Jake’s Secret
By Joannie Kay
Published by Blushing Books at Smashwords
Copyright 2010 by Blushing Books and Joannie Kay
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This book is available in print at: blushingbooks.com
Smashwords Edition, License Notes
This book is licensed for your personal enjoyment only. This eBook may not be re-sold or given away to other people. If you would like to share this book with another person, please purchase an additional copy for each person you share it with. If you're reading this book and did not purchase it, or it was not purchased for your use only, then you should return to Smashwords.com and purchase your own copy. Thank you for respecting the hard work of this author.
ISBN 978-1-935152-32-3
Cover Design: ABCD Graphics and Design
This book is intended for adults only. Spanking and other sexual activities represented in this book are fantasies only, intended for adults. Nothing in this book should be interpreted as advocating any non-consensual spanking activity or the spanking of minors.
Chapter One
“What do you want?” Sabrina moved forward, her intention to protect the children in her care. “Can't you see you're frightening these children?” she scolded the five men who had guns in their hands and bandanas over the bottom of their faces. They were all dressed in black and all she could make of their features were their eyes. Two pairs of blue, one gray, one green, and one pair of pure black, which glittered with fury as he glared at her.
“The children won't be harmed provided you come with us peacefully, Miss Davis.”
“I'm not…”
“One more word, teacher, and…” he nodded toward one of his men, and Sabrina watched in horror as Benny Moore was jerked from his seat, his round eyes promptly filling with tears, which spilled down his pudgy cheeks as he looked at her in terror. “Do you understand, Miss Davis? Your cooperation is the only thing that will guarantee these kids' safety.”
Sabrina nodded, wishing with all her might that she had her gun.
“Good. Walk out that door ahead of me, and mount the gray mare.”
Sabrina forced herself to smile reassuringly at the children as she passed their desks on her way to the cloakroom.
“What is he gonna do to her?” she heard seven-year-old Molly Stuart start to cry.
“This is just a little joke, honey,” one of the men reassured the little girl. “Don't you worry none. Your teacher is gonna be fine.”
“You kids get out your readers, and we'll have us a lesson,” Sabrina heard another man speak up.
“A joke…! This is a joke?” Sabrina whirled on her captor. “Which one of the morons thought this would be funny? And, who in hell are you?” She reached for his bandana, only to have her hand caught in his gloved fist.
“This isn't a joke, Miss Davis. I am deadly serious. Mount up and keep your mouth shut!”
“You won't get away with this,” she warned, realizing with dismay that it would be hours before her father and brothers missed her.
“By the time you're missed, teacher, we'll be long gone. Now mount up or I'll tie you across your saddle.”
Sabrina reluctantly hiked her skirts and easily mounted the little mare, then sputtered indignantly when the black-eyed man took her reins and led off at a fast gallop. Somehow she had to escape the fiend and get back to the school! If only she'd disobeyed her scolding parent and wore her usual pants and gun!
“Schoolmarms don't dress like ranch hands, Bri!” he'd bellowed when she'd come down to breakfast.
“This is just temporary, Papa,” she'd argued, “and only until the town finds someone else!”
“They got someone, girl. You! And you ain't gonna embarrass me the first day by dressin' like a man. You go change… now!”
Like a darn fool she'd obeyed the man. A rare occurrence, but there were times when defying Justin Masters was just plain stupid! She'd learned that the hard way on several occasions when she was much younger! At the age of nineteen she considered herself much too old to be subjected to the indignity of a parental spanking, but the stern, uncompromising look in Justin's blue eyes told her that that was exactly what he was considering if she sassed. And worse than the actual spanking from her normally indulgent parent, would be the merciless teasing from her three older brothers!
********************
The Davis bitch wasn't exactly what he'd expected, Jake conceded, glancing over his shoulder at the beautiful young woman. She didn't appear the least bit frightened. She looked mad as hell! It didn't matter. By the time he was finished with her, she'd never look at another man, much less take advantage of a green kid! How could such a heartless bitch appear so innocent? he railed. No matter. She would be severely punished.
They rode at a grueling pace for hours, stopping only for brief periods to rest the horses. Sabrina tried to draw her captor into conversation, but he simply ignored her. At some point he had removed the black bandana, and she was admittedly intrigued by his appearance. He wasn't the sort of man she would expect to do something as despicable as kidnapping a woman! He was obviously clean; he'd bathed and shaved, and there were laugh lines around his mouth. No, not the sort at all she would expect to hide his face behind a kerchief!
Sabrina was convinced he was going to travel all night, but he finally stopped, and ordered her to dismount. Exhausted, Sabrina did as she was told, forcing herself to stand on numb legs. “My father isn't the type of man to pay a ransom,” she told her kidnaper. “He'll hang you himself.”
“You don't have a father, Miss Davis,” Jake replied coldly. “You were born to a prostitute, and raised a prostitute. The schoolroom was a clever hiding place, but it sure as hell didn't protect you this time!”
“I don't know… or care… what your problem is with Charity Davis,” Sabrina declared, “but you have the wrong woman. I'm Sabrina Masters.”
Jake laughed humorlessly. “It won't work, teacher. Lying comes as naturally to you as breathing.”
“I'm not lying!” she stomped her boot in a display of temper.
“It won't work, Miss Davis. I know all about you. And I intend to make it my business to see you punished.”
“Punished? Are you crazy, or what?” Sabrina put her hands on her hips.
“Don't act so outraged. Surely you had to know that someday someone would put a stop to your scheming?” Jake glared right back.
“You-have-the-wrong-person!” Sabrina said slowly and succinctly, enunciating each word. “The-wrong-woman! I am not Charity Davis!”
For an instant Jake found himself believing the lying redhead, the look in her bewitching green eyes was so sincere, but he quickly recovered himself. It was time to begin teaching the lesson. “For lying, you will go to bed without supper. And if you continue to lie, you won't eat tomorrow.”
Sabrina was instantly furious and didn't bother to consider the consequences of her actions. She drew back and landed a punch square on his black-stubbled chin.
“Ow!” Jake roared, and then tackled the small woman, easily overpowering her, and tying her hands behind her back. When she kicked at him, he tied her feet together at the ankles.
“Damn you! My father is going to kill you… unless I do it first!” Sabrina threatened, and then gasped when he roughly flipped her over and forcefully whacked her tender backside six times.
