by Hart, Lea
Pressing her hand to his face, she focused on his anguished eyes. “What happened? Where are we?”
He sat down on the bed and faced her as he held her hands tightly. “We are at the Soto Cano Air Base. I brought a team in to rescue you after you were kidnapped day before yesterday.” She shook her head slightly and then stared at him blankly. “What is the last thing you remember?”
“I went to the market early yesterday with a couple of other teachers. I remember looking at some silver jewelry and then nothing. What happened to me?”
“You were kidnapped by a gang called the Maras. It was the thirteens that took you off the street in Tegu. We think you got separated from your group, and that’s when they grabbed you.”
“Why can’t I remember anything?”
“Because they drugged you. You were given an almost deadly dose of ketamine. It’s a drug that is popular in this part of the world. It’s an anesthetic that is often used on animals. That’s why you don’t remember anything. The doctor said you may get bits and pieces back, but it’s hard to tell at this point.”
Pulling his hand so he would come closer, her eyes filled with tears. Her voice was clogged with fear as she tried to ask an impossible question. “Did they…oh, God, David. Was I…”
Enveloping her in his arms, he held her gently and quietly responded. “No, baby. You were not raped. They beat the shit out of you, and that’s why you have a cast on your arm. You also have a mild concussion and some bruised ribs. I’m guessing that you must’ve fought back at some point and that’s why they hurt you.”
Letting out a huge breath of air, her shoulders slumped, and she closed her eyes. “It’s too much to take in. My mind feels like it’s turning in slow motion.”
Kissing her face again, he rubbed his finger down her cheek. “Don’t worry about it. All you need to know is that I’m taking you home tomorrow night, and I’m taking care of you.”
“I have to go back to school and finish up my reports and get my stuff. I can’t travel without my passport.”
“The guys packed up all of your stuff, and Alex has your passport. We are traveling on a private plane, so we don’t have to worry about anything. Mr. Solano, the director, said not to worry about anything and to tell you that he is very sorry that this happened.”
“That’s it? I can’t end my time here like this.”
“Afraid that’s how it’s going to be. We made two powerful gangs pretty angry last night. We do not need to put anyone in danger by going back to the school.”
“I didn’t think of that. Actually, I’m barely thinking at all.”
“All you have to do is rest. It’s going to take some time for your body to heal, so that’s the only thing that you need to worry about.”
“Oh, David. How could my time abroad end like this?” She tried to scoot over but found that she was too sore to move. “Help me, so you can lie down next to me.” He stood and lifted her gently in his big arms and placed her against the rail. Lowering himself slowly, he curled around her and held her hand. “Thank you. Did I tell you thank you and that I love you?”
“Not yet. But you don’t have to thank me.” Running his hand over her arm, he felt his heart rate lower. There was nothing quite like knowing that the woman he loved was safe to make his world livable.
Turning her head, she buried her nose in his shirt. “You found me because of the GPS chip. I guess you get to tell me, ‘I told you so.’ My God, I always thought you were overprotective and paranoid, but clearly, you were right. I’m never going to give you a hard time about it ever again.”
“Baby, being paranoid is what keeps people alive.”
“I guess so.” She lay quietly in his arms and let her mind float. “How many people were involved in my rescue?”
“Well, we had two guys from SAI, plus the SAI pilot and co-pilot. Then we had five guys on the ground here that helped us out. Oh, and we had a pilot from the base here that flew us out in a Black Hawk. How many is that?”
“That is eleven people, including you.”
“Seems about right.”
“Hold me, David. I’m not feeling very good.”
“Should I get a doctor?”
“No, I just need to have your arms around me.”
“Always, Jane. Always.”
CHAPTER NINE
ONE MONTH LATER
David opened the door and welcomed his friends inside. Jane had insisted on having a party to thank everyone who was involved in her rescue. It seemed like she needed more time to recover, but he couldn’t convince her otherwise. They were not married yet, but he took his friends’ advice to heart when they told him that a happy wife made a happy life. So here they were, having a party. “Hi guys. Thanks for coming.”
Chris and Rachel came in with a bottle of wine and happy smiles. “Thanks for having us,” Rachel chirped. “I’m going to go find Jane and see if she needs any help.”
Chris hung back and clapped his friend on the back. “How’s it going? Any changes yet?”
David stared at the floor and rubbed his forehead. “No. She’s knitting like crazy, though. And she’s come outside with me every day this week. We walked over to Main Street and had coffee a couple of times. And she went to the big market yesterday to shop for the party. But every time we go out, she won’t let go of my hand.” Waving his hand, he went on. “Not that I mind. I want to keep her close. But I know that this is not who she is.”
“You have the number I gave you. When you guys get back from your road trip, give the doctor a call. The woman has helped Rachel and me immensely. It doesn’t happen overnight, but Rachel has made huge progress. She still sees the doc once a week.”
Rubbing his head, he let out a sigh. “I know Jane really counts on Rachel’s friendship. She has someone to talk to, and that alone has gotten her through some tough days.”
