Refugee Road (Freedom Fighters Series Book 1) (14 page)

I ran my fingers across our joined hands. “I was thinking how handsome you are in your uniform and how happy I am to be married to you. I never would have thought it possible. I never thought I would be happy ever again…” I admitted honestly.

He squeezed my hand. “I know. I had almost given up hope of finding you. I worried about you and what could go wrong. This world has gotten nasty since the war started…people are not what they used to be. Desperation and fear cause chaos now. I was afraid someone would take advantage of you or hurt you.” A shiver ran through him and his hand trembled in mine. “I’m so glad I can take care of you, the way you deserve.”

“I’m glad you found me too. Things were getting very bad in the refugee camp. I didn’t realize it at the time but people were starting to become desperate. If I hadn’t gotten out when I did…I might not have survived.” I realized with my words it was true, knowing who would be responsible for that.

Darren. The very thought of him sent icy chills of fear trickling along my spine.

“That’s why I planned on the relocation. I had a sneaking suspicion your people were going to attack again. It wasn’t going to go well. The militia has increased their forces and patrols. The refugees are going to be hunted down and destroyed, more than ever. I had to get you out of there.”

“Alec, what is going to happen now? What happens when we return to your base?” I asked, concern and apprehension mixed with the uncertainty of the unknown.

“Are you worried about your new role? In all outward appearances, you will be my new wife. You’ll have to attend parties, teas, and other social functions but mostly you will be attending to our home…and me,” he paused to take a grin and wink at me, “and of course any children we may have.”

I gulped. Children? I hadn’t thought of that.

“Do you want children Alec?” I blushed, slightly embarrassed.

I never thought to ask him. Not once.

“Oh yes, with you my love, I want as many as God will give us. But don’t concern yourself, when it happens I will be the happiest man on earth.” His lips kissed the spot on my neck beneath my ear and I shuddered. “The other thing I want you to consider is that I may have need of your services from time to time. You are an excellent soldier. This may be useful later on, perhaps when we need to run. I have no idea how long the charade will last. You have to understand this is only temporary,” I nodded and he continued, “My first priority is to keep you from danger and that is what I will do,” he promised me.

“I want to help. Please promise me that you will let me when the time is right,” I begged him.

“Yes, I promise but remember that I love you and I am not going to let you do anything too dangerous, all right?” His arm held me tighter against him. I knew the thought frightened him. 

“Agreed. I hate the militia for what they did to my family Alec. I don’t want to be helpless to fight. I want to help, in any way possible,” I explained.

He nodded, lost in thought for a while. Then he spoke up again.

“Did you see Angela? What happened that night Lizzie? I only found the graves, thanking God yours was not among them. It kept me going when the despair was almost too much. That’s when I made the pledge to join the militia and find you,” he explained.

“I was running toward the shelter that night when the bomb hit my house. My mother was killed instantly, her body exploding next to my sister. Luckily, I didn’t see that but Lydia told me. We were both hit by shrapnel. I was thrown into a tree where I broke some ribs, cut my leg, got a concussion and some other injuries.” He sucked in a breath and I felt him shiver. “The shrapnel hit my sister’s abdomen and ripped her stomach open. I…I stayed with her all night. I was devastated that I could not save her Alec. She died early in the morning, her last breath my dying promise to avenge her death. It’s all I thought of except you for the last three years,” I whispered, unable to talk louder.

The emotion of the memory crushed my chest and tears came to my eyes. Alec was watching my face. When I got to the part about my sister, his mouth opened in surprise and he looked upset and angry.

“Oh Lizzie, I am so sorry you had to watch her die. I’m so sorry you were all alone. I wish I could have been there for you.” He meant it. I wish he could have been there too. It would have changed everything.

“I know. It’s ok. I found Angela’s body after I buried my sister. I believe she died instantly, probably thrown by a bomb. I doubt she felt any pain. It’s the only consolation that I have. I cried when I found her. I had hoped she survived but it wasn’t the case. I’m sorry Alec. I buried her too. At least they are both at rest now.”

“It was very brave of you, Lizzie. My family was killed by the bombing that night too. My younger brother John and both of my parents, gone in an instant, blown up by a bomb that barely missed me. It’s been very tragic for me too. I understand how you feel.” He kissed me and rested his chin on my shoulder, his eyes focused on some faraway point. “That’s why I joined the militia. I wanted revenge, blood for blood, vengeance. I figured if I infiltrated I not only stood a better chance of finding you but I could also get close to those who are in leadership at the top. When the time is right, I will be assassinating those in charge. I plan on killing the president.”