“That,” Jake informed her, “was for striking me. Do it again, you little bitch, and I'll bare you and paddle you until you're bright red! Got it?”
He didn't wait for an answer… just left her lying there, trussed up like a turkey, while he made a fire and went about fixing himself a meal! Sabrina was positive she had a set of fiery red imprints of his hand on her bottom, and vowed he was going to pay!
Jake struggled to control his temper as he routinely ate his supper. He had taken a vow he wouldn't get physical with the female, and he'd already gone back on his word! But, he defended himself, he hadn't expected her to punch his jaw. It still throbbed! And, by damn, if she ever did that again, he would take her over his knee, bare her backside, and spank her soundly! Grown woman, or no! No one hit Jacob Rider!
The longer Sabrina lay there, listening to the beastly jerk move around, the more helpless she felt. Why, what if he were to… to rape her? She chewed her lower lip. She was completely helpless to defend herself against a sexual attack, and that knowledge terrified her. She warily eyed the big man when he walked over and hunched down beside her.
Jake could see the genuine fear in her lovely eyes, and it made him sick to his stomach. “You don't need to worry about rape, Miss Davis. I'm real choosy about who I screw, and never with someone like you!” he scorned the redhead. “As a prisoner, you are entitled to one blanket. Don't expect me to cover you again tonight,” he warned. “If you squirm around and get cold, it'll be your own fault.” He covered her still form, then said quietly, “Your punishment doesn't include physical abuse, teacher, mostly because I couldn't bring myself to treat any female in that manner. But heed my words; if you ever strike me again, I will carry out my threat to paddle you.”
Sabrina ground her teeth in frustrated fury, and then demanded, “Just what the hell did Charity Davis do to deserve punishment?”
Jake shook his head. “I'm not playing your game, Miss Davis. Once we reach the cabin where you'll serve your sentence, I'll introduce myself.”
“My father and brothers are going to kill you,” Sabrina said soberly. “Will you please listen to me? I am not Charity Davis. My name is Sabrina Masters. Charity quit her job and left town last week, and my father volunteered me to replace her. That is the truth, and if you don't believe me, then don't expect me to save you when Papa comes. I won't do it! And I'll give you a warning of my own. No one but Papa has ever dared to spank me. You lay a hand on me again, and I'll personally horsewhip you before Papa hangs you!”
“No breakfast, Miss Davis,” Jake announced, then went to make up his bed.
********************
“It's not your fault, Pa,” Grady Masters, the eldest of Sabrina's three brothers, spoke up. “If Bri had had her gun with her, they might have killed her.”
“You know Bri's temper, Pa. It's that red hair,” Corey Masters insisted, unable to resist a dig at his oldest and youngest brothers, who had their mother's red hair along with Sabrina. “She would have done something rash and got herself or the kids shot.”
“Bri's not stupid like you, Corey,” the youngest Masters son intoned.
“Don't let Corey get to you, Will,” Grady shook his head in mock despair. “He can't help it Pa found him under a rock somewhere.”
Justin chuckled in spite of himself. Of his four children, only Corey resembled him physically. He had the same blue eyes and brown hair, and sometimes, looking at the twenty-four year old man was like looking into a mirror and seeing himself thirty years ago! “We'll rest the horses until it's light enough to see. If I know my girl, she'll leave us a sign.”
“Little Molly said the one who took Bri called her 'Miss Davis',” Will worried aloud. “What do you think he wants with Charity, Pa?”
“I don't have a clue, Will,” Justin shook his head.
“You'd think he'd let Bri go when he realized his mistake,” Corey grumbled.
“Maybe he did, and Bri's waiting until morning to travel… and she could be on foot,” Grady suggested.
“One thing's certain; Bri knows we'll come for her,” Will said.
“I hope she controls her darn temper and don't make him mad,” Justin worried. “She's so little… and I wish to God I let her wear her gun today! If that bastard hurts my little girl, I'll kill him slow!”
Grady, Corey, and Will looked at each other in silent understanding. Justin Masters was not a man to mess with when he was riled. And if Bri were hurt in any way, Justin would hunt the man who did it to the ends of the earth and back.
********************
“It's time to ride out,” Jake informed the redhead, untying her feet and hands. He'd eaten, ignoring her heated looks when he'd made good on his promise to make her go hungry. “Get mounted,” he ordered briskly.
Sabrina swallowed her pride and forced herself to speak. She was in misery. “I need some privacy.” Her face was scarlet, lest she have to explain further.
Jake couldn't believe he'd been so thoughtless. Of course she had needs! Lord! What did he do now? If she bolted… “Fine. You can go over there by those bushes, Miss Davis. I strongly advise you not to try escaping.”
Sabrina didn't waste precious time arguing. She was in pain. Once she relieved herself, Sabrina was abruptly reminded that she hadn't eaten in well over twenty-four hours. Her stomach was growling, and she actually felt faint, and thirsty. He hadn't given her any water, either!
“Teacher! You'd better show yourself real quick!” Jake's voice was close-by, and Sabrina smoothed her skirts in place just before he appeared.
Jake motioned for her to precede him to the horses, but didn't bother helping her mount. He wished he could read her mind, but the redhead wasn't speaking, just burning holes through him with those lovely, green eyes. The teacher was furious and making no attempt to hide it.
Too damn bad! He was furious, too, and with good reason. Tim hadn't stood a chance against her. She'd ruined Tim's life, and now she was going to pay. He wanted her to suffer for what she'd put Tim through!
Sabrina remained silent all day, and so did he. It galled her that she didn't even have a name to call him by, but he'd said he wouldn't tell her until they arrived at a cabin, and she wasn't about to ask him anything. She'd never been so completely angry at another human being. What on earth had Charity done to deserve this abominable treatment? No food or water for two days was taking its toll, but Sabrina was determined not to beg. She was a Masters!
Jake stopped to rest the horses by a small creek, and motioned for the redhead to dismount. She sank in a heap on the ground, and Jake jerked her to her feet. “You'd rather die than face-up to what you did, but it's not going to happen, teacher. You drink some of this water, or I'll force it down your throat.”
Sabrina took the canteen and drank of the cool water, careful not to overdo it.
“We'll be at the cabin by tomorrow this time,” Jake told her, trying to get a response, but Miss Davis was determined to be stubborn. Fine! If she wanted to sulk, he would let her! To his horror, when the proud redhead attempted to mount the mare, she fainted into his arms.
