I Got This

By Kathy Jo Brooks

Jake McClintock is a military veteran struggling to put his own tragedy behind him. When a Boeing 727 from Chicago crashes into the countryside of the McClintock Oil and Cattle Ranch, Jake, along with his two brothers, make every attempt to rescue survivors. But the disaster has brought the darkest side of the windy city along for the ride.

Jake finds himself drawn to a female survivor, but an illegal organization from Chicago, along with the FBI, have a vested interest in her as well.

When she claims to suffer from amnesia, Jake must decide how far he is willing to trust once her true identity and disturbing secrets are revealed.

In this suspenseful romance, a cowboy and a woman with no memory, discover how much they can endure to find true happiness.

• Language: English
• Publisher: iUniverse
• Release date: Jun 24, 2015
• ISBN: 9781491767870

Kathy Jo Brooks

Kathy Jo Brooks writes with the support of her husband, friends, and family. She has two grown children and three grandchildren and currently divides her time between Terre Haute, Indiana, and Panama City Beach, Florida.

Book preview

Chapter 1

HER ARMS TREMBLED AS SHE drew back the ceiling to floor designer drapes. Torrential rain cascaded down the window panes in glistening sheets so thick she could barely make out the stone facade on the brownstone across the street. Chicago storms could be brutal, yet their beauty was exquisite—especially from twenty three stories above the city. The winds had soared to double digits, and she was mesmerized by an umbrella thrashing through the air with the grace of an injured kite. It validated her fears as it whipped in the wind with no control of its own. Anticipation churned inside her, causing a shriek to escape her lips as Sean crept up from behind.

I want you to calm down, Alyssa. Sliding his arms around her waist. Why do you put yourself through this every time we have a flight booked?

You think I do this on purpose? For the love of God, Sean, flying is traumatizing to me on a good day, it should be illegal to travel at all in this weather. She continued studying the ominous clouds that hovered too low for comfort. You’re the one who insists I go on these business trips, so in actuality, it’s you that puts me through this.

So you don’t enjoy the garishly expensive shopping trips I indulge you with, is that what you’re saying?

Of course I do, I just don’t enjoy what I have to brave to get there. A new dress, complete with matching stilettos, wasn’t worth flying across country to claim the reward. Swiping her credit card at Blake’s downtown was less distressing, and, a few thousand dollars later, she could walk out looking like a million bucks without her feet ever leaving the ground.

Turning her around to face him, he smirked. Seriously? You’re so theatrical sometimes. Lowering his glasses, he stared at her for so long she actually thought he might be considering letting her off the hook, until he stunned her by saying, You have the most sensual blue eyes I’ve ever seen.

Studying his odd expression, she wondered what kind of freakish omen was responsible for his out of character behavior. He was looking at her as though he was seeing her for the first time in his life—or maybe the last, she couldn’t tell, but it unnerved the hell out of her.

If your agenda is distracting me with flattery, it won’t work. Rolling her baby blues, she continued to plead her case. Traveling in this weather is unconscionable. Honestly Sean, I just want to stay home.

Back and forth he wagged his finger an inch from her nose, dictating his authority. That’s not going to happen. Leaving no room for argument he drove his point home. Had you not abused your happy pills last month, right about now…. Glancing at his watch, You’d be in naw naw land instead of behaving so irrationally. So darling, this is your own fault. Now, pull yourself together like a good girl, you have no other choice.

She’d see about that. Their flight was scheduled for takeoff in two hours. If the weather was uncooperative by then, she’d think of something. Screaming bomb in the crowded airport should get her grounded and not even the great Sean Matthews could do a damn thing about it. Of course it would also get her an escort to the local mental ward. She was amusing herself with thoughts of how he would handle that scenario, when he gave her a nudge, pushing her down the hall and into the bedroom.

Don’t defy me, finish packing. I’ve called for Charles to pickup our luggage so he should be here any minute. By the time we reach the airport the storm will have passed.