I was in shock. Did he just say what I thought he did?

“It’s too dangerous Alec. You’ll be killed. You can’t do that now. What if I get pregnant? We are married. I don’t want to survive without you. Promise me you won’t do this. Please, Alec, consider what I am saying.” My voice rose with every word until I was almost screeching the words at him.

His face looked determined. “I can’t promise that Lizzie and you know it. They can’t get away with what they have done. They can’t kill innocent people and not suffer any consequences for it. They have to be shown…people are not going to stand by and let this happen again.”

I was close to panicking, partially because he was right and partially because I loved him so much. We just found each other. It would kill me to lose him, especially now.

He was watching my face. The horror of his words had me in a near panic. I shook my head, smacking him in the shoulder.

“No! You can’t Alec. You can’t.”

He grabbed my wrists and yanked my body hard against his. The force of his mouth on mine left no room for indecision. He kissed me, gently at first, but stronger and more urgent when I clung to him. “Don’t leave me Alec, don’t leave me like that.”

“Oh God Lizzie, my love, I would not leave you for the world.”

I pushed him back against the bed, the golden chain around my neck dangling between us, brushing his coat, shining in the beams of effervescent light. He gazed at the cross, his strong lean fingers pulling it slightly toward his chest, and then looked into my eyes.

“Make love to me Alec.” I lowered my head and bit his lip, running my tongue along the length, savoring the touch of his warmth and the heavenly taste of him, like warm sunshine mixed with aftershave. “Make love to me like you mean it, because I won’t ever let you go.”

His mouth captured mine, his tongue thrusting inside, and I moaned, needing the feel of our skin as it touched, our spirits climbing as one. Moments later our naked bodies joined, the delicious rhythm spiraling higher, the touch of our hands as they intertwined above his head gripping tighter together, the feel of him inside me as he filled both my heart and soul, and the gentle swaying of the train beneath us adding to the motion as it raced along.

Lake Eerie was beautiful. It was odd to see something so pretty in the midst of all of the destruction and chaos of war. A place untouched and pure. Natural. The bombs hadn’t fallen here. No blackened scorched earth or burned trees, no dead expanse for miles on end. Only life, vibrant and real.

The population was small, mostly only vacationers along the lake. Rows of homes, stacked along the shore, stood out against the lush green and brown, stark white in contrast, set against an endless blue sky that reflected on the shimmering water below. The lake color was more a dull green than blue and murky, hiding the depths beneath, but still a nice sight. It represented life; simple, unchanging, and normal. It made me feel relaxed and wistful, remembering life before the war, before the raids, and my family died.

Alec had rented a house for a few nights. The rental house included a small boat and a couple of Seadoos. We arrived late in the day and decided to take the boat out, enjoying the last of the warmth and sunshine as it faded away. The beauty of the sun as it set on the lake was exquisite.

I don’t think I have ever seen anything more breathtaking than the setting sun on gently rippling water, the waves gently lapping against the side of the boat, the gentle rocking motion relaxing my body against Alec. The vibrant colors of orange, pink, purple, red, and yellow streaked across the sky, reaching toward the heavens, mirrored in perfection by the shimmering water.

I watched in silence, Alec’s arm around my shoulder, totally content and relaxed, wishing I would never have to leave his side or this place. I felt supremely happy, the kind of rare happiness that catches you by spontaneous surprise, never to be replicated again. In an instant you know you have to take a mental picture, storing the image in your heart, the chance of repeating it almost impossible.

As if it weren’t perfect enough, Alec surprised me with champagne, toasting to a long life together. We ate strawberries and lounged together in the boat, surrounded by pillows and velvety blankets. He ended the night by making love to me under the stars, promising to cherish me forever.

My sister told me once, many years ago, that you always remember your first time. Every detail stays lodged in your brain. Every sigh. Every touch. Every moan of pleasure. Perhaps it is because of the specific and special nature of sex, the experience of joining two hearts and souls, the intimate nature of skin to skin contact, and the feel of someone else inside you. The awe and ecstasy of exchanging the deepest part of yourself with another, carried by love, cemented by a bond so pure words cannot accurately describe it.

With Alec, the second, the third, and now the fourth times were just as erotic, enjoyable, and mind blowing as the first. I imagined that every time with him would be as wonderful, no matter how often we made love. The tenderness he showed me, the gentle way he held me, the love that shined in his eyes was unlike anything I had ever experienced before or would ever experience after. Alec was a master lover.

