Tanner Hyde Sheriff Series Book 3

By Sally Lovell

Tanner Hyde is a Sheriff in a small county of Black Eagle. His days were pretty quiet until he had a week from hell. He got stabbed with scissors, a six year boy was caught stealing and a beautiful woman came rolling into town named Libby Livingston turning his life upside down. Her present life and Tanner's past life mingled together stirring up dangerous trouble for both of them.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Sally Lovell
• Release date: Jan 19, 2024
• ISBN: 9798215139950

Sally Lovell

Live in small town in Michigan. Owned Hair and Tanning Salon for 15 years. Decided to try my hand at writing e-books. Which has been a trip. It is exciting and frustrating all in one. But I love it. With the help of my family, which is two teenage daughters and my husband and two dogs, they have been vary patient with me. It especially with all the frustration of the formatting of the book.

Book preview

Chapter 1

Tanner Hyde, the local sheriff of Black Eagle County, Montana, watched his best friend Hunter Creed and Gracie, his new wife, slowly dance together on the makeshift dance floor. The wedding reception was held in the large backyard at Hunter's and Gracie's house.

Tanner and Hunter had been friends and comrades for 15 years, serving in the Army Rangers. Together, they were sheriffs in a small county in Montana and are still great friends.

Things between Tanner and Hunter would slowly change since Hunter was now a married man and Tanner was still single. They would still have a strong friendship but would be spending last time hanging out together. Tanner was okay with the change if his best friend was happy, which Hunter was to a certain degree.

Tanner could see the stress still etched on Hunter and Gracie's faces from the prior months. Their son Carson, age 16, had been sentenced to two years in juvenile detention. Hunter and Gracie were devastated by the sentence but relieved because the sentencing could have been far worse for Carson.

It was a light sentence for the distribution and possession of illegal drugs. The judge gave Carson two years in juvenile detention. When Carson turns eighteen, he will automatically join the Army Rangers like his father Hunter had done.

The case Carson was involved in had just been wrapped up between several counties. The case had put stress on all the sheriffs involved. Bruce Jensen, the man who had brought the drugs into Hungry Horse County, used teenagers under eighteen to sell his ecstasy and marijuana at rave parties. Carson had gotten hooked up with Bruce Jesen and began selling drugs for him.

The case also strained friendships between the sheriffs of seven counties, the most significant strain between Sheriff Killian Remus of Hungry Horse County and Sheriff Hunter Creed of Fairfield County. Killian and Hunter were also friends and comrades in the army Rangers. Killian had pushed their friendship to the limit.

Killian used Hunter's son, Carson, as an informant to take down Bruce Jensen. Hunter, at the time, had no idea where his son was because he had run away from his mother. Killian's family had been involved with Bruce Jensen; his ex-wife had been dating Bruce, which in turn involved his set of twins.

Killian did what he could to take Bruce down and keep his family safe. Tanner knew Killian and Hunter's friendship was so strained to this day. Tanner did not know if Hunter would ever forgive Killian for using his son. Killian did help get Carson's sentence reduced. Tanner was glad to see that Killian and his girlfriend Sandra Putters had attended the wedding Hunter and Gracie's wedding reception.

Tanner’s attention was brought back to the woman he was dancing with as her tongue slid around the shell of his ear.

What were you thinking about, Tanner? Melissa Winters whispered close to his ear. Tanner pulled her body closer to his and chuckled.

I was thinking about what is going to happen later between us, Tanner replied, caressing his hand over her ass.

We could leave now, Melissa whispered.

Sorry, baby, but we cannot. Hunter is my best friend, Tanner murmured and nibbled on her earlobe.'

Well damn, I am all hot and bothered for you, Melissa said in a sultry voice. Tanner chuckled.

So, Baby, are you telling me you are slick and wet in all the right places? Tanner sucked her ear lobe between his teeth.

Oh, fuck yes! Melissa breathed out. Tanner slid his hand down her back moving slowly to cup her ass, pulling her up against his hard erection. Melissa could feel his hardness against her pelvis, and a moan slipped from her lips.

Stop teasing me, Tanner.

I am just making sure you understand what I want to do after the reception is over, Tanner cooed.

Maybe we can find a quick place before then? Melissa whispered breathlessly. Tanner chuckled.

Maybe, Tanner replied seductively.

