All I Ever Needed: Cedar Point, #3

By D.L. Lane

He's the beast lurking within the shadows. She's the beauty living in the light.

 

Cooper Kane, the big, bad Navy SEAL, had it all—honor, respect, the love of a beautiful woman, the unbreakable bond with his team—but a crash cost him everything. Oh, he survived. His heart still pumped, he took in breath, he lived, if that's what you want to call the reclusive life his had become. Then, he saw her.

 

Alli Southerland thought her life was perfect until things shattered. And some days, it was so bad, she could barely breathe. Then, she met him. Well, 'met' wasn't technically correct, but the strength of his large hands, the deep, silken-rasp of his voice, and the warmth of his muscled body at her back as he escorted her to safety, she couldn't get out of her mind.

 

Is one broken soul capable of coaxing the other out of the darkness? And if so, can they accomplish the impossible and win each other's hearts? Or will the dangers of the past come back to haunt them both and tear their world apart?

• Language: English
• Publisher: By Faith Publishing
• Release date: Aug 22, 2020
• ISBN: 9781636253862

Book preview

Prologue

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United States Navy SEAL

In times of war or uncertainty there is a special breed of warrior ready to answer our Nation’s call. A common man with uncommon desire to succeed.

Forged by adversity, he stands alongside America’s finest special operations forces to serve his country, the American people, and protect their way of life.

I am that man.

My Trident is a symbol of honor and heritage. Bestowed upon me by the heroes that have gone before, it embodies the trust of those I have sworn to protect. By wearing the Trident I accept the responsibility of my chosen profession and way of life. It is a privilege that I must earn every day.

My loyalty to Country and Team is beyond reproach. I humbly serve as a guardian to my fellow Americans always ready to defend those who are unable to defend themselves. I do not advertise the nature of my work, nor seek recognition for my actions. I voluntarily accept the inherent hazards of my profession, placing the welfare and security of others before my own.

I serve with honor on and off the battlefield. The ability to control my emotions and my actions, regardless of circumstance, sets me apart from other men.

Uncompromising integrity is my standard. My character and honor are steadfast. My word is my bond.

We expect to lead and be led. In the absence of orders I will take charge, lead my teammates and accomplish the mission. I lead by example in all situations.

I will never quit. I persevere and thrive on adversity. My Nation expects me to be physically harder and mentally stronger than my enemies. If knocked down, I will get back up, every time. I will draw on every remaining ounce of strength to protect my teammates and to accomplish our mission. I am never out of the fight.

We demand discipline. We expect innovation. The lives of my teammates and the success of our mission depend on me—my technical skill, tactical proficiency, and attention to detail. My training is never complete.

We train for war and fight to win. I stand ready to bring the full spectrum of combat power to bear in order to achieve my mission and the goals established by my country. The execution of my duties will be swift and violent when required yet guided by the very principles that I serve to defend.

Brave men have fought and died building the proud tradition and feared reputation that I am bound to uphold. In the worst of conditions, the legacy of my teammates steadies my resolve and silently guides my every deed.

I will not fail.

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Lieutenant Kane?

Hands fisted inside the pockets of his hoodie, Cooper remained silent as he stared at the framed ethos in front of him—the overcast shades of gloom beaming from the window into the room.

Lieutenant?

Tap-tap-tap, tap-tap-tap... That rhythmic sound of pen hitting notepad was really irritating on more than one level. But the thing that ran through Cooper’s thoughts every time the man started in with his tapping habit, was how different he was. All the rest had been dressed in three-piece suits, in fancy offices decorated with modern art and avant-garde sculptures, and used their computers and their ornate desks as barriers; but this guy dressed like Mr. Rogers. His office had a Ficus, a fireplace, and a folded flag encased in a triangle of walnut and glass. His space reminded Cooper of a den in someone’s home, the complete opposite of the ultra-professional environments of the others. And he was the sit-across-from-you old school, with his lie-back-on-the-couch-and-give-me-your-story type.

Are you still with me?

Without moving from his spot, Cooper murmured, I’m with you.

Tell me, the psychologist said, the squeaky spring of his chair saying the tenacious man was finally giving up and leaning back. This is our last session together and...

