Her Rocky Mountain Protector

She walked back to him so he got the full effect of her beauty. Her flawless skin and perfect mouth. All that thick brown hair brushing her shoulders, making his hands itch to touch it.

“There’s no need for you to do that.”

“I know, but you rescued my son. There’s no way I can repay you for that. Please let me help you.”

He’d pretty much been a loner since his marriage ended. His choice. And this woman wasn’t helping his solitude.

Dear Reader,

This is my last book in the ROCKY MOUNTAIN BRIDES series—for now anyway. So I’m happy that I was able to write Gina’s story. She wasn’t originally going to be my heroine, but then she came to life in her sister Lorelei’s story, Single Dad’s Holiday Wedding, and there was no other choice for me.

Abuse is a hard topic to discuss, and worse to live with. It’s taken Gina Williams years to finally leave her situation and start over. Once settled in Destiny, Colorado, her worst fears come true when her ex-husband finds her and kidnaps her young son Zack.

My hero, loner ex-Army Master Sergeant Grady Fletcher, just happens to stumble into the situation, and can’t walk away when he’s asked to help. It’s his Military Working Dog, Scout, who finds the boy, and refuses to leave his side until help comes.

Whether they like it or not, Grady and Gina are thrown together many more times. They each have emotional pain from their pasts, but soon they realise that leaning on each other helps the healing. It’s a long road back for them, but they find strength in each other’s arms.

I hope you enjoy the journey.

Patricia Thayer

About the Author

Originally born and raised in Muncie, Indiana, PATRICIA THAYER is the second of eight children. She attended Ball State University, and soon afterwards headed West. Over the years she’s made frequent visits back to the Midwest, trying to keep up with her growing family.

Patricia has called Orange County, California, home for many years. She not only enjoys the warm climate, but also the company and support of other published authors in the local writers’ organisation. For the past eighteen years she has had the unwavering support and encouragement of her critique group. It’s a sisterhood like no other.

When she’s not working on a story, you might find her travelling the United States and Europe, taking in the scenery and doing story research while thoroughly enjoying herself, accompanied by Steve, her husband for over thirty-five years. Together, they have three grown sons and four grandsons. As she calls them: her own true-life heroes. On rare days off from writing you might catch her at Disneyland, spoiling those grandkids rotten! She also volunteers for the Grandparent Autism Network.

Patricia has written for over twenty years, and has authored more than forty-six books. She has been nominated for both a National Readers’ Choice Award and the prestigious RITA® Award. Her book Nothing Short of a Miracle won an RT Book Reviews Reviewers’ Choice award. A longtime member of Romance Writers of America, she has served as President and held many other board positions for her local chapter in Orange County. She’s a firm believer in giving back.

Check her website, www.patriciathayer.com, for upcoming books.

Her Rocky

Mountain

Protector

Patricia Thayer

To the strongest and the most stubborn woman.

I’ll miss you every day, but I’m happy you’re

with Dad now.

Love you, Mom. Rest in peace.

CHAPTER ONE

REGINA WILLIAMS rolled over and stared up at the peeling paint on the ceiling of her bedroom and smiled.

Two weeks. That was how long she and Zack had been living in the little bungalow on Cherry Street. Even with the endless projects to do, and the sparse furnishings, they’d found joy moving into their very first home.

Of course, there were thirty years of payments ahead, even with Lori’s help as co-signer and a good interest rate. That was as far as Gina would let her wealthy big sister go. She had to do this on her own. She had to prove to herself and her son they could be independent.

She had a good start, with her staging business and thrift shop and new friends and now, a wonderful place to live. Destiny, Colorado, was a great small town to raise her seven-year-old son. Zack was thriving in school and he was making friends. He was finally coming out of his shell, and maybe putting their old life where it belonged. In the past.

She climbed out of bed, slipped on her robe as she walked into the hall. She hesitated at Zack’s door, then decided to put on coffee first. In the kitchen, she drew back the curtains at the French doors that overlooked the backyard.

This was the view that had sold her on the house—also the acre of land out back. Springtime in Colorado was an array of color and she had already planned out her flower garden in her head.