The next morning I awakened in the bed alone, strangely surrounded by furniture and walls I didn’t recognize. I had forgotten momentarily that we were at the vacation house on the lake. I yawned and stretched, rolling over. There was a red rose on my pillow and a note. I smiled, hugging the rose to my breast. It smelled divine. Fragrant. Light. Velvety soft.

Alec was going shopping to buy some food and a few supplies. He didn’t want to wake me since I was sleeping so peacefully. I knew he would return within an hour or two. He would not leave me unprotected long.

I got up and showered, slowly getting dressed and made the bed. I tidied the house and took a walk, making myself familiar with the house and my surroundings. I was so used to that. Instilled in me from years of consistent habit. Three years of being familiar with where I was. With daily surveillance. It was a hard habit to break.

I made my way outside and sat down on a wicker rocking chair. It was nice this morning, slightly cool but vibrantly sunny. I smiled, rocking gently in the breeze that came off the lake. I didn’t hear Alec return. He surprised me when he put his hands on my eyes from behind and whispered “guess who”.

I laughed. “Hi, how was your shopping trip?”

He bent down and kissed my lips softly.

“Very good but I missed you…already. I wasn’t even gone that long.” He laughed too.

“I missed you too. I’m getting used to spending all of this time together. It’s nice. I think I’m going to miss you very much when you are gone all day,” I admitted.

He kissed me on the tip of my nose. “I know I’ll miss you. I’m going to come home every night and ravage you. Be prepared.”

I smiled. “At this rate, it won’t be long before I get pregnant. Then what will you do?”

He winked at me. “I’ll still ravage you…just more carefully.”

I couldn’t help but laugh. His bright sense of humor was infectious and his quick wit enjoyable. Alec was a highly intelligent man but kind and gentle. His patience often surprised me. Was there anything about him that I didn’t absolutely love and adore?

Alec made us omelets and fruit for lunch. I don’t know where he got this stuff but it was probably expensive. I ate every bite, not wanting to waste anything. He smiled at my appetite. We went for a swim in the lake. Sunbathed. Played corn hole. Took a hike. We rode the Seadoos later and swam some more. I was exhausted at the end of the day, falling asleep in Alec’s arms.

The rest of our honeymoon was just as romantic. We stopped all over, watching sunsets, and making love. Every second we spent together, each moment special and precious, deepened our experience, our connection, and even our hearts. The memories we made, these intimate filled days, and the passionate nights consumed us both.

I would never forget. I tucked it all away in my heart, contentment filling me for the first time since K.D. I was truly happy…and not guilty for feeling this way. The two weeks sped by quickly. I couldn’t believe it when it was time to leave.

Alec was stationed in Dayton this time, at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base. It had become the home of many militia in Ohio since the war started. Over the years it had grown, filled to capacity, one of the largest bases in the state.

We were in the midst of the enemy, surrounded, infiltrating the den of murderers. How long would we survive here? Would it be possible to make a home among those we swore to hate? Could we make a new start and be happy?

Despite the danger, and the need for caution, Alec seemed unconcerned. He spoke of the accommodations and his deployment with ease. There was plenty of housing on base and Alec wouldn’t be far if I needed him. It was perfect for us. For now. We traveled by train again and arrived late into the evening, picked up by a military armored car. An escort of soldiers held a welcome sign up that read our names.

Alec and I rode in silence to the base, taking in the scenery. I memorized the terrain for future reference, spotting landmarks and paths to retreat. I didn’t know how long it would be before I had the freedom to explore. I still wasn’t certain of my requirements. Until I had more information, I would stay near home. I didn’t need to attract unwanted attention to us. Alec squeezed my hand with a slight smirk on his face. He knew what I was doing.

When we arrived at the base, we were ushered into a large building, down a long hallway, and into a spacious banquet hall. It was bursting with people. A huge banner read Congratulations Mr. and Mrs. Sheridan, hanging high above our heads.

“Surprise!” People yelled, rushing forward to congratulate us.

I nearly jumped a mile. Holy hell. Did they have to bombard us like that?

I met a ton of people, quickly losing track of all the names and faces. I remembered some of the officers, especially the ones who were higher up the ladder. There were many wives, almost as many as the men. Alec was correct. Most of them had to be married. This was good for us. We would fit in easily. I could play the demure new bride. I was one.

