Keeping guard—because a killer lurks

A Military K-9 Unit novel

When Captain Isaac Goddard saves Vanessa Gomez from a vicious attack, he discovers the feisty military nurse is the Red Rose Killer’s next target. With help from Vanessa’s guard Doberman, the former pilot makes it his mission to protect Vanessa and her young brother. But when the danger closes in, can he overcome the post-traumatic stress that haunts him and stop a ruthless killer?

LAURA SCOTT is a nurse by day and an author by night. She has always loved romance and read faith-based books by Grace Livingston Hill in her teenage years. She’s thrilled to have published over twenty books for Love Inspired Suspense. She has two adult children and lives in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, with her husband of thirty years. Please visit Laura at laurascottbooks.com, as she loves to hear from her readers.

Also By Laura Scott

Military K-9 Unit

Battle Tested

Callahan Confidential

Shielding His Christmas Witness

The Only Witness

Christmas Amnesia

Shattered Lullaby

Primary Suspect

Classified K-9 Unit

Sheriff

Discover more at millsandboon.co.uk

Battle Tested

Laura Scott

www.millsandboon.co.uk

ISBN: 978-1-474-08624-0

BATTLE TESTED

© 2018 Harlequin Books S.A.

Published in Great Britain 2018

by Mills & Boon, an imprint of HarperCollins Publishers 1 London Bridge Street, London, SE1 9GF

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This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, locations and incidents are purely fictional and bear no relationship to any real life individuals, living or dead, or to any actual places, business establishments, locations, events or incidents. Any resemblance is entirely coincidental.

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Version: 2020-03-02

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Isaac stepped forward to meet the dog who’d saved his life. The loud crack of a gunshot rang out.

The airfield erupted into panicked chaos. The airman holding Beacon’s leash yanked the dog hard, diving for shelter as people began running and screaming, dropping to the ground and desperately seeking cover.

Vanessa pulled Isaac down beside her while both dogs, Eagle and Tango, stood protectively over them. “Are you all right?” she asked breathlessly.

“I think so.” He was numb from shock but checked himself for signs of injury. No blood? Good sign. Thankfully, he didn’t see any injuries on Vanessa, either. The dogs were good, too. “I have to get to Beacon.”

He tried to pull away from Vanessa, but she hung on with steely determination. “No, you might put the dog in danger.”

* * *

MILITARY K-9 UNIT:

These soldiers track down a serial killer with the help of their brave canine partners

Mission to Protect—Terri Reed, April 2018

Bound by Duty—Valerie Hansen, May 2018

Top Secret Target—Dana Mentink, June 2018

Standing Fast—Maggie K. Black, July 2018

Rescue Operation—Lenora Worth, August 2018

Explosive Force—Lynette Eason, September 2018

Battle Tested—Laura Scott, October 2018

Valiant Defender—Shirlee McCoy, November 2018

Military K-9 Unit Christmas—Valerie Hansen and Laura Scott, December 2018

Dear Reader,

I’m truly blessed to have been asked to participate in this latest Military K-9 series with such amazing authors. This was an amazing group effort. We laughed and we cried and I hope you agree that this is our best series yet.

I deeply respect the brave men and women who serve our country, especially those who have made the ultimate sacrifice in order to protect our freedom. Words cannot express my sympathy for those loved ones who have been left behind.

Researching this book was hard work yet also extremely informative and rewarding. While I have done my best to stay true to military protocol, please know that any transgressions are my own and were done only for the sake of the story.

I hope you enjoy Isaac and Vanessa’s journey as they battle through danger and struggle with their faith in order to find everlasting love.

I love hearing from my readers, so if you have a spare moment, drop me a note or join my newsletter list through my website at www.laurascottbooks.com. I can also be found on Facebook at laurascottbooks and on Twitter @laurascottbooks.

Yours in faith,

Laur a Scott

The Lord is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer; my God, my strength, in whom I will trust; my buckler, and the horn of my salvation, and my high tower.

—Psalms 18:2

This book is dedicated to all the men and women who have served our country and have paid the ultimate price in order to protect our freedom.

Contents

Cover

Back Cover Text

About the Author

Booklist

Title Page

Copyright

Introduction

Dear Reader

Bible Verse

Dedication

ONE

TWO

THREE

FOUR

FIVE

SIX

SEVEN

EIGHT

NINE

TEN

ELEVEN

TWELVE

THIRTEEN

FOURTEEN

FIFTEEN

SIXTEEN

SEVENTEEN

Extract

About the Publisher

ONE

Two fatal drug overdoses in the past week.

Exhausted from her thirteen-hour shift in the intensive care unit, First Lieutenant Vanessa Gomez made her way down the hallway of the Canyon Air Force Base hospital, grappling with the impact of this latest drug-related death.

The medication both young men had overdosed on, Tyraxal, had been touted as the best new drug on the market to treat PTSD. Of course, no meds were risk free, but she was troubled by these two recent deaths. Not just because her young brother, Aiden, also suffered from PTSD, although he wasn’t on that particular medication as far as she knew, but because she’d heard Tyraxal was highly addictive and it seemed these recent overdoses proved it.

The corridor lights abruptly went out, enclosing her in complete darkness. She froze, instinctively searching for the nearest exit sign, when strong hands roughly grabbed her from behind, long fingers wrapping themselves around her throat.

The Red Rose Killer?

It had been months since she’d received the red rose indicating she was a target of convicted murderer and prison escapee Boyd Sullivan. She struggled against her attacker, wishing now that she’d brought Eagle, her protective attack Doberman, to work with her.

No! Dear God, please help me!

She kicked back at the man’s shins, but her soft-soled nursing shoes didn’t do much damage. She used her elbows, too, but couldn’t make enough impact that way, either. Her phone was off, so she didn’t bother digging it out of her bag. The attacker’s fingers moved their position around her neck, as if searching for the proper pressure points.

“Why?” she asked in a harsh whisper as she tried to break his hold. She’d helped Boyd once after he’d gotten into a fight, tending to his wounds. So why was he intent on killing her? She clawed at his hands, but they were covered in plastic gloves.

“Because you’re in my way...” the attacker said, his voice low and dripping with malice.

The pressure against her carotid arteries grew, making her dizzy and weak. Black spots dotted her vision.

She was going to die, and there was nothing she could do to stop it.

Poor Aiden, he’d be left all alone...

Her knees sagged, then she heard a man’s voice. “Hey, what’s going on?”

Her attacker abruptly let go just as the lights came on. She fell to the floor, wincing against the blinding brightness while struggling to breathe. The sound of pounding footsteps echoed along the corridor.

“Are you okay?” A man wearing battle-ready camo rushed over, dropping to his knees beside her. A soft, wet, furry nose pushed against her face and a sandpapery tongue licked her cheek.

“Yes,” she managed, hoping he didn’t notice how badly her hands were shaking.

“Stay, Tango,” the stranger ordered. He ran toward the stairwell at the end of the hall, the one that her attacker must have used to escape.

“Hey, Tango,” she whispered, stroking the golden retriever’s soft coat and resting her forehead against his fur. He wasn’t Eagle, her protective Doberman, but he was obviously well trained in offering comfort.