Right now she’d better get her busy day started. Coffee made, she walked down the hall, knocked on her son’s door and opened it. “Rise and shine, kiddo.” No response. Zack had always been a slow starter. She went across the hall to the bathroom and turned on the light, then the shower.

“Come on, Zack,” she called. “I need to get to work and you have school.” She walked back to the bunk beds, to find the top bunk empty. So she glanced under to the lower bed, but no child.

“Zack,” she called, and pushed around the blankets. “Honey, we don’t have time to play around. So come out of hiding.”

Fear began to build as she glanced around the room. That was when she saw the curtains blowing from the open window. She rushed over to find the screen missing.

“No, God. No!” Her heart stopped then started racing as she frantically checked the closet, then under the bed, calling her son.

“Zack. Oh, God. Where are you? Please come out.” Even as she pleaded, something in the back of her mind told her that her worst nightmare had come true. She returned to the bed, jerked back the blankets and found the proof. A crumpled piece of paper.

A familiar feeling of helplessness hit her. Hard. Instinctively Gina knew it was a note from her ex-husband. A shiver ran through her as she picked it up and read, “I found you, babe. Now I got what you want. You’ll be hearing from me.”

Grady Fletcher parked his truck in front of Destiny’s sheriff’s office and glanced up and down First Street. Mid-morning and the main street was busy with people going about their business, paying no attention to him. Just how he liked it.

He pulled up the collar of his coat and climbed out. He checked the area once again. Although he knew he was safe, old habits died hard. “Stay,” he said to his trusted companion.

The German shepherd, Scout, sat in his spot in the backseat. The retired military working dog’s ears perked up, waiting for his command. Grady gave a hand signal and the animal lay down. “Be right back, boy.”

Grady was adjusting to his new life, too. Suddenly becoming a civilian after twenty years in the army wasn’t an easy transition, especially after his last tour of duty. So temporarily living at his grandfather’s old cabin was a good thing. It gave him time to heal physically and think about the future. He’d loved the solitude he found in the San Juan Mountains until he found there was a trespasser on his land.

He was going to let the sheriff handle it.

Grady walked through the front door and the room was a buzz of activity. He removed his cowboy hat and looked around. He could sense something was wrong. That was when he caught sight of the small dark-haired woman seated next to the desk. Worry was evident on her face, along with her tears. He decided his business could wait and started to leave when Reed Larkin came out of his office.

The woman stood and hurried to the sheriff. “Please, Reed, we need to start looking for Zack right now.”

“And we will, Gina. First, I had to issue an Amber Alert on the boy, and find a description of Eric’s last-known vehicle.” He glanced over the paper. “That was a 1998 primer-gray Ford truck, Colorado license.” He read off the numbers. “I have all the state agencies involved in the search, Gina.”

That description sparked Grady’s interest. He walked up to the twosome. “Maybe I can help.”

They both turned to him, but his attention went to the pretty brunette with the wide green eyes. Grady quickly turned to the sheriff, shielding his injured side.

“Hey, Grady, I haven’t seen you in town for a while.”

“There’s been no need, until today. You’re looking for a gray truck? I might know where you can find it.”

Gina forced herself to draw in her next breath as she looked up at the giant of a man. He had a head full of sandy-brown hair that curled in thick waves. His dark eyes were deep-set and edged with tiny lines. His chiseled jaw was firm and clean-shaved. She caught a glimpse of an angry red scar on the side of his neck.

Gina gasped. “Where?”

Suddenly the man turned his intense gaze on her. Her first instinct was to back away from the intimidating man, but she forced herself to listen to what he had to say.

She forced herself to move closer. “Did you see a little boy, Mr …?”

“It’s Fletcher, ma’am. Grady Fletcher. There’s a truck with that description on my grandfather’s property. But I haven’t seen anyone.”

The sheriff spoke up. “This is Gina Williams, Grady. Her seven-year-old son has been taken by his father. Eric Lowell was recently released from prison for drug possession and abuse. He kidnapped the boy from his home sometime during the night. We believe he’s dangerous, so any help would be appreciated. Where did you see the vehicle?”