You’re going to miss me.

He wasn’t asking a question, but being prickly.

Yes, actually, the doctor said, as usual letting Cooper’s attitude roll off him as if he never noticed. But that’s not what I was going to say.

You’ve never been one to hold back, so don’t start now.

It’s been months, and I’m curious.

Isn’t curiosity part of your job description, Doc?

The man chuckled. I suppose it is, but this question is completely off the record.

All right.

"What are you thinking when you stand there as still as a statue, I assume reading that?"

Pulling the hood of his sweater shirt up to cover his head, shadowing his face, Cooper slowly turned, meeting Doctor Parson’s hawkish, coffee-brown gaze. When you look at me, what do you see?

Brow furrowed, the man with the curly silver hair pursed his lips.

Come on, Doc. What do you see, besides what’s glaringly obvious?

Pain. Loss. Sorrow. Someone whose perceived identity has been taken from them. I see struggle. Anger. But I also see someone who, besides attempting to hide the exterior, has erected steel enforced walls around himself, in an attempt to keep everyone from getting too close.

Cooper remained silent, his emotions and expressions on lockdown.

I see a man who has sacrificed and given much to his country. A hero. In a signature move, the doctor pinched his chin, deepening the cleft there. The question is, what do you see?

You already know.

Indulge me.

Cooper glanced up at the clock on the wall. Looks like our time is up, and I’ve never been one for goodbyes.

He turned and went to the door, pausing when he heard, Before you go, make an old man happy.

How would I do that?

By answering my question.

I haven’t answered many of them, which question are you referring to, Doc?

What are you thinking when you look at that creed?

In the last six months, Cooper hadn’t given the man much, and he figured the least he could do was toss him a parting gift.

Reaching, he turned the knob, unable to ignore the marred flesh of his fingers. It’s only one thing, and it’s simple, really.

And what’s that?

I failed.

Without another word, Cooper stepped out, leaving Doctor Parson’s office and the world behind.

Chapter One

Cooper

Before

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It’s me, Grandpa. Cooper placed the little wooden frog his grandfather had carved for him back in the day on the top of the headstone, then popped a squat as he brushed his fingertips over the carving of the name. Jasper Jedidiah Kane.

I can’t stay long. I’m heading back to Coronado this afternoon. Just a quick trip to check on things at Land’s End. The house is going to be vacant for a while, but I’ve paid someone to keep an eye on the place for me—make sure the forest doesn’t take it over while I’m gone. The reason I can’t be here, I made it through BUD/S. I always thought I was a pretty tough guy, but let me tell you that notion was tested. Even though I considered quitting, I didn’t. I did what you told me to do when I was hallucinating from sleep deprivation, so wet, I swear it seeped into my bones, with my teeth chatter-clacking from the cold. I wrapped that stubborn Kane will around me and kept going.

Cooper?

Glancing back, he saw... Maggie, wearing a flowing flowery dress, her long black hair hanging in a braid over her right shoulder.

With a smile, he stood and turned to face her.

I thought that was you, she said, then her pleasant expression fell. I’m so sorry about your grandfather. I couldn’t make it to his funeral. I was in the hospital giving birth to my first child.

His grandpa had been gone for several years.

It’s all right, Maggie, but I appreciate the condolences.

Are you home for a while?

Cedar Point had never been his ‘home’, but Cooper knew what she meant.

No. Just a quick trip, I’m afraid.

Oh. I was going to invite you to the church picnic by the lake this evening. The corners of her mouth turned up, transforming those berry-red lips into a bright white smile. I’m still inviting you if you’re going to be around.

I’m taking off this afternoon, so I won’t be able to make it.

Aw... she pouted. I wish you would come, but I understand if you can’t.

If you don’t mind, he said, why are you here at the cemetery?

She pointed to her left. That’s my office.

Cooper’s eyes widened. You run this place?

No. She shook her head. I’m the secretary. Roth Baxter is the sexton.

He scratched his jaw. I’m pretty sure I met him a few years ago when Grandpa passed.

Maggie placed a smooth, warm palm on his forearm, giving a little squeeze to the muscle there. While I get the cemetery isn’t the greatest place to meet, I’m happy I got to see you again.