She had her doubts, but she finished zipping her Louis Vuitton, secured the combination lock, and wheeled it down the hallway. As she grabbed her raincoat from the hall closet, the doorbell chimed out its harmonic melody: Charles had arrived. Short of faking a seizure, she was going to be on the much dreaded flight from Chicago to Houston.

Charles politely opened the limousine door, positioning his umbrella above her head to shield the rain that had thankfully slowed to a trickle.

You seem quite nervous today Mrs. Matthews, maybe I could get us lost in traffic, he offered, with a gentle squeeze to her shoulder.

He was well aware of her aviophobia, but his loyalty to Sean was indisputable. Considering who signed his substantial paycheck on a weekly basis, she knew Charles had every intention of delivering them to their destination with plenty of time to spare. If he was nothing else, he was efficient to a fault. Thank you for the offer Charles, but we both know how much trouble that would get us into.

Yes, I’m sure it would. Smiling he added, Everything will be fine, it always is. He consoled as he closed her door and slid behind the wheel. Are you ready Mr. Matthews?

Yes Charles, and step on it, will you? I stress if I’m late.

The next forty minutes were spent weaving in and out of traffic. She welcomed a fender bender, even a twenty car pileup would be more enticing than getting on that plane, but that was out of the question since they had just pulled into the drop off zone at the airport. Charles once again performed his chauffeur duties while she and Sean went inside to check their schedule. It was confirmed: they would be taxiing down the runway in one hour. Her mouth turned to cotton. Sweat pooled in the small of her back. She hated sweat… the smell… what it symbolized….. panic.

Let’s have a stiff drink, she blurted out in desperation of being without her valium.

Sean nodded in compliance. You really need to toughen up, how will you take care of yourself someday when I’m gone?

There it was again, that look that gave her the oddest sensation. She still couldn’t put her finger on it. What has gotten into you?

Nothing, it’s just that you live in a bubble, he said, nabbing a table for two in the nearest airport lounge.

Placing her jacket and Dolce bag over the back of the bar stool, she asked him to order her a fruity Mojito while she went to the restroom.

You call that a stiff drink? He shook his head at her selection then snapped his fingers for a waitress. Don’t dawdle, Alyssa, we’re pressed for time.

Acknowledging his command with a thumbs up, she took off to the ladies room. Standing in front of the mirror, she examined the deep set puffy eyes. Framed by various shades of gray, the dark circles made her pallid complexion even more ghastly. Studying closer, the mirror told another story, the tale of a woman who could no longer function without a drug induced assurance. She couldn’t bear the site of herself any longer. Splashing her face with cold water, she blotted the left over drips, squared her shoulders, and headed back to indulge in her glass of liquid courage.

She was savoring her second sip when Sean impatiently tapped his Rolex. Drink up, it’s a long walk to our gate and we still need to get through security.

In a not-so-ladylike fashion, she tilted her glass and chugged, after which, she daintily dabbed the dribble on her chin with the cocktail napkin that had been placed beneath her glass. Allowing her irritation to show with a blatant look of contempt, she snidely remarked, Fine, let’s get this over with.

By the time they shuffled in and out of their shoes, were patted down, and herded through like cattle, the boarding process had already began. Sean’s mood rapidly deteriorated. Rubbing shoulders with the unsavory types that traveled coach earned him the right to be quarrelsome, at least that’s how he justified his contemptible attitude. However, statistics had proven that a seat in the rear of the aircraft was safer. She chose to embrace whatever advantage she could get, and Sean endured the distasteful annoyance of traveling like a peon, provided it got her on the plane without suffering a complete meltdown.

She was still hoping for a reprieve as they took their seats and buckled up. What difference a fabric strap across your lower half could make, she didn’t know. Just another rule in life that one had to follow, and she did. Within minutes, they were making their climb into the menacing skies. The engines whined with a high pitch squeal that pierced her ears, while the absolute power of the thrust caused her belly to flutter and her fingers to clutch the arm rests.

Do you feel that vibration under our seats, Sean?