Hearing footsteps pounding in the stairwell, she quickly lifted her head and struggled to her feet. She slipped off her shoulder bag and wrapped the strap around her hand, the only thing she could use as a weapon in the event Boyd was coming back to finish the job.

The stairwell door opened revealing a tall, muscular man with wavy, sandy-brown hair. His expression was full of concern as he approached. “Sure you’re all right?”

She nodded, her shoulders slumping in relief. “Yes. Did you see him? The man who attacked me?”

Her rescuer shook his head, his emerald green eyes heavy with remorse. “I’m sorry, but I didn’t get a good look at him. Other than general statistics like medium height and build. He had a ski mask covering his head, so I can’t even tell you his hair color.”

Boyd Sullivan was medium height and build. Then again so were half the men on base.

But only Boyd Sullivan had sent her a red rose.

“Thank you.” She drew in a deep breath, hoping to calm her racing heart. “I’m First Lieutenant Vanessa Gomez. I’m one of the ICU nurses here. I’m not sure what would have happened if you hadn’t chosen that moment to come down this hallway.”

“Captain Isaac Goddard,” he said, introducing himself. “I’m glad I was here to help. Do you think this is related to Boyd Sullivan?”

Vanessa grimaced, gingerly palpating her tender neck. No doubt she’d have bruises tomorrow. “Unfortunately, yes. I believe my attacker is the Red Rose Killer.”

“I’m sorry to hear that.” Isaac’s expression turned grim.

“Me, too.” Although she still didn’t understand Boyd’s motive for wanting her dead after she’d gone out of her way to help him.

“You need to call this in to the Security Forces, specifically to my buddy Captain Blackwood,” Isaac said. “There were rumors that Boyd was seen recently on base, but this attack on you proves it.”

She nodded and dug in her bag for her cell phone. She powered it up, her fingers still trembling from the aftermath of her attack. Vanessa sometimes turned her cell phone off when she was working in the intensive care unit. Obviously, she should have turned it on the moment she’d left the ICU, although the attack had been so unexpected, she doubted the phone would have been any help.

She shivered and punched in Justin Blackwood’s number. She had his contact information from the ad hoc investigative team that had been put together months ago when Boyd had first sent roses identifying his next targets. As she waited for him to pick up, she marveled at how Tango stood right between her and Isaac, as if willing to protect both of them.

Justin didn’t answer so she left him a brief message about her attack and the likelihood that Boyd had found her, and she asked him to return the call.

“Call the cops,” Isaac said. “They need to take your statement.”

“I’d prefer to speak directly to Justin.” Vanessa glanced up and down the empty hallway. “It’s not as if there are any clues here for them to find. He was wearing gloves, so there’s no point in dusting for prints.”

He looked as if he wanted to argue, but asked, “Where are you headed?”

“Home.” She slipped her phone into her bag. “What about you?”

He shrugged. “I was going to stop by and see if Lieutenant Colonel Flintman was around, but that can wait. Right now, I think it’s best if I walk you home.”

Normally Vanessa considered herself a strong, independent woman, more than capable of taking care of herself. She’d needed to be strong, especially for her younger brother, Aiden, who was having a rough time since returning to base four weeks ago after his latest six-month deployment. But this vicious attack at the hospital, a place she considered her second home and immune to this type of violence, had put a serious dent in her confidence. “I’d appreciate that, thanks.”

“No problem.” Isaac fell into step beside her. Tango stayed at Isaac’s left side, and she wondered about the dog’s role in Isaac’s life.

She could guess, considering Isaac had been heading to Lieutenant Colonel Flintman’s office. She’d left the doctor a message earlier that afternoon about her concern about Tyraxal. The kindly psychiatrist might have some information related to the medication, so she hoped he returned her call, soon.

Isaac might be seeing Lieutenant Colonel Flintman for the same reason Aiden did.

Not that it was any of her business.

They stood for a moment waiting for the elevator, and Isaac must have picked up on her curiosity because he gestured to the dog. “I don’t think I introduced my therapy dog, Tango.”

She belatedly noticed that Isaac sported a pair of gold wings on his collar indicating he was a pilot. She smiled at the animal. “Tango is an amazing dog, so calm and reassuring. He’s obviously good at his job.”

Isaac shrugged. “Yeah, he’s a great dog, but while I appreciate having him around, my top priority is to bring home Beacon, the dog who saved my life in Afghanistan. Beacon belonged to my closest friend, and I’ve been working day and night to get him back. After all this time, he’s finally due to arrive tomorrow.”

Instinctively, she reached out to place her hand on his arm. “I heard about your efforts to bring Beacon home, and I’m so glad it’s finally happening.”

“Me, too.” He covered her hand on his arm briefly and she found herself liking the warmth of his skin. Then he moved away when the elevator arrived, breaking the connection. He held his hand over the electronic eye until she was safely inside, then stepped in behind her.

She told herself her reaction to Isaac was nothing more than misplaced gratitude for the way he’d saved her life with his impeccable timing. Yet she couldn’t help sending him a sidelong glance, appreciating his sandy-brown hair, chiseled features, clean-cut square jaw and bright green eyes. She glanced away, telling herself to knock it off.

Outside, the October air smelled of pine trees and morning glories. She loved autumn in east Texas; it was her favorite time of year.

“Lead the way,” Isaac said, when they reached the street in front of the hospital.

“I live in a small two-bedroom house about eight blocks from here,” she said, turning left and taking the road that went past the church and veterinary clinic. “My younger brother, Aiden, has been staying with me since his return from combat four weeks ago. He’s on medical leave, suffering badly from PTSD, and I’m at a loss as to how to help him.”

Isaac didn’t say anything for a long moment, then he finally spoke. “I’m working through my own issues, so I understand what he’s dealing with.” Isaac glanced at her, his eyes shadowed by the darkness. “I hope you realize he has a long road to recovery ahead of him.”

“I understand,” Vanessa said softly. “He’s doing everything right so far, attending therapy sessions with Lieutenant Colonel Flintman and taking his medication as ordered. Aiden is also on the list to get a therapy dog of his own, but the first attempt didn’t go well, and a second one hasn’t been made available to him yet.”

“I’ll talk to him, if you think it may help,” Isaac offered.

Vanessa was humbled by his willingness to put himself out there on behalf of a stranger. “Thank you, Captain. I’d be grateful for anything you can offer.”

“Sounds good. Maybe you can introduce me tonight, if he’s around. And please, call me Isaac.”

“If you’ll call me Vanessa,” she said with a smile. Despite her recent attack, she experienced a surge of hope. She was so grateful for Isaac’s willingness to help her brother, she could have hugged him, but managed to restrain herself.

Maybe Isaac was just what Aiden needed to turn the corner on battling his illness.

Maybe this was exactly God’s plan.

Isaac couldn’t believe he’d actually told Vanessa about his PTSD, something he rarely talked about outside of therapy sessions. For the first time in weeks, he didn’t feel the urge to hide the truth about what he was going through.