Yeah, it was good to see you too.

I better let you go. Have safe travels, Cooper, she said, turning to leave. Hope to see you again sometime.

He kept his gaze trained on Maggie as she made her way to the building in the distance, his mind drifting...

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Sitting on the end of the pier, his legs swinging over the edge, he swiped too-long bangs out of his eyes and heaved a sigh, picturing his Yankees ball cap hanging on the peg in his room. He should have worn it; the heat was frying him. Getting sunburnt wasn’t going to be worth it either since he’d been watching his bobber float in the water all morning without a single nibble.

Maybe I should go. After all, if he went back to Land’s End, he could make himself a big bowl of chocolate-chip ice cream, and if he were lucky, Grandpa would be feeling better. If he was, maybe they could play.

Scratching a mosquito bite on his knee, he considered Monopoly.

Hey, Coop!

Placing his fishing gear aside, he scrambled up, brushing the dirty, wood particles from his palms. A bunch of kids was coming his way. Well, not really kids, but they weren’t adults either.

Cooper waved. Hi, Gage.

You getting ready to call it a day?

Yeah. Fish aren’t biting. He plucked up his pole, then studied the group.

Breckin Lorry, Mason Miller, and Breckin’s little sister, Danica, were with the big guy, all carrying blankets, bags, and stuff.

Really? Mason asked after putting down what he’d been holding. The fish in this lake always bite.

Not today. I think it’s too hot.

That sure is a nice pole, Gage commented.

Cooper smiled proudly at the silver Shimano rod. I got it for my birthday.

Oh, yeah? When was your birthday?

Last Tuesday.

Well, happy late birthday then.

Thanks!

How old are you now?

Eight.

Wow, Breckin said, you got a girlfriend yet?

Cooper pulled a face. No way! Girls are gross!

Mason laughed and put his arm around his girlfriend. You might think that now, but trust me. One day, you won’t.

He wholeheartedly doubted that.

Danny. Gage went to her, a frown distorting his brow. I’ll carry that for you, he said, reaching for the large canvas bag she had—probably one of those foldable camping chairs. She’d been twisting from side to side as if dancing.

It’s okay. She smiled up at him and swiped a golden lock from her pink cheek. I’m fine.

Hi, guys!

Placing his hand over his eyes, Cooper twisted to see who had spoken.

He blinked, taking her in. The girl had pitch-black hair to her waist, a pale, pale complexion, and miles and miles of smooth, silky skin. Cooper stared, mesmerized by the sight of that fire engine red bikini top and those super short-short cutoffs.

He lifted his focus from her long legs to her face. Cooper wasn’t an expert or anything, but to him, it was a perfect face with full lips painted the color of cherries. Whoever she was, she was coming in their direction with that guy, the brown-haired one—he thought his name was Jake—holding her hand.

Hey, Maggie! Danica waggled her fingers.

Did you bring the stereo? Breckin asked.

The guy hoisted the boom-box he was toting. Yeah!

I hope you remembered to check the batteries, Mason said. Last time, it died.

During one of my favorite songs, Breckin added.

Jake shook his head. I replaced the batteries before we came.

Hi, the pale, pretty girl greeted him, bending down, breaking her boyfriend’s grip on her. And who are you?

Cooper, he muttered, dropping his head, glancing at his worn Converse.

Cute name. I’m Magdalene, but everyone calls me Maggie.

He nodded as he looked back up, this time locking his jade gaze with her honey one.

Has anyone ever told you, you’ve got some great eyes?

Heat overtook his cheeks and not from the sun. No.

Coop there, he’s going to be a real heartbreaker when he grows up, Breckin commented.

What was he supposed to say to all that?

Are we going to eat or what? Jake groaned.

Seriously? Maggie lifted her gaze heavenward, then straightened. We just got here.

She was tall, not as tall as Gage, but close. And he couldn’t help but think her parents should have named her Snow White, not Magda... Magda?—Maggie.

Gage held up a small cooler. We just need to start the grill.

Let’s do it, I’m starving, Jake complained.

You’re always starving, Maggie said to the guy; then she winked down at him.

