Chase The Wind

by Janelle Taylor

Genres: Historical Romance

Synopsis

FROM JANELLE TAYLOR, THE AWARD-WINNING AUTHOR OF SEVEN NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLERS, COMES A NOVEL OF ENTHRALLING ADVENTURE AND EXTRAODINARY ROMANCE. Born of an Apache mother, trained in Apache ways, undercover agent Navarro Breed embarks on a perilous mission to save Geronimo and his people. Seeking her own brand of justice against the gun-running desperadoes who killed her husband, Bethany Wind agrees to masquerade as Navarro's wife. It is a journey that will take them from the Arizona Territory to a sprawling Texas ranch-and the home of the woman Navarro once loved. And it is a journey that will take them from danger to awakening desire-and the love that is their extraordinary destiny. . .. In CHASE THE WIND Janelle Taylor has created an incomparable love story of two people who must battle the pain of the past to seize a radiant future. Set against the sweeping panorama of authentic western history, brimming with sensual passion and intrigue, it is the work of a master storyteller at her spellbinding best.

Release date: October 24, 2011

Publisher: Zebra Books

Print pages: 412

Sample

Sunday, April 4, 1886Tucson, Arizona Territory

Daniel Withers looked his friend and subordinate in the eye and said, “I have to order you to do something that’s going to be difficult for both of us. Lord knows I wouldn’t do this if I had any other choice. It’s about your next assignment.” He paused, sipped water, and prayed he wasn’t about to make a terrible mistake.

Special Agent Navarro Breed realized his superior was stalling. “What has you so jumpy tonight, old friend? You know I’ve never refused any order from you or the Agency.”

“This might be the first time, after you hear what I have to say.”

Navarro chuckled and grinned. “I can’t understand what would make you so jittery. I’ve handled dangerous and trying missions in the past. Heck, almost every case I take on is like running barefoot over hot coals,” he jested. “Spit it out; what is it that has you pacing the floor? You’re sweating like it’s August and you’re staked over an ant bed under the noon sun. This isn’t like you.”

Dan stopped pacing and looked Navarro in the eye again. “If you agree to accept this case, it’ll start here tomorrow and land you in Texas soon.” He clarified, “On the L/C Ranch with the Cordells.”

Navarro’s heart pounded as he stared at Dan in disbelief. “The…Cordell ranch?” Dan nodded. “What would Matt and…Jessie have to do with a case of mine? With any criminal case?”

“That isn’t the only crazy angle: you’ll have a partner this time, a female; her cover identity will be Beth Breed, your wife.”

Navarro straightened in his chair. “Hold your horses, Dan; I’m not—”

“Hear me out before you refuse. It involves Cordell’s younger brother: Charles is running guns to the renegades from San Carlos. He’s going to cause big trouble for everybody, including your friends in Texas, if he isn’t stopped before he can make delivery next month.”

“What does that have to do with Jessie and Matt, and with me needing a wife? Tell me where he is and I’ll go after him and arrest him.”

Dan sat down at the kitchen table in his home where they were meeting in secret under a blanket of darkness. “He’s on his way to their ranch for an alleged visit with his kin; that’s where you’ll catch up with him and start your investigation, because we’ll need indisputable evidence before we can move against him and his partners. After what happened between you and Mrs. Cordell years ago, you can’t go alone. Or go at all without a credible excuse and impenetrable cover. You have to marry Elizabeth Lawrence; it’s the only safe and successful way to carry out this tricky assignment. Geronimo and his braves have never been more determined. If they lay hands on Cordell’s weapons and bullets, they’ll be on the rampage until this entire region is bathed in blood.”

Navarro let out a deep breath. “The old fox thinks he’s right, and they’ve pressed him into a corner. You and I know San Carlos isn’t called Hell’s Forty Acres without good reason. The Government’s crazy for trying to corral different tribes and sometimes different nations on the same reservation. That’s asking for trouble. They have to realize all Indians aren’t the same, like all whites aren’t friends or allies or speak the same language or have the same customs and beliefs. Then, they treat and view ‘em as savage animals to be caged, trained, and mastered to suit the white man’s purposes. I’ve warned them over and over that will never work. Trouble is, the ones who can change things won’t listen to Navarro Breed because they think I’m only trying to get the Indians a better deal. You know me, Dan, I never let my Apache blood tell me what to do or think. I chose to live in the white man’s world where I can do the most good for both sides, so I follow its laws.” The gray-haired man nodded in agreement. “They have to realize they can’t take great leaders and proud warriors who’ve lived and ridden free as the wind, bind ‘em to a near barren wasteland, and expect ‘em to accept such shame and denial, even be grateful for handouts and being allowed to live.”

“I concur wholeheartedly, but we’ve had no luck changing their minds. Now the Mexicans are demanding we do something soon about the problem, and our government wants to keep peace with our neighbor. I can’t blame them; it’s been only thirty-odd years since a bloody war with them, so we don’t want this ruckus to provoke new trouble and conflicts.”

“The Apaches and Mexicans have always hated each other, worse than with the whites. You know as well as I do, Dan, that the Mexicans tried to wipe out the Indians, had bounties for their scalps, and sold hundreds of women and children into slavery; and the Apaches did the same to them, so they’re all to blame. Geronimo thought he’d made truce with them years ago, but a Mexicano band raided his camp while he and his braves were on a trading visit with others. He lost a mother, wife, children, and friends in that sneak attack. That’s when a sacred vision told him he couldn’t be killed by guns and bullets. True or not, he and his people believe it, so they follow wherever he leads.”

