Chapter Seven

Luke entered the diner, and saw a lot of patrons, and couldn't help but shake his head in amazement. Nothing could stop people from indulging in a good burger. He was sure everyone was out and about after last week's weather. He took a seat at the counter and Connie greeted him.

"Hey there, Luke. What can I get for you?"

"The usuals for me and Bryce, to go, please."

"Of course, right away."

"No rush."

"I'll get those meals ready for you. How is Bryce doing?"

How is Bryce doing? She's sexy as hell.

Luke cleared his throat. "She's great."

"That's good to hear. I'll have to visit her. I don't want to wear out my welcome."

"You could never do that, Connie."

Connie winked at him and gave his order to Owen through the pass-through window.

Luke turned on the stool and nodded at people who waved at him.

A few minutes later, Connie brought their food in a bag and set it down on the counter. Luke stood up, pulled out his wallet from his back pocket, paid her and insisted she keep the change.

"Why don't you use the back door?" she suggested.

"That would be great if you don't mind, Connie."

"Not at all."

"Thanks a lot." He grabbed the bag of food and walked through the kitchen to the delivery door. Connie smiled as he went out the door. Luke smiled as he passed her, and she closed and locked the door behind him.

Once at the top, he knocked on the door. Bryce quickly opened it, and he hurried inside before she closed the door behind him. He handed her the bag of food.

"That smells amazing," she exclaimed as she placed it on the bar counter. "Take off your coat, Luke."

"Yes, ma'am. I was only out for a few minutes, but it was brutal. At least it's not snowing."

"I'll be glad to see spring."

Luke watched Bryce remove their dinners from the bag set them on the coffee table, then she headed for the bedroom.

"I just want to check on Leah because if I don't, I know the minute I take a bite, she'll wake up."

Luke chuckled. "No doubt there. Hurry back, sweetheart."

****

Bryce quietly opened the bedroom door and was relieved to see that the nightlight provided enough illumination for her to see her daughter. Bryce couldn't help but smile as she watched Leah sucking on her fist. She pulled the blanket up over her chest and left the room.

"Alright, let's eat then. The food will get cold," she said when she entered the living room.

Luke approached her, touching her cheek before kissing her lips. "Yes, ma'am." He motioned for her to sit down before joining her.

After they finished eating in silence, Bryce threw away their trash and went to plug in the lights she had put up for St. Patrick's Day. She sighed when Luke wrapped his arms around her from behind.

"It looks nice," he said, kissing her neck.

"I wonder how it looks from the street," Bryce mused.

"If you think I'm going out there to look, you can think again."

Bryce laughed. "Spoilsport."

Luke chuckled. "I am not about to go freeze my balls off just so I can see how nice your green lights look."

"You men and your precious jewels."

"You have no idea."

She turned around in his embrace to face him. "I can honestly say, I don't."

He grinned and kissed her lips. Just as things were heating up between them, Bryce heard Leah fussing.

"I'm sorry," she said apologetically.

Luke laughed. "Don't be sorry. Is she hungry again?"

"She probably just needs changed."

"Okay."

Bryce smiled as she went to the bedroom and picked up Leah. After changing her diaper, she carried her back to the living room and saw Luke sitting on the sofa. He stood when she approached.

"Can I hold her?" he asked.

They both chuckled when Leah turned her head toward him.

"She just loves your voice," Bryce remarked. "Can't say that I blame her."

Luke leaned in close and whispered in her ear, "I'll whisper in your ear anytime."

She shivered. "Looking forward to it."

Handing Leah over to Luke, he sat down on the couch and talked to Leah. Her little Cupid's bow lips lifted in a smile.

"She's going to be a flirt," Luke said with a grin, then laughed when Leah smiled again.

"Good Lord," Bryce muttered. "She's got you where she wants you."

Luke looked at Bryce. "So does her mama."

She could feel her cheeks warming at his comment but couldn't help but smile. She was surprised at how quickly he'd become a part of her life. She did worry though what would happen if… when Mick found her, because she knew he was looking for her and he would not stop looking until he found her. She hated putting Luke in such a position. Mick wouldn't hesitate to hurt him, given the chance, and she cared for him way too much to want that to happen.