Feeling squishy-weird in his chest, Cooper blurted, Got to go, then made tracks.

A collective, Bye, Coop! smacked his back.

Gripping his pole a little tighter, he tossed his free hand up in the air and waved over his head but kept on going, deciding, maybe, just maybe, girls weren’t all that bad.

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The sound of a lawnmower starting in the distance jerked him into the present. Though years had passed, Cooper’s opinion hadn’t changed. She’s still the prettiest girl I’ve ever seen. Though ‘girl’ no longer fit. Magdalene Jergins-Southerland was a woman.

Chapter Two

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Pulling into the lot of Anchors Bar & Grill, Cooper listened to the distinctive, low growl of his Harley as he found a parking space, placed a booted foot on the pavement, and glanced at a busty blonde who was clearly eyeing him as she came out the doors.

Bubble-gum-pink lips pursed, her long platinum hair mussed, wearing a tied-off t-shirt that showcased her bellybutton ring, tight Daisy Dukes, and cowgirl boots. She looked like a naughty country-girl version of a young Pamela Anderson. He might not know her name, but Cooper had seen her around and knew her type. Blondie was a ‘Frog Hog’—a woman intent on digging her claws into a SEAL for a few hours, or even less than that if he followed her behind the building.

That little come-hither smile and tilt of her head she’d given him before she rounded the corner might lure some of his brothers, but it hadn’t hooked him.

Not interested.

Cooper wasn’t a saint by any stretch of the word, but he’d learned early on, what her kind offered was not what he wanted. Not to mention, even if he were so inclined, his thing was brunettes, not blondes—something he gave his young impressionable mind credit for after meeting the real flesh and blood version of a fairytale princess when he was a boy.

Glancing away, he put his custom chrome kickstand down, turned off the ignition, pulled the shades from his face, and went inside, not giving the woman a second thought.

Popping the arm of his mirrored Aviators into the V-neck of his shirt, he gave a nod to Rusty, who greeted with, Coop! from behind the bar.

The guys already in the back?

Yep.

Thanks.

Rusty waved his free hand; with the other he slid a bottle in front of someone.

Cooper went down the short hallway lined with photographs of some of the fallen brotherhood, tapping a few of them as he went—a sign of respect and remembrance—then stepped into the room where most of his team was gathered around the large table.

Ghost is in the house! Gabe Reaper Romero shouted out as others followed suit until a chorus of deep voices filled the space.

Cooper had been given the name ‘Ghost’ for a few different reasons, one of them being he could disappear like one, blend into his surroundings, but he was also a weapons expert and put those skills to use by turning the bad guys into nothing but shades. Not to mention, he knew his way around computers, too. Firewalls? No problem, he could float in, find the information he needed, and leave without a trace—easy peasy.

You’re late, Lieutenant, Briggs said.

Glancing down at the timepiece on his wrist, Cooper raised a brow. I’ve got three minutes to spare.

The man tapped the top of the table. Five minutes early is on time in my book. So, you’re late. That means you’re buying the next round.

Cooper grinned as hoots of agreement echoed around him, lifting a hand. All right, all right.

We need to make the most of it tonight. The corner of Briggs’ mouth quirked. Training workups start at zero-five-hundred Monday.

Jude Michaels (nicknamed Apollo for Apollo Creed, since he could knock a guy out with one punch), and Sean Patrick (call name Scorpio) were shooting pool, both drawing his attention when Jude bellowed, In that case, someone order a few baskets of hot wings!

And nacho platters! Sean added, right before he sank the eight ball into the corner pocket, making Jude curse.

Nile Hawkeye Hillard, their resident sniper, barked, Ordered them while you guys were squabbling like two chicks over there about who was taking the first shot!

The rude hand gestures and lude comments started flying.

Brighton, a.k.a. Bones whistled. Knock it off you bunch of knuckle-dragging, mouth-breathers! Lady present!

Shae, their twenty-something bleached blonde waitress came sauntering in, long tanned legs on display (compliments of her little black shorts), tray balanced on the palm of her upheld hand, and winked at the man. Thanks, Bones.

Any time, baby doll.

The chime of a text message had Cooper pulling out his phone, and glancing down.