Maybe this meant he’d turned the corner on his healing process.

The sound of a car door slamming shut made Vanessa jump and nervously glance over her shoulder. He reached out to capture her hand in his, recognizing she was still suffering the aftermath of her attack.

“It’s okay, you’re safe with me,” he assured her. Would she end up having nightmares as a result of the near strangulation? He hoped not. “Tell me about Boyd Sullivan and why he wants to hurt you.”

She grimaced and shook her head. “Nothing to tell.”

Isaac chose his words carefully. “Vanessa, I know firsthand that talking through an event is better than keeping it bottled inside. And I’m willing to listen without passing any judgment.”

They took several steps heading west on Webster Street, past Canyon Drive, where most of the base housing was located, before she let out a heavy sigh. “There really isn’t anything to the story. Boyd holds a grudge against the Air Force for dishonorably discharging him and he’s coming after people who he believes are responsible for his downfall.”

He’d heard the same theories. The base had been on high alert for months now, and apparently with good reason. Sullivan was getting bold and impatient, judging by the way he’d sneaked into the hospital to attack Vanessa.

He cast a glance her way. She was beautiful, her long dark hair pulled back in a ponytail, matching her chocolate-brown eyes. Beside him, she was petite in her pale blue scrubs covered by a white scrub jacket. Her honeysuckle scent made him think of home, and he was glad he’d been in the right place at the right time for once.

“And what about you? Did he want a personal relationship with you?” he guessed.

“Not at all,” Vanessa quickly denied. “In fact, I helped him one night while he was still in basic training, providing medical care for wounds he’d suffered as a result of a barroom brawl. He didn’t want to go to the ER and get in trouble, so I provided first aid from the kit I carry in my car. That’s why this attack doesn’t make any sense.” She paused, then added, “He told me that I was the first person to be nice to him without expecting anything in return. Does that sound like a rational reason to want me dead?”

“No, it doesn’t,” he agreed. “I wonder if he thought your being nice to him meant you were interested in something more.” To be honest, Isaac couldn’t imagine any red-blooded man not being attracted to Vanessa.

He was attracted to her. Not that he was going to do anything about it. He let go of her hand, reminding himself that he wasn’t interested in another relationship. Been there, done that, didn’t work out, end of story.

In his experience women thought they could help a guy get over his issues, yet when they learned they couldn’t, they decided the guy wasn’t worth the trouble and moved on.

And maybe he wasn’t worth the trouble. He couldn’t blame Amber for leaving him when his panic attacks prevented him from leading a normal life. He especially didn’t appreciate her hovering over him. He used to think he’d get better and move on with his life, but he now understood PTSD didn’t ever go away. There were strategies to deal with it, sure, but it wasn’t like being treated for an infection that would be cured by a course of antibiotics.

No, this was more like having a chronic illness for the rest of your life.

“I’m sure he wasn’t interested in me that way,” Vanessa protested. “If he was, he didn’t pursue anything.” Then she added, “At the time I was drawn to him, not romantically, but in a maternal way. In a weird way, he reminded me of Aiden—young and a bit immature, yet trying to make something of himself. Silly now that I look back at it. Boyd wasn’t interested in anything but placing blame for everything that happened to him on someone else. Nothing was ever his fault, oh, no. It was everyone else out to get him.”

“Then why target you as someone who wronged him?”

“I have no idea.” She was silent for another block, then added, “And just so you know, I was working the night shift the night the dogs were let loose from their kennels. I know everyone believes Boyd had help from inside the base, but it wasn’t me. I’m not the one helping him.”

Isaac was surprised by the sudden vehemence in her tone. “I didn’t suggest you were.”

“Well, that’s something, I guess,” she said, her tone faintly bitter. “There are others, including the anonymous blogger, who have made it clear they believe I sent the rose to myself to deflect suspicion. The latest theory is that Boyd is getting help from a woman on base.”

He hadn’t realized the depth of what she’d been going through over the past few months. “That’s a tough break, but I’m a witness to the attack who will exonerate you once and for all.”

She lightly rubbed her neck, wincing at the tenderness. “Pictures of the bruises likely to be visible by morning should help, right?”

The thought of her golden skin marred by bruises infuriated him. If he’d been a minute later... He clenched his jaw, unwilling to think about how he may have stumbled across Vanessa’s dead body.

The level of hatred Boyd was carrying around with him was inconceivable. Must be that Boyd wanted more from Vanessa, a personal relationship of some kind. No other explanation made sense. She must have done something, or said something, that dented his fragile ego.

No point rehashing it now. She needed protection, and he intended to make sure Captain Blackwood provided it to her. Isaac wasn’t going to leave her alone, not until a Security Forces cop was stationed outside her house.

They walked the next block in silence.

At the corner, Vanessa took a left, heading past a thick hedge separating two front yards. A movement in the shrubbery caught his eye at the same time that Tango made a whining sound in the back of his throat.

Not a growl, but still a sound of distress.

Vanessa stopped dead in her tracks, reaching out to tightly grab his arm. “Did you hear that?” she whispered.

“Yes.” Isaac’s pulse kicked up and he instinctively pushed Vanessa behind him in an effort to protect her. “Call the police.”

The movement in the bushes increased and Tango strained on his leash as if desperate to rush over.

Was Boyd hiding in there? Did he right now have a gun trained on them?

For a split second, his mind went back to the moment his chopper had been hit by enemy fire, spinning helplessly out of control. Temporarily lost in the past, he let go of Tango’s leash and the dog took off straight toward the bushes.

No! Stay focused on the here and now!

“Tango!” His voice came out in a strangled cry, but the golden retriever didn’t listen. The dog disappeared into the bushes.

Leaving Isaac as the only protector for Vanessa.

TWO

Vanessa wasted several precious minutes fumbling in her bag for her phone. When she finally found it, she punched in the emergency number for the base police. “This is Lieutenant Gomez and I’m with Captain Isaac Goddard. We’re on the corner of Webster and Viking and have reason to believe Boyd Sullivan is hiding in the bushes. Hurry!”

“I’ll send someone over,” the Security Forces dispatcher promised.

She kept the phone in one hand and gripped the back of Isaac’s uniform with the other. Her entire body began to shake, and she abruptly understood a small part of what Aiden and Isaac went through while battling their illness.

The thought of coming face-to-face with Boyd Sullivan made her break out in a cold sweat. She’d never felt helpless and vulnerable like this, until tonight. First the attack, and now this.

“The cops from the south gate are closest,” she said in a low voice. “I’m sure they’ll be here soon.”

“I know.” Isaac’s hands were fisted, his elbows flexed at his side, as if he were expecting a physical fight.

Tango emerged from the bushes, tail wagging. He stood looking at them for a moment, then turned to duck back between the branches.

She frowned. “What was that about?”

“I’m not sure. Tango is a therapy dog, but he’s still trained well enough to know when danger is near.”

“So, Boyd isn’t hiding in there?”

“Probably not. Stay here. I’ll be right back.” Isaac took a step forward, but she didn’t let go of his uniform, choosing to go with him rather than remain on the street alone.

