Desperation had the muscles in her face rigid as she stood in front of him, moving closer. A red heat climbed up her neck.
“I can’t let you lie.” He smiled. “Besides, you’re no good at it. And the evidence will clear us.”
Defiance shot from her glare. Her stubborn streak reared its head again. “You don’t get to decide.”
Her gaze was fiery hot. Her body vibrated with intensity as she stalked toward him.
He readied himself for the argument that was sure to come, but she pressed a kiss to his lips instead, shocking the hell out of him.
“There’s been enough fighting for one day. I need something else from you.”
He locked onto her gaze. “Are you sure this is a good idea?”
“No. Not at all. But I need to do it anyway.”
Rancher Rescue
Barb Han
BARB HAN lives in North Texas with her very own hero-worthy husband, has three beautiful children, a spunky golden retriever/standard poodle mix and too many books in her to-read pile. In her downtime, she plays video games and spends much of her time on or around a basketball court. She’s passionate about travel, and many of the places she visits end up in her books.
She loves interacting with readers and is grateful for their support. You can reach her at www.barbhan.com.
MILLS & BOON
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The chance to work with the incredibly talented Allison Lyons is a thrill beyond measure. Thank you for sharing your editing brilliance and giving me the chance to learn from you.
To my agent, Jill Marsal, for all your guidance, encouragement, and patience.
To Jerrie Alexander, my brave friend and critique partner.
To Brandon, who is strength personified; Jacob, who is the most courageous person I know; and Tori, who is brilliant and funny, I love you. This one is for you, Babe.
Contents
Chapter One
Katherine Harper pushed up on all fours and spit dirt. “Don’t take him. I’ll do whatever you say.”
The tangle of barbed wire squeezed around her calf. Pain seared her leg.
“She got herself caught.” The man glared down at her. He glanced toward the thicket, sized up the situation and turned to his partner. “She’s not going anywhere.”
The first man whirled around. His lip curled. Hate filled his eyes. “Leave her. We have the boy.”
“Kane won’t like it. He wants them both.”
“No. Please. My nephew has nothing to do with any of this.” She kicked. Burning, throbbing flames scorched her ankle to her thigh. “I’ll give you whatever you want. I’ll find the file.”
“We know you will. Involve the police and he’s dead,” the second man warned. “We’ll be in touch.”
Noah screamed for her. She heard the terror in his voice. A wave of hopelessness crashed through her as she struggled against the barbs, watching the men disappear into the woods with her nephew. Oh. God. No.
“He’s sick. He needs medicine,” she screamed through burning lungs.
They disappeared without looking back.
Shards