Melissa Winters was Tanner's date for the night. They were fuck friends only, no relationship because neither of them was interested in a relationship. Melissa was a beautiful woman with a curvy, sexy-as-hell body. Tanner never got tired of seeing her naked and stretched out, wanting him.

Melissa wore her dark brown hair to her shoulders and framed around her oval face. Her dark brown eyes were the color of melted chocolate with specks of Carmel. Her lips were painted red and made for kissing.

The red dress she wore hugged her curves nicely. The dress showed enough of the tops of her large breasts to make Tanner's mouth water. He could spend hours playing with and loving her large breasts.

The black belt she wore at her waist emphasized her trim waistline, and then it flared out over her curvy hips, giving her an hourglass shape. Tanner fully intended later to run his hands over the entire length of all her curves. After his hands had touched every curve, he followed them with his mouth, lips, and tongue.

Tanner sighed heavily as the slow song they were dancing to ended, and a fast song began. Tanner let his hand slide over her curved hips one more time before pulling his body from hers. Tanner laced his fingers with Melissa's.

Let us get something to drink. I need a cold one to cool me off before I take that sweet ass body of yours here on the dance floor, Tanner growled out, already missing the heat of Melissa's body pressed close to his. Melissa smiled and nodded.

As they turned to leave the dance floor, Tanner saw Gracie and Sandra Putters heading to the dance floor. He smiled, watching Gracie's pregnant body waddle onto the dance floor. Gracie had a big grin, and her hand cradled her stomach as she walked. Tanner wondered if it was a good idea for Gracie to be dancing to the fast song since she was due anytime.

Tanner shook the thought away as Melissa, and he headed to the open bar. They ordered two beers. The bartender handed them two cold, frosted mugs filled with beer. Tanner grabbed both beers, giving one to Melissa.

Tanner turned towards the dance floor once again, sipping his cold beer. Tanner laughed, seeing Gracie trying to bump and grind with Sandra being nine months pregnant. Hunter had been concerned with the reception date because of the pregnancy.

Tanner stopped laughing when he noticed the pain etched on Gracie's face. She then grabbed her stomach. Tanner looked around to see if anyone else noticed. He quickly scanned the area for Hunter, his eyes searching the crowd. Tanner spotted Hunter on the left side of the yard by the food table, talking to an older gentleman.

Tanner felt his heartbeat speed up, seeing the pain etched on Gracie's face once more. He watched Gracie for a few more seconds when he turned to put his beer back on the table.

Shit! Tanner murmured loudly.

What is it, Tanner? Melissa asked with concern, staring at the frown etched on Tanner’s face.

It is Gracie. She does not look so good, Tanner replied with concern.

Fuck! Tanner growled out. His feet moved quickly towards the dance floor where Gracie was standing. Gracie was hunched over with her hands wrapped underneath her large belly. Tanner left Melissa at the bar, moving quickly with his heart in his throat. He could see Dr. Sandra Putters talking to Gracie.

Tanner was not close enough yet to hear what Sandra was saying to Gracie. Gracie was nodding her head. Tanner quickly approached them with concern on his face.

Gracie, honey, what is the matter? Tanner asked, putting his hand on her shoulder. Gracie looked up at him with unshed tears in her eyes.

I…I am…having…contractions, Gracie panted out between breaths.

Holy shit, honey, what can I do? Tanner asked nervously, unsure what to do for her. Tanner looked over at Sandra with concern.

Tanner, Gracie is going into labor. The contractions are three minutes apart. Can you pick her up and take her to the house? She cannot walk that far, and we do not have time to call the hospital, Sandra firmly stated.

Of course, I just don't want to hurt her, Tanner replied. Gracie, honey, put your arms around my neck, and then I will lift you into my arms, okay, baby? Gracie nodded and gasped out in pain when she straightened her body.

Oh- oh, that hurts! Gracie gasped out between breaths.

Come on, baby, Tanner murmured as she wrapped her arms around his neck. Tanner gently bent down and slid his arms underneath her legs, lifting her up into his arms and cradling her like a baby.

Okay, baby, I will start walking quickly towards the house. Let me know if I hurt you in any way.

Gracie nodded and then laid it against Tanner's shoulder. Taner began walking with quick strides towards the house.

Tanner, I can't believe…oh…oh! Gracie moaned out loudly, letting go of his neck and grabbing her belly.

Honey, I am almost there. Hang on, Tanner murmured and kissed her forehead. Gracie doubled over in his arms, causing Tanner to stumble. He grunted, tightening his hold on her.