“Vanessa, you should stay here.” Frustration was audible in his tone.

She shook her head. “Better to stick together.”

Tango came out of the bushes again, gave a sharp bark and wheeled around to return to the brush. She relaxed her grip on Isaac’s uniform, sensing the dog wanted them to follow.

Surely, the golden wouldn’t lead them into harm’s way.

“Call off the cops,” Isaac said, parting the branches with one hand and using his flashlight app on his phone to illuminate the darkness. “False alarm.”

She inwardly debated letting the police come anyway, since she needed to report her attack, but she would rather talk to Justin personally. Decision made, she called the dispatcher back, confirming there was no immediate danger and that the call could be canceled. She slipped the phone back into her bag, then crept closer, hearing the rustling and odd whimpering sounds before her eyes landed on a cluster of puppies.

“Did we find some of the lost dogs?” Six months ago, Boyd Sullivan or his accomplice had sneaked onto base and let nearly every single K-9 in the Working Dog Program out of their kennels, a little over two hundred of them. Over time many of the lost animals had been found, but there were still several missing, including three extremely valuable German shepherds named Glory, Scout and Liberty.

“I’m not sure. There are four pups here, but it’s odd because there’s no sign of the mother. I doubt the mother is one of the lost dogs or we would have found her by now. The puppies appear healthy and well cared for, so I don’t think she abandoned them without a good reason.”

“She must be one of the training dogs, don’t you think? Maybe she was attacked by a coyote?” It was horrible to think of a pack of coyotes ganging up on the mom, who likely would have attempted to lure the predator away from her babies. “We have to try to find her.”

“Agreed, although we need to get these pups to safety first.” He gestured to the puppies. “These look to be a few weeks old—not that I’m an expert. And they’re snuggled together to stay warm.”

“My house is at the end of this block. Let’s bring the puppies there and get them warmed up, then let the cops know what happened.” Vanessa wondered how Aiden would like the puppies. Her brother tolerated Eagle, her Doberman, but didn’t find any comfort in the animal. And while she was hopeful he’d connect with a therapy dog such as Tango, he’d already failed in the first attempt to match him up. Ruby, the first dog who’d been assigned to him, had been a loving Irish setter, but Aiden hadn’t connected with Ruby on any level. Perhaps the adorable puppies might have a better chance of getting through to him.

Not that there was any guarantee that Master Sergeant Westley James, the lead trainer at the K-9 training center, would allow her and Aiden to care for them. Although if the mother wasn’t one of the missing dogs, maybe he wouldn’t mind?

She sent up a quick prayer, asking for God’s grace and mercy in keeping the puppies and the lost mother safe.

“You take two, and I’ll take two,” Isaac said, gathering a couple of the puppies in his broad hands and handing them over. She cradled them against her chest, marveling at the softness of their fur and their adorable faces.

“When we get the puppies settled and you’re safe, I’ll come back and search for the mother,” Isaac said. “I’ll also check with the veterinary clinic. They might have an injured dog that may belong to these pups.”

“All right.” As her small ranch home came into view, Vanessa picked up the pace, suddenly desperate to see her brother. She’d been gone far longer than her normal twelve-hour shift, and Aiden didn’t always handle being on his own very well.

The house was mostly dark except for a lone light in the corner of the living room. Awash with guilt, she shifted the puppies to one arm, and fished for her keys to unlock the door. Using her hip, she pushed the front door open and stepped inside.

“Aiden? It’s me, Vanessa. I’m home.”

Isaac followed her inside, but remained near the doorway, instinctively giving her brother time to adjust to the presence of a stranger.

“Aiden?” She swept her gaze over the living room, then noticed her brother sitting on the floor in a corner of the room, his face buried in his hands. “I’m sorry I’m late,” she said in a low voice. “But look what I found. Puppies!”

Aiden lifted his head, his gaze darting anxiously around the room, and instantly zeroing in on Isaac and Tango standing near the door. “Who is he?” Aiden asked harshly, his expression contorted in a mask of anger. “Why is he here?”

Her heart sank as she realized how Aiden had struggled in her absence. Eagle came out of the kitchen to greet her, but with her hands full, she couldn’t give her canine protector the attention he deserved.

She stayed focused on Aiden. “This is Captain Isaac Goddard, and he helped me bring the puppies home. Maybe you could hold them while I find a box to put them in?”

Aiden’s gaze remained fixed on Isaac for a long moment before he finally noticed the squirming animals in her arms. Her brother’s expression softened and he rose to his feet.

“Where did you find them?” he asked in a hushed tone.

“In the bushes near Webster and Viking,” Isaac said from the doorway. “Four pups. I’m sad to say their mother seems to be missing. We’re hoping she’s getting care at the vet.”

She wished Isaac would have remained silent, concerned that Aiden would become upset again from simply hearing his deep voice, but she needn’t have worried. Aiden’s gaze locked on the puppies and he came over to take one of them from her hands, bringing him up to his cheek.

“They’re so soft,” Aiden whispered. He met her gaze. “There’s really four of them?”

“Yes.” She handed him the second pup and then stepped back, subtly swiping at her damp eyes. The way her brother responded so positively to the puppies was more than she could have hoped for. “I’ll find a box.”

“There’s one full of old movies next to my bed,” Aiden said. “Just dump them on the floor.”

She took a moment to give Eagle a welcoming rub between the ears before hurrying into Aiden’s bedroom to empty the box of movies. When she returned, she was shocked to see that Isaac had come farther into the room and was standing less than three feet from Aiden.

What was he thinking? Shouldn’t he have stayed near the door? What if Aiden freaked out again?

“Found it,” she said as she rejoined them. Isaac set his two puppies in the box first, then her brother did the same. When she realized she’d been holding her breath, she let it out in a soundless sigh.

Tango and Eagle sniffed at each other curiously, but both dogs were trained well enough not to growl. Tango in particular was a calm, sensitive dog, the kind she’d hoped to get for Aiden one day.

“The pups might be hungry.” Aiden’s expression was full of concern.

“You’re right,” Isaac said in a low, nonthreatening tone. “They’ll need warm milk for starters, but I’m not sure if cow milk is good for them. Vanessa, why don’t you call the training center to see what you’ll need to do in order to care for the puppies?”

“Good idea.” She picked up her bag and dug out her phone. The call to the training center was immediately picked up by Master Sergeant Westley James, the training center operations director.

“This is Lieutenant Vanessa Gomez. Captain Isaac Goddard and I found four puppies, without any sign of the mother. We’re not sure what breed they are, maybe a cross between a Lab and a rottweiler. We’d like to foster them, if you’ll allow it.”

“Found them where?”

“Less than a block from my house on Webster.” She glanced at Isaac, then added, “Captain Goddard is going to head out to find the mother, see if she’s somewhere close by. In the meantime, would you like us to bring the puppies into the vet?”

“That would be good. I’ll meet you there.”

“Okay, but if you don’t mind, Aiden would really like to help foster the puppies.” She knew Westley was aware of Aiden’s need for a therapy dog and how miserably her brother had failed with Ruby. “It would be a great experience for us. Please? Just tell us what you’d like us to do.”

