“Exactly what did you think you were doing parading us around in front of the press?” Riker moved behind Trinity, allowing his voice to remain husky, a hint of anger. However, there was no way he could pretend. He was ecstatic with the outcome.

Leaning back, she exhaled as he wrapped his arms around her waist, keeping her nestled against his chest. “I thought my man should garner at least some attention. After all, he is going to be presented with a prestigious award.”

Breathing in the scent of her exotic fragrance was enough to intensify his already raging libido. “Ah, yes, but you kept this from me. Grounds for a spanking.”

“Mmm… Should we go ahead and leave?”

“And miss Jack Spartan being run out of town? Not a chance in hell.” Turning her around, he shook his head. “You did good. You had those reporters eating out of your hand.”

“I did what I should have done a long time ago. I found the courage. Didn’t hurt that Troy has a way with words.” She nodded in Troy’s direction, laughing as she kneaded Riker’s shirt. “I think my cousin has found something she likes in little ol’ Missoula.”

Riker followed her gaze. “The guy deserves a break. Maybe he can find happiness.”

“We all deserve a break.” Trinity snagged a kiss before chuckling. “Don’t worry. I don’t think the press will rake you over the coals.”

He studied the photographers, the way they were catching every move they made, and let out a long, slow breath. “I don’t like notoriety.”

“I don’t think you have a choice, sexy man. Uh-oh. Here comes my agent.”

“I’ll get rid of him if you’d like.” Riker winked.

“Marvin, I can handle,” she purred.

“Trinity. Do you think we could talk for a few minutes?” The man gave Riker a curious look before concentrating on Trinity.

“Marvin Huddles, Riker Sheffield.” Trinity took a step away, her hand never leaving Riker’s chest.

Marvin held out his hand, a grin on his face. “A true hero I understand. On more than one level.”

“I’m not certain I like the sounds of that.” Trinity lifted a single eyebrow. “Have you two been conspiring against me?”

“Just met the man,” Riker commented. He didn’t like Marvin, could tell her agent was a pompous jerk. Why Trinity had allowed such idiots to remain in her life all these years might never be answered.

“Let’s just say he has a powerful group of friends.” Marvin laughed. “I have a table in the back. I know this is an important night for you, so I’ll just take about fifteen minutes.”

“I’ll be right there,” Trinity said, her lips thin and tight.

“Good enough. I’ll order you a drink.” Marvin gave Riker a look of respect. “Pleasure to meet you.”

Riker tilted his head, eyeing the man as he walked through the crowd. “Weasel.”

Trinity chuckled. “He is. I can’t lie. Now, exactly what did you and the rest of the team do?”

“Just righted a wrong. Nothing more.”

“Right. Is that why Chance Reynolds decided to skip out on the press conference?”

He held up his hands. “I’m not saying a thing.”

She cupped his chin, her fingers brushing back and forth. “However you managed to get him to leave, I’ll forever be grateful. He was a true monster. You know why I adore you?”

“I have no idea.”

“Because you’re unlike any man I’ve ever met. Honest. Kind. Straightforward. You protect me. You care, and you stop at nothing to make certain I’m safe.” Pressing her lips to his, she shivered as he wrapped his arms around her.

Pop!

Tensing, he could hear cameras clicking and knew they were being photographed. She would remain a celebrity for as long as she maintained involvement with any aspect of Hollywood. He wasn’t entirely certain she wanted to leave the glitz and glamor, no matter. But dear God, he wanted her to and he’d stop at nothing to convince her. His cock stiffened, creating beads of sweat along the back of his neck. He wanted nothing more than to take her away, to their secluded spot. As she fell into his arms, her body shivering, he pressed his tongue inside, tasting her sweet mouth.

“Get a room!”

Riker reached out, shooting Landen his middle finger.

Trinity pressed against his chest, breaking the kiss. “I should talk to Marvin anyway. I promise. I won’t take long.” Rubbing her hand on his shoulder, she eased the tips of her fingers down the length of his arm, allowing their fingers to intertwine as she gave him a lust filled look.

“Wow. That was…” Landen said under his breath.

“Yeah.” Riker looked around the bar, studying the huge crowd. Shannon had opened up Ziggy’s to the regular customers and everyone was in a good mood, celebrating, their voices raised, their glasses filled.

“What’s wrong? I know that look on your face.”

He exhaled, unsure of how to answer. “She won’t stay.”

“She told you that?” Landen huffed.

“She doesn’t have to. I know. There isn’t enough to keep her here in town.”

