Jen_C’s Reviews > The Rebel's Redemption > Status Update

“Annie, for the love of God, run,” Jared shouted, with the last of his strength before his knees gave out. He watched in horror as Barnikov stumbled up the bank. Jared’s words finally—too late—woke her to the danger. With a frightened gasp she backed up, eyes huge, and tripped over a log, falling on her ass in the sand.

Briefly he considered waiting until the rest of the team were in place, but anxiety was riding him hard. He needed to give Annie back her son. Their son. Knowing it was foolhardy, he lifted one hand clear of the dark water and threw the rock he’d carried with him toward the side of the cabin.

“Well, what’s next?” Annie moved from within Jared’s embrace. “I tell you about my dream.” Annie sat down across from the sheriff’s desk, finished her story about the dream she’d had that morning and waited for the fall-out. Mouth dry, her stomach sank. It sounded silly now. As if some vision could lead her to her child.

He nodded reassurance to Sara and turned the sobbing woman who held his heart into his chest, his hold protective. “Shh, baby, I’ve got you. It’s going to be okay. Shh.” Her agony became his pain. He ached with the need to make amends and bring their son home.

He stood and started down the hall, her still in his arms, his voice a guttural command, “Which way?” Annie hesitated. This was the wrong time. Her focus should be on how to get her child back, not in her own selfish pleasure. But she needed Jared’s heat to warm her soul-deep fear. Maybe he needed her too. “There, first door on the left.”

You need to have a talk with Annie.” He sat back, startled at the change of topic. What did she know about them? He’d never said a word about that night. “I know. I will. There just hasn’t been the right moment, yet.”
“Well don’t wait too long. It’s already been eight years.” She stared at him meaningfully. “It’s past time you three get this settled.”
He froze. Was she saying what he thought she was saying?

She shivered a little, remembering the cold intent in those dark eyes. “I don’t get it. Why would a guy like that break into a craft store? What did he want?” Annie looked up and met Jared’s worried gaze, “You. He wanted you.”

Jared stood frozen in place, trying to wrap his mind around the fact the woman who had just slammed past him was the same sweet girl he’d walked out on all those years ago. She’d looked fantastic, too good for his peace of mind. Especially if what he was beginning to think, was in fact true. Holy shit. He could be a father.

HATE the dialogue.
“I have heard of your little problem. I have good answer. You help me, I pat your back, no?”
“You have still to tell me what it is you need from me.”
“I wish to find a man. He…owes me. I have searched. He is not in Vegas. I need him found. You help?”