There was a pause then a sigh. “Okay, you and Aiden can foster them for now. But I’m warning you, it’s a time-consuming process. Any idea how old the puppies are?”

“We’re not sure,” she admitted. “But they’re bigger than newborns. Maybe a few weeks?”

“I hope you’re right, because we have a better chance of success if they’re at least three to four weeks old. Once we determine how old they are, you can get the appropriate commercially prepared puppy formula and instructions on how to start solid foods, along with how to housebreak them.”

“We can do that. Thank you.” The wave of relief was overwhelming. She disconnected the call and smiled at Aiden. “Westley gave us permission to foster, but warned me it’s a lot of work.”

“I don’t mind.” Aiden held the cardboard box in his arms as if he wasn’t ever going to let it go, the expression on his face full of wonder and joy.

“Great. Then we’ve been ordered to bring them to the vet, and they’ll provide everything we need.”

“Okay.” To her surprise, Aiden looked at Isaac. “We should probably take my sister’s car, right?”

“Good idea.”

Vanessa blinked the sting of tears away at Aiden’s tentative acceptance of Isaac. Already they were bonded by the puppies and with that as a foundation, it was possible that Isaac’s willingness to talk to Aiden would also help him learn better coping strategies.

Being attacked by Boyd Sullivan may have been the worst part of her day, but finding the puppies turned out to be the absolute best thing to have happened.

There was no doubt in her mind that these four tiny balls of fur were exactly what Aiden needed to help battle his illness.

And she’d do anything in her power to see her tormented brother relax and smile again.

Anything.

Isaac easily saw himself in Aiden’s demeanor, from the tense anxiety emanating from the young man’s very being, to the fear and anger darkening his brown eyes, replicas of his older sister’s.

The kid was young, barely twenty from his estimation, and suddenly Isaac wished that the minimum age to enter the military was older than a mere eighteen.

Not that he wasn’t proud to serve his country, because he was. After all, he’d gone straight into the Air Force Academy in Colorado, and from there to flight school to become an Air Force combat pilot. By the time he’d served his first tour overseas, he’d been twenty-three.

Now that he was thirty, his first tour seemed a lifetime ago.

There was no way to prepare for being deployed, although the various branches of the military did their best. Logically, he knew it wasn’t as if every airman, soldier, marine or seaman experienced combat, but still, the exposure to violence certainly took its toll.

Which was why he still hadn’t signed the paperwork to reenlist. Returning to the air as a pilot wasn’t an option now. He’d never risk other lives by flying with PTSD. Which left a huge question mark on his future.

But that was not a problem to solve tonight.

As they stepped outside to Vanessa’s car, he did a quick sweep of the neighborhood, looking for any sign of the puppies’ mother. Tango helped, but he came up empty-handed.

He climbed into the car beside Vanessa, and she drove directly to the veterinary clinic. The vet, Captain Kyle Roark, greeted them when they arrived.

“Westley called me about the puppies. I think I may have the injured mother inside. Someone turned her in a few hours ago. She suffered a rather serious animal bite that required surgery to repair. I think she’ll be fine, but I’ll need to watch her closely for the next few days for signs of infection.”

“Is she one of the training dogs?” Isaac asked.

Kyle shook his head. “No microchip. But I’m concerned there may be a link between this dog and the person who let the others go.”

Isaac didn’t like the sound of that.

Kyle took the puppies into an examination room to assess their condition. He returned a short while later with good news.

“They’re all surprisingly healthy, and they look to be about four weeks old.” He glanced at Vanessa and Aiden as he continued, “I’ll give you some supplies you’ll need to foster them, okay?”

“That would be great,” Vanessa agreed.

Isaac had noticed how protective Aiden was of the puppies, and hoped Vanessa was making the right decision allowing him to help foster them. Not that he thought Aiden would hurt them in any way, but Isaac knew how horrible it was to be separated from an animal you’d bonded with.

He missed Beacon with an all-consuming intensity. For several days, after Beacon had saved his life in Afghanistan by dragging him by the back of his flight suit away from the burning chopper, he and the dog had hidden together in enemy territory while waiting to be rescued. Losing his best friend and Beacon’s handler, Jake Burke, had been horrible. During those endless hours after the crash, Beacon had been his only source of comfort. Although even Beacon’s reassuring presence couldn’t keep his guilt at bay.

Then the USAF search-and-rescue chopper had arrived. The pilot had done a routine flyby, then circled around to land on a small level spot close to where he and Beacon had holed up. Getting into the chopper hadn’t been easy, but by the time the rebels had begun firing at them, the pilot had gotten them airborne.

At first, he’d been overjoyed at being rescued, but when they’d landed in Kabul and he was separated from Beacon, his whole world had come crumbling down.

Not only had he failed Jake by crashing the chopper that caused his buddy’s death, but he’d failed in keeping Jake’s K-9 as he’d promised when they’d first begun flying together. Six months of red tape and politics and he still didn’t have Beacon home.

But tomorrow was the day. Less than twenty-four hours and he’d have Beacon home where he belonged.

I’m trying, Jake. Just like I promised. I’ll bring Beacon home!

Before the crash that had taken his buddy’s life, he might have reached out to God for solace. But not anymore. These days, he didn’t feel much like talking to God.

“We’re ready to go,” Vanessa said, pulling him from his troubling thoughts. “Isaac? Is everything okay?”

He nodded and cleared his throat. “Yep. All set.”

Aiden had obviously delegated himself the primary caregiver as he picked up the box of puppies again and waited for Vanessa to get the door.

Vanessa’s SUV had plenty of room for the three of them and the two dogs Eagle and Tango, not to mention the box of squirming puppies. Aiden kept the box on his lap the entire time, unwilling to let the puppies out of his sight.

Interesting how the Doberman stayed close to Vanessa’s side, obviously trained to protect her. If that was the case, why hadn’t she brought the dog to the hospital with her? Granted, an intensive care unit probably wasn’t an appropriate place for a dog, but surely under the circumstances an exception could be made for Vanessa’s safety.

Aiden took the puppies inside and began feeding them, using the commercial formula provided by Kyle. He’d barely gotten settled when there was a sharp knock at the door. Vanessa answered it, looking surprised to see the head of the Security Forces standing there, his tall male Malinois named Quinn at his side.

“Why didn’t you answer your phone?” Captain Justin Blackwood asked as he shouldered his way inside. Quinn stayed close, well trained enough not to react to the other dogs.

“Oh, I left my bag in the car while we were at the vet’s office,” she said with a guilty wince. “Sorry about that.”

Justin scowled, glancing between Isaac and Vanessa. “Tell me what happened at the hospital.”

Vanessa glanced over her shoulder, then gestured for the men to come into the living room. “I don’t want my brother to hear this.”

“Fine, but I need details,” Justin insisted.

Isaac crossed his arms over his chest as Vanessa explained how she took a shortcut out of the hospital, going through the hallway containing offices to get to the other side of the building closest to the front entrance when the lights went out and strong hands grasped her around the neck.