********************
“Damn it! Open your eyes, teacher!” Sabrina winced at the words. “I know you're awake, girl!”
“I'm…” she remembered where she was, and who was talking to her, and her vow not to speak.
“Damn it! Tell me what's wrong.” She was warm to the touch, and Jake feared he'd let her go too long without water. When she turned her face away, he felt his temper flare. “Miss Davis, you are acting like a spoiled child.” She still ignored him. “I believe in spanking grown women who act like children.” That got a reaction. Once second she was stubbornly quiet, and in the next, spouting words few ladies ever heard, much less used!
“Listen to me, you son of a misbegotten mongrel, you lay one hand to my ass, and as my name is Sabrina Masters, I will geld you and give you to my Apache friends as a toy!”
“You need your mouth washed out with soap!”
“Try it and you'll lose your fingers!”
“Temper, temper.”
“Temper! You haven't begun to see my temper yet, Mister No-Name!” Sabrina jumped to her feet. “I don't give a rat's ass damn what Charity did to you; she doesn't deserve to be dragged across the country-side like a criminal! And even criminals are given water and food!”
“My name is Jake Rider. Sound familiar? No? Maybe the name of Tim Rider will jog your faulty memory?”
“I don't know a Tim Rider!” Sabrina yelled at him.
“Don't push me, teacher. Get your ass on your horse.”
“No.”
“What do you mean 'no'?” he advanced on the stubborn woman.
“Just what I said. I'm not going anywhere with you. Surely you can see I have no idea what this is all about?”
“I can see that you've played so many men for a fool that you can't even remember their names!” Jake said coldly. “Mount up before I hurt you, Miss Davis.”
If she wasn't wearing the skirts, she'd take him on, but, dressed like a damn female, she was helpless! Cussing at the top of her lungs, Sabrina climbed into the saddle.
“I'm going to teach you some manners, Miss Davis.”
“You couldn't teach a dog to piss!”
********************
“They spent the night here, Pa,” Grady said excitedly.
“There doesn't seem to be any sign of a struggle, or fight,” Corey announced in relief.
“How much of a fight could Bri put up if he had a knife or a gun?” Will frowned.
“My girl would fight,” Justin stated knowingly. “And that's what scares me!”
********************
Tied again, Sabrina wondered what was keeping her father and brothers. She knew they would come to her rescue, but how much longer would it be? She'd tried to leave a trail without being obvious, and her brothers knew her well enough to read her sign. Still, they couldn't travel at night, and Jake Rider had a good head-start by taking her prisoner as the school day was beginning. Papa and the boys probably hadn't missed her until supper time.
“I'm going to untie you so you can eat, Miss Davis. No stunts.”
Sabrina bit her tongue to keep from saying the words that would cause her to go hungry. Her body needed food. She accepted the plate of beans and ate quickly, before he could change his mind.
“Slow down or you'll be sick,” Jake ordered sharply. He was beginning to feel guilty for denying her food.
Sabrina ate more slowly, and gratefully took the cup of coffee he offered. It was hot and strong, just the way she liked it.
“Has your memory returned yet, Miss Davis?”
“I can't remember something that I don't know about, Mr. Rider. I don't know what you are talking about. I am not Charity Davis.”
“You do realize that I don't believe a word you say?”
“You do realize that I don't give a damn?” she countered.
“You will. Your punishment will begin tomorrow.”
“What punishment?” she asked.
“I haven't decided the extent of it yet, Miss Davis,” Jake replied. “You see, I was giving you a trial of sorts the last couple of days. A chance to show some sign of remorse for what you did to Tim. Instead of remorse, I get lies.” He retied her hands. “I'm inclined to say that your punishment will be severe. You'll spend at least one year inside the four walls of your room. And you'll spend several hours a day at work.”
“And if I refuse?”
“Then, as much as I hate it, you'll be punished physically. The choice is yours, Miss Davis.”
“You'll beat me if I don't do as you say?” Sabrina was too appalled to be angry.
“That is one option, but believe me, teacher, there are lots of ways to force compliance without baring your backside. Withholding meals, for example.”
He left her while he cleaned up the dishes, then he covered her with a blanket. “Sleep, Miss Davis, while you can. I'm told that withholding sleep for long periods of time can be another punishment that alters behavior.”
“Go to hell, Rider.”
“After we reach the cabin, profanity will not be tolerated.”
Morning came after an extremely restless night, and Sabrina was given no breakfast. She'd been told to expect punishment, and Rider clearly meant to begin. She refused to give him the satisfaction of complaining, and mounted the mare when she was told.
Jake grew angrier the closer they came to the isolated cabin. The damn lying female didn't show a bit of remorse or fear.
A part of Sabrina was relieved when they finally reached the cabin. It would give her family a chance to catch up! But the other part of her rebelled. She wasn't going to be punished for something she didn't do!
“Get inside, Miss Davis. Your prison doesn't have bars, but it will hold you just the same.”
“You are making a big mistake,” Sabrina refused to walk inside. “I'm not Charity, and I won't let you punish me for her actions.”
“I've heard that lie so often it's boring, teacher, and if I'm forced to hear it again, you'll receive extra punishment.”
“Damn it! I'm telling you the truth!”
“I warned you, Miss Davis,” Jake took her arm and shoved her through the doorway. “This isn't a game to me. You're going to pay for seducing and using Tim. He went through hell because of you, and you won't be released from this cabin for at least one year after you express genuine remorse for your actions.”
“You are insane! This is against the law!” Sabrina whispered in shock as she looked around the single room. There were two beds, one with ropes attached to the headboard and footboard, two wooden chairs and a table. And a stove. There were no windows, and only one door…
“This is a nicer prison than the one my brother lived in for four months.”
“He was in prison? What did he do?”
“He let you seduce him into telling you when the Army's payroll would be shipped. And you told your friends. Tim was court-martialed. The Army didn't believe he wasn't in on it, and you, teacher, disappeared.”
“It wasn't me! Damn it, Rider! It wasn't me!”
“I've had all I can take of your lies, Miss Davis. This is the first of many punishments you're going to receive. He jerked out one of the chairs, and sat her down with a thump. You'll sit here until you admit you're Charity Davis.”