The party lasted several hours. Alec and I danced often, joining the packed room of couples. There was plenty of champagne, so much I had to start turning it down. Many were staring, glancing at my belly now and then. I guess if you didn’t drink, you were considered pregnant. That was not the case of course with me. I simply did not have a high tolerance.

Alec held me close and kissed me often, much to the delight of the wives. We would be gossip for quite some time. It was obvious to all that we were very much in love. I could hear the speculation rumors already. They would be betting on how soon the first baby would come. I could hear them discussing it already; whenever they thought I was out of earshot. Alec grinned broadly, enjoying it immensely.

The evening was perfect, until we were interrupted by a man that I had hoped to never see. A man whose voice sent instant shivers of fear into my spine. The guard from the caravan raid, the one with the cruel smile and rough hands, the one who sent me sprawling to the ground.

I glanced at Alec in a panic but he smiled, shaking his head with a barely perceptible nod. The cold gleam in his grey eyes and the slight tightening of his jaw was the only reaction he had. He told me his name only once, but I remembered it. Donnovan. In moments he had spotted us from across the room and cut through the crowd. I felt Alec’s arms tighten on my waist.

Donnovan cut in, tapping Alec on the shoulder. His arms were instantly around my waist, whisking me away to the dance floor before Alec could object. Rigidly I let him hold me, glancing back to Alec often. He wore his officer look, the diplomatic face he used around the militia. I was still able to notice his anxiety.

“You seem distracted my dear. Missing your new husband already?” Donnovan’s voice was barely above a sneer.

I glanced up at him, plastering a fake smile on my face.

“We are newly married. Of course I want to be by his side.”

He laughed, his arm tightening around my back. Leaning down, he pretended to intimately whisper in my right ear.

“I would hurry back to you. If you were mine.”

I couldn’t stop the shudder of revulsion that flowed through me. I ached to slap his arrogant face. Instead I stepped heavily upon his foot, leaning all my weight upon it. He grunted but only smiled wider.

“I bet you are quite the vixen in the sack.”

Turning from his gaze, I attempted to leave his arms. He held on tighter, his fingers increasing their grip, not painful, but a warning. I would have to make a scene to get away.

“Not so fast princess. The dance has only just begun.” I heard the implication in his voice.

Men like him were predictable. I knew the kind. Darren was an excellent example. They enjoyed intimidation and fear. Got off on the chase. He was issuing an open challenge. The game was on. Great. What had I gotten myself into now?

I would not let Donnovan see how his remarks made me feel. How cornered and small I felt. Weakness would only encourage him. He enjoyed the display of power, like a strutting peacock. All show. But nothing really there. I knew his type.

“It’s a wonderful party here tonight,” I replied calmly.

I would say anything to distract him. Inwardly, I was desperate to change the subject. On the outside I was a perfect dance partner, cool and serene.

“Ah, such a diplomat. Bravo. And quite pretty as well. Your new husband must be so proud.” A hint of irony rode his tone.

I bit my lower lip, chewing, a clear mark of my agitation. He noticed, his eyes lingering on my mouth. His lips parted slightly and he lowered his head, seemingly lost in the moment. I found myself leaning backward to avoid his kiss. Out of the corner of my eye, I caught Alec making his way toward us. He was not happy.

“Have we met before?” He asked, scrutinizing my face.

Donnovan caught me by surprise, before I had a chance to alter my reaction.

I shook my head. “I would remember you.”

He laughed. “Quite so. I do not think I would forget you either...princess.”

He danced for another moment in silence. Then his hands tightened on my back. Fear settled into the pit of my stomach. In a room full of people, even with Alec there, I felt totally vulnerable.

“I do believe you are quite familiar.”

I pretended to ignore his comment.

“Certainly you can give me a hint.”

Silence. There was no point in lying. He would be able to tell.

“I see you insist on making this difficult.”

It seemed to infuriate him that I would not acknowledge his attempt at persuasion. Did he think I was a fool? He frowned, then laughed without humor.

“Do you think ignoring my attention will make me disappear?”

I blinked up at him, blatantly challenging, and then shrugged my shoulders in response. I was goading him. He knew it. The game continued.

Donnovan’s voice held barely controlled anger and certain suspicion. “I will find out how I know you. I promise you that.”

I paled. It was an open threat. I had enraged him. Why? Wasn’t this all a game?

“You will see me again, Princess. Next time I want answers and I will get them.”

“I doubt in this setting.” His posturing was alarming. I swallowed the lump in my throat.