Jesse: Change of plans. Won’t be able to make it tonight. I’ve got some business to handle with Bre.

Cooper scowled as he tapped out; You two good? then hit SEND.

Jesse: Not sure yet.

I’m here if you need me, Cooper replied.

Jesse: I know. Catch you on the flip side, brother.

What’s wrong? Briggs asked as Cooper took his seat.

Cowboy isn’t coming.

Problems with Aubrey?

The woman was gorgeous; there was no denying that. But looks aside, Cooper never understood why his friend put up with her drama.

No doubt, he said, waving their server over.

***

There wasn’t anything better than the feeling of freedom, and as Cooper drove his bike from Anchors, the warm breeze whipping around him, he reveled in the sensation. It was good to get with the guys and enjoy their downtime between missions, but night rides always centered him, gave him a feeling of peace in a world where peace was hard to come by. However, on nights like this, especially when the moon illuminated the ocean, turning the crests into glimmering black diamonds, calm settled over him.

Beautiful...

Blinking hazard lights had Cooper slowing, pulling to the shoulder, and parking behind an old Toyota Corolla with the trunk wide open.

Dismounting his Harley, he strode over, catching a glimpse of someone leaning their backside on the passenger door, looking down. Need some help?

Head whipping up and to the side, long hair lashed her slender neck. I-I...

Did I scare her? He figured he probably had. After all, he was a big guy, approaching a woman who was alone in the dark.

Cooper held up a hand, palm out. I only want to help.

Slowly, the woman stepped away from the car, arms wrapped around her midsection as intermittent slices of light bounced over them from the headlights of passing traffic, bringing his notice to her short, pink vintage uniform with the white apron.

A dead giveaway. She was a waitress at Pink’s Diner.

You okay? Cooper asked.

No, she admitted in a whisper.

"Other than problems with your vehicle, are you okay?"

She lifted her chin. I’ve had better days.

That’s when Cooper really saw her. The dark bruise on her left cheekbone told him she was telling the truth. He tried to study her, looking for other visible signs of injury, the fact she was the girl next door kind of pretty registering in the back of his mind.

Are you hurt anywhere else?

She shook her head, working her bottom lip over with her teeth.

All right, he said, itching to ask who hit her but beating the urge down. Then, let’s focus on getting you off the side of the road and home.

That’s going to be a problem.

Cooper lifted a brow. Why?

I just left ‘home’, and I’m not going back.

Okay. I’ll get you somewhere other than out here.

I don’t have anywhere to go. The light of a passing car caught, causing the tears streaming along the contours of her face to glisten momentarily. And even if I did, I’ve got a flat tire and no spare.

Chapter Three

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I don’t know how to thank you or what to say.

Cooper had learned a few things about the pretty waitress he’d rescued from the side of the highway. Her name was Lexi Chambers, and she had twenty-three dollars to her name. He found that out when he called a tow truck to take her car to a service station, her face flushing red with embarrassment as she confessed she couldn’t pay the man, and then she turned a deeper shade of crimson when he told her he’d take care of it.

No need for thanks or to say anything, he assured.

I can’t take advantage of you. Her sweet singsong voice had been so low he almost didn’t hear her.

You’re not.

After he’d given her his name and occupation, Lexi told him she moved to California from Wisconsin two months ago, and didn’t have anyone to help her out of the ‘mess’ she was in. That fix she referred to was leaving her abusive boyfriend with the few things she owned, and no real game plan on where to go, other than sleep in her car for a few nights until she scraped enough money together from her paycheck and tips to do better.

Right. Cooper might not know her, but the thought of any woman living like that? Well, that plan wasn’t going to fly with him, so he did the only thing that made sense—brought her home.

You can have my bed. He flipped on the light switch in his room. I’ll take the couch.

I can’t, Lexi protested. You’ve already done so much.

Turning to look at her, he smiled, trying to put her at ease. I fall asleep on the couch most nights anyway, so it’s no big deal.

She shook her head, dark-chestnut hair swishing over slender shoulders. I’ll crash on the couch. And, I’ll pay you back for the tow and new tire just as soon as I get paid.

