Austin

by Stone, Piper

  My stomach churning, I dialed Katie’s number, trying to keep my voice down. At this point, I didn’t want Vader to hear what was going on. He had enough to deal with. And I had a feeling he’d finish what he started with Mitchell.

  “Katie.”

  “Hey, it’s good to hear your voice,” Katie sighed. “I’m so sick over this. Just sick.”

  “Did you send the information I asked you for?”

  “Yeah, emailed yesterday. I don’t like the sound of your voice. What’s going on?”

  “Mitchell is threatening me. Seems that I’m still married to him.”

  “Fuck. He’s going to crucify you in the press. I knew it, the fucking asshole.”

  I bit my lower lip, trying to think of a way to fight back, which is exactly what I had to do. “I know and I can’t allow that to happen. There’s got to be a way I can get back at him. Do you know Bryce Myers?”

  “Great reporter. Why?”

  “The both of you have a distaste for Mitchell. Maybe you can read over her article and see if you can provide some dirt I can use against him.”

  Katie laughed. “You know I’m happy to do that. What else can I do?”

  “Keep checking on those properties that were burned. I am firmly convinced we’re missing a connection. Maybe a new development. Maybe a resort. I don’t know. What I’m suggesting doesn’t make sense with the various locations, but it’s worth a try.”

  “I’ll check everything I can, but you need to worry about you. I know how you are. You’re a fighter.”

  I thought about her words then had an idea, although the scheme was one that I knew Vader wasn’t going to like. “You just gave me a brilliant idea.”

  “Be careful. You might ruin your career in the process.”

  “You know what, Katie? I don’t care any longer. If I get voted out, that might be the best thing to happen to me.”

  “Good girl. Glad the assholes didn’t break your spirit. I’ll let you know what I find.”

  As I hung up the phone, an evil smile crossed my face. Yeah, the bastard wasn’t going to like what I had planned, but who the hell cared?

  “Ah, fuck,” Reaper said from the background.

  “What the hell is wrong?” Hawk asked, storming close to the front windows.

  “The press found you guys.”

  Reaper’s answer wasn’t surprising. Every one of us had expected their arrival. Vader hissed as he walked toward the window, peering out through the blinds. “I’m going to fucking kill these people.”

  While the sick feeling in my stomach remained, I moved closer to Vader, placing my hand on his arm. When he lowered his head, the emotions in his eyes were as startling as they were beautiful.

  “I’m sorry, babe. We will get through this,” he said quietly.

  “Do you trust me?” I asked, keeping my grip firm.

  “You know I do.”

  “Then I’m about to stretch that trust factor.”

  He narrowed his eyes. “What do you have in mind?”

  “Flushing the asshole out. I know a way to do it.”

  Exhaling, he brushed his knuckles across my cheek. “If you put yourself in harm’s way, there will be hell to pay.”

  I couldn’t help but smile. He was such a dominating force. “Don’t worry. I know what I’m doing.”

  “Uh-huh. Why do I have a bad feeling?”

  He gripped my arm, further lowering his head until he was able to kiss me on the lips. I gripped his shoulder, longing for the closeness we’d felt before. Seeing him in the bathroom the night before had sent a dagger through my heart. The fact he’d actually slept through the remainder of the night, allowing me to wake up in his arms had been a special moment, and one that I hoped to repeat. Whatever happened, I wasn’t going to allow Mitchell or my job to beat me.

  “What the hell should I say to these assholes?” Hawk asked.

  Vader snarled, breaking our connection. I walked further away, holding my phone in my hands.

  “This is exactly what you should do,” I whispered to myself. Then I dialed the number. “Janine, I need you to do me a favor.”

  I wasn’t paying attention as I rattled off directions for what I wanted her to do, but when I ended the call, holding the phone to my head, Vader’s voice caught my attention.

  “Yeah, I get it, Sheriff. I appreciate you looking into it.” Vader took a deep breath before turning in my direction.

  “Why is she bothering you again?” I demanded.

  “She has her reasons.” Vader glanced around the room before settling his gaze on my face. “Things have changed.”

  Chapter 16

  Francesca

  “Are you certain you want to do this?” Janine asked nervously as she adjusted my shirt collar.

  While I often hated her fiddling attempts, today I welcomed her making certain I had all my ducks in a row. “Stop worrying. I’m not new to this rodeo.”

  “No, you’re not, Senator, but your ratings have tanked over the last two days.”

  Ratings. I’d never been the kind of politician to fall into the quagmire of paying but so much attention to the ups and downs of numbers. I’d made peace with the fact there wouldn’t be another term. I’d actually spent the night before curled on the couch in front of a roaring fire, contemplating my first book. What the hell. I’d always wanted to write a novel so now might be the perfect time. I had money in the bank and even though I might be forced to spend a portion to get Mitchell off my back, it would be worth every single penny. Time would tell.

  After all, he wasn’t going to like what I had to say.

  “I am worried. You didn’t see the morning news.” Janine took a step away, folding her arms, her mouth twitching.