“I have better things to do with my life!” she jumped to her feet and headed for the door, fully prepared to fight if necessary. “I'm sorry for your poor brother, Jake, but this is pure insanity. I'm leaving, and if you know what's good for you, you'll give this up! Go home and help your brother rebuild his life!”
Jake moved so fast it was a blur! He stood in front of the door, his dark eyes full of fury. In that moment she felt real fear. “Go and sit down, now!”
Sabrina decided she would simply wait him out. She would sit until her father came. An hour later, Jake approached her. “Are you ready to get off that chair, Miss Davis?”
Sabrina stubbornly shook her head no. “My name is Sabrina Masters. And you are a stupid fool!”
“You'll sit for two hours this time, Miss Davis.”
“And if I choose to get up?” she dared to inquire.
“You'll be tied to the chair.” He walked away from the angry redhead, and when she cursed him, he turned to face her. “You'll be silent unless you're spoken to, Miss Davis. And if you wish to know the penalty for speaking, I'll show you…?” When she remained mute, he said, “No? Wise choice. Spend the next two hours wisely, teacher. That chair is going to get uncomfortable.”
Uncomfortable was putting it mildly, Sabrina squirmed, her temper in rare form. Just who in hell did Jake Rider think he was? How dare he kidnap her and drag her, half-starved, to this awful cabin? And then force her to sit on a chair like a naughty, disobedient child! Why, even her Papa had never done that! And thinking of Papa… Where was he?
Jake closed his book and got to his feet, deliberately walking over to the stove and stirring the simmering pot of stew. He also enjoyed a dipper-full of water before walking over to stand before the belligerent redhead. He'd never imagined she'd have such backbone. Most women would have begged for mercy long before now, but not this one! She was proud and defiant and he wouldn't be happy until he broke her. The way she broke Tim, he reminded himself.
Count to ten, Bri! Sabrina cautioned herself. Don't say or do anything rash! You don't have a gun or a knife!
Jake made a great show of checking his watch, standing there for at least two full minutes before asking, “Well, Miss Davis? Are you getting hungry or thirsty? A few simple words, and you can join me at the table.”
She remained silent.
“Well…? Refusing to answer is also punishable,” he stated then jumped back when she came up off the chair.
“You are a despicable bastard, Jake Rider.”
“And you're in need of a soaping.”
“Try it! I dare you! No! I double, triple, quadruple dare you!” she taunted, giving vent to her pent-up frustration and temper.
“Fine. You asked for it,” Jake was shocked to learn he wanted to accept the challenge. He wanted to touch her! He started around the chair, only to have her grab it, and whack him across the back of his legs.
While Jake was down, cursing and grabbing his calf, Sabrina ripped off her hated skirt and petticoats. Now, she could fight!
“What the hell are you doing?” Jake was shocked.
“Getting ready to kick your ass!” she heaved Jake's book at his head and the only reason she missed was because he ducked.
“You're asking for it, teacher!” Jake bellowed, and then ducked again when she grabbed the clock and threw it. It crashed against the door and shattered. “That tears it!” he jumped up and lunged for her.
Sabrina easily eluded his long arm, and then whacked him with the wooden spoon she pulled from the stew.
“Ow! Damn it! That's hot!” Jake cursed, trying to protect his head.
Sabrina hesitated to throw the scalding stew at the big man, and it was a big mistake. Jake grabbed her from behind and try as she might, she couldn't free herself!
Jake dragged her over to the bed and managed to pull her down across his knee.
“You let me go, Jake Rider!” Sabrina screamed bloody murder.
“You asked for this, you little witch!” Jake walloped her butt.
“Ow! Stop it!”
“No!” He whacked her again and again, while the redhead screamed, cussed, and struggled to get free. But it was to no avail; Jake was determined to make her one very sorry little girl. He kept right on spanking her scantily clad bottom until the cabin door crashed open.
Chapter Two
“Let my girl go, you son-of-a-bitch!”
“Papa!” Sabrina shoved herself off Jake's lap. “Where the hell have you been?” she angrily demanded as she rubbed her flaming backside.
“You sure didn't give us much sign to follow, Bri!”
“Maybe you need glasses, Corey!” she fumed, thoroughly furious.
“Get my rope, Will.”
Jake saw his death in the man's blue eyes, and immediately realized the redhead was who she'd said she was! He'd kidnapped the wrong woman! “You really aren't Charity Davis, are you?” he asked in wonder, only to black out when she slugged him again… hard!
“Good God, girl! You ain't decent!” Justin was shocked. “Did he…? Did we get here in time, honey?”
“I'm fine, Papa,” Sabrina reassured her stricken parent. “Just mad!”
“I've got some spare clothes in my bag, Bri,” Will announced. “I'll get them.” He ran outside.
“Bri, if he hurt you, we got to know.” Grady put his arm around her slender shoulders. “It wouldn't be your fault if he done you wrong.”
“Truly, I'm fine,” Sabrina said firmly. “It wasn't like that!” She smiled at Will when he handed her a pair of her britches. She quickly pulled them on over her drawers, wincing when the worn fabric touched her stinging, swollen rear. “Damn you, Jake!” she whispered, embarrassed that her family had witnessed her punishment.
“Why was he whipping you, Bri?” Corey frowned.
“Because I lost my temper,” she replied truthfully, watching as the big man slowly regained consciousness. “Don't expect an apology for that, Mr. Rider. I warned you what I'd do if you struck me!”
Jake couldn't help grinning at the irate female. “It was worth it, teacher. You earned that spanking!”
“That's it!” Justin was out of patience. “Bring him outside.”
“What are you going to do, Papa?” Sabrina asked.
“Hang 'im. No man takes my daughter and lives to tell it.”
“No, Papa.” Jake was surprised when she came to his defense, even pushing away her brother when he got too close.
“Girl, he took you from the school!”
“I know. I was there, remember?”
“Don't sass me, Bri!”
“You are so bullheaded, Papa!”
“Girl!”
“Well, you are!” she gently insisted, smiling at her parent. “And, anyway, this is all your fault in the first place!”
“My fault!” Justin bellowed in outrage.
“Yes!” Sabrina's chin went up a notch! “If you hadn't made me wear that stupid skirt to teach in, then I would have had my gun and knife, and Jake wouldn't have dared to kidnap me!”
