Gem Hunter by Janice Boekhoff

Author:Janice Boekhoff [Boekhoff, Janice]
Language: eng
Format: epub
ISBN: 978-1-948003-00-1
Publisher: Lost Canyon Press LLC

Eleven

Ruger rolled over in the blanket, the bright sun yanking him from a simmering nightmare. Alyna lay next to him with her eyes still closed, her brow and cheeks smooth in sleep. If only she could look this peaceful all the time, but he'd given her much cause for stress lately. He'd imported the biggest bully of the prison yard straight into her mountain playground.

The rifle still sat near the top of his blanket. Although he continued to carry it and was ready to use it as a threat if necessary, he sensed the subtle shift in the air. After all he'd done to her, Alyna had defended his right to find his mother. They were going to do this together.

Glancing to the other side, he found Quin sleeping where Ruger had insisted he stay. Last night, Quin had wanted to switch places to sleep next to Alyna, but Ruger wouldn't give up the spot. He'd half expected Quin to be gone again this morning, and it would have been a relief. Despite the fact they had agreed about not contacting the sheriff, Ruger didn't trust Quin's motives. Was Quin just trying to protect Alyna? Even so, what kind of guy would suggest that Ruger just forget about what happened to his mother? Either Quin didn't have an ounce of compassion or his fear had completely taken over. No matter which was the case, it made Quin a potential problem.

Even though Ruger would have no qualms about leaving Quin to fend for himself, Ruger was stuck with him because Alyna wouldn't leave him behind. And if Ruger tried to go it alone, the same thing as yesterday would happen. Guilt would nag and eat at him until he turned back to make sure Alyna was safe.

He rolled over to look at her again. The soft skin of her cheek brushed the sweatshirt she used as a pillow. The loose waves of auburn hair flowed down her shoulders, the ends tucked into the sleeping bag. The curve of her exposed neck. She was beautiful, no doubt about it, and even quietly graceful in her own way, but there was more to her than just beauty. Her heart was fierce. They were both willing to sacrifice for the ones they loved, alive or dead.

Ruger heard Quin stir behind him. He didn't bother to look. Alyna had been ready to sacrifice herself for Quin. She obviously loved him, but in what way? Although she called him her best friend, Ruger didn't see a spark in her eyes when she looked at Quin. Not like the spark of defiance Ruger usually felt coming from her. No, she was comfortable with Quin. But was that love?

Alyna's eyes snapped open with a look of panic. She sat straight up, the sleeping bag wrapping around her like a cocoon. Her wild eyes found his. A quick glint of recognition sobered her, then she gave him a tiny smile. "Sorry, I had a bad dream."

Probably about being dragged over the cliff by Jared.

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