Gracie, you need…what the hell! Tanner exclaimed loudly, feeling something warm and wet soaking his jeans from his crotch and down his legs.

Oh no! My…water…just broke. I …swear…I did not…pee, promise, Gracie replied between labored breaths. She looked up at Tanner with tears spilling down her cheeks.

It's okay, baby, Tanner murmured, seeing the embarrassed look on her face. He breathed a puff of air between his lips, seeing the door to the house a few feet ahead.

We are here, honey, Tanner said.

Sandra quickly moved ahead of them, opening the front door to the house. She held it open for them to pass. Tanner turned his body sideways to take Gracie through the front door. Tanner was glad they finally made it safely. His arms and legs were burning from carrying Gracie from the dance floor.

You need to take Gracie straight into the bedroom. Sandra firmly stated. Tanner nodded and followed Sandra down the hallway.

Tanner was thankful Hunter's house did not have an upstairs. Tanner walked down the hallway, following Sandra. She opened the bedroom door for Tanner and Gracie. Again, Tanner turned sideways to get Gracie and himself through the opening. Tanner quickly made a beeline for the large bed. He gently bent down and deposited Gracie onto it. His legs and arms started shaking after releasing Gracie.

Thank you, Tanner, Sandra said and rushed to Gracie. Gracie looked up at Tanner with pain etched on her face.

Can… you…please…get Hunter, Gracie panted loudly, holding her belly as tears spilled down her cheeks.

Sure, Honey, I will get him. Just hang on until he gets here, Tanner replied, bending down and kissing her forehead.

Okay, Gracie, let's get you ready to deliver a baby, Sandra firmly stated.

At the mention of the word baby, Tanner hurried out of the bedroom. He headed back outside and spotted Hunter in the same spot. Tanner took off running towards Hunter.

Hunter’s smile turned with concern when he saw Tanner running towards him with a concern written on his face.

What the hell, Hunter murmured. Killian Remus turned around to see what had Hunter frowning. Tanner stopped in front of Hunter. Hunter noticed the nervous look on Tanner's face. He also noticed Tanner's jeans were wet in the front from his crotch to his knees.

Did someone spill beer on you, or did you miss that big mouth of yours, Tanner? Killian asked with a chuckle. Tanner shook his head.

Hunter, Gracie is in labor, Tanner replied.

What! Hunter exclaimed. Tanner put his hand on Hunter's shoulder, giving it a squeeze.

Gracie is in labor. Sandra is with her in the house, Tanner replied.

Holy fucking shit! What the fuck do I do? Hunter yelled out, running his hand through his hair and down his face. Hunter's heart started racing, making him feel a little lightheaded.

The fuck if I know, Tanner yelled back in frustration. Killian laughed at both of them.

Hunter, first, you need to calm down and breathe right before you pass out, Killian said, snickering.

Hunter nodded and swallowed hard, looking at Killian with worry etched on his face. He took a couple of deep breaths and slowly let them out.

You feel less panic now? Killian asked, slapping Hunter on the shoulder. Hunter nodded. Gracie is in good hands with Sandra. Now, you need to get to her side before you miss seeing the birth of your child.

Thank Killian. Come on, Tanner," Hunter said, turning on his heel and beginning to sprint towards the house. Tanner followed him, wondering if Gracie was okay.

When they entered the house, a blood-curdling scream came from the bedroom. Hunter and Tanner stared at each other with fear in their eyes. They quickly raced down to the bedroom. Hunter and Tanner stopped dead in their tracks after entering the bedroom where Gracie's screams were coming from.

Gracie was sitting on the bed naked with legs spread far apart. Sandra was kneeling at the foot of the bed between Gracie's legs. Gracie was covered in sweat with pain etched on her face and panting.

Hunter! Gracie moaned, seeing him standing in the doorway. She waved her hand to him to come to her side. Hunter and Tanner looked at each other with concern. Tanner gave Hunter a light push. Hunter moved towards Gracie. When Hutner was next to Gracie, his eyes widened in surprise, seeing the baby's head crowning.

A few more big pushes, Gracie and the baby will be out, Sandra firmly stated.

Hunter slid up behind Gracie on the bed, taking Gracie's hands into his.

When I say push, you help her push hard, Hunter, Sandra stated. Hunter nodded his head and climbed up behind Gracie's back. Her back rested against his big chest. He reached down and grabbed her hands into his.