“Pa, how long has it been since you gave Bri a whipping?” Grady asked seriously.
“And you,” she turned on her eldest brother, “You call yourself a tracker? Why, little Alvin could have found me faster!”
“Guess she told you, big brother,” Corey grinned.
“Don't be such a jerk, Corey. The only one who thought to bring me decent clothing was Will! Thank you, Willie!”
“You're welcome, Bri,” Will grinned, more than a bit relieved to see that she was as feisty as ever.
“Get off your high horse, Bri!” Corey scowled.
“No! I'm mad at you guys!” she purposely pouted, then glared at Jake when he laughed out loud. “This isn't funny. What if you'd been a real threat instead of…?”
“Instead of what?” Jake asked, his dark eyes gleaming in amused tolerance.
“Instead of an aggravating jackass!” she promptly replied.
“Sabrina! Your language!” Justin was truly shocked.
“He doesn't spend much time with you, does he, teacher?” Jake asked dryly, raising one dark eyebrow.
“That isn't funny, Jake Rider!” she stomped her foot.
“I don't care what Bri says, Pa. I say we teach him a lesson.”
“You'll have to go over me to do it, Corey.”
“And we both know I can do it!”
“Not if I take Bri's side,” Will came to her defense.
“Thanks, Willie!”
“Pa! Do something!” Grady pleaded.
“Why do you want him saved, Bri?” Justin asked quietly.
“Because it wasn't me he meant to kidnap,” Bri replied. “There are extenuating circumstances, Papa. Jake has a right to be upset with Charity Davis, provided everything he told me was true.”
“What was you going to do to my girl, boy?” Justin demanded of Jake.
“Keep her a prisoner in this cabin.”
“For how long?”
“At least a year.”
“A year! You were going to keep Bri here for a whole year?” Grady was enraged.
“No, silly. He was going to keep Charity here for a year. This had nothing to do with me.”
“I say we hang him,” Corey voted.
“So do I,” Grady agreed.
“Willie!” Sabrina pleaded.
“Bri says no, and I'll back her.”
Jake faced the older man, and remembered all of Bri's talk of how her father would hang him high. At the time he thought it an empty threat. Now, it would be a miracle to escape dangling by the neck. Pride kept him from revealing the one thing that might save his sorry ass.
“Papa! Please…! I wasn't hurt.”
“He hauled you over his knee, didn't he?”
“Something you should have done, Mr. Masters,” Jake couldn't resist.
“Boy, don't try my patience. Spanking Bri never did do much good!”
“Papa!”
“Well it didn't,” he gruffly complained. “You're too much like your Mama!”
“I'll take that as a compliment!” Sabrina informed her parent.
“Okay, Bri. It goes against my nature, but since you aren't hurt, and you're asking me, I'll let him go free, but I don't like it!”
“Oh, Papa!” Sabrina threw herself at Justin, and hugged him tightly. “I love you!”
“Me too, daughter!” Justin was too much a man to be embarrassed by the tears on his cheek.
Will nodded toward the door and Jake didn't argue. He decided that putting some distance between himself and Sabrina's family was a good idea.
He turned to thank Will for his help, and then realized he was in for a beating. The younger man was quietly furious, and his fist connected with Jake's midsection.
“I won't kill you because of Bri, but you're gonna pay for hitting her!” Will warned.
********************
Sabrina stretched lazily, and then snuggled contentedly. Papa had kept his word and found someone to replace her at the school, and this was her first “official” day off! She was free to do as she pleased. And it pleased her to lie here and think about Jake Rider. She couldn't help but wonder what he was doing right now. During the last two weeks, she'd found herself daydreaming about the handsome man, and wondering what she would say to him if he were to approach her again? Of course, that hadn't happened, she sighed. He'd probably run for his very life after narrowly escaping Papa's rope!
Perhaps he'd given up the idea of punishing Charity Davis, she wondered. No… No, she decided, he wouldn't rest until he'd avenged his brother.
Bri feared his obsession with revenge would get him into serious trouble, and for some reason it bothered her, really and truly bothered her. She didn't know why this was so, but she simply couldn't get the aggravating man off her mind. She quickly made the decision she was going to check around and see if she could learn any more about Jake, and perhaps save him from himself!
Sabrina smiled, and then jumped out of bed. Within minutes she was dressed and downstairs.
“Well, now! I thought sure you'd lie abed 'til noon!” Justin teased with a big grin.
“And waste my first day of freedom? I should say not!” she kissed him affectionately.
“I wasn't trying to be mean to you, honey,” Justin rarely apologized, and he caught his daughter by surprise.
“Mean?” she repeated in confusion.
“Making you teach them kids. I figured you'd like it. You love the little ones.”
“Papa, the truth…? I do love the children, and I love being with them. But, the long and short of it is that I'm a terrible teacher. The children need someone who can make learning fun, and who won't give them six recesses a day because she'd rather go outside and play than stay inside and study spelling words!”
Justin chuckled, relieved.
“That's not all, Papa. I actually laughed and thought it was funny when Benny put a toad in May Lynn's lunch bucket! I forgot I was the teacher and should scold! May Lynn's mother was furious with me!”
“What did she expect you to do? Whip Benny?” Justin asked knowingly.
“Yes.”
“And I suppose you told her off?” Justin knew his daughter well.
“I said if I were going to spank a child, I would start with May Lynn because she's so mean to the other kids.”
“Well, that explains why Ted was barely civil last night at the cattlemen's meeting,” Justin chortled.
“Oh, Papa! I'm sorry if I caused trouble for you!” she was instantly contrite.
“Humph. The one who needs a spankin' in that house is May Lynn's Ma, and I just might ride over and suggest it to Ted this afternoon!”
“Now, Papa!” Sabrina a giggled, picturing her father doing just that!
“I guess it ain't none of my business, now, is it?” he chuckled, then said, “But the next time that young man gets snippy with me, I'm gonna tell him a thing or two!” he promised.
Bri knew her father well. She decided to change the subject before Justin decided it would be in the entire Compton family's best interest if he were to interfere! “Where are the guys? Out working already this morning?”
“Still in bed, more's like it!”
“Uh-oh! I didn't tattle!” She enjoyed bantering with her father, and it wasn't long before Corey joined them.
“You look awful!”
“Don't start, Bri!” Corey warned, pouring coffee.
“Start what?” she asked innocently.