Don’t worry about it, Lexi. Cooper dropped the small bag he’d pulled out of the passenger’s seat of her Corolla by his bed, glad he’d done laundry the other day. His sheets were clean. There are towels in the bathroom if you want to take a shower. He pointed to the door of his ensuite. Or, you can take a hot bath, though I don’t have all that girly stuff like bubble bath and such.

She grinned. It’s okay. A shower would be great.

Make yourself at home. I’ll be in the living room if you need anything.

He started for the door, but Lexi stopped him with a small palm on his forearm before dropping her hand as if he’d stung her. Thank you. I know saying that isn’t much, but I’m truly appreciative of everything you’re doing for me, Lieutenant Kane.

Cooper, he said. No need for Lieutenant.

Okay, Cooper, she whispered, glancing up at him with forest-green eyes from beneath long, smokey-black lashes. I know I’m putting you out, but I’ll make this up to you somehow.

No worries. I’m just happy I can help.

With that, he left, shutting the door behind him.

***

Slumped on his couch, remote in hand, Cooper was flipping through the channels, muttering to himself about having so many options and there was never anything good to watch, when he heard the clearing of a throat.

Glancing over his shoulder, he grinned. Hi.

Lexi was standing there with one bare foot resting on top of the other wearing a Navy t-shirt of his, which was damp from her wet hair.

I hope you don’t mind. She plucked at the bottom hem that hung so low you could hardly see her sleep shorts.

Nope. It looks good on you.

Her cheeks flushed pink. I didn’t have time to do laundry before I left his place, so...

It’s fine. Really. And you can use my washer and dryer. He jumped up. Grab your stuff, and I’ll show you the laundry room.

You don’t need to do that. I noticed it’s just off your kitchen.

I’ll go anyway. Francis picked out the washer, and it has enough dials and buttons on it to look like you’re starting up a space shuttle.

She smiled, then asked, Francis?

Oh, uh... She worked for my parents as a housekeeper, and took good care of me when I was a kid. He shrugged. Still does. I guess it’s best to say, she’s like a mother figure, but she only visits here from time to time.

God knew his biological mother and his father could have learned a thing or two from her on how to love him, but Cooper wasn’t going to open that bitter box.

That’s nice to have someone. Is your mother gone? Her cheeks blazed red. I’m sorry. That’s way too nosey and came across as rude.

He chuckled. Not rude.

But nosey, right?

It’s okay. My mother is still alive, but she’s not around. She lives overseas—a Londoner now. And my father, well he passed away five years ago. A heart attack.

Aw... I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to bring up such a sad topic.

Thank you. But, again. It’s okay. Cooper jerked his head to the left. Come on, and I’ll show you how to turn on the washer, but you might want to take notes.

Lexi giggled, and he couldn’t help it. He grinned, enjoying the sound.

Chapter Four

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Looking good, Darlene. Jesse hit the woman with his lady-killer smile.

The pretty blonde’s cheeks turned pink, and she glanced down. Thanks, Cowboy.

Nothing to thank me for darlin’. He made to tip the hat he wasn’t wearing before he and Cooper made their way to the doors of the naval base gym.

Darlene and Aubrey run in the same social circles, Cooper said.

Yeah, and?

You’re playing with fire, my friend.

Jesse ran a palm over the top of his buzzcut. Maybe I like the flames.

As they crossed the parking lot, Cooper chuckled. Just don’t get burned.

Brother, Aubrey needs to understand she isn’t going to tame me.

I take it you two are still fighting.

Seems to be our perpetual state.

With a jangle of keys, Cooper asked, Is it worth it?

Jesse smirked and brushed his fingertips over the love-bite on the side of his neck. Some days.

Shaking his head, Cooper unlocked the vehicle.

Since we’re on the topic of ladies, are you going to tell me about the woman with the sultry voice who answered your phone yesterday? Jesse asked after slipping into Cooper’s bright yellow Hummer.

I could murder a plate of meatloaf and mashed potatoes. You?

Jesse’s brows arched. So, it’s like that, huh?

Cooper met his friend's gaze—the roar of the engine coming to life. Here’s the deal. I can tell you about her, or I can introduce you. Your choice.

And lunch figures into this choice?

Yep.