Hearing her talk about the attack she’d suffered made Isaac angry all over again. Justin’s expression turned grim as he inspected the red marks around her throat, already beginning to bruise.

“Did he say anything?” Justin asked.

Vanessa nodded. “I asked why and he said, ‘Because you’re in my way.’”

“In the way?” Isaac repeated. “Doesn’t make sense. In the way of what?”

She shrugged her shoulder. “I don’t know. In the way of his mission to eliminate the people who wronged him?”

“Then what happened?” Justin asked, looking at Isaac.

He and Justin knew each other from when they’d attended the Air Force Academy, but at the moment, he understood his friend was in charge of the ongoing investigation.

“I heard what sounded like a scuffle in the darkness and called out to see what was going on,” Isaac said, relating his side of the story. “I found the light switch and turned it on in time to see Vanessa fall to the floor and a guy wearing black disappear down the stairwell. I made sure she was all right and left Tango with her, before going after him. Unfortunately, he was long gone.”

“No description?” Justin asked, his blue eyes intense.

“Medium height and build. He wore a ski mask that covered his head so I can’t tell you his hair color.” Isaac shrugged. “I wish I could be more help.”

Justin raked his hand across his short blond hair and let out a heavy sigh. “No proof that Sullivan is the assailant.”

Vanessa bristled. “Boyd sent me a red rose. Who else has a grudge against me?”

Justin lifted a brow. “You were the one who said that you helped Boyd by providing first aid to him. Why would he have a score to settle with you?”

Vanessa’s dark eyes flashed with anger. “I don’t know, but I didn’t attack myself, Captain.”

“Come on, Justin, you know she didn’t,” Isaac added. “I saw him. And if I hadn’t shown up, she’d be dead.”

Justin let out a heavy sigh. “You’re right. The marks on her neck are for real, so that means somewhere deep in Boyd’s twisted mind, he’s decided to come after her.”

“And nearly killed her,” Isaac added.

“I know, I know.” Justin sounded tense.

Isaac arched an eyebrow at his friend. “Can you offer her round-the-clock protection?”

“I can have someone stationed outside the house at night, but we’re short staffed so I don’t have someone available to follow her around all day.”

“I can protect her during the day.” The offer popped out of his mouth before he had a chance to consider the consequences.

“I’m not sure that’s necessary,” Vanessa protested.

“I’ll take whatever help you can give us,” Justin said, ignoring her protest. “I’ll keep someone stationed outside the house from nineteen hundred hours until zero seven hundred.” He turned toward Vanessa. “You’re probably safe enough here at home with Eagle during the day, but don’t go anywhere alone, and keep Eagle close, too. Dobermans are instinctively protective.”

“Nessa?” Aiden’s voice from the doorway drew their attention. The young man cradled a puppy in his arms and stared at his sister with fear in his eyes. “What’s going on?”

“Nothing to worry about, Aiden.” Vanessa crossed over to give her brother a hug. “Just extra protection for a while, no big deal.”

Aiden didn’t look as if he believed her, and Isaac didn’t blame the kid. Vanessa was a lousy liar.

It was clear that Vanessa’s life being in jeopardy impacted her brother in a big way. Isaac suspected if anything happened to her, Aiden wouldn’t be able to handle it.

And even though he’d only just met Vanessa tonight, Isaac wasn’t sure he’d be able to handle it, either.

THREE

“How are the puppies doing?” Vanessa crossed the living room to stand next to her brother. “We have to think of names for them.”

Thankfully, Aiden’s attention was diverted by the active pup in his arms as she’d hoped. “I was thinking about naming them after national parks. The two females could be Denali and Shenandoah, the males Smoky and Bryce.”

“Those are awesome names.” Vanessa stroked the puppy he held, wondering how they’d be able to tell them apart.

“You’re in danger from Boyd Sullivan, aren’t you?” Aiden asked abruptly.

She looked into her brother’s mature-for-his-years gaze and knew she couldn’t lie. “Yes. I’m afraid so. But Captain Blackwood is going to keep a cop stationed here at the house at night, so there’s really nothing to worry about.”

“You need to keep Eagle close from now on,” he said, his tone full of reproach. “Even at the hospital.”

“I will.” She forced a smile, knowing that Eagle wouldn’t be allowed in an intensive care unit. “Do you need help feeding the rest of the litter?”

Aiden shook his head. “No, thanks.” He looked at Isaac and Justin for a moment. “Make sure she’s safe,” he said, before disappearing into the kitchen.

“He’ll be okay,” Isaac said, reassuringly. “Just because he’s struggling with an illness doesn’t make him helpless.”

“I know, but at twenty he’s already been through so much...” Her voice trailed off as she glanced back at Aiden before joining the two men and the K-9 beside Justin. “Anything else you need from me?”

“Tell me more about this injured female dog that’s at the veterinary clinic,” Justin said with a frown. “It might be connected to our investigation.”

“Captain Roark said she isn’t from the training center,” Isaac said. “The mother is a chocolate Lab, and the puppies appear to be a mix. Although he did mention there may be a link between this dog and the missing four from the training center.”

“I have to agree,” Justin said thoughtfully. “In speaking with Gretchen Hill, the newest trainer on Westley’s staff, she thinks it’s possible the Olio Crime Organization may be involved with the dognapping. Three dogs are still missing, but when Patriot was returned, her collar had the letters POCO engraved on it. It’s probably not a coincidence that the last three letters stand for Olio Crime Organization. Maybe even Property of Olio Crime Organization. I wonder if the injured chocolate Lab belonged to them at some point.”

Vanessa’s stomach clenched. “We assumed she was attacked by an animal, like a coyote, and Captain Roark agreed based on her wounds. Besides, how would someone from the Olio Crime Organization get on base? Fake ID? Or help from someone inside?”

“Anything is possible,” Justin admitted. “A stretch, but possible. After all, it’s looking more and more like the missing dogs were taken off base.” He shrugged. “Right now, I can’t see how the injured Lab would be linked, but I need to keep an open mind. There could be a connection.”

She shivered at the horrible thought. “I’m sure it’s a coincidence. We know coyotes have gotten on base, so it’s likely she was injured protecting her pups. I doubt her presence on base is the result of foul play.”

“Yeah, you could be right.” Justin’s tone lacked conviction.

There was a moment of silence before Isaac glanced at his watch. “It’s late, we should go.”

Justin nodded. “Don’t forget, Vanessa, you’ll have a cop stationed outside your house at night, and don’t go anywhere alone. I placed a call while you were speaking with Aiden, and someone should be arriving any minute now.”

“Understood.” She walked the two men and their respective K-9s to the front door, Eagle staying close at her side. “Thanks,” she said, glancing at Isaac. “For everything you did for me tonight. If there’s ever anything I can do for you, just let me know.”

A hint of a smile played at the corner of Isaac’s mouth. “You’re welcome.” He paused, then added, “If you’re not working tomorrow, maybe you’d be willing to go with me to meet Beacon’s flight. It’s due to arrive at fourteen hundred hours.”

