I thank God for small miracles when the snow stops and we pass a few plows on the road. During the drive to my place so I can pick up my service SUV, I brief Piper on the situation. In a nutshell, the young gal, Bonnie, who I helped in Donnelly, and her daughter, Melinda, were abducted by the ex-boyfriend, Dillon. He managed to elude authorities and was last spotted heading south toward Meadows on Highway 55, which is a short distance north of us. Deputy Kramer had been heading that way and hadn't encountered them as he neared Brundage Road, so it was thought the guy might have drove into the wilderness.
“Fucking idiot,” I curse. Piper and I are headed to the McCall airport where a helicopter is on stand-by. The owner of the copter happens to be down with the flu and was more than fine with a former U.S. Army Chief Warrant Officer piloting his craft to help locate missing persons. “Patrols are headed up both Brundage and Goose Creek Park Road to look for any indication of which route he took. According to Bonnie's parents, the girl was simply shopping when it appears Dillon took them. Her car was found in a store parking lot when another patron spotted her purse and diaper bag in a cart full of groceries. Not long after, a beat-up pickup was called in for reckless driving, running red lights, and Idaho County Sheriff's deputies took up the chase on the highway.”
“It's probably too much to ask that this Dillon may remain in the vehicle versus abandoning it and forcing them on foot.”
“Who the hell knows what's going through that piece of shit's pea brain. Fucking abducting a girl and a baby.” I feel Piper's hand on my forearm, giving me a squeeze. I give her a quick glance before concentrating back on the road. “If you think I'm going to lose my shit, I won't. I may curse the bastard here, but out there, I'll maintain when it matters.”
“Never had a doubt, Sergeant Shaw.”
I nod at her words, grateful for her understanding and knowing just what to say.
A few moments later we're pulling into the airport and it's easy to spot where we need to go. A couple of cruisers are present with their lights flashing, and I see the helicopter, lights on, rotors already turning. I pull up to the other vehicles and spot Sheriff Yost. Piper and I make our way to her and the others who are gathered in an open hangar.
“Sergeant Shaw, thanks for coming out on this fine evening,” Kim says. She then turns to Piper. “Hey, Piper. Plenty thanks to you too for being available to pilot on this mission.”
“My pleasure. Let's get those ladies back home safely.”
Kim nods and waves us over. “Let's look at the map and strategize.”
“What's the weather forecast for the next several hours?” Piper asks.
“Blessed calm, if you can believe that. But there's another wave of precipitation due to come through near dawn, so we've got the night. It's already freezing and only going to get colder for a spell.”
Piper nods.
Once we've devised a plan–which includes me riding with Piper–I grab some gear from the SUV before we head to the bird.
“Who started it up?” Piper asks before leaving the group.
“That'd be Robbins, one of the mechanics,” Kim answers. “Knows this bird inside and out. He did the inspection, ensuring it was G2G before warming her up for you.”
Piper looks at me and I give her a nod of reassurance, knowing Robbins wouldn't cut corners.
“All right, let's do this,” she says.
Within thirty minutes we're flying low over Brundage Ski Resort where Dillon's pickup was found, still fairly warm. A search of the area and facilities yielded nothing, leaving us no choice but to suspect they're on foot. And depending on their gear–which is assumed to be normal street wear–they won't last long at all in this weather.
“Is there a K-9 unit or trackers down there?” Piper asks through the headset.
“Yeah, McCall PD is bringing in its K-9. They should arrive at the ski resort any moment.” We then hear through our headset that the snowmobile unit arrived with two machines and are heading into the woods. They're equipped with high-powered lights to aid in the search.
Piper is methodical about her sweeps, handling the craft with competent ease. She follows the trail out from where the pickup was abandoned, keeping a tight pattern. The spotlight shining down illuminates a ten-foot radius but the reflection off the snow allows for a bigger area to be seen. But all too soon, thick coverage from the trees prohibits penetration down to the forest floor.
“Too many pockets of hidey-holes,” Piper says in frustration.
“Patience. You're doing excellent with your sweeps. They can't be far. Hopefully, the K-9 will flush them out.”
“What kind of desperation must this guy be experiencing to pull some shit like this. That poor gal and her baby.”
“We'll find them. Believe that.”
I see Piper nod as she continues with her pattern, redirecting when the height or density of the trees proves a challenge. Ten minutes later, she's circling around for a second sweep in case Dillon gets the idea to back track to his vehicle and try to escape again.
Just as Piper banks, ready to head east, a flash catches my eye. I whip my head around to see if it flashes again, and when it does, I instruct her to turn back.
“Looks like a flashlight maybe, bobbing down there.”
“I see it!” Piper exclaims.
Hovering about two hundred feet above a small clearing, I see a figure step into view. The flashes are going crazy and I realize it's Bonnie waving the light while also holding onto her daughter. The snow is swirling like mad from the bird, so Piper takes it higher. I get on the loudspeaker, letting Bonnie know rescue is on the way. I then radio our status which is heard by the unit standing by at the resort parking lot as well as the snowmobile patrols. They'll have no trouble seeing where to go to rendezvous with Bonnie. “No sign of Dillon at this time.”
