Ransomed Heart

By Michelle Cary

In a bid to keep her beloved Thoroughbred safe, Vanessa Beaumont is willing to give up everything she holds dear. Danger and heartbreak threaten both her and Ransom, and she must rely on a stranger to save them both. Trust isn't easy for her, but what she finds in return is life filled with love and a happiness beyond anything she's imagined, if they all survive.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Michelle Cary
• Release date: Jan 10, 2011
• ISBN: 9781005509989

Michelle Cary

At this point in my life I've been writing for nearly 2 decades. Sometimes it's hard to believe it's been that long. Anyway, I write under two pen names.Michelle Cary writes romance. Novels, novellas, short stories...doesn't matter. They're all some form of romance where there is always a HEA and where the sex (if there is any) is done tastefully. In the past I've written romantic suspense, but recent years has brought me more in line with sweet and contemporary romance.Sienna Stapleton writes erotic romance and erotica. Sienna is my alter ego and Sienna is the bad girl. She mostly writes novella and short stories, but again all have a HEA.Both Michelle and Sienna write on Patreon where you can find scenes and shorts about characters from your favorite stories. You can follow them after the HEA to see what happens next. There you can also find shorts not released anywhere else, new stories before they're released in book form and all kinds of other goodies. So, if you have time time, please stop by my patreon. https://www.patreon.com/michellecary

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Available from Michelle Cary

Northern Lights

Tangled Hearts

Don’t Look Back

Best of Intention

Fighting the Flames

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Kentucky Thunder

Kentucky Rain

Also Available as Sienna Stapleton

Reckless Curves

Reckless Curves 2

Reckless Curves 3

Secrets and Curves

Midnight Clear

Shelter Me

A Siren’s Call

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Michelle Cary

Ransomed Heart

Warning

This e-book contains sexually explicit scenes and adult language and may be considered offensive to some readers. E-books containing adult content are for sale to adults ONLY, as defined by the laws of the country in which you made your purchase. Please store your files wisely, where they cannot be accessed by under-aged readers.

* * * *

This e-book is a work of fiction. While reference might be made to actual historical events or existing locations, the names, characters, places, and incidents are either the product of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously, and any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, business establishments, events, or locales is entirely coincidental.

Ransomed Heart

COPYRIGHT © 2021, 2011, 2008 by Michelle Cary

Originally published 2008 under the title Ransomed Heart by The Wild Rose Press

Contact Information:

Published by

Michelle Cary

[e-mail]

Cover Art by Lauran Jackson, Angel Inspired Photography

www.angelinspiredphoto.com

For my husband and children, who believed in me when I didn’t believe in myself.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

CHAPTER 1

CHAPTER 2

CHAPTER 3

CHAPTER 4

CHAPTER 5

CHAPTER 6

CHAPTER 7

CHAPTER 8

CHAPTER 9

CHAPTER 10

CHAPTER 11

CHAPTER 12

CHAPTER 13

CHAPTER 14

CHAPTER 15

CHAPTER 16

CHAPTER 17

CHAPTER 18

CHAPTER 19

CHAPTER 20

CHAPTER 21

EPILOGUE

Chapter 1

A brilliant shard of light slashed crossed the sky, briefly illuminating the pitch of night and slicing Vanessa Beaumont’s heart with fear. Driving the unfamiliar road was difficult enough in the dark without sheets of rain pelting the truck’s windshield. The last thing she needed was the storm worsening or God forbid, a tornado.

She fought to keep terror from holding her hostage while she did her best to avoid drifting from the pavement onto the gravel shoulder. She didn’t need to panic and drive into a ditch with the horse trailer in tow.

Ransom already rocked it from side to side with his nervous motion, causing the trailer to randomly shift behind her truck. The stallion hated storms and right now, she couldn’t blame him.

She silently cursed herself for listening to the gas station attendant back in Jackson. All she’d wanted was directions to old Route 40, and he’d guaranteed his way was faster than what her map showed.

It’s a short cut, but it’s really easy, he assured her.

