Her Baby's Protector: Saved by the Lawman / Saved by the SEAL

“It’s not the same thing.”

“Yes, it is. Whether you lose a close friend or a family member, you still go through the stages of grief. You still have to deal with the fact you’ll never see him again.”

As she waited, hoping he would share more, the doorbell chimed. The sound surprised her, and she gasped. “I’m not expecting anyone.” She started to rise.

“I’ll answer it.”

She walked with him to the foyer, but she hung back while he checked the peephole.

The tense set to his shoulders eased. “It’s Todd and my brother, Chad.” He swung the door open. “What brings you all by? Have you found Hammer?”

“No, but his car was discovered in the woods outside town. Chad is gonna stay with Kate while you come with me. The patrol officer called to the scene said there is evidence in the vehicle. Clothes. A ski mask.”

“Go. You might find something that tells you where Hammer is.” Kate grinned at his younger brother. “Besides, it gives me time to pump—or rather, to get to know Chad.”

“Okay.” Then to his brother, Chase, said, “I’m counting on you. If Hammer dumped his car, he must know that we’re on to him. Desperation might make him attack.” He frowned. “On second thought, maybe you should go alone, Todd.”

“Chase, I’m not gonna let you down.” Chad stepped into the entry hall, his hand on the butt of his gun in its holster.

“You know what the attacker was wearing. You need to go. I’ll be okay with Chad.” Then Kate leaned closer and whispered, “I’d feel better if you were there while the car was processed. Please.”

“You’re right. Let’s go, Todd.” Chase paused by his brother. “I know you’re capable.”

The second Chase closed the door behind him mixed feelings surged through Kate. In a short time, she’d come to depend on him. What if something happened to him? Dumping the car where Hammer had to know it would be found very quickly seemed suspicious to her. Was it a trap? An ambush like three years ago?