Without Compromise by Riker Becky

Author:Riker, Becky [Riker, Becky]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Published: 2013-10-09T18:30:00+00:00

CHAPTER SEVENTEEN

Josie sat on Tag’s couch, holding her sister. She felt guilty for not seeing the truth three years ago. Her sister had been pregnant, and Josie had never known. Molly had suffered an abusive relationship, and Josie had accepted the explanation that Brandon was just too aggressive.

“I can hear your thoughts,” Molly leaned away from Josie.

Josie handed her another tissue, “You cannot.”

“The first time he ever hit me was the time I lost the baby. It was after I broke up with him.”

Josie was confused.

Molly sighed. “I told you the truth about why I broke up with him, Josie. I thought he was too aggressive, and I was sure he was going to hit me eventually. I found out I was pregnant after we broke up, and I thought he had a right to know.”

Josie grasped her sister’s hand, “Why didn’t you tell me?”

“I didn’t want your pity, Jo. Or your judgment.”

Josie didn’t know how to respond.

“After he came to my house and beat me up, I went straight to the hospital. I lost the baby right away.”

“What did he do to you?” Josie was sure she didn’t want to know.

“It doesn’t matter anymore.”

The sound of a cough brought the women’s attention to the doorway.

“Hey, Tag,” Josie didn’t rise.

“The team just needs to get some things out of here, and then you can have the place to yourselves.”

The men filed in and began gathering some items.

“You’re going to have to come down to the station tomorrow to answer some questions,” he sat down across from the sisters.

Molly sniffled, “They aren’t going to make me come now?”

He shook his head, “Until they test the sandwich, there’s no proof that he was even reacting to that.”

Josie figured he was taking it easy on Molly.

“Just don’t leave town, right?”

Josie’s quip was intended to lighten, but Tag’s nod gave it a new gravity.

Molly bit her lip, “Will I need a lawyer?”

He expelled a rush of air, “Couldn’t hurt.”

“I know a couple who wouldn’t be expensive but would be good,” Tag offered as he stood up. “I’ll get you their names.”

Molly nudged her sister, so Josie stood and went to Tag.

“I . . .thank you, Tag,” she felt the tears threatening again.

He squeezed her shoulder, “You’re welcome, Josie.”

She wanted more than the hand that rested on her shoulder. She wanted to throw herself into his arms and bury her face in his chest. She wanted the security of Tag’s arms wrapped tightly around her.

Josie met his eyes, wondering if he still loved her or if he had moved on to someone else. He seemed to understand what she was asking.

“I’m going to be here, Josie,” he whispered. “If you need me to take down a gunman, open a window,” he leaned closer, “or if you just want to talk. I’m going to be here.”

She swallowed. How could loving this man be wrong?

“Josie,” Molly’s hand touched her sister’s shoulder. “I’m going home.”

Tag turned to her, “Are you sure? You’re welcome to stay here – both of you.

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