“I’ll tell her.” Tapping his hand against his leg, he stared out into the distance. “I want Rachel to recover from being abducted so that she’ll feel confident and happy. We want to have some kids, and Rachel wants to be completely healthy before we start trying. And I think we’re almost there. I know I’m an asshole for admitting this, but I worry a little about what’s going to happen when she doesn’t need me as much. She went to the mall the other day all by herself. I was really proud of her, but kind of mad because we’ve always done it together. I want her to need me as much as I need her. But in a completely healthy way…of course.”
David snorted. “Of course.” The doorbell rang, and he turned to get it. “Drinks are in the dining room. Help yourself. And by the way…I totally get what you just said.”
Letting out a bark of laughter, Chris moved toward the back of the house in search of his wife and a drink.
Travis, Cary, and baby Sofia were at the door. David held open his arms so that Travis would hand him his goddaughter. “Welcome.”
“I can’t believe that she goes to you so easily. It makes me worry about her taste in men,” Travis huffed. He felt an elbow in his side and grinned at his wife. “What? It’s true.”
“Stop.” Cary laughed. She kissed David on the cheek and looked around. “I love what Jane has done with the house.”
“How do you know it wasn’t me?” David inquired.
“Oh please. Where are the girls? I brought pie.”
“They’re in the kitchen. Follow the sound of loud shrieks, and you should find them.”
David bounced his goddaughter in his arms and made faces at her. “So, how is the adoption process going?” he asked.
“Slow and painful,” Travis responded. “I think we have another month before it will be final. As we get closer to completing it, we get more nervous. Cary sometimes gets a little panicked and worries that they are going to take her away from us. And I have to admit that I’m not going to relax until everything is signed, sealed, and delivered.”
“I remember the day she was dropped off at your house and we went to Babies-R-Us. I
t seems like a lifetime ago, but it was only a year and half ago.”
“Look at you, man. What a difference a year makes. You have the love of your life, and you’re getting married next month. I have to admit that I never thought you would settle down, but I guess you were just waiting for Jane. It makes sense now.”
“I can’t wait until we’re standing in my parents’ backyard and say our I dos. Once I have her bound to me, I will feel a lot more relaxed. I almost lost her, man. That feeling doesn’t go away.”
“I get it, brother. I’m going to put a lot of kids in Cary, so she can never get rid of me. I figure that will be my best insurance.”
“It’s a good thing they haven’t figured out how crazy we are.” David laughed. He felt a hand on his back and knew he’d been caught. Turning slowly, he gave Jane a dazzling smile. “Hi, baby.”
“For your information, I know how crazy you are, and so do the other ladies. Can you start the bar-b-q?”
“Yes, dear.” He leaned over and kissed her gently. “Come on, Travis. Let’s go be men and put some meat on the grill.” He handed Travis back his daughter and went toward the backyard.
“Let me have that baby, Travis. I haven’t seen her in a week.”
“She’s drooling like crazy, so get ready for a wet shirt.”
“I don’t mind.” She kissed Sofia’s head and carried her back into the kitchen. Travis watched her and knew that David was going to be able to talk her into kids fairly easily. She had the dreamy eyed look that women get when they’re ready for babies. The way she held his daughter told him she was good to go. Good for them. Now that he was married, he couldn’t think of anything better than a house full of family. If he was lucky, he was going to get some good news from his wife in the next week or so. Whistling, he walked into the backyard to help David with the bar-b-q. Everyone knew the secret to a good dinner was a bunch of men standing around talking and drinking beer while meat cooked on the grill.
The doorbell rang, and Jane went to answer it. When she opened the door, she saw two of her favorite men. “Alex and Sean, it’s about time. You two are the reason for this party.”
They both came in and took turns hugging Jane. “Damn, woman, don’t put any pressure on us,” Alex responded. He grinned at the woman who had become a close friend and wondered if she had any luck talking Izzy into joining them. Once she finally made him confess to his feelings, she had made it her mission to put them together as often as she could.
Jane leaned over and spoke quietly to Alex. “I think she is going to come over later on.”
“Thanks, Jane.” He squeezed her hand and grinned. He just needed to show Izzy that he was a good guy, and she would get that message a lot easier if they were in casual social settings.
“The guys are in back. Help yourself to drinks on the way out.” She caught Sean’s hand before he left and gave him a once over. “So…?”
Sean lowered his head and set his mouth in a hard line. “You can’t make me, Jane.”
“Oh, yes, I can. You like her, Sean, and she has no idea. If you don’t say something, I will.”
“You gave me your pinky promise to keep your mouth shut. I expect you to honor your oath and zip it.” He knew that if he gave her the slightest opening that she would drive a truck through it and his life would never be the same. He saw Jane for what she was—a ruthless matchmaker. She made Birdie look like an amateur. The smallest sign of weakness was an invitation for her to start meddling. And that’s the last thing he wanted. Things with Chloe had gotten off to a rough start, and he didn’t need Jane’s interference. He was a big boy, and he would figure it out on his own.
“Fine. But you should know that she is coming today with her sister and Derick. So I hope you’re ready. Chloe will be here soon, and you need to show her how nice you are.”