I turn to Piper and smile. “See, found her. Damn, I wish I could repel down there to comfort her. I mean, I could, but it's risky.” The capability is there, with a coiled cable anchored to the craft's floor.
“I wish there was room for me to land this craft in order to pick them up!”
“Too bad there's no rescue basket. Guess we'll just wait for the cavalry to arrive.”
“We are the cavalry, only in a bird instead of on horseback.” Piper grins. She then looks down and gasps. “Logan! Look!”
Another figure emerges from the trees; presumably Dillon. He's staggering toward Bonnie. Is that blood dripping down his face?
“Bonnie! Behind you!” I yell through the speaker. The young gal turns, startled, and she starts to flee as best she can but Dillon's gaining on her.
“Shit! I gotta get down there!” I throw off my headset and unbuckle, hearing Piper yell at me. I choose to ignore her, instead, I yell back, “Get as low as you can!”
“Dammit, Logan, don't!”
“I have to! Now get lower! You got this!”
With gloves and goggles in place, I toss the cable out the side of the helicopter and get into position on the skid. Piper descends as low as she can within the trees, hovering over the widest spot. I kick off and slide down less than two hundred feet, landing in the powder. Standing up, I get my bearings and search for Bonnie and Melinda. When I see a flash of light, I notice Dillon's reached them and is struggling with her. Piper remains above, shining the light on them. I take off running and over-power Dillon, easily subduing the scrawny kid. Bonnie collapses in the snow, cradling a squalling baby as she sobs.
I manage to slap cuffs on Dillon and drag him to a tree, sitting him against it before I tend to Bonnie. Removing my coat, I wrap it around her and her child, knowing I'll be fine until help arrives. And thankfully within moments, they do. When both snowmobiles arrive, I help secure Bonnie and the baby on one while I ride on the other. Piper follows from above as we head back to the parking lot. Since I lost my ride with Piper, I have no choice but to return in one of the rigs, radioing to Piper I'll see her back at the airport.
“You bet your sweet ass you will,” she replies, earning a laugh from all on the channel.
Bonnie and Melinda are taken to the hospital in McCall to be checked out, ensuring they didn't suffer any hypothermia or injuries. Dillon was taken separately as well to be evaluated before he'll be held at the Police Department, pending charges.
Once we arrive back at the airport, Piper's already landed and waiting. I barely have time to exit the SUV when she's on me, fisting my coat, pressing me against the rig, and smashing her mouth to mine. I'm stunned by her boldness for less than a second before I anchor my hands on her rear and kiss her back just as fiercely. Whistles and snickers sound off, and it takes all my effort to pull away, leaving us both breathing heavily, staring at one another. And damn if her green eyes aren't welcoming depths I'd happily drown in.
“I know you're a very capable man, but don't ever scare the bejeezus outta me like that again. Got it?”
“Got it,” I respond, my voice raspy, thick with building emotion. “You know you did great out there.”
Her eyes soften. “Thank you. Felt good to be up there, doing something worthy.”
“And we appreciate it,” Kim says, startling us. Piper releases a tiny gasp then chuckles as she buries her face in my chest. “How 'bout a debrief before we all head home for the night?”
I nod at Kim as Piper and I untangle from each other and follow my boss over to the group. The debriefing goes quickly with each of us giving an abbreviated rundown of our actions. Tomorrow will mean doing all the required paperwork. Kim informs us that Bonnie's parents wanted to head down immediately to pick up their daughter but were cautioned against it due to the impending weather.
“What does that mean for Bonnie and her daughter?” Piper asks.
“We'll need her statement, but I know they've been through enough tonight, so we'll arrange a stay for them and–”
“They can stay with me,” Piper offers. Several pairs of eyes turn her way but I just smile at her generosity. “They need some TLC. I've got plenty of room. I'll pick up some baby supplies and–”
“We'll pick up supplies,” I state before looking at my boss. “Bonnie knows me, I think she'll trust me. Why don't Piper and I go to the hospital and talk with her? Extend the offer for the night, then tomorrow she can give her statement and I'll give her transport home.”
Kim looks between me and Piper. “You're sure? We've got department funds, we can book a room.”
“Bonnie needs to feel safe,” Piper says. “Being alone in a hotel room would be the last thing I'd want if I was her.”
“Okay then,” Kim nods. “Looks like we're done for the night. Excellent job, everyone.” As others disperse, either to resume their shift or head home, Kim steps to us. “Piper, seriously, wonderful job. And thanks for being so gracious with taking in Bonnie and her baby.”
“All too happy to do it.”
“Do you have time to come in tomorrow as well? There's something I've been gearing up to talk to you about.”
“Oh, sure. Um, any hints?” She gives a nervous chuckle.
“How would you like to fly air patrol for Valley County?”
“Oh, wow, you get right to it.” Piper looks up at me and I give her a smile before she faces my boss again.
“No sense beating around the bush.” Kim actually winks. “I know you've been dealing with some changes, and maybe you haven't got it all figured out, but we can talk specifics in the morning to give you more to base your decision on. Sound good?”