Corey simply glared at her.
“Your brothers stirring yet?” Justin asked.
“Don't know.”
“We're up, Pa,” Grady entered the dining room, looking slightly worse for wear than Corey.
“Morning,” Will greeted everyone cheerfully.
“Shut up, Will!” Corey growled.
“Corey's in a bad mood, Will!” Sabrina whispered loudly.
“Really?” Will winked. “Got a problem, brother?”
“Yea. Whether I'm going to kick your ass before or after I finish my coffee.”
“Papa, Corey's not being very nice to Willie!” Sabrina tattled in a childish voice.
“Knock it off, Bri,” Grady pleaded. “Have a bit of mercy!”
“You two shouldn't drink so much,” she scolded.
“We didn't.”
“Tell me another one!” she scoffed.
“They didn't, Bri,” Will defended his brothers, and then spoiled it by adding, “They just can't hold their whiskey!”
“Before…!” Corey decided, getting to his feet. “Outside… now!”
“Sit down and eat something,” Justin ordered calmly, used to settling disputes.
“You're lucky Pa saved your butt,” Grady declared, clapping Corey on the back. “Will's a mean s.o.b. when…” he abruptly shut his mouth when Will kicked him under the table.
“I ain't scared of baby brother just because he took that yahoo down a peg or two.”
“What yahoo?” Sabrina demanded to be let in on the secret.
“Never mind, honey,” Justin cut in, his blue eyes spelling “later” in capital letters as he looked at his three sons. “What are you going to do today?”
“Well, I have a couple of errands to run,” she answered simply. “And, I guess I should tell you that I've been thinking of taking a little trip.”
“A trip?” Justin repeated. “Where to?”
“Well, do you recall Jenny Waterford? She's been begging and begging me to come for a visit.”
“Is that the little blonde who lives up by Silver Creek?” Justin questioned.
“Yes, Papa,” Sabrina replied, mentally crossing her fingers.
“Well, I reckon you'd be safe enough. Her folks are good people… respected and all. Sure, honey. You send a wire and if they agree, I'll put you on the stage.”
“Thank you, Papa.”
********************
It was just as she figured. Someone else had been making inquiries as to Charity Davis's whereabouts, and Sabrina was positive it was Jake. She had to try and save him from himself.
Praying her father would understand when she confessed all, Sabrina made “plans” to visit Jenny and left on the stage two days later.
When the stage reached Minton, Sabrina disembarked, changed into trail clothes, bought a horse and saddle at the livery, and then headed for Twin Falls, hoping she wouldn't be too late to keep Jake from making a big mistake.
The trip to Twin Falls was uneventful and Sabrina was sure she'd find Charity at the school. The children were at recess when she arrived, and Sabrina hurried up the steps and inside, anxious to confront the other woman.
“Well, hello. What can I do for you?” She was greeted by the middle-aged man behind the desk.
“I was looking for someone else…” Sabrina stammered in embarrassment. “I thought she would be here…”
“I see,” he nodded pleasantly, and then his eyes opened wide in shock as three men, dressed all in black, entered the room, guns drawn.
Sabrina rolled her eyes heavenward, and then put her hands on her hips as she turned to face Jake. “Really, Jake, this didn't work well the last time you tried it!”
“Bri?” Jake asked in surprise, and then he growled in anger, “Just what the hell are you doing here?”
“Trying to keep you from doing something stupid!”
“Where is she?”
“I don't know.”
“Yes, you do. And you're going to tell me if you know what's good for you.”
“Don't you threaten me!”
“Jake, this isn't working,” one of the men whispered. “Give it up!”
“No!”
“Getting her won't bring back Tim!”
“Damn it, I'm going to do this!”
“She's not here, unless you think to kidnap the wrong person again…?” Sabrina taunted.
“Where is Charity Davis, Bri?”
“I don't know.”
“Miss Davis didn't show up to assume the position we offered her,” the flustered man spoke up. “We've wondered what became of her.”
“She knows you're looking for her, Jake.” Sabrina stated her opinion.
“You tipped her off, didn't you, Bri?” Jake demanded, and then before the redhead could reply, he picked her up and tossed her over his broad shoulder.
Sabrina struggled but Jake kept his arm clamped around her thighs, “Damn you, Jake Rider! Let me go!” She slapped his back, then gasped when he retaliated by swatting her jean-clad posterior.
“I warned you about hitting me, Bri!” he reminded the redhead, giving her another firm spank for emphasis.
“Ow! You put me down!” she sputtered indignantly. Her poor butt stayed sore for days following that spanking he’d given her!
“No. Not until you tell me where she is, Bri.”
“I don't know!”
“Darn it, Jake, boy! Remember the last time?”
“Yea. Don't put us through that again!” the other man pleaded, but Jake ignored them and headed outside, carrying Bri as easily as he would a child.
“My father will truly hang you this time!” Sabrina threatened when she was plopped on the same gray mare she'd used before.
“You two get out of here. We'll meet up as planned.”
“Unless you get yourself killed this time!”
“I'll be fine.”
“You ain't fine. Cracked ribs, and…”
“Cracked ribs?” Sabrina gasped. “And you were carrying me? Oh, Jake! How did it happen?” She was immediately sympathetic, and sorry she'd fought him.
“You ought to know, girlie,” one of the men accused. “It was your brother what done it!”
“What?” Sabrina's mouth dropped open in shock. “Jake? Is that true? My brothers beat you?”
“Damn it, Ed!” Jake growled. “Can't you see that she had no part in that? Get the hell out of here!” he abruptly ordered, and then turned to level his angry, black eyes on the young woman, “You and I will talk later, Bri. For now, shut up!”
Sabrina was thoroughly insulted, and not about to do what he said. While he was mounting, she gracefully dropped from the mare's back and ran to vault on her new stallion. She heard Jake swear, and laughed gleefully. “You are not kidnapping me this time, Jake Rider!”
Jake wanted to throttle the feisty little redhead, and was prepared to chase her down for the pure pleasure of making her very sorry she'd interfered in his plans, when she shocked him by galloping to where he was at.
“Lead on, Jake!”
The unpredictable little witch! He turned to make sure she was really and truly following him. After a couple hours of hard riding, Jake reined in, and motioned for Sabrina to do the same.
Bri gracefully dismounted and giggled when she saw Jake's bemused expression.