****

Mick sat at his cluttered desk in the clinic, his fingers tapping nervously against the smooth surface. His eyes flicked repeatedly to his phone, willing it to ring with good news. But it remained stubbornly silent, and Mick couldn't shake off the growing sense of dread in his gut. Time was running out and Sally's impatience was flaring up like wildfire.

With a frustrated sigh, he turned to his computer and pulled up an extensive map of the United States. His gaze scanned over the familiar layout, searching for any clues that could lead to Bryce. As he traced a route from Minnesota to North Dakota, through Montana, and into Washington, he couldn't help but feel a glimmer of hope. If she hadn't made it to Washington yet, then she had to be somewhere along that path. But where exactly?

The possibilities were endless. She could have taken a wrong turn or stopped at any number of towns along the way. Mick picked up his phone and quickly sent a text to Craig's number.

Did you check hospitals along her possible routes? She's had that baby by now, so there must be a hospital record.

Yes, I did. No one recognized her. The only place we didn't check is a few little towns. One was Spring City, another was Hartland, then the last was Clinton. All in Montana. No, that's not right. Hold on. I'll pull over and look at the GPS.

Mick sighed as he waited. Damn Craig thought he had all the time in the world.

Clifton. It's about two hours from Kalispell.

Check it out!

But I'm almost into Washington.

Then turn the fuck around and check it out! Mick's patience was wearing thin.

Yes, sir.

Mick stood, let out a deep breath and forcefully threw his phone across the room, the sound of it hitting against the wall echoing in the office. Time was running out, and they couldn't afford to miss any possible lead, no matter how small.

"Fuck," he shouted as he sat down.

The door opened and a nurse stuck her head in.

"Is everything alright, Dr. Burns?"

"Yeah, Tammy. I'm just frustrated. Could you get my phone for me?" He pointed to where the phone lay on the floor.

"Sure." She entered the room, picked up the phone, handed it to him, then left the office.

He looked at his phone to see it was still working. He was glad it was in a case, otherwise it would have shattered.

"Damn you, Bryce. All you're doing is pissing me off more," he muttered as he pushed his seat back, stood, and walked out of his office to see patients.

****

Luke let out a sigh as he sat at his desk, poring over more files.

"Still no luck finding the Shires?" Creed asked as he sat in the chair across from him.

"They seem to have vanished into thin air," Luke responded, frustration evident in his voice. "How can someone hide fifteen huge horses?"

"Whoever took them knew what they were doing. The size of the trailer tire tracks indicates it was a large vehicle."

"At least I was able to recover them from under all that snow," Luke shook his head. "I just don't understand. I want to find them, Creed. Mr. Hancock is battling cancer, and I don't know how long he has left. I want him to have his horses back before anything happens."

"You know it's not always that simple, Luke."

"I know. It's just... Mr. Hancock is a good man. He seems lonely and those horses mean everything to him. His wife passed away two years ago, and his son doesn't seem to care about him."

"Have you looked into the son?"

"Not yet. I've been too busy going through these files."

"Do you have his name? I can look into him for you since I just finished a case and Dave hasn't assigned me a new one yet." Creed smirked.

"I didn't ask for his name. I had a feeling Mr. Hancock wouldn't appreciate me poking around about his son."

"Can you find out what it is?"

"Yeah, hold on. Let me call his manager." Luke picked up his phone and scrolled through his contacts until he found Rafe Marshall's number, then dialed it.

"Agent McCallister, how can I help you?" Rafe answered.

"Mr. Marshall, could you tell me the name of Mr. Hancock's son?"

"It's the same as his father's, but he goes by Frederick."

"Junior?"

"Yes."

"Thank you. I appreciate your help."

"No problem."

Luke ended the call, set his phone down, and looked at Creed.

"His name is Frederick Hancock, Jr."

Creed stood up. "I'll see what I can find."

"I really appreciate it, Creed."

"Of course."