Now, lost in the back roads of Ohio, in the middle of a furious summer storm, she battled with her emotions.

What if something bad happened? It would be morning before anyone realized she was missing. Even then, fear for Ransom’s safety caused her to keep her destination secret. Nobody knew she’d even left town, let alone where she was going. Not her brothers, parents, not even her best friend Morgan. She simply couldn’t take the chance of Trevor somehow finding out.

Nervous tension twisted the muscles in her shoulders, tightening them into knots. She flipped on the interior light and glanced down at the scribbled instructions covering the back of a gas card application. The attendant’s writing blurred with the preprinted words, and she barely made out the directions.

Two miles, make a left, then turn right at the abandoned barn. Which abandoned barn? She’d seen three before the storm descended on her, shrouding her in an ominous darkness.

Another bolt of lightning sliced across the sky, pulling her attention back to the road. Her ex-husband’s face flashed through the darkness and filled her field of vision before quickly morphing into the silhouettes of three deer standing in the middle of the road.

White knuckled, Vanessa slammed on the brakes. Wet pavement caused her truck to hydroplane and flood of prayers passed silently over her lips.

The vehicle crashed into one of the deer, flipping it onto the hood. A sickening thud collided with her own scream as the sudden stop caused momentum to throw her body forward and her head to connect with the door pillar. All the while an eerie cracking of the windshield under the weight of the animal filled the cabin. The truck slid to a complete stop and the deer slipped off the hood onto the road in a twisted mass of flesh and bone.

* * * *

Safely ensconced inside the screened porch of his farmhouse, Riley Whitaker enjoyed the light show Mother Nature so graciously provided. His friend and mentor, Jesse, rested in an old wooden rocker across from him, sipping a glass of iced tea.

In Riley’s opinion, there wasn’t much that was better than a good summer storm and with all the lightning and wind, tonight’s was especially enjoyable.

He couldn’t think of a nicer way to spend an evening after a hard day’s work.

Steeped in deep discussion over his love life, or rather the lack thereof, he noticed headlights come around the bend. While a perfect night for storm watching, it was not a night to be driving. Who would be stupid enough to be out in this weather?

I still say you’re a damn sucker for letting that woman back into your life every year. You’re never going to settle down and start a family if you don’t let go of your past, Jesse argued.

Dismissing the car from his thoughts, Riley continued the debated. And when are you going to get it through your thick head that Allison and I are only friends now?

I’m not the one who needs to remember that fact. Jesse leaned back in the rocking chair and lifted his glass in the air. Mark my words, keep hanging your hopes on that woman changing her mind and marrying you and you’ll stay a bachelor.

Frustrated, Riley’s lips thinned into a straight line before he spoke again. I’m not hanging my hopes on anyone. We made our decisions, but that doesn’t mean we can’t remain friends. She’ll be here the end of August to visit, and I expect you to be nice while she’s here.

Jesse quirked a brow. I’m always nice.

Before Riley could respond, the distinct sound of tires skidding across the wet pavement brought him to his feet. Several loud thuds echoed through the night air, then came the unmistakable shriek of an injured animal.

The giant conifers lining the front of his home prevented him from seeing the road. Something bad happened. He squinted into the rain-filled darkness.

Reckon we should help, Jesse said, already on his feet and heading inside. Without answering, Riley followed behind, then raced through the house, out the back door and into the rain.

Get some rope from the barn. I’ll grab the flashlights and first aid kit, he ordered then sprinted to the attached storage shed next to the large barn. Within moments, he met Jesse at his Dodge Dakota.

Hell of a night for an accident, Jesse angled himself into the truck, then reached up to grab the handle above the door.

With a flick of his wrist, Riley turned the key, and the engine came to life. He slid it into gear and accelerated down the driveway. Let’s hope nobody’s hurt.

* * * *

Vanessa sat motionless inside her pick-up while her brain struggled to comprehend the situation. Streaks of blood and fur marred the shattered windshield, and her head hurt something fierce. The other two deer were now gone, escaping with their lives into the woods beyond, leaving the maimed and twisted carcass of the third crumpled near the front bumper of her truck.