“His many escapes from San Carlos and returns to aggression have made it obvious he thinks he’s invincible,” Dan concurred. “Everybody has his eye and ear on this new turmoil; they expect—no, demand—we clean it up pronto. All of the other nations have been defeated, even the mighty Sioux in the Dakotas. If we can settle this Apache issue, our country will finally be at peace from border to border. It’s serious, my friend, so we have to succeed in a hurry. If not, there’ll be hell for innocents to pay.”

“Peace is what they want, too, Dan, but an honorable peace we’ve denied them. They yearn to return to the way of life we stole from them.”

“I understand. But General Miles is on his way to battle them with orders to ‘capture and destroy’ if they refuse to surrender. General Crook had them in his pocket below the Mexican border last week, after two scouts entered their Sonora stronghold and persuaded them to surrender. Crook got them to the border but they panicked and bolted again. I can’t fault them for being mistrustful when we’ve broken every promise we made, and I can’t blame them for not wanting to live on San Carlos or any reservation. At least Nanay, some warriors, and one of Geronimo’s wives didn’t escape. They were sent back to San Carlos under guard.” Dan stroked his thick gray mustache before adding, “Victorio’s successor was a powerful warrior and leader so it’s good to have Nanay’s influence removed from that powder keg. But that canny and fearless Geronimo is another story, the big problem for us.”

Navarro set aside his coffee cup. “What’s the Army gonna do?”

“Miles is en route to Fort Apache to plan his campaign; they’re giving him five thousand soldiers—a fourth of our Army—to go after those Chiricahuas. He’ll have thirty heliograph stations at his command for tracking and quick pursuit. Mexico is providing three thousand men, and Indians will add hundreds of scouts and fighters. But I have no doubt Geronimo will lead our joint forces on a long and bloody chase. He could teach our side plenty about fighting and escaping enemies.”

“What were Crook’s terms of surrender? What made ‘em bolt?”

“Two years imprisonment in the East, then back to San Carlos Reservation if the government didn’t change its mind after he was in custody and hang him. There’s plenty of talk in that direction, and it makes me nervous. If they dare put a legend like him on the gallows, another uprising will definitely occur. Obviously, Geronimo suspected lies and a trap, probably more from the Mexicans than from us. After he fled last week, he went back to raiding. No doubt that promise of weapons next month keeps his hopes alive.”

“How do you know he’s the one buying the arms? It’s not like him to deal with whites. Take ‘em in a raid, yep. Trade for ‘em, nope.”

“It has to be him; nobody else is famous or strong enough to coax a bargain with those culprits. A big supply is the only way Geronimo can arm enough braves to stay loyal and on the loose. Until the shipment’s in his grasp, he’ll raid and rob to get money to pay for them. Afterward, Lord help us, it will get worse if we fail. If we can unmask their contact and prevent delivery, he’ll have to surrender. But we can’t move against Charles Cordell without proof, something we don’t have yet. Besides, we need to learn who all’s involved and why, or the boss will find another gunrunner. If I live to be a hundred, I’ll never understand how some men can be so greedy and cold-hearted. I wouldn’t want to face The Maker with the blood of women and children on my hands.”

“What happened to General Crook? Why is Miles taking charge?”

“It didn’t sit well with Crook’s superiors and others that it was taking so long to defeat those renegades, or that he let Geronimo escape. Nor did they care for the terms he offered the Indians. Here’s a copy of Crook’s report; I’ll read part of it to you: ‘Though tired of the constant hounding of the campaign, they were in superb physical condition, armed to the teeth, fierce as so many tigers. Knowing what pitiless brutes they are themselves, they mistrust everyone else. We found them in camp, in such a position that a thousand men could not have surrounded them with any possibility of capturing them. They were able upon the approach of any enemy to scatter and escape through dozens of ravines and canyons which would shelter them from pursuit.’ After Crook talked with Geronimo, the old chief told him. ‘Once I moved about like the wind. Now I surrender to you.’ But not for long he didn’t! That devious warrior is chasing the wind again.”

Dan put aside the report. “As soon as it was filed, Sheridan fired off an insulting telegram to him. Crook decided if he couldn’t be in full charge of his military mission, he’d hand it to another officer. He was replaced on Friday but it’ll take a spell for the new commander to arrive and get his plans made and in motion. That gives you and Beth an opportunity to work on this matter from another angle. As I said, even if the Army stops Geronimo’s current rampage, we need to know who’s been supplying them with arms for years and who keeps inciting them to escape and fight.”

“Maybe there’s more to the ringleader’s motive than greed.”

“Surely nobody wants the San Carlos land. Not even the Indians want it.”

“But the Apaches aren’t staying put or being peaceful. Maybe their raids are trampling somebody’s plans or business. Or maybe somebody just hates Indians and is using a sly ploy to force the Army to get rid of them.”