“Think this is funny, do you, Miss Masters?” Jake crossed his arms over his chest. “Do you know that for the last two hours I've been trying to decide whether or not to take you over my knee?”
“What did you decide?” she grinned impudently.
“I decided to be patient, and listen to your explanation, and if I don't like it, then I'll wear out my hand on your britches.” It was his turn to grin. “Start talking, Bri.”
“First things first.” She gently touched the fading bruises on his face. “Which one of my brothers did this?”
“It's not important, Bri.” Her touch was so gentle.
“It's important to me, Jake. Was it Grady or Corey?”
“Neither.”
“What…? But that leaves Will! He wouldn't do such a thing!” she asserted, then flushed with pure temper as she recalled the breakfast table conversation from several days ago. “So that's what they were talking about, and it's why Papa changed the conversation! Those… men!”
“Don't be too hard on them, Bri.” Jake was amused by her reaction, and it pleased him to know that she was upset by her brother's actions, no matter how justified Will was in defending his little sister.
“How can you say that? Will had no right to beat you!”
“Men are protective of their women. Your family had too long to worry about you, more specifically, about what torture I was subjecting you to. Will also didn't like the fact that I was applying my hand to your fanny when they barged in.”
“You mean he beat you up because of that?” She was stunned.
“I would have done the same if you were my sister,” he smiled.
“That is ridiculous!” she sputtered.
“Think about it, Bri. You were kidnapped from a supposedly safe place. You spent two nights and three whole days with me. When they finally caught up to us, you weren't wearing your skirts. It looked like I was whipping your butt because you were trying to protect your virtue. In the same circumstances, I doubt I would have settled for letting me off the hook so easily!”
“You didn't do one thing to defend yourself, did you?” she asked in shock, knowing she was speaking the truth.
“I didn't have the right,” he said softly, then reached out to turn up her chin so he could look into her lovely green eyes. “I owe you an apology, Bri. You were completely innocent, and I punished you anyway. For that, I am sorry.”
“You didn't hurt me, Jake,” she shrugged dismissively.
“Why are you here? I thought you'd never want to see me again!”
“I've been worrying about you the last few weeks,” she admitted. “I knew you wouldn't give up on this idea, no matter how foolish it is!”
“I can't do that, Bri, but I will make certain I have the right woman the next time.”
“I don't imagine you'll be able to find her.”
“Do you give me your word that you didn't warn her, Bri?”
“I don't lie, Jake. Well, most of the time I don't!” she amended, feeling guilty for fibbing to her parent about her whereabouts. “And I wouldn't lie to you about this,” she stated sincerely.
“I want you to get on home, Bri,” Jake gently scolded. “Near me is no place for you.”
“I'll be the judge of that.”
“No, you won't. I have to set things straight for Tim, and I won't have any peace until I do. You get on home, and don't worry your pretty head about me.”
“Just like that?” She was disappointed.
“Were you expecting this?” Jake took her in his arms and brushed his soft lips across hers in feathery light kisses meant to tantalize.
“Oh, Jake!” She'd never experienced such warmth.
“Oh, Bri!” he teased, and then reluctantly released her. “Minton is just over the hill; catch the stage and go home, honey. You deserve better!”
Sabrina could only watch in dismay as he mounted and rode off at a gallop. Leave her, would he! Not bloody likely! She would show him!
Reluctantly, Sabrina mounted her stallion, and then headed for Minton. There was really no point in returning to Twin Falls. Those people had no idea where Charity Davis was hiding any more than she.. or Jake… did. She would get a good night's sleep, and then start her search in the morning . . .
********************
Jake stayed out of sight, but followed the tiny redhead until he was sure she would be safe. Once she was safely upstairs in the town's one and only hotel, he approached the clerk and secured a room for himself. He would make certain Bri caught the stage for home, then take up his search for the Davis bitch.
********************
Bri couldn't stand being confined in the small room, and decided to go for a walk after she finished her supper. She knew for an absolute fact that her father and her brothers would forbid her to do such a thing if they were here, but, she smiled, they weren't here, and need never know! Besides, she was armed, and could damn well take care of herself.
The streets of Minton were fairly deserted… except for the area near the town's one and only saloon. Sabrina hesitated for all of two seconds, and then tucked her long braid up under her hat. With Will's cast-off jacket hiding her breasts, she was confident she could pass for a boy. She wasn't about to pass up the opportunity to see for herself what went on inside a saloon just because her father would be scandalized by her brazen behavior, and Grady and Corey would threaten to whip her! Will would laugh at her nerve, she knew, deciding she would have to tell him of her adventure, once she'd told him exactly what she thought of him for beating on Jake!
Thinking of Jake's poor, bruised face, and his cracked ribs, put a scowl on her pretty face as she bravely pushed open the swinging doors and went inside, trying to imitate Will's swaggering walk.
“Ain't you a bit young to be in here, sonny?” the bartender asked with friendly curiosity.
“Are you making fun of me 'cause I'm short, mister?” Bri asked belligerently, causing the man's smile to fade.
“Uh, no. What can I get you?”
“Whiskey, and not the cheap stuff, either,” she ordered gruffly, remembering Grady's complaints of walking into a strange saloon and getting watered-down goods.
“Yes, sir.” The bartender fetched the drink and Bri laid her money on the bar. She picked up her glass, and then looked into the mirror hanging on the wall behind the bar. To her pleased surprise she could see everyone seated at the tables behind her, including Jake Rider!
Sabrina frowned when one of the painted blondes working in the Water Hole approached the dark-haired man and leaned over to whisper in his ear. She saw Jake shake his head “no”, and then the woman flounced off, obviously unhappy. For some perverse reason she didn't care to examine too closely, Sabrina was elated!
She sipped her drink slowly, taking her time to check out the “forbidden” place, and finally decided that saloons weren't nearly as exciting as her brothers made them out to be. As for the women, they looked tired! And none of the customers seemed inclined to buy their favors!
Jake finished his supper, and then called to one of the women to bring him a beer. Sabrina watched the blonde wink at the bartender. The bartender nodded, drew two beers, and then proceeded to dump a packet of white powder into one of the mugs. The blonde took the beers over to Jake's table, sat the one with the powder in before Jake, then seated herself on a chair as close to him as possible!
Sabrina saw Jake pick up the mug; she whirled, drawing her gun, and shot the glass, shattering it and sending shards of glass and beer flying.