Grady nodded. “On the northeast section of my grandfather’s property,” he told them. “The truck is partly hidden off the road just below Rocky Top Ridge.”

Reed Larkin frowned. “Where your granddad’s old mines are?”

The man nodded. “As far as I can tell the truck has been there a few days. I came in to report it. I figured they were thinking the mine is abandoned, or they’re trying to jump Fletch’s old claim.”

“Oh, God,” Gina gasped and turned to the sheriff. “Eric’s been in town that long, stalking us?”

“It’s okay, Gina. We’re going to get him.” He looked back at Grady. “When was the last time you saw the truck?”

“At dawn this morning,” the man said.

Reed nodded. “Did he see you?”

“Not unless he was out walking around early. There wasn’t anyone in the truck when I found it.”

“Good, we have a possible location,” the sheriff said. “My bet is he’s holed up in one of the old mines. Can you take us there, Grady?”

He shrugged. “It’s pretty rough terrain, but my dog might be able to pick up the trail. Are you and your men experienced hikers?”

Larkin nodded. “We’ve all had survival training. I hope the weather holds out today.”

They started to walk away. Gina went after them. “Wait,” she called. “Please, take me with you.”

Reed went to her. “Gina, no. You can’t handle the climb.”

She blinked. “You have no idea what I can handle, Reed. My son is up there with a man who swore he’d get even with me. I’m not going to stand by and wait while he takes his revenge out on Zack.”

The sheriff shook his head. “It’s not safe.”

“I can do this. And I know Eric. I know what pushes his buttons. Besides, he doesn’t want Zack, or he’d be on the road heading for parts unknown.”

She exchanged a glance with Grady Fletcher. “He wants me.” She stood straight. “And as long as my son is safe, I’m willing to make a trade.”

Minutes later, Grady stood out of the way as the sheriff made arrangements to leave. It hadn’t taken long for Reed to give in to the mother’s plea. Grady didn’t like this plan, not one bit. Take this woman with them. No way.

He shook his head. He didn’t need this problem. All he had to do was take them up to the mine, then leave the sheriff to handle the rest. Right. He wasn’t made that way. In the army he’d become a take-charge-guy as a means of survival. But that was before the explosion, before he gave up his career. He shoved the memory aside and turned his thoughts to the problem at hand.

This Lowell must be a crazy bastard to come in and steal his own kid. It definitely could turn out badly.

Just then Gina Williams came out of Reed Larkin’s office. She’d changed into hiking boots laced up at the bottom of her jeans. A sweatshirt under a quilted down vest would keep her warm against the cool day. She had her hair pulled back into a ponytail and a wide-brimmed hat to protect her from the elements. Springtime in Colorado was unpredictable. It could mean anything from rain to a full-blown snowstorm.

A blonde woman walked out behind the boy’s mother. He recognized her as Lorelei Hutchinson Yeager. She’d pretty much owned this town since her father’s death last year. Grady knew about the Hutchinsons only because of his grandfather’s stories. Old Fletch had a strong dislike for any members of the town’s founding family. It had something to do with disagreements over land rights.

Grady stood straighter when the two women walked his way. Ms. Williams had a stuffed toy in her hand.

“Mr. Fletcher, this is my sister, Lori Yeager. Lori, Grady Fletcher.”

He nodded. “Mrs. Yeager.”

She managed a smile. “It’s Lori. And I can’t tell you how much I appreciate your help finding my nephew. Zack means the world to us. If there’s anything you need, let Reed know.”

Gina looked at Grady. “The sheriff said you have a dog who can track.”

He wasn’t about to explain that he’d been through hell and back. “Scout was a military working dog. We’re both retired now.”

Gina held up a floppy-eared rabbit. “This belongs to Zack. Do you think he could pick up his scent?”

Since Scout’s injury, he hadn’t been put to the test. “It’s worth a try.”

She hugged her sister and they all walked outside. The sheriff and his two men had loaded up the white four-wheel drive SUV. After instruction to lead, Grady climbed in his own truck and Scout greeted him.