“You could have something there, Navarro. Needless to say, too many Arizonians would like to have the Apaches removed from this territory, particularly those ranchers, miners, and settlers surrounding San Carlos who are the targets of raids when the Apaches are on the loose. But what kind of white man would provoke and support bloodshed to get the Indians killed or exiled? Whatever his motive, we must expose him and stop him. If Cordell places arms in those Chiricahuas’ hands, it might persuade more braves to leave the reservation and join them. As long as we have trouble, Arizona will never be given statehood. ‘Course, hostile renegades aren’t the only obstacle: outlaws, Mexican bandits, miner feuds, and shoot-outs also give us a lawless reputation to easterners. You and Beth have six weeks maximum to help prevent a crisis.”

“I understand, but this is no job for a woman. Watching out for her could be a dangerous distraction. She’ll only get in my way, slow me down, and cause me trouble.”

Dan Withers shook his head and chuckled. “Beth is almost as skilled as you are, my friend, so you two will make a fine team. She’s worked undercover plenty of times; been with us years longer than you have, but you’ll be in charge. She comes from a family of excellent agents. Her father and her husband were two of our best men. It’s a shame you’ll never get to meet them, since both were killed in the line of duty—on this same type of case a year ago when Geronimo and his boys broke from the reservation. We still haven’t learned who sent them weapons and supplies. Maybe it was Charles Cordell. I wouldn’t assign the two of you to this case if it wasn’t imperative, but you have the best skills, knowledge, and contacts for the mission. I was hoping Jake could solve it back East; his loss was bad timing for us.”

“You sure his death was an accident? Sure they weren’t on to him?”

“Positive. A second agent was shadowing them and saw Jake’s horse throw him and break his neck. We had no time or way to get another man in cahoots with Cordell before he headed west, and I doubt he’d hire anyone while en route. It was a stroke of luck Jake got as close to them as he did, but if he gathered any hard evidence, it was lost with his death. He did pass along the date when Cordell would be on the move. We also know Cordell telegraphed his brother in Texas that he’d be arriving at the ranch about the twenty-sixth. He called it a ‘visit during a business trip to Mexico.’ We figure he’s either planning to rendezvous with Geronimo in Sonora or they’ll meet up after he reenters the country. If the latter’s his plan, he’ll probably recross into Arizona or New Mexico after he’s used the border to lose any tail we have on him. It’s no secret both governments are keeping a sharp eye out for renegades, so he’ll be cautious.”

“Why not send the arms by rail straight to Mexico for exchange there?”

“Because Mexican coasts are heavily patrolled against smugglers, and overland roads from them are plagued by bandidos. Cordell is probably bribing somebody for safe travel through certain areas. Once he reaches his brother’s land, his movements and schedule will be cunningly masked from there on, unless you and Beth intercept and trail him. The brothers apparently haven’t seen each other in many years.”

“That fits what Matt and Jessie told me while I was working at the ranch. If you ask me, there’s no way Mathew Cordell could have gone bad. And Jessie certainly wouldn’t; I’d stake my life on that being true.”

“For Beth’s sake and yours, I hope it is. We’re searching for any motive your old friend could have for getting involved. I’ll keep you informed on our findings by code.” He gave Navarro the check-in points and days for contacting him during the mission.

After Navarro nodded, Dan said, “Our timing is perfect; Beth just completed an assignment in the land office, without breaking her cover as usual. She’s still working there. You’ll pretend to be old friends who start up a romance and get married in a week. Then you’ll be on your way.”

“A week?” He saw Dan nod. “You’re joshing?” He watched Dan shake his head. “Won’t that seem suspicious?”

“Not out here where a woman doesn’t stay unmarried long. Besides, you’re ‘old friends.’ It’ll be understandable, if you’re a good enough actor.”

Navarro’s hazel eyes narrowed and he ran his fingers through his black hair. “How did you convince her to marry and travel with a stranger?”

“She has been fully briefed. She knows this case is crucial, and she agrees a counterfeit marriage is the best cover strategy. It would be natural for newlyweds settling down to ranch in Texas to visit the friends who made it possible by getting you out of prison years ago. Make it look as if you only want to show them you’re happy and completely severing your ties to them. Matt should be delighted and relieved to learn any possible threat from you is over. Convince them that’s why you came and I’m betting they’ll ask you two to visit and rest a spell. Don’t you see, you need Beth at your side to prevent past problems from jumping up and exposing your identity and mission?”

“Why not just pretend to be married? Why fake a romance and wedding?”

“If the Cordells mention to Charles you’ve worked for the Army, he might get suspicious and check on you. We can’t afford a flaw in your story. Don’t worry about being trapped with an unwanted wife. As soon as you defeat those gunrunners and the Indians are back on the reservation, the marriage will be over and you can go your separate ways, on to new cases in different directions. Satisfied?”

Dan watched Navarro slip into deep thought and knew where the man’s worries lay. The unrequited love affair which provided a path to the Cordells—thus, one to Charles—could be a risk to the case and to his friend’s emotions. Considering the grim consequences of failure, those challenges had to be met head-on. Besides, Dan mused, maybe the trip would release Navarro from his sad past. Beth, too. “I know this mission won’t be easy or painless. I’m sorry, Navarro, and I wish I could give it to another agent, but there isn’t time or a credible ploy for someone else to use. And nobody’s better qualified to handle it than you are, with Beth’s help.”

“You don’t have to worry about Matt and Jessie or—”

“I won’t, if you have a wife along. We’ve been friends for a long time, Navarro, and maybe I know you better than you know yourself. This will be the first time you’ve seen her and your son since you lost them years ago. Don’t you see, it’s reckless to risk temptation and exposure by going alone? I hate to send you into a hornet’s nest with or without protection, but you speak Apache and know the Indian ways. You’re the best tracker and agent we have, so I can’t allow friendship and your personal feelings to influence my decision. This case is too important. You understand?”