Luke was getting so frustrated over this case. Hiding fifteen horses wasn't easy anyway but to hide fifteen huge horses is almost impossible. Unless the horses were taken across the border or they were slaughtered, they should be easy to find.

No one could just suddenly have fifteen draft horses and not be questioned by anyone who knew them. Those horses could cost up to twenty thousand dollars each, so no one just happens to have fifteen of them all at once.

As the day came to an end, Luke couldn't believe he still had any hair left on his head. He slumped back in his chair, took a deep breath, and ran his fingers through his disheveled hair. Getting up from his seat, he grabbed his hat and coat from the coat rack before storming out of the room.

He didn't even bother waiting for the elevator; he angrily pushed open the door to the stairwell, causing it to slam against the wall and bounce back toward him. Frustrated, he hit it again before running down the stairs. Exiting the building's lobby, he stepped out into the fading light of the setting sun, realizing it was already past six.

Sitting in his truck, he stared out the windshield for a few moments before reaching into his coat pocket for his phone. He sent a text to Bryce instead of calling, not wanting to disturb Leah who may be sleeping.

Bryce?

Yes?

Can I see you?

What's wrong?

It's just been one hell of a day.

Sure, come on.

Thanks. I'll be there soon.

Alright.

Putting his phone away, Luke started his truck and pulled out of the parking lot. He arrived at the diner and parked around back by the stairs. Shutting off his truck, he sat there for a few minutes before mustering up the energy to get out.

"What a damn long day," he muttered as he opened his door and made his way up the stairs. When he reached Bryce's apartment door, he knocked, and she answered almost immediately. She welcomed him inside with open arms as he removed his hat and wiped his feet.

"Come in, Luke." She led him inside and helped him out of his coat before hanging it up. Taking his hand, she led him over to sit on the couch next to her.

Luke leaned back on the couch and let out a sigh. He reached for Bryce's hand and brought it up to his lips, planting a kiss on her palm.

"What's wrong?" she asked with concern in her voice.

"Just this case I'm working on." He looked at her. "I don't want to let Mr. Hancock down."

"Why do you think you will?"

"I can't seem to make any progress. And now I found out he has cancer." Hearing her gasp, Luke nodded and continued. "I want to recover those horses for him before anything happens."

"What kind of cancer does he have?"

"I don't know... his manager told me he was diagnosed recently. It was just shocking to hear. He looks so healthy." Luke shook his head. "I know that doesn't necessarily mean anything, but you would never guess he was sick just by looking at him. He's such a kind man."

"I'm sorry, but it might not be something he can live with for a while."

"I know I shouldn't get too attached to anyone involved in my cases, but he..." Luke trailed off, unsure of how to express himself.

"Would you like something to drink?"

"A shot of whiskey would be great," he joked.

"Sorry, I don't have any of that on hand."

"It's okay, I was just teasing. How about a cup of coffee?"

"Sure thing. Give me just a minute."

"Is Leah asleep?"

"Yes, but she should be waking up soon. Maybe holding her will make you feel better," Bryce said with a warm smile.

"Holding you always makes me feel better."

Bryce leaned forward and kissed his lips gently. "Just relax for a few minutes."

She got up and went into the kitchen to make him a cup of coffee.

****

As Bryce made the coffee, she fought back tears. Luke was so invested in this case for a man he barely knew. Some people enter your life, and you just feel a connection with them. Mr. Hancock had clearly left an impression on Luke and now she knew he would do everything in his power to find the horses for him.

God, cancer was such a cruel disease. It didn't matter if she was close to the person or not, it always broke her heart to hear of someone being diagnosed. A nurse she used to work with at the clinic had breast cancer and underwent a double mastectomy, but it had already spread and within a year, she was gone. At only forty years old. It had devastated Bryce, and she knew she would always miss Jackie.

Bryce brought the cup of coffee over to Luke when it was ready. She saw him sitting forward with his head down, his arms resting on his thighs. When he lifted his head, she could see that his eyes were red rimmed. She set the cup on the coffee table and sat down beside him, wrapping her arms around him. He shook his head.