“Looks like we got some work to do. You up to it, fella?”

Surprisingly the animal let out a bark as the passenger-side door opened and the pretty Gina Williams peered in. “The other car is full. Would you mind if I rode with you?”

It seemed to take forever to get to their destination. The longest twenty minutes in Gina’s life, but thanks to Grady Fletcher she now had hope of finding Zack.

She tried to calm herself as she stole a glance at the beautiful scenery along the gravel road leading to the dotting of tall pines in the distance. A stream ran alongside the winding path. She thought of Zack. Was he warm enough? Had Eric hurt him? She tensed. He’d better not have.

Suddenly she felt a nudge on her arm. She started to pull away, then discovered it was Mr. Fletcher’s dog. “Hey, fella.”

She looked at the man who filled up the truck cab, making Gina very aware of his presence. “Is it okay if I pet him?”

He gave her a curt nod. “It seems Scout wants the attention.”

She ran her hand over the shepherd’s soft, nearly black coat. “He’s a beautiful dog. You said he’s a military dog?”

“Yes. He served overseas until last year.”

“Were you with him?”

Another curt nod.

Gina continued to rub the dog’s fur. She found it gave her comfort, but nothing could stop the fear she felt for her son. She’d thought she’d been so careful. That Eric would never find them.

Out of the blue, Mr. Fletcher said, “Tell me about your … about Eric. How experienced is he with survival skills?”

“Really good. Every year, he’d go with his brothers during hunting season.” She had been glad when he was away because it had meant she was safe from his abuse. “Don’t put anything past him, Mr. Fletcher.” She couldn’t forget the times she had, and he had made her pay. Oh, God, Zack, she cried silently. “Eric wasn’t supposed to find us here. Destiny was our safe place.” She worked to hold it together, but wasn’t doing well. “We didn’t tell a soul that we’d moved here. We changed our names while he was in prison.” She released a sigh. “Why can’t he leave us alone?”

For a long time the man didn’t say anything, then added, “The sheriff will get him and he’ll go back to prison.”

“I pray that happens. Right now, all I’m concerned about is my son’s safety.”

Grady went across the stream, then drove several yards off-road, coming to a stop under a tree, next to some large boulders at the base of hillside. Before he could shut off the engine, Gina jumped out of the truck and had started up the hillside when she felt his hand on her arm.

“Hey, you just can’t go running off half-cocked. At least wait for the others.”

Before she could argue, a rifle shot rang out, and something hit the tree above their heads.

With a curse, Grady pushed Gina to the ground and covered her body with his. He had to get her out of there. He grabbed her close, hearing her gasp, then rolled them over and over until they were behind the tree.

Gina landed on her back and was swiftly aware of this large man. He braced his arms on either side of her head so his full weight wasn’t on her. Still, she was very mindful of the fact of his powerful size. Oddly, she didn’t feel panicked or threatened. She had her son to worry about.

He raised his head and those dark brooding eyes locked on hers. “You okay?”

She managed a nod. Again she caught sight of the scarred skin covering the side of his neck.

Another series of shots rang out over their heads. He moved her just as the sheriff’s vehicle pulled up and parked in front of them as a shield.

Reed climbed out of the truck. His men scrambled to find cover behind large boulders. The sheriff reached them. “You two okay?”

Grady moved off the woman, trying to forget the awareness he felt. Their gaze connected for an instant before she sat up. This was trouble in more ways than he could count.

“I’m fine, but my son isn’t. So I need to go up there.”

She started to stand and Grady pulled her back down. “Lady, I know you aren’t thinking clearly right now,” he growled. “And running up there isn’t going to get your son back. That maniac is holding a high-powered rife on us, and he wants you to pay.”

Before Grady could stand, Gina Williams gripped his arm. “I don’t care how you do it, Mr. Fletcher—just get my son out safely. Please.” Tears filled those mesmerizing green eyes. “My life doesn’t matter without Zack.”

“We’ll do whatever it takes to get the boy out of there.” Grady moved away, praying he could keep his promise.

I’m so scared. Mom, help me.