Navarro winced. “Yep, but I still think I can do it alone.”

“I disagree. You left there five years ago with two gaping holes in your life like bullet wounds you’ve never let heal. When you return, you can’t doctor them. The price would be too great for everyone to pay. That’s why you can’t go alone, but I believe you’d want to be the agent to keep them safe and out of trouble.”

“You really think I’m skilled enough to convince Jessie of such a crazy lie?”

“Absolutely. To protect Jessie and Lane, you’ll do what you must. It’s possible Charles has or will enmesh Matt in his scheme. I know you don’t think Matt would break the law, but people change over time. You’re a perfect example of that. I’m not forgetting you promised to stay out of their lives, but you knew the day would come when you’d have to face them and yourself again. That day’s here, Navarro. I know that deep inside, you’re still hoping you can get Jessie and Lane back. It’s time to accept you can’t, not as long as her husband’s alive. Release yourself from the past or you’ll keep hurting until you die. That’s no fate for you, my friend.”

“How does a man kill yearnings for what could’ve—should’ve—been? She was mine, Dan; until she was stolen by the law and Matt.”

“The law had good reason to believe you were guilty of those crimes.”

“I know, or I wouldn’t be working for it now. I admit I’m partly to blame for my troubles. What happened to me cleaned up that prison, but it cost me my woman, my son, and scars on my back.”

“She’s another man’s wife now, Navarro. You must accept that.”

“I haven’t spoiled her new life. I’ve left them both in peace as I promised.”

“But you’ve never allowed yourself to find peace. As long as you keep looking back, you’ll never see what could be ahead for you.”

“Only thing ahead is my work. Don’t feel sorry for me, Dan; good friends and challenging missions are enough for me. I’ll always love Jessie and be grateful to her. Until I met her, I was riding a bad trail in the wrong direction. She turned me around in time to save my neck. She needed me, too, and not just my guns and skills. She loved me and wanted to marry me.”

“Ten years ago. Everybody and everything involved in that episode has changed, except you. She has two of his children now. Free yourself and find another trail to ride.”

“How can I ever be free of her when we have a bond in our son and in all we shared? And don’t say another woman can break it. I haven’t met one who can even stand in her shadow. But don’t worry; I’ll go to Texas and carry out this mission without stirring up trouble and pain for them.” He added, “Unless Matt is involved with his brother’s crimes. If he is, old friend or not, I’ll bring him to justice and do it as easy on Jessie and…their children as possible. I won’t put blame where it doesn’t belong just so I can recover her and my son; you have my word of honor.”

“I believe you, but it’ll be a hard promise to honor in person. You’ve kept it so far because you haven’t seen or even contacted them in five years. Mark my words, Navarro, it’ll be difficult when you’re face-to-face with your lost love and son. If you let her, Beth will protect you from temptation.”

“Even if I were tempted, Dan, I wouldn’t go after Jessie and Lane. As far as everyone knows, he’s Matt’s son. I admit it cuts soul deep to think I could pass Lane on a street and not even recognize my own child. When I sneaked that look at him five years ago, I realized I had no right to claim him or Jessie. So you see, Dan, I’ve proven I can resist temptation. Besides, Jessie would never leave her other two children and ranch to ride off with me and Lane; she was never that kind of woman.”

“If you truly believe that, get her out of your head and heart. Forget what that old shaman told you, or apply it to another woman.” Dan sipped at his whiskey to hide twinges of guilt about two points he planned to conceal. He hoped that his deception would give Navarro time to get to know and accept his new partner. “Jessie still has a tight hold on you, Navarro, so don’t fool yourself. You know why she married Cordell and you’re of course happy he saved her and Lane from disgrace. Even if she’s made a success of marriage, it doesn’t mean she’s forgotten you. That could lead to trouble and heartache. With a wife along, Mrs. Cordell won’t be tempted to act on what-might-have-been. Beth will help you both realize it’s over for good.”

Navarro thought of the potent feelings he had buried long ago and wondered if they could unearth themselves when he saw Jessie and Lane again. What if she was still in love with him and dreaming of a life together? Would it rip out her heart to see him with a “wife”? Would love and passion rekindle between them? If so, could they resist each other? Yes, they had no choice, as long as she was married …“I still say it’s trouble to take a woman—a stranger—with me, even as my wife.”

“You and Beth will have ample time to get acquainted. You two can keep each other straight; she also has a personal stake in this mission. It may have been one of Cordell’s shipments that got her father and husband killed. It won’t surprise me if the two cases melt into the same mold.”

“If her head’s clouded by revenge, why send her with me?”

“Because she’s the best choice and she’s available. Don’t worry about Beth; she won’t let personal problems get in the way of doing her job.”

“Why are you so sure I can depend on her?”

