14. Standing Watch
STANDING WATCH
BEAR
I stand down from Livy’s cabin, hiding behind the bushes so that her brother can’t catch me.
I don’t know where he is, but I know he wouldn’t let her go even a minute without having her watched.
She’s in danger. I can’t let him touch her again.
I have to protect her and our child. Now that I’m healed up, I can do it.
I take a long drag from my cigarette. It helps calm me.
Hell, I’ve smoked half a pack tonight. The urge to break in and claim Livy again is so strong that the need causes me to tremble.
I know I can’t. Not yet. Soon, though. Soon I will find her brother and kill him.
Then I can go to her. Then she will be safe.
I frown. I don’t know how she ended up here on this ranch.
It’s secure, though. I’m glad she found them.
I’m disappointed in my brothers, especially Blade.
What the fuck is he doing leaving Livy alone?
He’s supposed to love her as much as I do.
If he thinks I’m going to stand back again—especially now that I know he’s not taking care of her—he’s wrong.
I gave him a chance, but after the way Ayita betrayed me, that’s over.
My gaze automatically goes to her window.
Through the curtain, I see her silhouette.
My cock instantly goes rock hard. It’s been too long since I’ve held her in my arms. I must make sure she’s safe.
The minute I have her brother contained, I’m done waiting.
I’ve seen how all the men on this ranch look at her.
My brother might be an idiot, but I lost her once being stupid.
It won’t happen again. Livy is my forever.
Being with her is the only time I feel whole.
I’m so damn tired of trying to exist without her.
I can’t hold back much longer. I’m barely making it now.
The only thing that stops me is the knowledge that her brother is out there waiting …
I put out my cigarette, grounding it under my boot. “Soon,” I murmur aloud, hoping the word is carried on the wind and she somehow hears my vow. I’m coming for you, Livy. Then, we can finally claim the future that should have been ours all along.
The sound of a vehicle grabs my attention and puts me on alert.
I scan the area, and my eyes zero in on a blue Dodge Ram.
I immediately recognize the vehicle. It’s Cross.
At least one of my men is on the job. I watch as he parks out from her cabin and then surveys the area.
I back into the darkness even more. I don’t want him to spot me yet.
No one can know I’m alive until my Livy is safe.
She’s all that matters. Cross stays for a few more minutes, then starts his truck back up and leaves.
I’m going to stay until closer to morning.
I won’t be able to rest until I’m positive that she’s safe for another night.
This is getting old, but I know Eyeball.
He might be Livy’s brother, but he’s not smart.
He’ll make his move soon, and when he does, I’ll end him.
Once he’s out of the way, I can finally claim my woman and make her mine.
Just as I should have done all those years ago …