“I think you might be wrong, brother. You didn’t have a bird’s eye view of that kiss.”

Riker snorted. “I’m going to talk to Troy.”

“The guy did a damn good job.”

“Yeah, let’s just hope he can save the hangar.”

“Well, Troy is tenacious. I’ll give him that. By the way, Stoker mentioned he has some news. Maybe the real asshole has been found.”

“You know what? I doubt it. He hasn’t played out his final hand and I’m not entirely certain it has to do with the mayor.”

Landen shoved his hands into his pockets. “Maybe not, but there haven’t been any additional bomb threats the last couple of days. Not that I’ve heard anyway.”

“There will be.” Riker weaved through the crowd, nodding and doing his best to smile as he was congratulated by several men and women he didn’t know. He didn’t like the limelight, hated the concept of being considered a hero. When he reached Troy, he waited in the background.

“I’m so glad you were able to help Trinity,” Laney said as she squeezed his hand.

“I didn’t do anything but look the part,” Troy said as he laughed, giving Riker a waning smile.

“You’re the best-looking attorney I’ve seen. All the ones in my business are over anxious toads.” Ana grinned, her hand remaining on Troy’s shoulder.

Blushing, Troy shifted from one foot to the other. “Ah, shucks. Guess you model types don’t know what a real man looks like.”

“She’s right, my friend. And you did more than you know. I can never repay you.” Laney glanced at Riker. “I’ll leave you two boys alone, but come over when you’re done.”

Troy nodded. “I will, and I still owe you.”

“No, you don’t,” Laney said, giving him a wink before walking away.

Riker watched as she walked toward the Burnout room. “What do I owe you?”

“Payment? Not a damn thing. I was serious when I said I’m paying off a debt and will be for some time.”

“Should I ask?” Ana glanced from one man to the other.

“Long story,” Troy said then issued a long exhale. “I may have some good news on the land situation. I have some feelers out and from what I can tell, the information the captain was provided wasn’t entirely the truth. Talk about a toad. The attorney for Parson’s Group is a real winner.”

“We could use some good news,” Riker commented. Even from where he stood, he could tell Trinity was riding on every word Marvin was saying.

“How about we grab some dinner?” Ana pressed, sidling closer to Troy.

“Go on. We don’t need to talk about business tonight.” Riker took a step away.

“Hey. Before you go. One thing I didn’t tell Trinity. I honestly didn’t think it was the right time.” Troy lowered his voice.

Riker wasn’t certain he wanted to hear any more. “Go on.”

“This David Miller? Evidently, he’s been leaving her messages. He wants to set up a meeting to apologize.”

Gritting his teeth, he pushed back his anger. “Yeah, I think he called her. Is he trying to get you to set up this meeting?”

Troy nodded. “Not something I want to do. If they want to talk, fine but I don’t want to be involved. I have a really bad vibe about this guy.”

“I hear you. Thanks for letting me know.”

“You’re welcome, buddy. We’ll talk soon.”

Riker realized Trinity wanted to get her life in order, but the last thing she needed was the burden of another round of guilt. He held his breath as he walked toward the back, determined not to interfere. As he passed by their table, he noticed a set of papers, Marvin’s stern face as he pointed to the documents.

Trinity was shaking her head, her face full of anger. When she started to stand, Marvin grabbed her wrist, whispering as his entire expression became animated.

Discouraged, he walked into the room. While only Stoker, Garcia, Landen and Boone remained, he could tell they were embroiled in a conversation.

“Hey, dude. Stoker and Cooper have some information.” Garcia beckoned him over.

“What’s going on?” Riker joined the group. “Where’s Cooper?”

“Cooper has a meeting with an old buddy of his, trying to get some additional information. Especially since we were totally stonewalled by our old sergeant.” Stoker ran his hand through his hair. “I get that certain missions and the details surrounding them are classified, but I know the sarge. He wanted to tell us something.”

“That means you were right. The military has been keeping secrets.” Boone huffed. “Where does that leave the mayor? She can’t live in hiding her entire life.”

“I gathered they have the man responsible surrounded.” Garcia took a gulp of his beer.

Stoker smirked. “Yeah. I think so.”

“But you don’t think the mayor’s son is alive. Do you?” Riker tilted his head.

“Cooper and I know what happened on that mission. We might not have seen the end, but I don’t buy that any solider who went through what we did, experienced the horrors that we did would suddenly turncoat. I don’t buy it. If Kevin Falk is alive and working with the enemy, then the man has lost his mind.” Stoker’s eyes opened wide. “Interesting thought.”