“She brought in one of her husband’s murderers alive. The snake had Steven’s possessions when she and another agent caught up with him. Three others went down in a shoot-out. ‘Course he never told who supplied the weapons and ammo they’d delivered earlier. It was a tragedy; those villains weren’t even Steven and John’s assignment; they were on loan to me for another case. They just stumbled onto the scene at the wrong time and spooked that gang into a lethal attack. Those bastards killed our men and rode out fast, probably afraid more agents were hot on their trail. That’s what gave us our first real clues to the gunrunning mess. We’ve had agents working undercover in several areas since that black day. Beth followed their trail until they camped, then went for help because she knew she couldn’t take on five men by herself. When she returned with it, one gang member was gone. He’s still at large. Before Steven died, he told her that the one who shot and stabbed him had two X’s carved near the thumb on his left hand, probably scars from a snakebite. She hopes the last villain will turn up one day, maybe even on this case. She could have killed that culprit on the trail, and the agent with her wouldn’t have exposed her if she had. She watched that cold-blooded outlaw hang, then rode out on her next assignment. She’s never failed us, Navarro, never. You’re lucky to get her as a partner.”

“She worked with her husband? Isn’t it unusual and risky to have a married couple as a team?”

“They never let it distract them; they were excellent together. Beth doesn’t tell me her feelings and secrets, but I sense she hasn’t gotten over his sudden death. I hope a good man comes along one day and heals her wounds.”

“What kind of man would take his woman—his wife—into all sorts of dangers? What about their family? Who kept them? Where?”

“They had no children; that’s how she stayed his partner. But she has family—a sister and brother, both of them married with children. Her sister mostly raised her after her mother died and John became an agent. As for friends, Beth makes them easily and wherever she goes; none of them learn she’s an agent when she’s on assignment; she’s too smart and alert for mistakes.”

“Why didn’t she resign after her husband was killed? Didn’t that prove to her how dangerous this job is? Why would a woman even do this kind of work?”

“A love for justice and country. She also likes travel, adventures, and challenges as much as you do. You’ll be surprised how much alike you two are. Beth can defend and support herself, so it’ll take a special man to win her heart.”

“Like her husband?”

“Steven was a fine man. You’d have liked him and respected him. I guess I should tell you, she feels partly to blame for Steven and John’s deaths. She’d stopped to enjoy a field of wildflowers while they rode ahead to make camp. They spooked the resting gang into an ambush. By the time she arrived, the band was fleeing, John was dead, and Steven was dying. She thinks if she’d come faster or not stopped, she could’ve saved their lives. She’s an expert marksman, but I doubt she—or anyone—could have prevented what happened. I’ve tried to convince her that if she’d arrived with them or soon afterward, she’d be dead, too. She still thinks, with her skills and training, she could have done something to change their fates. ‘Course, most of us feel that way when we suffer losses. Who knows, maybe you two will be good medicine for each other…”

“You can wipe that grin off your face because that pretty flower won’t be plucked by me. Its thorns stick worse than a thousand sharp burrs in your bedroll. Nope, no more chasing wild winds for me.”

“Then you and Beth have nothing to worry about on the trail alone because she feels the same way. Will you take this assignment?”

“You sure we have to go as man and wife?”

“Absolutely positive. We can’t risk imperiling your lives and this case. You go as her husband or the scheme’s off; that’s an official order.”

Navarro pondered his duty, then eyed his superior. “All right, boss; summon the preacher and my bride before I change my mind.”

“Not that fast; you two have a romance to fake first.”

Love and romance! Navarro thought cynically. The only time he had experienced them was with the woman he would visit soon under false pretenses. “When the truth comes out after this mission is over, I hope Jessie and Matt forgive me for breaking my promise and don’t feel used and betrayed. And I hope Matt understands why I had to expose and arrest his younger brother. Just pray I don’t have to kill Charles.” He asked, “How will I meet and recognize this Beth?” He pictured a rustic trail woman—large, plain, masculine and bossy—and sighed.

“She’s the only female who works in the land office. We had reports of possible frauds and push-outs; she’s proven those allegations are false, so her work here is done. Beth …Lawrence is twenty-eight, about five feet six, slim, fair skin, green eyes, and…black hair. She’s a real lady, so treat her as one. She’s also beautiful, charming, and well bred. Elizabeth Lawrence will be in Carter’s Dry Goods on Congress Street at five tomorrow. She’s expecting you to make contact with her there.”

“You were certain I’d accept this mission, weren’t you?”

Dan sent him a wry grin. “I had only a tiny doubt because of the wife angle.” He grew serious. “I’ll leave it up to you what to tell her about your past with the Cordells. But it isn’t wise or safe to let Beth walk blindly into that old canyon; a slip by her could endanger your lives and the mission.”

“I’ll tell her only what she has to know, nothing more, and then only when the time suits me. Agreed?”

“Agreed.”

“What if this ‘lady’ you chose objects to working with a half-breed Apache and ex-outlaw? She’s used to sending criminals to prison, not teaming up with an ex-desperado who served years in one.”

“The mission is all that will matter to her. Besides, Beth’s a good woman. She won’t give you any problems; I promise.”

They went over other details before Navarro sneaked from Dan’s home. He stabled his black stallion at a livery and registered at a hotel with the land office in view of his window. As he gazed into the night beyond it, his body was tense, his spirit edgy. His mind whirled in a storm of thoughts and emotions. Jessie hadn’t seen him since he left the Box L Ranch years ago, seeming to desert her when she needed him most. But if the law hadn’t recaptured him, they would be married today, the ranch theirs. And Jessie and Lane wouldn’t be confronting a danger he had to defeat before riding away a third and final time. But he’d only ride away if Mathew Cordell was innocent.

