Nightwatch by Valerie Hansen Read Free Book Online Page A

family resemblance.”
    â€œThad and Rob do—did—look alike. That’s about all they had in common. Thad’s always been the fighter, which undoubtedly helped him when he was a Marine.”He gave Jill a look of disdain. “See that you stay out of it this time. I mean it.”
    â€œHey, you didn’t seem to mind my intervention a few minutes ago.”
    â€œYeah, well, this is different. Thad’s nobody to mess with. His temperament is not what I’d call an asset.”
    Neither is yours if you keep getting upset with me for trying to help, Jill thought.
    Mitch stood his ground, apparently braced to defend the children, as Thad jumped out of his truck and jogged closer, fists clenched, posture rigid. Jill could tell how angry the man obviously was. That observation didn’t do a thing to help calm her already taut nerves.
    Before the newest arrival could reach the children, Harlan stepped between him and the others with his hands raised. “Simmer down, son. I’ve got everything under control.”
    As Jill watched Thad’s face and posture she could see his inner struggle. Finally, he nodded and stopped acting so aggressive. At least she thought he did. Given the volatility of the whole confrontation and all the parties involved, it was hard to tell. Personally, she wished she were locked inside the sheriff’s car with the children while these stupid men settled their disagreements.
    Harlan eyed them as a group. “Okay. All you people wait right here and behave yourselves. Nobody’s going anywhere till we get this mess sorted out. Y’hear?”
    Mitch nodded and so did Thad. Jill was rocking and comforting the littlest Pearson as she answered, “We wouldn’t dream of leaving. Believe me, we’re very glad to see you.”
    In the background she thought she heard Thad muttering curses, although nothing he said could have equaled the vitriol in Natalie’s recent tirade.
    Given a choice, Jill decided she would much rather have to face down any or all of these angry men than spend one more minute with that hysterical, bad-tempered woman.

FIVE
    C onsidering how long Mitch had figured he’d probably have to cool his heels in jail for taking matters into his own hands, the entire morning had ended surprisingly well.
    Natalie had been given a sedative by the EMTs Harlan had summoned. Thad had settled down on his own once he’d realized that his sister-in-law was not going to be given custody of the children.
    Brenda Connors had not only convinced the police that Mitch was one of the good guys, she’d managed to get a judge to hear the Pearson case in chambers.
    â€œAll right,” the elderly judge had said. “If you have no objections, Ms. Connors, I’m going to appoint Samantha Rochard to represent the Pearson children.”
    Mitch had been holding his breath until the social worker had answered, “Fine with me, Your Honor.”
    â€œAnd as for temporary custody, I see you recommend they be placed with Jill Kirkpatrick. Is that correct?”
    â€œYes, Your Honor.” Brenda had smiled at Jill where she and Mitch stood aside tending the three orphans.
    â€œDone,” the judge had said. “And I wish you all the best. I’ll have my clerk draw up the official papers.”
    Beside him, Mitch had heard Jill whisper, “Thank You, Lord,” while the social worker thanked the judge and shook his hand.
    That settled, they were all on their way to Jill’s. Mitch followed in his truck because Jill and the children had to ride with Ms. Connors to keep everything legal.
    As soon as Tim climbed out of the car, he made a beeline for Mitch and grabbed his hand, tugging him along. “Are we gonna go home pretty soon, Uncle Mitch?”
    He had to answer truthfully for the child’s sake. “No, son. I’m sorry. But you’ll like staying with Miss Jill. She has lots of animals here for you