It’s normal during take off, so hush up and relax, he snapped. The attendants will be around soon, then you can order something to take the edge off. If we were relaxing in first class, where we belong, you would already be drinking yourself into oblivion and falling asleep, which is exactly what I expect you to do.

Something didn’t feel normal, she continued her white knuckle ritual with her eyes fused together while they made their quavering ascent, at least until she sensed someone watching her. Cautiously squinting through one eye, she focused on the flight attendant standing next to her with a beverage cart in tow. Smiling, of all things.

Are you alright, Miss?

The question hovered, Alyssa preferred no movement while in the air and that included her lips, but she willed herself to answer, I will be fine once this rickety contraption lands. Seemingly undaunted by the comment, the attendant asked if she would like something to drink in the mean time. She hesitated, then reached for the minuscule package of pretzels being handed to her and placed an order for a sprite to ease her stomach.

I can get that for you. Would you like the can or poured over ice?

Over ice, please.

You got it. My name is Caitlin and I’ll do whatever I can to help you relax so don’t hesitate to ask for anything you need.

Maybe you could explain the rough ride, there seems to be more turbulence than I’ve ever noticed before.

We are experiencing a few bumps, but it will pass once we reach our cruising altitude.

Caitlin’s statement had undertones of indifference. It was hard to tell if she was being condescending or sincere, but at least the small talk was keeping her calm for the moment.

Would either of you like a pillow or a blanket? You close your eyes and before you know it, it’s time to land.

Wow, this woman must have been a preschool teacher in another life. Maybe close your eyes and when you open them, it’s recess time! worked on a bunch of three-year-olds, but Alyssa wasn’t buying it.

Just then, another bump jolted them enough to send Sean’s book from his lap to the floor.

For God’s Sake! Alyssa screeched, with more intensity than she intended, causing Caitlin to suggest something much stronger than Sprite, saying it might help her calm down. Deciding she was thankful for Jack Daniels, or whoever else was riding on Caitlin’s little cart, she accepted the offer. That would be lovely. Can you tell me how much longer until we reach that altitude you mentioned?

Not long. Here, this should help settle your nerves. Handing over a tiny bottle of Seagrams, Caitlin then busied herself by pouring a coke in a glass for a nice chaser.

Sean bent down to retrieve his book, then pressed his lips to her ear. You’re drawing unwanted attention, stop embarrassing us, he ordered as another bump brought a few other passengers to life.

Alyssa handed her drink to Sean as she clumsily unfastened her seat belt.

Where in the hell do you think you’re going?

To the restroom, she stammered and revised her drink order. On second thought Caitlin, make mine a double, please. Stumbling from her seat, she awkwardly made her way to the miniature cubicle labeled lavatory. Stepping inside to lock the door, she gasped. It was obviously a toilet, but it more resembled something from a sci fi movie, where the hole opens up to swallow you into the wild blue yonder at thirty thousand feet. God, she was losing her mind. Quickly, she finished her business and gained enough balance to stagger back down the narrow isle with as much dignity as a slobbering drunk. She had never walked through the cabin during a flight and she couldn’t reach her seat fast enough. Plopping herself down, she buckled back up.

Sean clenched his teeth and grabbed her arm. I’m out of patience with your lunacy, you barely breathe on a flight, let alone get out of your seat. Are you ill? he asked, handing her the Coke and Seagrams.

Unless you consider being scared out of my wits an illness, the answer is no. I nearly wet my pants. Passing up the coke, she snatched the two small bottles from his hand and threw back the whiskeys like a pro. The golden liquid flowed, soothing her all the way down to the soles of her feet. Her arms quickly transformed into jelly, her head grew light and fuzzy. It felt so good, she gave up and lowered her eye lids, hoping the little cocktails were adequate enough to knock her for a doozy of a loop.