Navarro unbuttoned his shirt and grasped a locket that held a treasure Jessie had given to him on that ill-fated day. He opened it and gazed at her worn and faded photograph. He caught his breath as he admired her long and curly sorrel hair, eyes as large and blue as a summer sky, and the beautiful face he had stroked and kissed so many times. She was a vision of grace and spirit.

Navarro sighed as he closed the locket. There was something else he needed to think about—something Dan had mentioned earlier—Navarro’s meeting with the old shaman.

Navarro had told the Apache: “My spirit is heavy about taking you to San Carlos, Sees-Through-Clouds, but whites and soldiers fear the power you have over your people. They fear peace and safety cannot come while great leaders like you are free to keep the Apache heart full of courage and hope.”

Calling him by his Indian name, the shaman had replied, “I one man, Tl’ee’ K’us. Moccasins walk Earth Mother as turtle. Hair, eyes wear white blankets. Face have many deep paths. Body shakes as leaf in wind. Bones weak. Voice a whisper. Why fear, chain old men to dying land?”

“Your voice is a whisper, Wise One, but your words roar like thunder. Your body is weak, but your spirit is strong. Though your years are many, the young would follow you. These truths, whites and soldiers know and fear.”

“It foolish, dangerous, to follow old man this season. Foolish when Tl’ee’ K’us’s mother follow white outlaw from people; foolish she return, die. Night Cloud not follow Morning Tears’ trail; big evil come; Life Giver not have power, way, to protect His people. That season later; when come, Ysun send help. No war with white-skins and Bluecoats; they many and strong, not good time. I surrender, not live free as river runs, standing proud as sacred cottonwood, spirit not broken as wild horse’s. Last season come one day and bones rest with Father’s in sacred mountains.”

“That cannot be, Wise One; that glorious day is past. You must walk alone as I do.” He had been tempted to let the shaman go to wander free and happy in the hills until death claimed him; he hadn’t because he knew someone else might find the old man and be cruel or lethal. And, the revered man had been more than willing to go to the reservation, after giving Navarro some parting advice:

“You not walk alone forever, Tl’ee’ K’us. Woman with hair burning as flaming rocks will walk at your side. Much stands between you this moon; it blow away when you chase the wind.”

Jessica Cordell had a mane of red hair and he’d never met another flaming-haired woman, so the prophecy had to be about her, as he’d never known Sees-Through-Clouds to be wrong. She was his destiny. Had the “moon” come when the obstacle between them—a husband—would be removed? Was it Matt’s fate to suffer in prison, maybe die, for Navarro to reclaim what seemed his by right of first conquest? Yet, that possibility troubled him. An old Apache saying gusted through his mind: “Wherever the Spirit Wind blows, a brave and cunning warrior must chase it and capture it. If he does so, he will have the powers of nature in his grasp, the powers to be and to have all he desires.”

Navarro sensed that the days ahead would reveal the many truths he needed for release from his invisible chains, and he wanted peace of mind and heart—something he hadn’t realized until tonight. What he couldn’t surmise was why he felt so solemn and tense about possibly having his dream within reach. But for now, he ordered himself, the only thing he should concentrate on was courting a blackhaired partner named Elizabeth Lawrence. I’ll see you tomorrow, Beth, and don’t give me any trouble.

Outside Tucson, Daniel Withers, who owned a bank as a cover for his secret work, paced, and pondered his earlier decision. Was it fair or right, Dan mused, to withhold three important facts about Beth and their partnership from Navarro? He’d never deceived either of them and it evoked mixed feelings of guilt and a desire to see his two friends healed of their similar wounds. Both deserved happiness, serenity, and new loves; and, in his opinion, they were perfectly matched. With luck, Dan prayed, it would be too late for Navarro to call off the mission or to resist Beth’s magic when he learned two of those disturbing facts.

“Anything else, dear?” Kate Carter asked Beth.

“That’s all I need today,” Beth answered. Mrs. Carter took the money she held out to pay for ribbons she didn’t need.

Kate Carter glanced at the handsome stranger who entered her store, approached the counter in a nimble and confident stride, and halted behind the young widow to await service. She exchanged smiles and nods with him.

Beth surmised from a heavy sound of boots on the wood floor and length of the steps that the person behind her was a tall man. She readied herself for the impending ruse. When the man made no attempt to speak to her as Mrs. Carter made change and wrapped her purchase, she assumed it wasn’t her new partner. So far, she hadn’t noticed any man who fit the description Dan had given to her last Friday when she went to his bank under the guise of discussing a loan to purchase the house she was renting. Perhaps, the worried agent reasoned as she toyed with her wedding band, her contact had refused the assignment. Or perhaps he was only late for their scheduled meeting. It was also possible he hadn’t reached Tucson yet, and Daniel Withers had no safe way of informing her of the delay. Whatever the reason for his tardiness, she couldn’t stall her departure any longer.

“Here you go, Beth, and thank you. Come back soon, dear.”

“Thank you, Mrs. Carter, and I’ll see you again next week.”

When Beth half turned to face the clerk at the cash register to her right, Navarro had moved to the display case as if to examine its contents of knives and pistols, which placed him to his target’s left and in line with her body. As if surprised to hear her name and voice, he lifted his head, looked in her direction, and leaned forward to get a better look at her profile. He feigned an expression of curiosity, then astonishment. “Beth? Elizabeth Lawrence?” As she turned to face him while responding with a “Yes?”, he grinned. “It is you. What are you doing way out here? Where’s Stephen? Blazes, woman, this is a big surprise.”