"I don't even know him," he whispered.

She rested her cheek against his back and just held him as more tears streamed down her face.

"You're staying here tonight. You can sleep on the couch, in my bed, or in the guest room, but you are not leaving."

"Yes, ma'am."

"I hear Leah crying. I'll be right back." She wiped away her tears and went into the kitchen to warm up a bottle for her daughter before going to get her.

She turned on the bedside lamp and peeked into Leah's crib. She grinned when her daughter smiled back at her.

"I have a feeling you're not even hungry. Do you know that Luke is here?" She picked up Leah. "Let's change your diaper."

After a quick diaper change, Bryce carried Leah back to the living room. She saw Luke looking at her and then he stood up.

"Hey there, little one," he said with a smile as Leah turned her head toward his voice. "Can I hold her?"

"Of course." Bryce handed Leah over to him and once he was settled on the couch, she gave him the bottle.

Luke tried to get Leah to drink from the bottle, but every time he brought it close to her mouth, she would just smile at him. He chuckled.

"I told you she was a little flirt."

Bryce laughed and sat down next to him. She reached over to touch Leah's hand and the baby looked at her before turning back to Luke.

"I think I've been replaced," Bryce joked.

"Only when I'm around," Luke teased back. He gently shook the bottle against Leah's lips and she finally started drinking, but if he looked at her, she would still smile, making him chuckle.

A little while later, Leah fell asleep in his arms. Luke stood up and carefully carried her into the bedroom, tucking her into the bassinet. He gazed down at her sleeping form. Bryce came up behind him and wrapped her arm around his waist.

"She truly is the most precious thing in the world," he whispered.

"You're falling in love with her," Bryce said softly.

Luke turned to face her; his eyes filled with emotion. "I believe I am."

Bryce met his gaze, feeling her own heart swell with love for him. "Me too."

****

Luke cupped her cheeks in his hands and kissed her tenderly, pulling her closer as their kiss deepened.

As he carried her back to the living room, his heart pounded with anticipation. He sat on the sofa with her straddling his lap, then she stood, removed her lounge pants revealing sheer black panties. His cock twitched in response, straining against his jeans.

She straddled him again, placed both hands on his cheeks and pulled him into a deep, passionate kiss. Her tongue danced against his lips and teased its way into his mouth. Her taste exploded on his tongue, making him groan. His fingers tangled in her hair as he deepened the kiss, taking control.

Breaking away, she looked at him with hooded eyes. "I want you so much, Luke," she whispered, her breath warm against his skin. He could feel the heat radiating from her body as it pressed against him. He wanted nothing more than to strip her naked and bury himself inside her.

She began to grind her hips against his hardness, her eyes locked on his. "Touch me," she said in a breathless voice. He didn't need to be told twice. His hands roamed over her body, tracing the curves of her breasts through her T-shirt before moving down to her waist and hips. She moaned in approval as he squeezed her ass. Then he removed her shirt, revealing her bare breasts. He leaned forward and took a nipple into his mouth, sucking on it.

Pulling at his belt, she fumbled with the snap of his jeans. He helped her out by shoving his jeans down. His cock stood at full attention.

"I want you more than anything else in this world, Bryce," he whispered.

He moved to the edge of the sofa and her legs wrapped around his waist. He stood, placed her on her back and he stayed between her legs. They wrapped around his waist again.

He groaned when he moved his fingers between her legs and found her wet for him. He couldn't wait any longer. He moved back, grabbed the waistband of her panties, yanked them down her legs and tossed them aside. He removed a condom from his wallet and was about to roll it on, but she took it from him, and slowly rolled it down over his cock. He had to grit his teeth to keep from coming.

Without further hesitation, he pressed the head of his cock against her. "Fuck," he hissed as he inched into her and she closed around him, her walls gripping him tightly. He began to thrust into her, picking up speed as he lost himself in the sensation of being buried inside her.

She met every stroke with a moan, her fingers raking down his back. "Oh God, Luke," she cried out. "Don't stop." He leaned down and pressed his lips to hers and kissed her deeply, their tongues tangling as if they'd never get enough of each other.