“What are you talking about?” Landen asked, his eyes dancing.

“I need to check something out before I say anything. You guys want another beer? On me.” Stoker grinned.

“You bet!” Boone chuckled. “Somehow, it’s been a long ass week.”

“And it’s not over. Awards ceremony tomorrow morning. Nine sharp.” Garcia teased.

Riker growled.

“What about this kid that was arrested?” Landen asked. “I haven’t heard much on the news.”

“Last report I heard said the kid is out on bail.” Boone shrugged. “Shit he had was the real deal.”

“Kid was a scapegoat. A smokescreen and so far, it hasn’t worked. I’d bet anything,” Stoker said as he looked to see if anyone was paying attention.

“Then where’d they find this kid?”

“That’s what the investigators are here for. You don’t think Lieutenants Yancy and Sloan were here for the scenery, do you?” Landen snarked.

“Guess the real perpetrator isn’t taking the bait.” Riker rubbed his jaw.

“Uh-oh. Don’t look now, buddy.” Landen pushed him on the arm.

“Riker. Can we talk?” Trinity’s voice came from the doorway.

As soon as he saw her face, the way she couldn’t look him in the eyes, he knew. She was leaving.

* * *

They were both silent on the ride home. The last place Trinity wanted to tell him was in the car. The moment they walked inside his house, he walked into the bedroom. She’d never felt like such a shit in her entire life, but she had no choice. None. Her back was against the wall. She tossed her coat onto the chair and thought about her words for the tenth time. This wasn’t the end. This was just a break. A break. Knowing Riker, this would mean a break-up. She walked toward the fireplace, studying the picture. Then she noticed he’d placed the picture of Rose and Grace on the other side of the mantel.

Her entire system wanted to shut down. He’d never forgive her, not for leaving him now. Tears rushed into her eyes and she reached for the photograph, studying Rose’s beautiful face, Grace’s happy smile. Then there was Riker’s expression. She’d never seen that look on his face, not during the time they’d made love or even during the special time spent at the river. He remained a broken man.

She fingered the glass, a single tear slipping past her lashes. Her heart was heavy, aching as if she would never see him again. And in truth, she wasn’t certain she would. They lived in two different worlds. How in the hell could she bridge them? Closing her eyes, she held the picture against her chest.

“Rose used to tell me that finding love was like opening up a book. Sometimes you’re uncertain of the first few pages, even deciding that you’re not the kind of reader who would enjoy the story. But something about the book, the characters and the setting, always draw you back in. When you take the time to read past the lines, into the imagination of the author, then you can’t put the book down, devouring every word, every sentence. The story leaves you breathless, hungering for more. That’s when you know that a story has taken a part of your heart, never to be returned.”

Hearing the angst in his voice, the utter sadness, she kept her face turned away as the tears fell. The ache would never leave. “That’s beautiful. Love is precious.”

“True love can go through anything.”

“Yes. I agree.” She wiped her eyes and eased the picture back in its place, allowing one last gaze of what had to have been the happiest time in his life. She heard his approach, could sense just how tense he was.

Riker slipped his arms around her. “You’re leaving.”

The frankness of his words startled her. “Oh, Riker. I don’t want to.”

“But you have to.”

“I do. I don’t have any choice. I’m under contract for a movie. There were some issues. They have to reshoot, plus I can’t get out of the other contract. Suddenly, they don’t want to lose me.”

Inhaling, he kissed the top of her head before pulling away. “Will you be back?”

“I don’t know if I can. I mean, not right away.” Turning to face him, she blinked, unable to stop the tears. He seemed as if he’d aged, as if loving her and then forced to give her up had taken years off his life.

Swallowing hard, he studied her for a few seconds before nodding. “I understand. This life isn’t what you’re used to. I only want you to be happy.”

“You make that sound like I’m not happy here. I am. I love being with you.”

“Let’s face it. This place, this life will never be enough.” Riker looked down, a deep sigh escaping past his lips.

A quiet tension settled in.

“Maybe you can come with me.” As she took rapid steps closer, her stomach wrenched in knots. There was no way he’d ever come to Hollywood. Not for any reason.

“My life is here.”

“But we could find a way.” She closed the distance, refusing to give up. She couldn’t lose him. Not like this.

He gave her a half smile and touched the side of her face, his thumb rubbing in aimless circles. “I love you, Carrie, more than I can tell you, but this isn’t going to work out.”

“Riker. I love you. We have to try.”

His face remained stoic, as if he was going to shut down.