“Yeah, yeah, sounds good,” Piper answers, sounding a little bewildered.
All I can think about is how my wish may have just been granted. That is if Piper agrees to stay. I honestly can't see why she wouldn't, but then, I'm not in her shoes.
“Okay, you two get some rest and I'll see you, say around 9AM tomorrow?”
“Sounds good, thanks, boss.”
Kim offers a smile and turns to head to her vehicle.
Piper and I look at one another, with me smiling at her and her still looking a bit stunned.
“You okay?”
“Yeah, sure. Fine.”
“That doesn't sound convincing at all.”
She chuckles. “Just surprised, I guess. Kim's offer seems too good to be true.”
“Why do you think that? Have you been giving thought to remaining? Because I'll tell ya, I'm all for it.” I wrap my arms around her and pull her chest to mine. “If I haven't already made it clear, I want you in my life, Piper Deacon.”
Her arms come around my back and we're practically nose to nose. “Yeah, I got the message. And yes, I have been giving more thought to remaining. I miss home. I miss family and Mom needs me. I'm not leaving her again. Being back these few weeks made me realize how good life is here. I mean, I've loved my adventures, but it's time for new ones right here. Starting now.”
“I hope I get to be included in those adventures.”
“You absolutely do.” She brushes her lips to mine, keeping the kiss light and all-too-brief. “Now let's go. We've got some ladies to tend to.”
“Yes, ma'am.”
We arrived at the store just as Kaitlin, the owner, had been preparing to close. Piper explained the situation, and Kaitlin–being a mother herself–was more than happy to donate items. When Piper insisted on paying, Kaitlin said she'd take payment in the form of me and Piper joining her and her husband, Ben, for dinner sometime. She even had a car seat we could borrow.
Now as I hold a giggling Melinda on my lap, who is delighted with Stormi-girl, Piper and Bonnie are in Piper's guest room, setting up a make-shift bassinet. When they return to the living room, Bonnie can't say thanks enough to Piper for having her and her baby in her home.
“You two are the nicest people. The thought of being alone about made me sick to my stomach. And no way did I want to stay in the hospital. I mean, that's if they would've even let me. Guess it's better than being on the street.”
“Which would have never happened,” Piper says with certainty. “I'm more than happy to have you and your adorable daughter here. Now, is there anything else you need?”
“Besides a good night's sleep?” Bonnie chuckles. “No, thank you so much.” She looks at me and her daughter, and smiles. “You're so good with her. How come you two don't have kids of your own?”
I chuckle when Piper sputters. “Oh, no, we aren't married. I mean, we don't–”
“What Piper's trying to say is although we aren't married–which isn't necessarily needed these days to have a family–our relationship is just beginning and kids aren't in our plans.”
Bonnie’s expression now holds a twinge of sadness. “That's too bad. Looks like you two would be perfect parents.”
“Thank you,” I say as I stand, passing Melinda to her mom. I give her a kiss on the cheek. “'Night little one. Sleep well so your momma can too.”
Bonnie smiles when her girl giggles. “Let's go, sweetie, time for bed.” She turns our way as I step to Piper's side. “Good night.”
“'Night,” I say, echoed by Piper.
We watch Bonnie disappear down the hall before Piper faces me. “I like the sound of that–our relationship is just beginning.” She grins.
“Oh, it definitely is.” I pull her into an embrace. “Now, what do ya say we get some shut-eye ourselves? It's been one heckuva day and I for one am exhausted.”
“Agreed. But on one condition.”
“And that is?”
“We share my bed.” When I start to speak, she silences me with her finger on my lips–just as I did to her. “For sleep. I need you next to me.”
“I like the sound of that,” I say softly. “Just remember there's no controlling my body's reaction when I'm cuddling.”
“Oh, so you're a cuddler?” She wiggles her body against mine.
“I plan to be with you. But that's all for tonight.” I playfully smack her shapely rear, earning a little yelp. “I told you we'll have our time. Now, let's go.” I spin her around and start to march us down the hall. “'Night, Stormi,” I call out to the sleeping girl.
Piper stifles a laugh as she brings us into her room and I quietly shut the door. We take turns using the bathroom, and when ready, I strip to my boxer briefs and crawl into bed. Piper's wearing a tank and her panties, and fuuu–. I have to quickly shut down my carnal thoughts and enjoy the simple pleasure of lying next to her. Being comparable in height means our bodies line up perfectly.
“Looks like I'll have to retract my statement about perfection not existing,” I whisper in her ear. “Because, woman, this right here is perfection.”
I pull her tighter to me and Piper shifts until she seems comfortable. “Yes it is,” she sighs.
With our legs tangled and my arm draped across her body, it's easy to imagine this every night for the rest of my life. I'm more relaxed now than I have been in some time, even though I've been so used to sleeping alone. Breathing in the scent of her, I let the unique, heady mix of vanilla and oranges invade my senses. It's calming and comforting.
“Sleep well, Piper.”
Her soft, even breathing is an indication she's well on her way.