Wiping away more tears, Zack sat up on the blanket and began pulling at the ropes that held his wrists and feet together. He had to get away before his dad got back. Struggling with the ropes again, he wished he were strong enough to break free. With only a little light from the lantern, he glanced around the dark cave, but couldn’t see anything.

He was all alone.

He bit down on his lip, trying not to cry again. He had to get out and find his mom before Dad hurt her again.

“I got to get loose,” he whispered and began to wiggle his hands back and forth feeling the burn, but continuing to fight to get out of the ropes. Using his teeth, he loosened the knot and finally his hands came out. Excited, he untied the ropes at his ankles. He stood, careful not to make any noise. He grabbed the lantern and headed toward the light in the opening. Outside he heard rifle shots so he turned and ran off in the other direction. Far away from danger.

CHAPTER TWO

GRADY stood behind the large boulder as he scanned the rocky rim with binoculars. He followed the dark figure of a man as he moved cautiously among the trees and brush. He’d seen a picture of the suspect and recognized him.

He nudged the sheriff beside him. “Lowell’s up there, but I can’t see any sign of the boy. Can you?”

Reed looked through his glasses, then said, “No, no sign of Zack, but that’s definitely Eric Lowell. We can’t rush him. The boy could get hurt. If this guy came all this way to take his son away from his ex-wife, he isn’t going to give up easily.”

“He’ll never give up.”

Grady looked over his shoulder to see that Gina approached them.

“I thought you promised to stay in the vehicle. It’s not safe here.”

She shook her head. “He’s got Zack. My child isn’t safe with him.”

The panicked look on her face tore at Grady. It sent him a painful reminder of what he’d lost. Only he never deserved to have a family in the first place.

“You’ve got to let me go up there, Reed. Make a trade. Eric wants me. He wants to punish me. Please, Reed,” she pleaded. “Eric knows he’s going back to prison. So he has nothing to lose.” She wiped the tears that escaped her eyes. “I can’t let him hurt Zack. I can’t.”

When she started to walk into the clearing, Grady grabbed her right arm as another rifle shot rang out. He pulled her back against the rock wall and shielded her. Grady had to work to get his breathing and heart rate under control. That was too close. This lunatic was playing for keeps. “Lady, you’ve got to stop with the crazy stunts,” he growled.

She tossed him a stubborn look. “It doesn’t matter. Nothing matters without my son.”

“What do you think will happen to Zack if you get yourself killed? You need to let the sheriff handle this.”

“Okay, but you don’t understand. I can’t leave my son up there.” She nodded to the ridge. “I promised Zack. I promised him I wouldn’t let his dad hurt us again. Please, you’ve got to help me.”

He hated that this woman got to him. As much as Grady wanted to, it was impossible to walk away from this. He turned to Reed Larkin. “What’s your next move, Sheriff?”

“I wish I had an answer. I can’t take a chance that he’ll harm the boy.” Larkin gave him a hard look. “You know the area, Fletcher. Is there a back way in?”

Grady nodded, remembering the summers he’d tracked after old Fletch. “You can come in along Miner’s Ridge. It’s pretty narrow, and it’ll take about fifteen minutes, but if Lowell is focused on watching for his ex-wife, we might be able to catch him by surprise. Give me a little time to scope the area.”

Grady started to walk back to his truck to arm himself when Larkin stopped him. “I can’t ask you to do this.”

“You didn’t. I volunteered.”

“Then I’ll need to deputize you first. Do you have a problem with that? I can’t let a civilian get involved.”

Grady paused as he looked at this woman still gripping that floppy-eared rabbit. Suddenly memories of his past life flashed before him, the picture of the stuffed animals that lined the shelf in his infant son’s room. Toys the baby never got the chance to see or play with. He quickly shook it away. “Do what you need to do.”

After the sheriff had sworn him in, Grady hurried back to his vehicle and opened the door. Immediately the shepherd stood in the backseat. Scout hesitated. The dog hadn’t worked since Afghanistan when he’d been injured. Yet since they’d returned home, Grady had adopted Scout, hoping to get involved in some search-and-rescue operations. It was a good time to test him.