“What the hell!” Jake exclaimed, jumping to his feet and going for his own gun.
“No, Jake!” Sabrina hit the floor as he came around.
Chapter Three
Jake threw his gun up at the last possible second, his bullet shattering the mirror behind the bar. He crossed the floor in angry strides, reaching down to jerk the tiny redhead to her feet, causing her hat to fall off as he gave her a hard shake. “Are you trying to get yourself killed, you little fool?” he yelled.
“Let me go, you moron!” Bri brought her booted foot down on his toes, winning her release as he yelped in pain. “I was saving your ass! They put something in your beer!” she stated, then turned to glare at the bartender. “Show him!”
“I don't know what you're talking about!” the man blustered, then accused, “You ain't supposed to be in here, girlie. Get out!”
“Girlie!” Bri repeated, losing her temper. “I'll 'girlie' you, you fat pig! Either you tell Jake what you put in his beer or I'll blow you to kingdom come!”
Jake took one look into the smoldering green eyes, and knew the threat wasn't an idle one! Bri was ready to shoot the man… and because of him!
“Sabrina!”
“You stay out of this, Jake Rider!” she ordered.
“You can't shoot the man in cold blood, Bri!” he argued.
“The hell I can't!”
“Damn it, Bri! I'm going to take you over my knee!”
“The hell you are!” Bri's flaming temper was finding another target.
“And I'm going to wash your mouth out with soap, too!” Jake threatened.
“What's going on in here?” a man wearing a silver badge pinned to his black vest demanded coldly.
“They's shooting up my place, Ted!” the bartender whined.
“That true?” the Sheriff looked at Jake suspiciously.
“Sheriff, I demand you arrest this man and that… floozy!” Sabrina didn't give Jake a chance to reply. “They put some kind of drug in Jake's beer!”
To Jake's amazement the Sheriff rolled his gray eyes heavenward, and then said, “How many goddamn times do I have to tell you, Clem?”
“Aw, Ted… Business has been slow!”
“That's no excuse. Somebody's gonna shoot you dead one of these days, and then I'll get to be the one who has to go and tell Ma!”
“Okay, okay. I won't do it no more!”
“The next time I'll bust your head in, Clem. I mean it!” Ted promised.
“That's it?” Sabrina angrily demanded.
“Nope,” the Sheriff replied soberly. “You,” he pointed his finger at the white-faced woman standing beside the table where Jake had sat, “get yourself home, out of them clothes, and across the bed, butt up! I promised you a licking, and by God, you're going to get it this time.”
“Aw, Ted, Liz didn't want to do it…”
“Shut up, Clem, and find yourself another girl to serve drinks. Liz isn't setting foot inside here again.” He glared at the frightened woman. “You'd better get going, Liz, or I'll take my belt off here and now.”
Sabrina watched in shock as the woman literally ran from the saloon crying.
“Young man, are you responsible for this little girl?” the Sheriff spoke to Jake.
“Yes, sir,” Jake replied, using his eyes to warn Bri to keep quiet.
“Then you should know she shouldn't be in a place like this.”
“Yes, sir.”
“Fine. You get her out of here, then, and we'll forget all about the damages to Clem's mirror.”
“Just one darn minute--” Bri began, only to have Jake clamp his hand over her mouth and drag her across the room and out the door.
“Don't you dare bite me, hellcat!” he whispered in her ear, and then howled when she kicked his shin. “Damn it, Bri!” Jake growled, and then reached for her, his intention to tan her hide clear to one and all.
Unexpectedly, the Sheriff stepped between them. “Outside, young man!” he ordered, then turned and took Bri's arm. “You come along, Miss, and no more sass, please. I've had all I can take for one day.”
Sabrina told herself it was because the man said “please”, but a part of her couldn't help but think of the blonde, and what the man intended to do to her. It simply wasn't fair! She waited until they were out of the saloon, and then said, “It isn't fair for you to beat that woman and let your brother off scot-free!”
“Life ain't always fair, Miss, and the woman is my wife.”
“And you make her work in a place like that!”
“Sabrina,” Jake warned softly, “it's none of our business.” His eyes were flaying her alive and for once, she decided to shut her mouth.
“Is this your wife, son?”
“No, sir. My sister,” Jake lied.
“I figured as much,” the Sheriff nodded. “You just passing through town?”
“Yes, sir. I'm putting Bri on the stage tomorrow morning and heading back to my place.”
“That's good,” Ted was pleased. “You got rooms at the hotel, then? Yes? Good! You go on and get a good night's sleep and try and forget all about this misunderstanding.”
“Misunder-” Jake's look cut her off.
“Yes, sir, we will. Come on, Bri,” he grabbed her hand and pulled her along.
“You're just going to let them get away with that, Jake Rider?” she was livid.
“Yes, Bri, I am, and I'll thank you to pipe down!”
“Well…! Of all the ungrateful…!”
“Enough, Sabrina!” The Sheriff was following them at a distance.
“Is he following us?” Bri guessed.
“Yes. We have the same mother, different fathers… in case he questions the names on the register.”
“Why did you tell him we're brother and sister?” she scolded.
“To protect you, hellcat! And you can be damn glad it's not true, or I'd blister you good!”
“And after I saved you!” she sputtered, incensed.
“In spite of it! Quiet now !” he hushed her. “Your Pa is going to whack you good, Bri!” he winked.
“Papa will blame you!” she argued.
“What else is new?” Jake scoffed. “You're Little Miss Perfect…!”
“I am not!”
“You are too!”
“Ohhh!”
“I'll tell Ma instead. Maybe she'll take a hairbrush to you …? Or give me permission to!”
“I'll tell her you were drinking, and…”
“You two don't stop, do you?” the Sheriff chuckled from behind them.
“He's so darn bossy!” Bri whined.
“In this case, Missy, he's right, the Sheriff said softly. “You stay out of saloons from now on, and son, when you're traveling with your little sister, you should keep out of them places, too, so she don't come following after you. My brother ain't the only s.o.b. who takes to robbing strangers to make a fast buck.” Without another word, the Sheriff turned and left them standing in the hotel's lobby.
“Come on, sis,” Jake took her arm and pointed her at the stairs. “It's time we had us a serious talk.”
“If you dare to scold me, Jake Rider…!”