Except for the rain pounding against her vehicle, there was silence. Then, Ransom’s panicked whinnies pierced the air.

Headache forgotten, she opened the door and raced into the downpour. The pelting rain stung her face like hundreds of tiny needles, but she refused to be deterred. Ransom was scared or worse and he needed her help. She grabbed the bed rail and fought against the deluge to get to the back of the truck. What she found nearly made her heart stop. Ransom’s trailer teetered on the edge of a steep embankment with only the hitch preventing it from toppling down the other side.

The trailer shook as he thrashed about inside. He was probably injured from the accident. It was only a matter of time before the hitch gave way and Ransom would tumble to his possible death.

She raced back to the cab and scrambled for her cell phone. Hiding from Trevor no longer mattered. She needed help, but other than knowing she was somewhere in Ohio, she didn’t have a clue of her whereabouts. Vanessa scanned her surroundings, hoping to spot some sign or landmark as she dialed 9-1-1 only to have the phone beep rudely in her ear, announcing the absence of a signal.

Damn it. Frustrated and more than a little frightened, she chucked it into the passenger seat and raked her hands over her face.

She’d put everything on the line to protect Ransom, taking him out from under Trevor’s nose in the middle of the night. Giving up now wasn’t an option.

Battling back the panic building in her chest, she glanced at the precariously perched trailer and struggled to make her mind engage. It was then a flicker of light caught her attention. Not lightning this time, but some type of vehicle driving toward her. Thank God!

Vanessa leaped from the cab in time to see the red truck slide to a stop and two men emerge. The driver ran to her, while the passenger stopped next to the hood of the vehicle and waited.

Are you alright?

She nodded and lifted a hand to point in the direction of the teetering trailer. I’m okay, but my horse is in danger.

The driver motioned to his friend. Let’s get the rope and tie it to the trailer.

The other man gave a nod and scurried to the back of the truck.

The driver turned his attention back to Vanessa. What happened?

Deer. She gestured a shaky hand in the direction of the dead buck.

His gaze followed her finger to where the dead animal lay. He shook his head and muttered under his breath. Damn deer.

The older man returned with the rope and handed it to the driver. I’m going to tie this to the side of the trailer. He began. Walk up here with me and talk to your horse. Try and calm him down if you can.

Grateful for the help, she followed. As they neared the wobbling trailer, she raised her voice and began talking to the Stallion. Ransom, baby, it’s okay.

Ransom snorted and slammed against the side of the hauler; at the same time the man looped the rope through the rails. Damn animal is going to kill himself, he growled.

Vanessa fought back a fresh batch of panic induced tears burning her eyes. Getting upset right now wouldn’t do any good. She could fall apart later, after she knew Ransom was safe. Ransom, please. Shhh, calm down. You’re okay.

The man yanked on the rope, ensuring it was secure. You’re lucky you loaded him on the left. His weight is what’s keeping this trailer from going on over. Now step back.

She followed his instructions and wiped the rain from her face. He tied the other end of the rope to his truck’s front bumper. The older man now sat behind the steering wheel, guiding the truck in reverse. Slowly, the trailer began to move. At first, it’s tires only skidded in the gravel, almost digging into the rock in stubborn defiance, but then it slipped across the rain-soaked blacktop back onto the road. With its wheels once again safely on the pavement, Vanessa ran to the hauler and began talking to Ransom. Okay, boy. You’re okay. The younger man walked toward her, and she shifted to face him. I don’t know how to thank you for this, Mister…?

Riley, he replied, and that’s my friend, Jesse. He gestured to the older man still sitting inside the Dakota.

Yes, well…thank you, Mr. Riley

He shook his head, sending water flying in all directions. No, Riley’s my first name.

Oh, I’m Vanessa…Vanessa Beaumont. With one hand shielding her eyes from the rain, she stuck out the other to shake. Thank you, Riley, and your friend. If you two hadn’t come along, I don’t know what I would have done.