Baby, are you trying to do this again by yourself? Hunter whispered into her ear.

The baby didn't want to wait, Gracie murmured between puffs of air. Oh…oh…shit!

Hunter was not ready for Gracie to push against him. Her head slammed into his chin, making him see stars for a few seconds. He heard her loud growl and snapped out of it. Gracie's gripped his hand so tight they started to go numb.

Tanner watched from the sidelines, unable to move. He had never seen anything so remarkable. He knew he should leave and give them privacy, but his feet wouldn't move. Tanner was mortified and fascinated at the same time. The same look was reflected on Hunter's face.

Seeing a woman's pussy open that big was mortifying, but seeing the baby's head and then shoulders pop through was fascinating. Tanner could not pull his eyes away. When the baby slipped out and landed in Sandra's arms, Tanner felt tears run down his cheeks.

Tanner looked at Gracie and Hunter. They both had smiles and tears coming from their eyes. Hutner's eyes traveled over to Tanner's. Tanner could see the happiness and relief in them. Tanner smiled and gave Hunter a thumbs-up. Hunter nodded and grinned.

You two have a healthy baby girl, Sandra said, handing the baby to Gracie.'

Tanner walked out of the bedroom. He figured he needed to tell the guests what happened to Gracie and Hunter since it was their wedding reception party. Tanner walked out to the dance floor and approached the DJ.

I need to make an announcement, Tanner yelled into the man's ear. The DJ nodded, handing Tanner the microphone. Tanner waited until the song was done before speaking.

Excuse me, ladies and gentlemen, can I have your attention, Tanner said in the microphone. He waited patiently for the guest to pay attention to him. All the guests crowded out on the dance floor.

First, I do not know if you noticed that Hunter and Gracie have disappeared. Well, there is a reason for it. Gracie decided to go into labor, Tanner replied, throwing his hands up in the air and chuckling. The guests all chuckled with him.

I am happy to announce they were doing fine when I left them. Gracie gave birth to a little girl. Mother and baby are both healthy. Tanner said, smiling. All the guests cheered loudly.

There is still a lot of food and music to dance to. Please stay and keep enjoying yourself, Tanner said, handing the microphone back to the DJ and walking away. Tanner ran into Killian and Roan Sparrow.

Killian, your finance is an amazing doctor. Sandra never lost her cool the whole time with Gracie. I about fainted seeing that baby being delivered. I do not ever want to see that again for a while. It was amazing and disturbing at the same time, Tanner stated as his body shuttered.

Sandra is a great doctor and an amazing woman, Killian replied, laughing at Tanner. When you get married and have your own babies, the experience will be totally different.

You might be right. So, have you and Sandra picked a date yet? Tanner asked.

Sandra wants to go to Las Vegas to get married. She does not want a big fancy wedding, Killian said.

Seriously, most women want a big wedding and all the shit that goes with it, Roan said, smiling.

Sandra wants a big, flashy reception with family and friends, Killian stated.

That is cool, drinking and dancing. What more do you need? Roan said, smiling.

How are the twins with her? Tanner asked.

They absolutely adore her, which is a good thing. Rosie took the Bruce Jensen case hard and is thinking about moving. She is really upset about putting the twin's life in danger. She is thinking of giving me full custody of them.

Rosie never had any idea what was behind Bruce’s exterior, did she? Tanner asked.

Rosie had no clue and did not want to listen to me. She thought I was just jealous of her relationship. Rosie is so embarrassed now. People in town whispered about how stupid and irresponsible she was. It did not matter that she did not know. Rosie is unhappy here now, Killian said, shaking his head.

Maybe Rosie just needs a new start somewhere new and exciting, Roan said.

Probably; I love the idea of having my twins back, but not under these circumstances.

Understandable, Roan commented.

So, Roan, I guess we need to hang out more since we are still single, Tanner said, slapping Roan on the back.

I know I am single, but I'm not so sure you are, Tanner, Roan replied, smiling.

What do you mean? I am still single, Tanner asked, confused.

Are you so sure? You have had your tongue down that woman's throat all night and your hands all over her. Roan stated and nodded towards the bar. Tanner looked at the bar, remembering he had left Melissa sitting there.

That is my friend Melissa. No relationship except for consensual sex, that is all, Tanner replied, smiling.

Are you so sure about that, Tanner? You both seemed to be enjoying yourselves, Roan said. Tanner held up his hands.

Positive, fuck buddies only. Melissa does not do relationships. Tanner stated.

