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“Cabrera, show ine the gut-wrenching fear he

“First, showa weapon Turn around and raise your arms”

Bull did as he was told “My sons!” he thundered “Now!”

“They are right here” Refugio’s voice sent chills through Rose’s body But when the light shone on the two boys, each in the grip of an armed man, she took a breath of relief At least Will and Beau were alive and appeared unharmed

“Now, the wo her out, we make the trade, and you can take your boys home”

Rose glanced down at the weapons Bull had left on the seat She could take one of the guns, andBut as she thinking? If she tried to save herself, Bull’s sons would be the first to die

Before Bull cou

ld coround “I’o”

A coldness crept over her as she walked forward

CHAPTER EIGHTEEN

TANNER WAS PARTWAY AROUND THE SIDE OF THE BARN WHEN HE heard Rose’s defiant shout to Refugio Cabrera Fueled by her courage, he pushed through the thick growth of weeds toward the back corner of the barn He had to be there for her And he had to be ready to strike as soon as he knew the boys were safe

This was his first tie His plan to as fro So far he had no idea what he would find when he reached the back of the barn

Training had taught hiht be a lookout He kept low, screened by the tall weeds Thistles clawed at his clothes A sharp briar gouged his cheek, drawing a trickle of blood He kept going

The big four-wheeler had to figure into the equation Since he couldn’t see it outside, he had to assuht, it could provide cover for the cartel thugs or for hiot inside And even then it would be too dark to see much

Did Cabrera plan to kill Rose right here or take her back to Mexico and prolong the toret her out of that barn and to safety as fast as possible