  I pressed both hands down my skirt, allowing a slight grin since I’d selected my bright red suit. Vader had only allowed me five minutes inside my house, but it had been enough to grab my power ensemble. Now I was ready for whatever I had to face. There wasn’t an asshole in the world who could keep me from saying my piece. “I don’t need to see it to know what they’re saying, Janine. They’re calling for my resignation given immoral and inappropriate behavior for a senator. Well, here’s what I have to say. Fuck them. I’m an adult and I can do whatever I want.”

  “It’s all about character, Senator Montgomery. That’s what these jerks have been challenging. They just don’t know you. You’re a kind, decent, and caring individual who would give the shirt off your back if necessary. I hope this means you’re going to fight back.”

  Character. I’d spent my entire life being closed off, refuting the possibilities of having my character challenged. Now wasn’t the time to give in to tyranny.

  Or stupidity.

  “I assure you that fighting is exactly what I’m getting ready to do.” I made certain my bright red lipstick hadn’t caked in the corners of my mouth then walked toward the door, stopping short. I felt more lighthearted than I had in several months. “As an added benefit, I’m hoping to expose a criminal, Janine. That’s what’s really important.”

  “Yes, ma’am. What do you want me to do with all your messages?”

  “Ignore them for now. I’ll handle each and every one when I’m ready.” As I headed for the elevator, I kept a smile on my face. While what I was about to do was akin to facing a group of hungry lions, I had truth on my side. I’d placed a call to my attorney warning him that Mitchell was up to his old tactics but taking the asshole down was entirely up to me.

  I kept my head high as the elevator came to a stop on the ground floor, the slight ping a reminder that I had another life to live. As soon as I stepped off, I was able to see the crowd that had gathered outside of the building. Just as requested.

  While I was doing this alone, I felt more confident than I had in years. There was so much damn noise, every reporter trying to get closer to the makeshift stage. Picture after picture was being taken and while it pissed me off, this was something that had to be done.

 
When I headed to the microphone, I took a minute to survey the audience. I could see all five of the Montana Bad Boys in the crowd, along with the women who’d tamed them. They were my force, my posse so to speak, and I’d never felt more comforted in my life. There was nothing to stop me from bringing the asshole responsible for creating such chaos in my city down. My city, the most beautiful place in the world.

  Big Sky country.

  A place where all one’s dreams could come true. They certainly still could for one little girl who’d had dreams of being a famous writer.

  I took a deep breath, waiting until the din of the crowd settled down. “Good morning. I wanted to take a few minutes and address the situation that’s come to light.”

  “Senator Montgomery, have you spoken with your husband over your affair?”

  “Senator Montgomery, what does it say to you that over one third of your supporters have bailed?”

  While the questions came like angry bullets, I’d expected them. I held up my hands, shaking my head. “I’m going to make a few statements. There will be no questions after I do. I strongly suggest you listen very carefully.”

  After a few seconds, the crowd settled down, their eager faces what I’d come to expect over the years.

  “I’ve endured my character being held into question over the last few days. While I haven’t wanted to engage in any rhetoric involving what I know to be false claims, it’s come to my attention that certain allegations are not only damaging to my position as your senator, but also as a member of this society. That is going to stop today.”

  At least it appeared a few of the reporters were actually listening.

  “While it is true that I remain married to Mitchell Montgomery because of a stipulation in our divorce agreement, Mitchell and I have been living apart for almost two years. I in no way will acknowledge the hateful words used by members of the press except to say that my separation and subsequent divorce from Mr. Montgomery was based on years of emotional and physical abuse.”

  The collective gasp was widespread.

  “The technicality is one that remains disturbing, but will be handled in an appropriate manner. However, that does not give anyone the right to challenge my personal time, including the person I choose to share it with. Sergeant Austin Bridges is not only an honorable man who’s fought for our country for years, he’s a member of an elite group of men whom I’ve gotten to know, men who would give their lives not only for our freedom but for the people they serve with. To question either Austin’s integrity or his loyalty is reprehensible, and I will not stand for anyone challenging him. You can come at me with both guns loaded, but Corporal Bridges is entirely off limits.”

  I allowed the words to sink in, making certain I made eye contact with every single member of the press.

  “And furthermore, my personal life is not what this press conference is about. As many of you are well aware, my life was placed in jeopardy two days ago, an explosive device destroying my car. Fortunately, I had a true hero who risked his own life to save mine. Unfortunately, the person responsible is still at large and from what I’ve been able to learn, part of a much larger picture, including the firebombing of several local businesses.”

  Another collective gasp could be heard through the crowd.

  I pointed my finger at the camera directly in front of me. “This bomber, this coward who threatens all our lives did not act alone and I assure you that the Montana sheriff’s department is well aware of who you are, as well as the people you’re working with. And they are coming for you.” I leaned into the camera, offering a sly smile. “It’s only a matter of time before they catch you. And if they can’t find you, I assure you that I will. Be afraid. Be very afraid.”

