Page 107 of The Search

“Yes, and Rudzak used the death of three teenage kids to spring it. Do you know how that makes her feel?”

Galen’s lips tightened. “I know how it makes me feel.”

“Then make sure Dodsworth is ready. Or find Rudzak. He could have killed her tonight.”

“But you came just in the nick of time?”

“No, I would have been too late if Rudzak had wanted to kill her. He didn’t want her dead . . . yet.”

“Then what was his little trap all about?”

“To let me know he could do it and to find out how high she was on his list of the things I value.”

“And did he find that out?”

“Probably. If he was watching us. He’s always been able to read me.”

Galen lifted a brow. “And is she high enough on the list to be worth his while?”

“He struck pay dirt.” Logan put the glass down and turned away. “So we’ve got to find the son of a bitch before he kills her. Because next time he’ll do it.”

Sarah was sleeping deeply, like a child after a hard day.

Logan stood staring down at her.

Tenderness. Protectiveness. Love. Passion. Fear.

She wasn’t the first woman in his life. He had felt all these emotions before. But not like this. Not with this single-minded intensity and desperation. When had admiration and friendship become obsession?

It didn’t matter. It was here, it had come.

And Rudzak knew it had come.

Sarah stirred and whimpered something in her sleep.

Nightmares? He had promised to keep the nightmares away.

He slipped into bed beside her and drew her into his arms. She felt soft and womanly, but he knew how strong she was. Strong and stubborn and yet terribly vulnerable and guarded. It was a wonder he had even gotten into her bed. It would be a superhuman task making her accept any other relationship. He would have to be careful not to rush her.

She whimpered again, and he brushed his lips across her brow.

“Shh, it’s okay. I’m here. I’ll never let anything hurt you.” He drew her closer and whispered the words he knew she’d never believe if she was awake. “I’ll always be here, Sarah.”

Logan was still beside her when Sarah woke the next morning. His eyes were open and he was obviously wide-awake.

“Good morning.” He planted a kiss on her forehead and sat up in bed. “You hit the shower while I go and see about breakfast.”

“What time is it?”

“Nearly noon.”

“I have to feed Monty and Maggie.”

“Already done.” He stood up. “I left you long enough to take care of Monty, and Galen had already fed Maggie. You’ll be glad to know that Monty wouldn’t let him feed him.”

“But he let you feed him again.”

“Don’t be mad at him. I’m special. We’ve gone through a lot together. Santo Camaro, Taiwan, and then last night. It’s natural that—” He stopped as he saw her expression change. “Don’t think about it right now. Get your shower and something to eat.” He grabbed his robe at the foot of the bed and left the room.