“Please.” She knew he was going to break the connection, pushing her out the door. Every part of her was trembling, her heart skipping beats, leaving her light headed. “Please.”

His body shaking, he grabbed her, pulling her tightly against his chest. “Oh, baby. I would do anything in my power, but this can’t happen. You have to do this for you.”

Sobbing, she clung to his shirt, pressing her face into the softness, inhaling the sweet smell of him. There was no life without him. None. “I love you.” She could hear him, choking, the restrained tears of a haunted man.

Seconds later, he pulled her off her feet, cradling her as he walked toward the bedroom. Easing her down onto the bed, he curled up behind her, his chin resting on her shoulder. “You are my light, my joy. Never forget that.”

* * *

Riker stood at the window, the coffee cup in his hand, his heart empty. Letting her go had been the only thing he could do, but he knew she wouldn’t be back. He was merely a moment in time, a break from the normalcy she’d become used to. He wanted to be angry, to feel anything at all but he couldn’t. She hadn’t planned on falling in love and he hadn’t wanted to become involved. She’d left sometime in the middle of the night, refusing to wake him. There was no teary-eyed goodbye, no hours spent making love. They’d simply held each other.

She’d cried herself to sleep, doing her best to stifle the agonizing sounds. If only she’d known that he’d remained awake for hours, the tears burning his eyes. Some kind of hero he was.

Twisting his head, he cringed as a stream of sunlight cascaded across the photograph, memories fresh and brutal.

His decision to move it into the living room had been one of hope, of letting go. Maybe he’d never be able to let go, not completely. Checking his watch, he sighed and walked toward the kitchen. There was no way to avoid the ceremony. As he walked past the kitchen island, he sucked in his breath. He’d read the note before, his anger forcing him to ball it up, tossing it into the trash, but this was one small piece of her, the woman he’d fallen so desperately in love with.

His hand shaking, he fingered the writing, the cursive words.

I love you. There is nothing else to say but that you are the only man for me.

Never forget…

Carrie

Riker rubbed away the tears, closing his eyes as he thought about what they’d shared.

Whoosh!

Knocking everything off the island, he tossed his coffee cup into the sick, snarling when the damn thing broke into several pieces. Storming toward the door, he grabbed his jacket. Dress blues for the ceremony. As if he gave a shit.

Riker wasn’t entirely certain which route he’d taken to the administration building. When he turned down the street, he was cut off immediately, the entire block roped off, police vehicles everywhere. “Shit.”

He found a parking space on a side street and walked down the sidewalk. The sheriff must have called in members of other police departments from out of the county. He could see the police were checking everyone trying to get close to the front of the building. While he hadn’t been told that the ceremony had even been announced as a celebration, given the number of people in the crowd, the mayor had made good on her promise.

This was a damn celebration.

Sucking in his breath, he kept his head low as he walked through the crowd, heading in the direction of the others.

“Wait. You need to be checked.”

The officer’s voice was gruff. He motioned toward Riker, patting him down twice before letting him through.

Riker had no desire to be here. Looking around, he noticed there were strategically positioned officers on the various corners, even several on the roof tops. Several of the officers were with service animals, no doubt bomb sniffing dogs. He closed the distance as he glanced around the decorated square, the podium standing smack in the middle of the oversized concrete common area. “Some believe the bomber is going to up his game today?”

Cooper nodded. “Sharpshooters, even a few FBI. The investigators we talked to aren’t taking any chances with this. Must be a credible threat.”

“He won’t try and take her here. He wants time.” Stoker flanked Riker’s side.

“He? You’re now convinced this is all about her son?” Riker asked quietly.

“Nope. In fact, I don’t think this has anything to do with her son.” Stoker’s answer was stiff, his voice clipped.

Riker turned to look at him. “Then what do you think?”

“Doesn’t matter. We were told in no uncertain terms to stay the hell out of it.” Cooper hissed his answer.

Noticing Moose’s advance, Riker kept his mouth shut, but the way the two former Marines were studying the crowd was telling.

“You were almost late.” Moose tipped his head and pointed to his watch.

“I had shit to do!” Riker didn’t give a crap he was snapping at everyone.

Landen and Garcia rounded the corner just in time to hear the exclamation.

“Whoa. Okay. We have about five minutes.” Moose backed away.

Landen pulled Riker aside, keeping a smile on his face and his voice low. “Try to stay positive, buddy. There are cameras everywhere. This is supposed to be a good thing. Remember?”

“Yeah, whatever.” Riker flexed his arms. He hated the basic monkey suit.