“I’m off tomorrow and would love to go. The idea of sitting around my house all day isn’t at all appealing.” She was touched that he’d asked, although she told herself not to read more into the offer than what it was at face value. A friend inviting a friend along to meet a plane, nothing more.

“Great, I’ll stop by to pick you up.” Isaac smiled again, then turned and followed Justin out to the street, jumping into Justin’s jeep beside him.

She stood in the doorway for a long moment, her hand resting on Eagle’s silky head, watching as the red taillights of the jeep vanished into the darkness. She gave Eagle a few minutes out in the yard to do his business, then called him back inside.

A tall man with a Security Forces badge on his chest and navy blue beret on his head stepped up beside the doorway, offering a quick salute. “Everything okay, ma’am?”

“Of course. Good night.” She returned the salute and ducked back inside. When Eagle joined her, she closed and locked the door behind her.

Aiden was still in the kitchen with the puppies, calling them by name as he worked on potty training. He took them out of the box and placed them on a spread of newspaper, praising them as they did their business.

“Good boy, Bryce. Denali, you’re doing great, too. Shenandoah, stay on the paper, please. Smoky, you’re a rock star. Nice job.”

Watching her brother interacting positively with the pups filled her with hope and encouragement for his future.

Thank You, Lord, for answering my prayers!

“Are you going to keep them in the kitchen for the rest of the night?” she asked, when all four pups had been cared for and the newspaper mess cleaned up.

“I’ll stretch out on the sofa for a while, keep the box nearby.” Aiden didn’t meet her gaze and she knew that he often slept in the living room with the light on in an effort to minimize the nightmares.

“Let me know if you need help,” she said. “Otherwise I’ll see you in the morning.”

Aiden nodded. She turned toward her bedroom when he called out, “Nessa?”

She looked over her shoulder. “What?”

“That guy, Isaac, is he going to be hanging around often?”

She hesitated, unsure how to respond. “We’re just acquaintances, that’s all. I only just met him today. Isaac has been suffering from nightmares and flashbacks, too, Aiden, just like you. We’re not going to get involved, if that’s what you’re asking. Tomorrow the dog who saved his life will be returning to base, so I’m going along to support him while he picks Beacon up. I hope you don’t mind, especially since Isaac seems determined to protect me.”

Aiden shrugged. “I’m glad you won’t be alone, but I don’t want him to hurt you, the way that Leo guy did.”

She was surprised to realize Aiden had heard about her brief, misguided relationship with Leo Turner, an Air Force captain and one of the physicians she worked with at the hospital. She must have mentioned him during their FaceTime sessions while Aiden was overseas.

It bothered her that now that Aiden was back on base, he’d probably heard the rumors about Leo’s multiple affairs. Her brother had enough to worry about without adding her welfare to the mix.

“Isaac and I are barely friends,” she repeated firmly, for her brother’s sake and her own. “He just wants to help keep me safe, that’s all.”

Bad enough she’d become the laughingstock of the ICU because she’d been oblivious to Leo’s antics, until she’d seen the evidence for herself.

She didn’t know if Isaac was the kind of guy to cheat on his girlfriend. What did it matter? She wasn’t interested in a relationship. And Isaac had enough going on in his life, between Beacon’s delayed homecoming and getting better.

Anything more than friendship would only get in the way.

Isaac had thought for sure he’d have trouble sleeping, considering the way he’d witnessed the attack on Vanessa, but surprisingly, he slept the entire night through.

He scrubbed a hand over his sandpaper-rough jaw and marveled at how many times he’d slept through the night without being awoken from a nightmare. Months ago, they plagued him nightly. Now he only had them once a week, maybe less.

Logically, he knew that his issues weren’t just because of Jake’s death and the horrible experience of being shot out of the sky, but a culmination of several treacherous flights over enemy territory, always under fire, yet somehow managing to escape.

Until that last flight had killed Jake and his copilot, Kevin, leaving only him and Beacon.

He took several deep calming breaths to keep the memories at bay. Maybe he’d slept well because today was the day Beacon was coming home. The thought made him smile and he bolted out of bed to let Tango outside, then to shower, shave and dress.

As always, he took care of Tango first, providing the dog food and water, before grabbing a quick bite to eat. As he nursed a cup of coffee, his gaze fell on the reenlistment paperwork sitting in the center of the kitchen table. He pulled it toward him.

For several long seconds, he stared at the spot where he was supposed to sign his name. He’d have to pass a medical and psychological exam no matter what job he decided to do if he stayed in the Air Force, so why bother filling the stupid thing out? Maybe this was his time to get out of the military.

And do what?

He had no idea.

With a rough gesture, he shoved the paperwork aside. He still had several weeks yet before it was due. No point in dwelling on it now.

Today he only had one priority. Beacon.

After finishing his coffee, Isaac stared at Tango for a moment, then decided to take the dog for a walk. It was going to be a long day if he didn’t find some way to occupy his time until Beacon’s arrival.

Instantly, his thoughts went to Vanessa, Aiden and the four fostered puppies Aiden had named after national parks.

Nope. He shook his head. Not a smart idea to get too emotionally involved. Although, he had offered to talk to Aiden, hadn’t he? And to keep Vanessa safe during the daytime hours?

Yes, he had.

She’d be safe with Eagle until he got there, so he took a quick walk around base to clear his head. He was secretly glad her house wasn’t far from his as it would be easier to keep an eye on her.

He was thrilled when he’d found his place, located on a dead-end street not far from the veterinary clinic.

Dogs were known to suffer from PTSD, too, and he used the fact to argue why he was the best fit for Beacon. With Jake gone, he was Beacon’s best chance. He’d even gotten Jake’s younger sister, Jacey, who was also a dog handler currently deployed overseas, to add her support.

He and the dog were two wounded warriors who deserved to be together. And the powers that be within the Air Force had finally agreed with him.

He ran into Captain Kyle Roark outside the veterinary clinic and waved him down. “Hey, any news on the female dog you operated on last night?”

Kyle nodded. “So far, she’s holding her own. I have her on heavy-duty antibiotics and I’m keeping her sedated because of the extensive sutures. In my professional opinion she was likely attacked by a coyote.”

“I’m happy to hear she’s recovering. And an animal bite is better than the idea of humans hurting her on purpose,” Isaac said with a heavy sigh. “At least now there’s no reason to believe there’s a possible connection to the Olio Crime Organization.”

Kyle grimaced. “I’m not sure they’re entirely out of the picture. No one living on base has reported a lost dog, aside from the training dogs that are still missing. A person within the crime ring may have sneaked the dog on base because she was pregnant and they wanted nothing to do with a litter of pups.”

“Why?” Isaac asked. “They could dump her anywhere.”

“Who knows how these guys think?” Kyle shook his head. “It’s just odd that she showed up here, that’s all. Anyone on base would take better care of their pet.”

“Maybe.” Done with the discussion of the injured dog, he turned his attention to the topic that had him anxious. “Are you going to be around later when Beacon arrives?”

Kyle’s face lit up with a wide smile. “Wouldn’t miss it.”

“Great. I’ll see you then.” Isaac waved and took Tango home.