Beth did not have to fake a startled reaction to the man whose looks were more than enough to make any female’s eyes widen. This virile creature was to be her partner, her …husband? Dan had described him as tall, with dark hazel eyes, black hair, and a deep tan, but he hadn’t told her Navarro was so handsome. She recovered her poise, and hoped he attributed her reaction to good acting. “Navarro! Whatever are you doing here? The last time Stephen and I saw you, you were heading for Dakota. This is indeed a wonderful surprise. It’s been so long, too long for friends to be out of contact.” She gave him a quick hug and kiss on the cheek as she thought would be natural under the alleged circumstances.

Navarro returned the embrace and smiled as if he were overjoyed to see her. Quick, smart, and controlled: that’s a relief. He let a tender gaze roam her features as his hands remained clasped to her upper arms. He responded easily to her question. “I’m buying a ranch in San Antonio. I’m heading there as soon as I rest up a few days and resupply. It’ll be good to see Stephen again. We’ve got plenty of catching up to do. Blazes, I’ve missed you two. Let’s go surprise that husband of yours.”

Beth lowered thick brown lashes, dipped her head, and took a deep breath for the benefit of onlookers. After a moment, she locked a sad gaze to his inquisitive one. “Stephen’s…dead, Navarro. That’s why I moved here, to make a fresh start. I work in the land office down the street and rent a small house on the edge of town.”

He saw the glow in her green eyes fade. He knew he must show a strong and shocked reaction. “Stephen’s dead? It can’t be true. What happened?”

As fast as possible, Beth wanted to get beyond that part of the story she was telling. To distract herself from painful memories, she concentrated on her partner, their task, and the real Beth Lawrence’s sad tale. She hadn’t expected Navarro Breed to be…so disarming. His wide, full mouth created a sexy smile. He was several inches over six feet tall, muscular, bronzed skin, and…Were those, she mused, Spanish or Indian features? No one could doubt, or fault her for a whirlwind romance with an arresting man like him.

As if she’d used those moments of silence to compose herself, Beth nodded and said, “He was killed during a bank robbery soon after you left. At least his death came quickly, so he didn’t suffer. I left St. Louis a few months later and finally settled here after trying living back East for a while.”

Navarro knew she seemed intrigued by his looks. Since many whites hated Indians and detested half-breeds even more, maybe she did, too. Perhaps Dan hadn’t told her about that. If his half-Indian heritage was going to provoke a rift between them, he’d know soon enough. For now, he had a role to play. “You came this far without protection? Why didn’t you send for me? This wild territory isn’t safe for a woman alone, Elizabeth. You should know better than to take such risks.”

“It’s no secret to you I don’t have any family, and I didn’t know how to reach you. My letters were returned unclaimed.”

“That was because I ended up in California. I met a man on the trail after I left you two and he offered me a high-paying job protecting gold shipments. I sent word to you; my letter must have gotten lost, or stolen during a holdup. I’m sorry you had to go through that pain alone. I hope they caught and hung his killer. If not, I have a job to do.”

“They did. I know it sounds terrible for a lady, but I attended his trial and watched him hang on the gallows. I had to see Stephen avenged, and he was.” As if suddenly aware of her distraction and location, Beth murmured, “Oh, my goodness, where are my manners? Mrs. Carter, this is an old and dear friend of mine, Navarro Breed. He and my husband were like brothers. We’ve been close friends for as long as I can remember.”

He shook hands with the store owner’s wife. “Pleasure to meet you, ma’am.”

Kate sent him a beaming smile. “Same here, son.”

Beth told the older woman, “I’m sorry we got so carried away. We’re holding up business. Our reunion is…just so unexpected.”

Kate’s mind was spinning with ideas. “I understand, dear, so think nothing of it. Folks don’t mind waiting for something special like this.”

“Thank you, Mrs. Carter, and we’ll get out of the way so you can help the other customers. Navarro, why don’t we get something to eat at a nearby restaurant so we can have a long talk? We both have a lot of news to share.”

“Sounds good to me, Beth. I haven’t had a decent meal in weeks. Just let me buy the ammo I came in here for first.” He purchased a box of 44 caliber cartridges. “Before I leave town, ma’am, I’ll be back for trail supplies. See you in a few days.”

While they were still in earshot of the owner and customers, Navarro said, “I couldn’t believe my eyes when I saw you standing there.”

With a merry laugh, Beth responded, “And I can’t believe you’re finally settling down in one place. What inspired this big change?”

They paused to let a woman and child pass in a barrelcrowded aisle. Navarro took advantage of the delay to continue their ruse. “I’ve roamed around for thirty-seven years riding and ranching for others. I figured it was high time for me to have a ranch and family of my own. Don’t you agree?”

Moving toward the entrance again, she asked, “You have a family?”