The room was filled with the sounds of their passionate lovemaking, their bodies moving together in rhythm. He reached between them, finding her clitoris and rubbing it in time with his thrusts. She screamed his name as her orgasm took her, her inner walls squeezing his cock like a fist.

He followed her over the edge, groaning loudly as he came. They collapsed together on the couch, panting heavily. He raised his head and lightly kissed her lips. She looked up at him, a smile playing on her lips.

"That," she said, "was amazing, Luke."

"I'm afraid I will never get enough of you."

"I'm fine with that." She frowned. "Luke? I love you. Is it too soon—"

His lips stopped her, then he gazed into her eyes.

"If it is, then it's too soon for me too. I have never felt like this before. I am crazy in love with you, Bryce." He grinned. "And with Leah."

Bryce laughed as she threw her arms around his neck. "She loves you too."

"I'm glad. How about we take a shower?"

"No. How about a bath? That tub is big enough for two."

"Sounds good to me, sweetheart." He stood, pulled up his jeans, helped her up, then they made their way to the bathroom.

As they sat in the tub, facing each other, Luke grinned. "You need to move those bubbles," he teased.

Bryce laughed, then gasped. "I forgot to tell you. I have a job interview at Clifton Memorial."

"That's great. When?"

"Wednesday. I just have to figure out what to do with Leah while I go." She nibbled on her bottom lip.

"I'm sure my mom would watch her."

"I hate to ask her, Luke."

"Please. She adores Leah. I'll call her tomorrow for you."

"Shouldn't I do it?"

"If you want, but it's no problem."

"Luke, you have a lot on your mind. I'll call her tomorrow. If she says no, I'll see if I can put Leah in the daycare during the interview." Bryce shrugged.

"Okay. Whatever you think is best, sweetheart."

She sat forward, kissed his lips, and stared into his eyes. "I think you're the best."

Luke laughed. "Only with you, baby. Only with you."

They stayed in the tub for a few more minutes, then got out and climbed into her bed. Luke grumbled about it being small, but Bryce just laughed and hugged him tight. He had no complaints about that.

****

Bryce stared at Lisa's number on her phone. Luke had sent it to her. He told her he'd ask his mother, but Bryce felt she needed to do it. Taking a deep breath, she made the call.

"Hello?"

"Lisa?"

"This is Lisa."

"Hi, this is Bryce—"

"Bryce! Honey, how are you?"

"I'm fine. You?"

"Just wonderful, how is that adorable daughter of yours?"

Bryce laughed. "Adorable. Um, that's sort of why I'm calling…"

"Oh? What do you need?"

"I have an interview for a job at Clifton Memorial Wednesday at two, and I don't have anyone to leave Leah with—"

"Say no more. I'll watch her for you."

"Are you sure? I hate asking, but…"

"Bryce, if I don't have anything planned, I am more than happy to watch her for you. What about if you get the job?"

"Oh, the hospital has a free daycare for employees."

"Well, that's wonderful. Please, bring her by Wednesday anytime. We'll have a nice time together."

"I don't know how to thank you."

"There's no need to thank me. I'm more than happy to do it."

"I appreciate it so much. I'll bring her by around one, if that's alright."

"It's fine. I'll see you both then."

"Okay. Thanks. Bye."

"Bye for now, honey." Lisa hung up.

Bryce set the phone down and a tear rolled down her face. Luke had such wonderful parents. Shaking her head, she wished her own mother would have been half as loving as Lisa was.

She quickly called Luke.

"Hey, darlin'," he said.

"I love your mother."

Luke chuckled. "She is great, isn't she? I told you she'd do it."

"She's amazing. She makes me wish my mother would have been more like her."

"Yeah, we're going to talk about that sometime."

"Okay. Oh, I hear Leah. I'd better go."

"Feed that girl," he teased.

Bryce laughed. "I'll talk to you later."

"Okay. Bryce?"

"Yes?"

"I love you," he said then hung up.

Bryce smiled then hung up. She loved him too. So very much.