Sean watched as the alcohol worked pure magic. Her head gradually rolled to one side, lips slightly parted, revealing she had finally succumbed to sleep. Thank God. She was driving him insane, not to mention the humiliation she had brought on them. Exploring her delicate features, he realized how vulnerable she could be. She was totally oblivious to the fact that her return flight to Chicago would be a solo trip. When she realized he had abandoned her, she would want his neck in a noose. He deserved it. Unfortunately, he had set his fate in stone a long time ago, and he had no intentions of sinking with his ship. Leaving her behind to take the fall wasn’t the most noble pursuit, but, it was the only one that would save his own ass. With nothing left but regrets to impede his mind, he too closed his eyes in anticipation of sleep.

She sharply awakened, blinking, assessing the space around her through a sleepy half drunken haze. How long have I been asleep? Are we landing?

He yawned, still groggy himself, he answered, You’ve been asleep for about an hour, snoring for another, and no, we better not be landing because we’re still about twenty minutes from the airport.

But, another bump, said something entirely different. Without warning, turmoil erupted as the aircraft forcefully plummeted into a spiral dive. Her restraints were the only thing keeping her head from smashing into the seat in front of her. The searing gaze she shared with Sean conveyed that, he too, had come to the same conclusion: Flight 432 would be crashing somewhere over the Texas border.

Drinks and laptops sailed from the drop down tables as they violently dipped and rolled from side to side before leveling off. Clearly, the pilots had no more control over the aircraft than a paper airplane had in a downpour. Passengers wailed in desperation. They should have been soaring through the clouds, instead, they were clipping tree tops down to stumps. Her ears rang from the screaming engines, and yet, every inconsolable cry around her was distinct.

Her drunken stupor had faded. She helplessly watched the starboard wing sever itself from the cabin. The vibration so severe, the wing completely tore free from its hold, and within seconds, burst into flames. Jet fuel spewed, causing toxic fumes to fill her nostrils. At best, they were moments from impact.

Sean reached out and clasped her hand in his. Alyssa, I’m sorry. Please, forgive me.

With no time left for questions that lie on her tongue, his veiled plea was the last thought she held onto as the Boeing 727, mercilessly, plunged to the ground.

Chapter 2

THE HOUSE WAS QUIET, THE lack of noise seemed odd, considering five early risers lived under its roof. Jake preferred the hubbub of family, it kept his mind from wandering off to places better left alone. He finished tying the knot in his tie, buckled his belt, and followed the scent of his, much needed caffeine, down the stairs.

Walking to the stove, he planted a kiss on Ruby’s cheek, the same way he had done for the past, hell, he couldn’t remember how many years.

Sliding her palms down her threadbare apron, that she had been wearing for just as many years, she gave him a pat on the back. I’d say good mornin honey, but it’s pert near afternoon, she teased. You go ahead and take a seat and I’ll get ya some breakfast.

It’s just coffee for me. Opening his damp and wrinkled newspaper. From the shape it was in, he guessed the rain had already moved in ahead of the weather mans prediction.

You know I hate when you boys skip out on your first meal of the day.

I realize that, Jake admitted. But first of all, I’m no boy, and second of all, I don’t think I’ll waste away anytime soon, at least not before supper time. Peering over his paper he gave her a wink.

Then I guess there’s no reason for me to start my day out spattin with ya is there?

Wanting to appear serious in thought, he rubbed his freshly shaven chin and answered, None that I can think of.

Well then, coffee is all your gonna get. She conceded by pouring him a cup strong enough to sprout legs and walk, then took a seat at the table next to him. Maybe I should pack you a sandwich, sweetheart, just in case.

He glanced away from his paper again. Just in case what? I get lost on my way home from work? Someone beats me up and steals my lunch money? Or maybe…..

Ok, ok. You’ve made your point, go ahead and be hungry, it ain’t hurtin me none.

Jake affectionately touched her hand. When are you gonna stop worrying over us, old woman?

When I learn to dance the Watusi, I guess.

I don’t even know what that is, but I think Cadin is coming down the hall and he eats enough for both of us, so hike your hiney back to the stove and stop your grumbling over me, he said, right before his youngest brother strolled to the table.

Hey sweet cheeks, can you tell me what I’m eatin for breakfast? Cadin asked, simultaneously flashing Ruby one of his million dollar smiles, the same smile that had kept his back side out of trouble his whole life.

