problem?”

  “This is shit,” Zane said under his breath.

  “Fires burning? He must have set off several bombs,” Antonio snarled. “Bastard.”

  “No. Okay. Yeah, our guys are here to help. Look, the mayor is with Laney Cavanaugh.” The captain shook his head. “Yeah, they are driving the mayor’s vehicle. You need to put out an APB.”

  “Where the hell is Garcia?” Landen walked toward the captain’s door.

  “No, I have no idea what she drives. That’s your job.” Captain Phillips shook his head several times. “Okay. We’re on standby.” He slammed down the phone. “This is ridiculous, but they found Michael and picked him up. Now, they can’t reach the deputy who arrested him.”

  “You gotta be fucking kidding me!” Antonio huffed.

  “Here’s Garcia.” Landen moved out of the doorway.

  “And?” Riker asked.

  “She’s not answering. This is crazy. I’m going after her.” Garcia backed out the door.

  Landen grabbed his arm. “Where did the mayor pick her up, your place or Laney’s?”

  Garcia struggled, his eyes blinking several times.

  “Garcia. Come on. Think!” Boone shouted.

  “My place. She’s been staying with me. I have to find her. I have to save her.” Garcia huffed.

  “Let the sheriff’s office do their jobs,” Moose walked closer.

  “Back away. Back the fuck away!” Garcia insisted.

  “No! Son, what do you think you’re going to do?” Captain Phillips called.

  “She’s my fiancée. I’m going to protect her.” Garcia called before taking off running.

  “Jesus. Fucking. Christ! Go after him!” the captain instructed.

  Riker yanked out his phone, calling Stoker. When he got voice mail, he tried Cooper. The call was picked up on the second ring. “Cooper. We have several fires. What’s this shit with Michael Camden?”

  “Michael Camden? Oh, fuck me!” Cooper hissed. “Hold on.”

  He could hear Cooper talking with Stoker.

  “Riker. This is Stoker. Listen to me carefully. Coop asked a buddy of his who has real credentials about the mayor’s son. The sightings were false. That kid they arrested isn’t responsible for the bomb threats. If Michael Camden has been arrested, then you need to warn the sheriff’s office. This man is considered armed, dangerous and lethal. He was the top demolitions expert when he shared a tour of duty at the same time Coop and I did. The guy lost it after the mission we were on. That was swept under the rug by the powers that be. His father was responsible for sending the units into an area that they knew had been compromised. We wer
e all sent in there to die. Do you understand what I’m saying?”

  “Yeah. The guy is out for revenge.” Anger furrowed in Riker’s gut.

  “Exactly. Molly Jenkins worked for him at the time. Michael was sent to a mental institution, only released earlier this year. His father somehow managed to convince the hospital staff that his son could be released to his care.” Stoker’s tone of voice was terse.

  “Why the damn mayor?”

  “That I don’t know, other than she’s a part of this Veteran’s Act.”

  “I’ll let the sheriff know. There seems to be an issue with the deputy who arrested him. Garcia is going after Laney.”

  Stoker hissed. “He’ll get himself killed. If Michael gets loose, he’ll stop at nothing to get to the mayor. What the investigators found on the guy, what they knew all along could have prevented this. Damn this system.”

  “I’m heading to Garcia’s house, just in case they return.”

  “Got it.”

  He ended the call as Captain Phillips stormed out of the office. “What?”

  “Michael Camden escaped, nearly beating the deputy to death. And there’s something else. A bomb threat was just called in for the government building. Things just got dicey.”

  Riker raced into the locker room, grabbing his things.

  “Where the hell do you think you’re going?” Antonio tried to stop him.

  “Laney and the mayor are sitting ducks.”

  “We need you here! You’re not a damn cop!”

  Ignoring the demand, he raced outside and jumped onto his Harley, kicking up the stand and starting the engine. Within seconds, he was on the road, moving in excess of sixty, then seventy miles per hour. Whatever vendetta this asshole had, the bastard wasn’t going to hurt anyone else. He headed for his house, racing around every turn, passing slower vehicles.

  Within minutes, he roared up his driveway, slamming on the brakes, the Harley skidding on the loose gravel. Jamming his boot onto the ground, he swiveled before managing to stop. Leaving the bike idling, he bolted into his house, yanking out the dresser drawer and sifting through his things. Pulling the Glock into the light, he exhaled before grabbing ammunition. It had been years since he’d been forced to use a gun. No, he wasn’t a cop, but he would protect those he gave a damn about.