Page 35 of Mountain Hero

I’ve been furious at the things I’ve seen. How could I not be after seeing so many atrocities overseas, losing teammates in the most tragic circumstances?

But this anger when I think about Thomas hurting Winter… it’s different.

If I’m honest with myself, it’s because it feels like she’s mine. Not in a creepy, stalkery, possessive way, but like I’d do anything to keep her safe.

I think about what Finn told me a lot now. About how he met Hanna and there was just something between them. How he left her in the beginning because he didn’t think he wanted a relationship, didn’t think he deserved it. But here they are. Married. Happier than either of them ever imagined they could be.

Maybe one day.

A sharp rap on my window yanks me out of my thoughts.

As I jerk my head around, I see Ronan standing outside my truck, watching me with a concerned expression.

Shit. How long have I been parked in front of my house?

Before the window is halfway down, Ronan asks, “You okay, man?” His brow creases. “Did you get bad news about Winter’s case?”

“No.” Shutting off the ignition, I open the door and hop out. “No new info, at least.”

Ronan frowns. “That fucker still in the wind?”

Gritting my teeth, I reply, “Unfortunately.”

“I can’t believe they still can’t find him.” He scowls. “Are they even trying? Or is that asshole cop still trying to pin it on Winter?”

Anger bubbles up in my chest. One of the older cops in the department is still pushing his theory that Winter was a willing participant in the robbery and she made up her story about being held captive in an attempt to avoid getting in trouble. Fortunately, Patrick and his partner, Sage, are on Winter’s side, and they’ve been actively investigating her case.

“He’s backed off some now. And they are investigating. But Patrick—that’s the guy I went to high school with—seems to think Thomas is being helped by his lowlife friends. Either staying with one of them or hiding out at someone’s hunting cabin. So they’re keeping an eye on Thomas’s known contacts, but…” Trailing off, I blow out a frustrated breath. “It’s a lot for a small police force to do.”

Ronan goes silent for a moment as he scans the yard. “So. Are you just going to wait for them to find something? Have Winter stay here as long as it takes?”

“She can stay as long as she wants.” Pausing, I add, “But no. I’m not waiting. Alec is working on it. And you know Cole with Blade and Arrow. He’s got his tech guy, Leo, investigating. Between the two of them, I’m sure they’ll find a clue soon.”

“Hmm.” His eyes narrow appraisingly. “And you don’t mind having Winter here all the time? It’s not keeping you from going out?” He pauses. “Meeting some of the local women? I’ve seen some good-looking ones when I’ve been in town.”

“Winter’s not keeping me from doing anything,” I reply testily. “I like her being here.”

He gives me a knowing smile. “So you’ve already met the woman you’re interested in.”

“It’s not like that.”

“Isn’t it?”

I fight the urge to punch him. “Winter’s been through a lot. She’s fragile right now. She needs support and protection. That’s all.”

His smile sobers. “I know. But… one thing I’ll say. I’m no expert in relationships, but I have sisters. I was overprotective of them for a long time. Guess I still am. But a lot of times, they didn’t need it. They were more than capable of making their own decisions.”

“And?”

“Just saying.” Ronan glances at the house again. “Maybe… don’t assume you know what’s best for her. I think Winter can make up her own mind.”

I’m still thinking about it as I walk into the house.

Am I assuming I know what’s best for Winter? I didn’t think I was.

I still think it’s best to give her space. To leave my feet firmly planted on the platonic side of things and keep my growing feelings for her to myself.

But. It’s something to think about.

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