  As hands went up in the audience, I decided to end the conference. “Later this week, I will be leaving for my senatorial duties in Washington, DC. You elected me as your representative, and I plan on continuing my work. There isn’t a single monster on this planet who can stop me. Including you, Mitchell Montgomery. Go ahead and try. I doubt that the good people of this state will embrace the skeletons hiding in your closet.”

  I remained on the platform for a full five seconds, ensuring that every camera snagged a picture of me. Let the fuckers involved chew on that for a little while.

  When I walked off the stage, heading directly for the side of the building, I knew I’d be followed. That was the way of the vultures who longed for their fifteen minutes of fame. I heard the questions from behind me, the ugliness regarding my marriage almost as important to them as the arsonist. That disgusted me but I refused to turn around, talking long strides toward the vehicle Bryce had allowed me to borrow.

  When Vader appeared, his face riddled with rage, I stopped short. “What are you doing here?” I asked, attempting to remain as cool as possible.

  “How dare you,” he barked, his face reddening. “You have no right to mention my service for any reason. None. You betrayed me just like I thought you would.”

  “What the hell are you talking about? I was defending you.”

  “Well, you have a pretty ridiculous way of showing it. My life is off limits to you.”

  I could hear the grumblings from behind me, the assholes getting every second of our nasty argument. “Your life? What life do you actually have, Vader? A broken-down ranch and a dishonorable charge hanging over your head. I was trying to help you.”

  “Yeah? Well, I don’t need your help.”

  “Fine. Then I suggest you get out of my life. I don’t need this right now.” I pushed my hand against his chest, moving quickly toward the borrowed vehicle. I couldn’t take anymore at this point. I was finished with dealing with members of the press on any level.

  My heart was heavy, my mind reeling and all I wanted to do was grab a tall glass of wine.

  And wait.

  Wine.

  As had been the entire week, there wasn’t enough wine to keep me from losing my mind. I hated the shit that was happening, every bit of it. All I could do was pace the floor in my kitchen and suck back sips of cabernet.

  Only it did little to calm my nerves or my fear.

  When I glanced out the window, I realized darkness had fallen likely two hours before, time meaning almost nothing at this point but continued drudgery. I had difficulty swallowing, my heart heavy. Huffing, I headed toward the kitchen sink, snapping the blinds shut. Somehow, I had to keep my wits about me. That wasn’t going to be easy. I’d challenged Mitchell to the kind of fight that I was prepared to handle, yet his silence meant he was rounding up all his supporters. My guess was that I’d have a stern and threatening letter in my mailbox within two days maximum.

  Every muscle ached, the fogginess in my brain almost as bad as the hard thudding my heart was doing. I couldn’t stand this. None of it. I’d leapt off the precipice with both feet.

  “What the hell are you doing, Franny? You could get yourself killed.”

  I glared at my watch, taking a deep breath. Time to turn out the majority of lights.

  After doing so, I settled with my wine in the den, almost enjoying the shadows created by the single light glowing in the other room. All I could do was hope that this nightmare would be over soon.

  The only sound was the scratching of tree limbs remaining too close to the house as the light wind forced them to sway. I’d never felt uncomfortable in my house before, even with my wretched relationship with Mitchell. Tonight was entirely too eerie.

  As I pulled the book I’d selected into my hand, I realized it was shaking. I longed to talk to Vader, to hear his voice, but that wasn’t possible. The thought created a wave of despair in my soul, a knife stabbing my heart. I adored the man on so many levels, including his integrity. I hadn’t bothered to watch the continued news coverage, although I’d accepted Janine’s call, the glee in her voice unable to snatch me from the darkness that had enfolded. So what if it seemed my words had been inspiring, creating a new wave of support around my position?

&
nbsp; Laughing, I leaned my head against the back of the chair, visions of Vader shifting into my mind. The rugged, dangerous man couldn’t have any idea how much he’d changed my life.

  Five minutes passed by.

  Ten.

  Hell, maybe longer.

  I closed my eyes, the headache remaining after the morning’s events lingering.

  Bing!

  The noise was easily recognizable, the sound of the text giving me another round of shivers.

  As I glanced at the screen, I sucked in my breath.

  Your time is up.

  After placing the wine on the small table, I texted a message of my own, the receiver waiting for acknowledgment.

  Then I remained where I was, now encouraged by the darkness.

  I didn’t have to wait long.

  The single cracking sound was followed by a whoosh, the bright orange fire exploding in the kitchen in slow motion. My reactions were slow at first, my heart racing as I bolted toward the front door.

  Boom!

  As the door was kicked in, several people rushing inside, a deputy grabbed me, dragging me out of the house, yanking me to the far side of the driveway. The noise was horrific, someone barking orders, the thudding of footsteps all around me. I fought my way out of the deputy’s arms, struggling to find the person I was looking for.

  Vader rushed forward, his expression full of concern. When he took me into his arms, I’d never felt so joyous in my entire life.

  “Jesus Christ,” he growled, pulling me even further away.

  “I’m fine.” Yet I clung to him as members of law enforcement as well as firefighters scrambled into and around my house.

  “That was stupid. My God. I can’t believe I allowed you to risk your life.” He pressed me close, holding my head against his chest.