Well, we didn’t happen along. You see, I live in that house right over there. He motioned to a farmhouse off the road behind the trees. We heard the accident.

"Oh. I’m sorry you had to come out in the rain, but I want to thank you for helping Ransom and me.

I wish I could repay you for your good deed, but I’m already late, and I need to be on my way."

His attention cut over her shoulder in the direction of her vehicle.

I don’t think you’re going anywhere tonight. Vanessa spun to face the truck. Despite the downpour she took a moment to inspect the damage. Cracks spread like a spider’s web from the point of impact across the windshield. Colored and clear glass from the front headlight cover lay in pieces next to the deer and steam billowed from under the crumpled hood like Old Faithful. She barely managed to suppress a groan. The damage was probably more extensive, but in the dark, it was hard to tell. The knot she’d been carrying in the pit of her stomach since she left Pinewood tightened. I can’t be stuck here. I have to get to Pennsylvania.

I’m afraid that’s probably not going to happen tonight, and you can’t stay out here in this weather. Besides, we should get your horse out of the trailer and give him a good looking over. Make sure he’s not hurt.

Her attention cut from the truck back to him. And where am I supposed to do that?

My place, he replied, not missing a beat. I have a barn and an extra bed if you’re interested.

Her heart sped up at his suggestion. For the first time since he’d arrived on scene, she feared for her wellbeing. She took a full step back and worked to act casual as she rejected his offer. Better not to let him sense fear. You’ve done so much already. I couldn’t impose.

It’s no imposition, and what choice do you have?

She glanced back at her damaged truck and pondered her options. If she stayed along the side of the road in this weather, she risked causing another accident. Being in the middle of nowhere, meant no tow truck until morning. There was always the option of her roadside assistance program, but with it came the risk of being found out.

She could call her brothers for help, but Chris was hours away and Kyle was away at the rodeo. She had no idea which city they were in right now. Plus, she didn’t want to drag them into the danger surrounding her. Sadly, it looked as if Riley was right—she was out of options.

Still, to knowingly walk into what could potentially be an even more dangerous situation than what she already faced was a stupid move. That may be true, but how do I know… Halfway through the sentence, she paused, her words trailing off. Could she risk pissing off the only person willing to help her?

Riley’s lips tipped into a smile. How do you know I’m not some serial killer or rapist or something, right?

She sucked her bottom lip between her teeth and with slight embarrassment, nodded. Was she that transparent?

You don’t, but you have to ask yourself, would a serial killer or rapist bother to come out in the middle of a thunderstorm to help you with your horse? I’m guessing they would probably snatch you up and carry you off somewhere to have their way with you.

She chewed on her bottom lip some more and considered his words. With her truck in its current condition, she wouldn’t get more than a mile down the road before it died for good. Thoughts of Trevor raced through her head as she stared down the dark, empty road. Being in some stranger’s house was probably better than being alone and broken down, especially if Trevor somehow managed to learn her plans. I suppose you’re right, she sighed.

It’s settled then. Now let’s get out of this rain. He motioned to Jesse and the vehicles. Take my truck. I’ll drive hers back to the barn.

The older man nodded and put the truck in gear.

Cautious but resigned, Vanessa climbed into the passenger’s seat of her pick-up. Riley took position behind the steering wheel and after a few turns of the key and several muttered threats the starter caught, bringing the engine to life.

Slowly, he nursed the damaged vehicle off the road, down the driveway and around to the back of the house. He pulled close to the barn and killed the engine. I’ll open the barn. You and Jesse get your horse.

They hopped out of the vehicle, and Vanessa made her way around to the back of the trailer. She jumped when yet another flash lightning crackled through the sky.

Not fit for man or beast tonight, Jesse said, pulling the pin on the gate. It swung open and Vanessa stepped up into the empty side. She clipped the lead rope to Ransom’s halter and slowly backed him from the trailer, then guided him through the barn entrance.

Eyes wild with fear, he snorted and pulled against the lead.