I reckon I can, after a big toothy grin like that, she cackled and quoted the lengthy menu.

Well bring it on, baby. I’m hungry enough to eat the ass end of a skunk. Too busy laughing to dodge the pot holder she swung, Cadin was walloped upside his head. For reasons unknown, he couldn’t keep from provoking a response from her, and he always got one.

Cadin Marshall McClintock, you excuse your nasty mouth self and don’t come back till you can talk decent at my table, do you hear me?

She never had put up with fowl talk. Jake could still remember getting his mouth washed out with soap a time or two, right along with the dishes. God, how he had hated that.

Cadin surrounded her plump waist in a hug and kissed the top of her head. You just calm yourself, Ruby. I needed some attention today, that’s all.

I’m always paying attention and you’d be wise to remember that, boy. Shaking a crooked arthritic finger at him. Now where’s your momma and Blain? Everyone in this house knows I like for ya’ll to eat together.

They’re coming, Jake said. But watching the two of you is more amusing, so don’t stop on their account. This bantering back and forth was always the opening act to breakfast. He couldn’t imagine starting his day out any other way. When he was first born, his father Jack, God rest his soul, had hired Ruby for the sole purpose of being his mammy, but she had been more like a second mother to him and his two younger brothers. She was cook, housekeeper, referee, confidant, and Dr. Phil, all rolled into one. With three boys to tend to that were all boy she was never afforded the luxury of that Calgon take me away moment. She never once complained. Jake reckoned it hadn’t even crossed her mind to. His mother, Sophia, was one tough lady, but it was Ruby who kept the family running smoothly, and they all loved her unconditionally. Jake was still reminiscing when Sophia and his brother, Blain, finally trickled into the room, taking their usual seats.

What’s with the goofy grin? Blain asked.

Jake hadn’t realized he was smiling at his thoughts until now. For the record, I don’t do goofy grins, but I have to admit, Ruby and Cadin are a regular side show this morning. He turned to acknowledge Sophia. Morning mom, I figured you’d sleep in. You were out awful late last night.

Sophia met his accusatory tone. Yes, I was. As you already know, Harry took me to a movie. I can’t remember the last time I went out after supper, or to the movie theatre. Do you know popcorn and a drink will set you back twelve dollars? And, that’s for a bag too small to share, I was astounded at their prices.

Is that your way of telling us Harry made you buy your own refreshments?

No, of course not, I was just saying.

By the way, he didn’t take you out on company time, did he? Maybe I should have a talk with him.

No he did not, and no, you will do no such thing, Jake. He has been our ranch supervisor for thirty years, don’t you dare embarrass him. In retrospect, I should have snuck out and let you all know what it was like to deal with you three as teenagers.

So you’re feeling like an adolescent, huh? We should probably set up some ground rules before your next big date. Blain continued the taunting.

There is no date. Harry just wanted to see a movie and he sure didn’t fancy the company of you three. Contorting her lips to make a face, she said, Since minding your own business seems to be a lost art around here, I suggest you boys eat up and hit the road. You have a company to run, in case that has slipped your minds.

Yes ma’am, they replied in unison. Sophia was a proper old fashioned southern belle with perfect fair skin, so her blushing face was pronounced, they couldn’t help but laugh, and they did.

Jake actually approved of his mom turning to Harry for companionship. Maybe he was just what the doctor ordered. The death of their father last year had taken a huge toll on her and it was good to see her smiling, hell, she almost seemed giddy.

They returned to discussing their daily agenda like clockwork. His life would seem mundane compared to most, but he’d be lost without this dysfunctional brood. Standing to leave, he gave his mom a quick peck on the cheek, rolled his newspaper into a cylinder and swatted Cadin.

Here, educate yourself little brother. I gotta get to my meeting. Which was not on his list of favorite things to do. None of them enjoyed the concrete jungle. Blain tolerated it the best, maybe because he was the diplomat of the three, so the promotion to President of McClintock Oil and Cattle Ranch belonged to him, following the death