“Nope, not yet. Haven’t found the perfect wife like Stephen did. I hope I get as lucky in that area as he was.” As Navarro waited for her to exit, he recalled that Dan had told him Beth was beautiful, well bred, smart, and charming: facts he couldn’t argue with so far. Yet, Beth’s looks were unusual. Her facial features were a little larger than the average female’s, but were very appealing. Her black hair was pulled away from her face on the top and sides and secured behind her head with a blue ribbon that matched a lovely but simple day-dress. Those Texas-size eyes were clear and shiny, and her gaze was often bold and full of self-confidence. She seemed every inch a lady, gentle and delicate as a spring flower. He couldn’t imagine this beauty being a trail duster and top agent as Dan swore she was. Surely she couldn’t be of assistance in the face of peril or endure the road’s hardships. If she were captured and questioned by their suspect, he worried, she’d no doubt spill the truth, faint, cry, or beg for mercy faster than a flash flood struck in the desert. Soon, he’d test her skills. If he found them lacking or detrimental to his success, she’d be off the case in the blink of an eye no matter what his superior said. Nothing was more important to him than protecting Jessie, Lane, and her other children while he carried out his crucial mission. When it came to his loved ones’ safety and this assignment, nobody—not even another lawman, or, in this case, lawwoman—should get in his way.

Kate Carter was filled with excitement as she watched the young couple depart arm-in-arm. She liked Beth and was moved by the young widow’s tragic past. She hoped this reunion would lead to something special. It could, with a little help…

While no one was nearby, Beth whispered, “We don’t want to provoke gossip about us too soon, so we shouldn’t go straight to my house and you shouldn’t come in tonight; that wouldn’t be proper even for old friends. We’ll eat in town, take a short walk, and part until tomorrow night. Don’t say anything private that might be overheard by the wrong person. Okay?”

Navarro was amused by her words; it was as if she thought he was a greenhorn and she was the one in charge of their mission.

As they crossed the street and no one was around, she asked, “What took you so long to arrive and make contact? I was worried.”

“You were too much on guard. I decided to wait so you’d have no trouble looking surprised. I wasn’t sure how well you could act.”

Beth noticed a cool and cocky gleam in his deep-set, hooded eyes; it was an expression of resolve to put her in her place behind him to which she took offense. She was assigned to be his partner, not his underling or ornament. “I’ve had plenty of practice in role playing, Mr. Breed, so don’t concern yourself about me not carrying off my part.”

He caught the sudden chill in her tone and the tensing of her body at his reprimand. But he wanted her to know right away who was boss. Dan should have made their ranks clear to her when they spoke last week. She might have been an equal or leader with her husband, but she had to be a follower with him. “Would you be formal and icy with a close friend, Beth?”

Vexed, she had to struggle not to frown or glare at him, as someone could witness her odd reaction. According to Dan, this Special Agent was superior to most. He had solved cases no one else could, and alone, and often against larger and stronger numbers. Obviously, Beth concluded, success had made him arrogant. With a safe distance from others for the moment, she murmured, “Pardon the slip, Navarro. I was just surprised that a legendary agent like you would walk into a dangerous case without complete trust in his partner. You won’t have to coddle me or cover for me. I’m well trained and experienced. I can take care of myself and my assignments, with or without a partner’s help. Frankly, I also prefer working alone.”

Without hesitation, he replied, “And I’m just as surprised a legendary agent like you would make the simple slip of using a wrong name.”

She saw his hazel eyes darken and glitter as if tiny sparks were ricocheting off of a stone. She kept quiet while passing local residents and visitors at a busy section, as did he. From the corner of her eye, she examined him in a rush: his full mouth above a squared chin with a tiny dip but not quite a cleft, his straight nose with a slight flare at its base, those remarkable eyes, framed by brows that were thick and far apart. Her gaze shifted to his high and prominent cheekbones and a strong jawline with defined hollows between them and his silky hair that was collar grazing and combed away from his thoroughly handsome face. That midnight mane had a natural part just to the right with a section that swayed to the left and across his forehead. His bronzed skin came from more than countless days under the sun, convincing her he had Indian blood. Perhaps resentment about and problems with that mixed heritage were to blame for his antagonistic personality. She stepped off the planked sidewalk to cross the dusty street.

In dismay, Beth fretted, a battle for power and control so soon? Don’t get off on the wrong foot, woman. Relax him. Cajole him. Do whatever’s necessary to keep peace, short of cowering. No doubt he isn’t pleased to be tied to a female, or he’s afraid I’ll outshine him. For now, let him take the lead as most men think they’re supposed to do. She forced out a smile and said in a pleasant tone, “You’re right. I’ll sharpen my wits and stay at attention so the famous Navarro Breed won’t be disappointed or annoyed to have me for a partner.”

The sable-haired man heightened his alert because he sensed she was being clever instead of honest and sincere. The way she was twisting her wedding band round and round with the thumb and middle finger of her right hand told him she was agitated. “If you’re as good at your job as Dan says, I won’t be. The street’s getting crowded, so let’s leave private talk for later.”

She saw him smile, nod, and tip his hat to three ladies they passed along the way. She observed how each of those women eyed her companion with interest and appreciation. So, you do have manners. How about using them with me, too, because we’ll be spending lots of time together?

“Where we heading?”

“Mrs. Grandy’s Place has the best food and prices. It’s around the corner, on the right.” Beth wondered if he was familiar with the eating establishment and other things about Tucson, as it was policy that undercover agents who reported to Dan did so during a cloak of darkness and with haste to avoid exposing their territorial superior.

“Don’t forget,” he murmured as she passed him to enter a single door, “we’re old friends, good friends, so do your best acti. . .