Shhh…easy, boy…easy. You’re okay. She urged the stallion forward. Favoring his front right leg, he limped down the corridor to the open stall door.

Once inside, he continued to snort and whinny. Vanessa worked to calm him. Blood trickled from several small cuts on his head and neck.

When Riley attempted to enter the stall carrying a bucket of warm water and a rag, Ransom reared and kicked out, creating a racket that had Riley’s horses neighing nervously. In an instant Vanessa was at his head, using her hands and voice to calm him.

With one hand rubbing behind his ear, she whispered to the horse, while her other hand stroked under his chin and down the front of his neck. That’s a good boy now. You’re safe. She only hoped those words were true and she hadn’t put him in even more damage.

Riley stood in the doorway, while she soothed the frightened horse. He’s a nice-looking animal. Apparently satisfied the horse was finally calm, he picked up the bucket and moved into the stall.

I always thought so. She stroked a hand along Ransom’s black mane.

Riley crouched for a closer inspection of the horse’s leg. It looks like he took a pretty good blow to the knee. The way he was thrashing about, he’s lucky that’s all he injured.

Vanessa joined him for a closer look. Her hand continued to shake as she skimmed over the swollen joint. She shrugged the trembling off, attributing it to residual adrenaline and anxiety from the accident. Then she drew in a long steadying breath before she spoke. He was limping when we came in. I hope it’s nothing serious. Maybe we should put some ice on it before it gets any worse. What do you think?

She glanced up and her skin prickled when she realized Riley was no longer staring at the horse, but at her. The look in his eyes was one of curiosity and was that desire? She swallowed hard at that thought. With her body slightly larger than what was considered desirable by acceptable standards, was it even possible for a man to find her sexy?

Considering she didn’t know the man she should feel uncomfortable, even alarmed with his eyes intently boring a hole through her, but she wasn’t the slightest bit uneasy. Instead, heat raced through her, and a tiny thrill settled into the back of her brain. Was it possible this gorgeous man found her attractive?

Almost immediately she dismissed the thought. More than likely she looked so bad from lack of sleep and wet from the rain that he couldn’t help but stare. Not that it mattered anyway. Her immediate interest was focused on keeping Ransom safe. After several silent moments, she spoke again. Riley, did you hear me?

I’m sorry. What did you say?

She suppressed a smile. Easily distracted? Good to know. Maybe staying here wouldn’t be so bad after all. I said I think we should put some ice on this. What do you think?

He blinked, then turned his attention back to the horse’s leg. Um…yeah, that would probably be wise. I’ll be right back.

* * * *

Halfway out of the barn, Riley met Jesse walking toward him carrying what looked to be ice packs.

After seeing the way that horse was limping, I thought you’d need these. He handed Riley two bags of ice.

Riley wrinkled his brow. Why two packs?

Judging by the way you were staring at that pretty lady in there, I figured the horse’s leg wasn’t the only thing needing iced down.

Somewhat embarrassed at being caught gawking, Riley tossed the second bag at his friend. I wasn’t staring at her. Not much, anyway.

Oh yeah? Jesse challenged. What color are her eyes?

Blue. Why would I be looking at her eyes? Riley argued.

Answer the question.

Damn, he hated to admit when Jesse was right. The man had a terrible habit of rubbing it in. They’re blue, okay? Are you satisfied? So, I was staring at her. She’s gorgeous. What man with half a brain wouldn’t look at her?

Jesse let out a chuckle before slapping Riley on the back. It’s good to see you take an interest in a woman other than your ex.

Uncomfortable with the direction the conversation was headed, Riley scrambled to reel it back. Nothing’s going to happen. She’s in trouble, and I’m helping her. That’s all.

Jesse waved a dismissive hand and turned toward the house. Whatever you say, Ry. I’m off to bed. You go deal with your guest.

Riley stood in the remaining drizzle and waited for to Jesse meander across the gravel drive before he turned back to the barn. His friend was way off base in his thinking. His job as Sheriff required he