“What happened? Your attitude went to shit in less than twelve hours.”

“Doesn’t matter.”

“Now, you’re sounding like me.” Landen kept his grip firm. “Confess.”

“Trinity had to leave.”

“Why?”

“Contracts. The movie she’s in. I don’t know all the details. I didn’t ask.” Riker heard the sadness in his voice.

Landen exhaled. “Then she really did have to leave. You know she wouldn’t go without a good reason. You can always visit.”

“Right. Hell will freeze over.”

“I’ll give you some of the same advice you gave me not so long ago. Get the damn chip off your shoulder. You were dealt some bad karma a long time ago. Time to live again. That might mean mixing up that routine.”

“Yeah? As if you know.”

Landen huffed and let go. “You’re right. I don’t know shit. Let’s get you in place so you can sulk the rest of the day. That’s all you really want to do.”

When his friend walked away, Riker closed his eyes. Landen was right as usual.

“Ladies and gentlemen. Thank you all for coming. If you’ll settle down, we can get the festivities started.”

Hearing the mayor’s voice, Riker clenched his fists. He pulled back his shoulders and walked toward the small staging area. He walked forward and noticed the little boy he and Moose had saved, standing with his tiny hands in his parents’. As he approached, he could see how eager the little boy was to see him. Eric Baker. He remembered the kid’s name and nodded to his parents as they waved to him.

“Mister!” Eric broke away from his parents, running toward him.

Bending down, Riker allowed the little boy to wrap his arms around Riker’s neck, holding him tightly. “It’s okay, son. You’re safe. What are you doing here?” He heard the crowd, clapping and cheering, knew his picture was being taken at least a hundred times. But at this moment, there was no one else around but a sweet little boy, whose life had been saved.

“Mommy and Daddy said we were to honor you proper.” Eric eased back, his eyes wide. “We got to ride in a plane and everything. I couldn’t bring Rusty. I wanted to.”

“Your pup? How’s he doing?” Riker’s voice cracked.

“Good,” Eric said as gave a dimpled grin.

“We were honored to be asked to be here. I’m Becky Baker and this is my husband, Rob.” She held out her hand, waiting for Riker to stand.

Moose eased beside them, shaking the father’s hand.

“I’m glad you’re here.” Riker patted Eric’s head before shaking her hand, surprised when she reached out, pulling him into a hug.

“You saved my world,” she whispered before pulling away, wiping her eyes. “Both of you did. We can’t thank you enough.”

“We were happy to be there,” Moose said as he smiled at Riker.

“Mr. Sheffield. Mr. Washington. If you don’t mind coming this way.” Mayor Falk laughed. “I promise you, this will be painless.”

“Mama. Can I go with them?” Eric asked, peering up at his parents.

“I don’t see why not.” Riker scooped Eric into his arms and the gentle hold cut him to the core. His feet were heavy as he walked toward the mayor and he tried to block out the cheers, the happy sounds as he moved forward. When they were in position, the mayor held up her arms.

“Residents of Missoula. We’ve seen our share of difficulties over the last few years. You’ve lived through horrific fires as well as other emergencies and we owe a debt of gratitude to the men and women serving our beautiful city with their dedication and training. Without their service, their willingness to walk headlong into danger, many of us wouldn’t have our homes, our businesses or our lives. This, is a special thank you to two brave smokejumpers, two men who risked their lives to save a little boy and his dog.”

Riker was vaguely aware of the kind words, the support from his entire team. He was thankful for his job and for the men he considered his friends. But there was so much missing from his life.

“To that end, we’d like to present a medal of commendation and bravery to Mathew, Moose, Washington and Riker Sheffield, with a special thanks to the Jackal smokejumping team. You are our true heroes.” Mayor Falk allowed the audience to clap before opening a box, easing a medal into her hands.

“You’re the hero,” Riker whispered before easing Eric to his feet. As Moose lowered his head, receiving the medal, Riker noticed the salute from the little boy, his hand prone, his little fingers resting on his forehead. For a few seconds, he could see into the future, could envision his son being proud of his father.

“And Riker Sheffield.”

Riker closed his eyes and lowered his head, his heart racing. When the medal was placed around his neck, he breathed out. “Thank you.”

“Thank you. You’re both amazing men,” Mayor Falk said as she shook their hands.

When Riker stood, a fleeting glimpse caught his eye. Standing just off to the right, her face beaming, her eyes directed at him was Trinity. There were no words to say, no method to alter the future. But at this moment, these few precious seconds, there was nothing else that mattered.

She was the love of his life.