The Texas Ranger's Family (Lone Star Lawmen 3)

She stirred restlessly. “I hope that money can be recovered and given back to LifeSpan.”

“I could wish for the same thing, but my main concern right now is to keep you safe until we know who invaded your home and the culprit is arrested. Let’s hope your friend in Phoenix has some information that can help. Give me a minute to make the reservation.”

Kit pulled out his cell phone and got to work and it didn’t take him long before he was tucking it back in his pocket. “I have to take the guns to the lab, so we’ll drop them off on the way to the airport. Our US Air flight will leave at eight-thirty and put us in Phoenix by ten-ten. That means we’ll have to leave here by 6:15 a.m. Does that work for you?”

She nodded. “Amy’s already asleep. I’ll get everything packed and be ready.”

“Good. Do you mind if I do some wash right now? The clerical shirt is drip dry, so there’s no problem.”

“Of course, I don’t mind, but I can do it for you.”

“Thanks, but no. I’ve fended for myself for years. To be surprised with a dinner you fixed was a treat I didn’t expect.”

“In that case I’ll phone Colette right now.”

While he gathered his things to take to the laundry room, she called her friend and gave her the time and terminal. “One more thing, Colette. The Ranger will be dressed in a blue shirt with a collar, like a priest.”

“You’re kidding—”

“It’s a long story. I’ll tell you the details after we get there. If anyone should ask, he’s my cousin, Father Todd Segal.”

“Natalie—”

“I know it sounds bizarre, but he’s saving my life, literally.”

“I believe you. See you tomorrow morning. Do I dare tell you I can’t wait to meet him? A real Texas Ranger?”

“Yeah. I’m still having trouble taking it all in.”

“What’s he like?”

Natalie wasn’t going there. “He’s the personification of the perfect Ranger.”

“I get it. Code for gorgeous, right?”

Right. Something had to be wrong with her to be talking like a high school girl to Colette when she was in the middle of a grave situation that could cost more lives.

“I’ll see you tomorrow, Colette.”

She hung up, afraid to say anything else because Kit had come back into the living room. Natalie looked up at him. “I’m going to go pack a suitcase for Amy and me, and then get to bed so I can wake up in time for our flight.”

He nodded. “Get a good sleep. While we’re gone tomorrow, another surveillance team will watch the house.”

“Kit?” she said in a tremulous voice, getting to her feet.

“What is it?”

“Thank you for everything you’re doing. I’m so grateful I don’t know how I’ll ever be able to repay you.”

“This is my job, Natalie.”

“I know, but you’ve helped me get through one of the darkest periods of my life. You’ve restored my faith in the idea that there are good men out there, although probably not many as exceptional as you. Good night.”

* * *

NATALIE’S WORDS CAUSED Kit’s throat to swell. For the first time since working as a Ranger, Kit had become personally involved in a case. He had no business caring about her or her daughter except on a professional basis, but it had happened, anyway. If he were honest with himself, he could admit to a strong physical attraction to her at the cemetery before they’d even met. It was the kind of chemistry that couldn’t be explained.

The only thing to do from here on out was to focus on the case and cut out all ideas of spending unnecessary time with her, such as watching a movie together before they went to bed. Concentrate, Saunders, or you’re in big trouble.