“I will. Just don’t say anything helpful. The last time you did that, it blew up in my face.”
Rubbing her head, she shrugged. “Okay. I wasn’t at my best that day, and I agree that I didn’t help things as much as I hoped. But you have all afternoon to show her all of your good qualities and charm her pants off. Figuratively, not literally, of course.
He rolled his eyes as he crossed his arms. “Give me a little credit.”
“You’re a catch, Sean, and I just want her to see the best of you.” She straightened his shirt and smiled. “You got this.”
Laughing, he slung his arm around her shoulder and walked toward the kitchen. “Thanks, Coach.”
David came in and frowned. “Why do you have your arm around my woman’s shoulder?”
“I’m just getting some last minute tips from matchmaker Jane.”
“Is it the Chloe thing?” David asked.
“Is there anyone who doesn’t know how I feel about her in San Diego County?”
Jane looked at David and shook her head. “I don’t think so.”
“Sorry, man.”
“Whatever. I need a beer.” Sean stalked out of the room and grabbed a drink from the cooler.
“When they are together and happy, he’s going to thank me for all of my help,” Jane stated.
“You just keep telling yourself that.” David kissed her on the nose and gave her a hug. “The meat is ready. We can eat when you’re ready.”
“I was waiting for Birdie and Mark. I’m surprised they haven’t shown up yet.”
“Maybe she’s in labor and baby Frazier is ready to make her arrival,” David responded.
“That would be wonderful. I guess we shouldn’t wait then. Let’s tell everyone we’re ready to eat.”
“Chow’s on,” David yelled.
“Or you could just yell at the top of your lungs.” Jane laughed and took David’s hand. “Love you.”
“Love you more, J-bean.”
********
David stood up at the head of the table and whistled for everyone’s attention. It took a couple of moments before everyone quieted down and finally looked at him. “I just got a call from Rory, and she is at the hospital with Birdie and Mark.” Raising his glass, he invited everyone to join him. “Welcome to the world, Madeline Elizabeth Frazier. Rory just told me that Birdie gave birth about an hour ago and that everyone is doing well. Madeline arrived loud and proud, which will be not be a surprise to anyone. Rory also mentioned that Mark hasn’t let the baby go and that it seems like Birdie will be lucky to get her hands on her child.”
A loud cheer erupted from the table, and everyone clinked glasses. “Did anyone know that Birdie’s name is Elizabeth? How did she go from Elizabeth to Birdie, anyway?”
Jane stood up and took David’s hand and gazed out over the group of people who had joined them today. “Since we have your attention, I want to take a moment and thank everyone for coming today…and for saving my life.” Holding her hand to her chest, she tried to get her emotions under control. When she felt David’s arm around her shoulder, she felt strong enough to go on. “Everyone sitting here has played a part in me being here today. A couple of you brought your skills, courage, and determination to Honduras a month ago and rescued me. Rachel and Cary have become my friends, and I don’t know what I would’ve done without your love and support over the last several weeks.” Turning, she stared up in to David’s eyes and felt an overwhelming burst of love. “And to the man standing next to me, thank you…for being my best friend for over twenty years, the love of my life, and the man who I can always count on. I can’t imagine life without you, and I can’t wait to marry you.”
“Oh, baby. I love you.” Leaning down, he touched his mouth to her gently and silently promised to always do his best to make her happy. The room erupted in another round of cheers and shouts. “Are these people going to leave soon? I want to go and practice our baby making,” he whispered loudly in her ear.
“No. We haven’t had dessert yet.” Elbowing him gently, she shook her head. “I made a huge plate of cookies, and we have pie and cake, too.”
Chris spoke up from the
end of the table. “I never thought I would see the day. I can’t believe that David found someone who will make him cookies.”
Beaming at the table, David responded. “I’m a lucky man because Jane always makes sure that my cookie jar is full.”
The table erupted in laughter as Jane leaned over and kissed the man who showed her that love was possible.
THE END
INSPIRATION
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Coronado Series
Latched is the first book in the Coronado Series
It’s the story of Birdie and Mark and how they fall in love. Because they were the first characters to inhabit my brain, they will show up in some form or fashion for the rest of the series. I’ve received the comment that the end of Latched was abrupt…but it was the only beginning. Mark and Birdie’s story keeps unraveling. Throughout the rest of the series, you’re going to meet their children and watch them as they make their way through life’s milestones.
Snatched is the second book in the series
This is Max and Rory’s story. Rory needs Max to solve a stalker problem, and Max needs Rory to fall for him. Trust me when I tell you there is never a dull moment, because these two give each other a run for their money. Rory and Max will show up in the subsequent books as well, because every girl needs a best friend.
Birdie and Rory are always up to something, even though they have their hands full with husbands, children, family, and friends. They still somehow seem to find time for shenanigans.
Attached is the third book in the series
This is where we meet Cary and Travis. What happens when a woman ends up in a biker bar in the middle of the high desert in California? What happens when a retired Navy SEAL finds himself in that same bar? This is the story of a woman who desperately wants some adventure and a man who wants to protect her.