He did some chores around the house for a couple of hours. By lunchtime, he decided he couldn’t stay home alone any longer. He picked up three meals to go from Carmen’s, his favorite Italian restaurant, and brought them over to Vanessa’s house.

He walked up to Vanessa’s front door and rapped lightly.

A series of high-pitched yips could be heard from inside, making him smile. Vanessa opened the door looking surprised to see him.

“Isaac, I wasn’t expecting you for a couple of hours yet.”

“I brought lunch from Carmen’s,” he said, lifting the bag as proof. “Enough pasta for all three of us.”

Her expression softened as she realized he’d included Aiden. “Come in. Lunch will be a welcome break from the nonstop potty training going on around here.”

“I can only imagine,” he said with a chuckle. Inside, he nodded to her brother.

“Hey,” Aiden greeted him cautiously.

“How are our four national parks doing?” he joked.

“They’re awesome.” Aiden placed the puppies back in their box. “Something smells good.”

“Carmen’s is always amazing.” He set the bag in the center of the kitchen table as Vanessa and Aiden washed up at the sink. Vanessa was more beautiful than he remembered, with her dark wavy hair hanging loose around her shoulders. She wore her dress blues and he appreciated her delicate features.

Whoa, wait a minute. What was wrong with him? He’d been around plenty of attractive women before. Even since his former fiancée, Amber. None had even remotely raised his interest.

Until now.

Vanessa pulled out plates and silverware while Aiden fetched three bottles of cold water from the fridge. He opened the bag and pulled out the aluminum to-go containers of pasta, each still warm from the oven.

Vanessa took her seat, bowed her head and began to pray. “Dear Lord, we thank You for this food we are about to eat and for the friendship You have blessed us with. Keep Beacon and the puppies safe in Your care, Amen.”

Despite his reservations about God and faith, Isaac thought of Beacon and found himself responding with a heartfelt “Amen.”

“Amen,” Aiden added, glancing down at the box of pups near his feet.

The spaghetti and meatballs from Carmen’s were delicious, and as they ate, they discussed the puppies at length. Isaac was impressed at the responsibility Aiden was taking in caring for them, especially the way he’d found a way to identify each one by sight corresponding them to their name. Denali had a notch in her right ear and Shenandoah was the runt of the litter. Bryce had a small tan spot on his belly while the fur on the tip of Smoky’s tail was black.

Vanessa seemed more relaxed, too, despite the bruises that darkened her neck. He was relieved to hear she’d used ice to keep the swelling down.

The time flew by and he soon realized they had to leave to avoid being late. He asked Aiden if he wanted to come with them, but the young man insisted on staying home to watch over the pups.

“I’m going to try some mash while you’re gone,” Aiden said with a wry grin. “Better that Nessa isn’t here to watch, since Kyle warned me about how messy they’ll get.”

“Maybe you should feed them in the bathtub,” Vanessa suggested, her expression half-joking. “That way you can contain the mess and go right into giving them a bath.”

Aiden laughed at her suggestion. Vanessa looked so surprised, Isaac wondered how long it had been since she’d heard the sound of her brother’s laughter.

Fostering the puppies was obviously a great job for him.

“I’ll leave Eagle here with Aiden,” Vanessa said. “I’m sure Beacon doesn’t need the added stress.”

Isaac hesitated, then nodded. “It’s probably best.”

“We’ll take my SUV,” Vanessa said. “I’ll drive.”

“Okay.” After loading Tango into the back, he slid into the passenger seat beside her, wishing he was armed. But only Security Forces cops were armed on base, and as a pilot he couldn’t carry one without special permission. As she drove, he kept a sharp eye out for anything suspicious.

Canyon Air Force Base was huge, covering over 600 acres. Roughly seven thousand people were on base at any given time, mostly military and some civilian. The airport runway was located on the north side of the base, a distance from the housing section.

Isaac swiped his damp palms against his jeans, unaccountably nervous. This was the moment he’d been waiting for since he arrived stateside.

Vanessa glanced at him. “Looks as if there’s already a big crowd of people gathered there along with the media. I hope I can find a place to park.”

Normally he wasn’t a fan of crowds, but knowing Beacon would be getting off the plane in less than thirty minutes made the discomfort worthwhile.

They found a parking spot in front of the command offices and walked from there. With Tango at his side, he kept close to Vanessa as they walked, again keeping a keen eye on their surroundings. No easy task since there were literally hundreds of airmen and officers around.

Once they were situated at the front of the crowd, he shielded his eyes from the sun with his hands, scanning the sky for the plane. There! A surge of excitement hit hard, although he told himself not to get his hopes up too high.

It wasn’t that long ago that he’d stood in this exact same spot waiting for another plane supposedly bringing Beacon home. Only it hadn’t been Beacon on the plane, but some other K-9. He’d suffered a relapse that night, despairing over the possibility of never seeing Beacon again.

At least this time, Vanessa was with him. He glanced over at her, amazed at what a difference it made to have someone supporting him.

He enjoyed spending time with her. She was easy to be around. Not nearly as demanding as Amber had been, or maybe he was just in a better place now than he had been back then. Considering he’d only first met Vanessa less than twenty-four hours ago, it was crazy how much he’d come to depend on her.

Only as a friend, he reminded himself. Once he had Beacon home, he wouldn’t need this weird connection he seemed to have with her.

As the sound of the plane engine grew louder, his heart beat faster with anticipation. The C-130 Hercules aircraft used for transporting troops emerged from the clouds, approaching the runway.

When the wheels hit the tarmac, he realized he was holding his breath and clutching Vanessa’s hand tightly in his. He released her with an apologetic smile.

She rested her hand in a reassuring gesture on his arm. The C-130 coasted to a stop, then angled toward the hangar.

He couldn’t stop himself from taking several steps forward, urging Vanessa along with him as they separated themselves from the crowd.

The cargo door in the rear of the plane opened and a short runway ramp was lowered to the ground. A man wearing his battle dress uniform emerged first, holding a leash, then he caught a glimpse of the familiar black-and-gold German shepherd.

Beacon!

He must have shouted the dog’s name out loud because the crowd burst into spontaneous applause.

The dog stood still for a moment, nose quivering. The animal must have picked up his scent, because he abruptly wheeled toward him, ears perked forward as if in recognition.

“Come, Beacon,” he said, taking a step forward to meet the dog who’d saved his life.

The loud crack of a gunshot rang out.

The entire area erupted into panicked chaos. The airman holding Beacon’s leash yanked the dog hard, diving for shelter as people began running and screaming, dropping to the ground and desperately seeking cover.

Vanessa pulled him down beside her. “Are you all right?” she asked breathlessly.

“I think so.” He was numb from shock, but checked himself for signs of injury. No blood? Good sign. Thankfully, he didn’t see any injuries on Vanessa or Tango, either. “I have to get to Beacon.”

He tried to pull away from her, but she hung on with steely determination. “No, you might put the dog in danger.”

The possibility made him sick to his stomach. Was Boyd really out there shooting at them? Why would Beacon have been the target? It didn’t make any sense for Boyd to come after the dog.

What in the world was going on?

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