That is the way relationships always start out, friends first, then fuck buddies, and what happens next, you marry them, Killian said, chuckling, slapping Tanner on the back.

Fuck that! I am not the marrying kind, Tanner stated firmly.

Okay, if you say so, Killian chuckled. If you two go out, I would make him cut that ponytail off so he doesn't get mistaken for a girl from behind. Killian and Roan busted up laughing. Tanner gave them both the middle finger.

You really do need to get rid of that ponytail you're sporting, Roan firmly stated.

What the fuck is it with you two and Hunter? Leave my fucking hair alone, Tanner replied.

Your hair is longer than some of the women I have dated, Roan said, smiling.

Fuck off! Tanner replied. Killian slapped Tanner on the back, chuckling.

I see Sandra coming out of the house. I am going to see how Gracie and the baby are faring, Killian said.

I will go with you, Tanner replied. Killian began walking towards the house with Tanner next to him.

I am sure glad Sandra and I came tonight, Killian murmured.

That is for sure. Were you thinking of not coming?

No, I was not. Things between Hunter and I are still strained, Killian stated.

I know Hunter is still pissed, but you know, you did help get Carson's sentence reduced, Tanner stated.

I promised Carson I would help him. Maybe with Sandra delivering his baby, he will get over the shit with Carson. I know I did what had to be done to take down a drug pusher. A drug pusher where four teenagers died from the fucking shit, Killian firmly stated.

It was bidding all the way around for you and Hunter. I am just glad we took the asshole down, Tanner replied. Killian nodded in agreement.

Hey, Sweetheart, Killian said, wrapping his arm around Sandra's waist. How's Gracie and the baby doing?

They are both doing really great. I called the hospital to let them know I made an emergency home delivery. They are going to send an ambulance and take them to the hospital to ensure everything is fine with them, Sandra said. Hunter asked me to see if you and the guys could take care of the food and guests.

Of course, Tanner replied.

I am going to head to the hospital. I want to ensure I did everything correctly since this is my first baby delivery, Sandra said, smiling.

I am sure you did a great job, Sweetheart. Gracie and Hunter should be thankful you were here, Killian replied, kissing Sandra on the forehead.

You two go to the hospital, and I will take care of things here, Tanner stated.

Later, Tanner, Roan, Killian replied, grabbing Sandra's hand and walking towards the driveway.

Tanner watched Killian and Sandra walk away. He wondered if he would ever settle down with one woman. Tanner enjoyed living alone and not having to answer anyone. Then he remembers Melissa was still waiting at the bar for him. Tanner smiled at the thought of spending the night with her.

The picture of Gracie pushing the baby out of her body made him shutter. It was beautiful but disturbing at the same time. Tanner pushed the image out of his mind after seeing the sexy smile on Melissa's face and the red dress she was wearing snugly against her luscious body.

Tanner headed straight towards the woman with the come hinder smile. His groin grew tighter. Tanner approached Melissa with a big grin.

I am glad you are still here, Tanner said, walking up and standing next to her, grabbing her hand and lacing their fingers together. He brought their joined hands up to his mouth, kissing her fingers.

I rode with you, remember? Melissa replied, smiling. Tanner kissed her fingers again before putting their hands back down.

Yes, and you are leaving with me also, Tanner murmured, moving closer to her. Melissa let go of his hand and brought it up, wrapping it around his neck and pressing it up against his hard body.

I am not sure about that since you took off, leaving me here to get lonely. I thought I might have to get snuggly with someone else while you were going, Melissa replied pouty.

You better put that thought out of your mind. The only one you will be snuggling with tonight is me, baby, Tanner stated firmly. Melissa smiled, wrapping her other arm around his neck.

When can we leave? Melissa whispered.

In about an hour. Hunter paid the crew to clean up. So, I just have to make sure they get started.

Okay, Melissa murmured.

So, in the meantime, let's go out and finish dancing the hour away, Tanner replied, swatting her ass with his hand. Melissa laughed. They headed out on the dance floor.

Chapter 2

The hour had gone by quickly. The cleanup crew had shown up, so Tanner ensured they understood what must be done. The last of the guests had started to leave. Tanner made sure to thank everyone before they had gone.

Tanner and Melissa took the gifts and the card box inside the house before locking it up for the night.

Ready to go, baby? Tanner asked Melissa after locking up Hunter’s house.

Hell yeah! Melissa exclaimed. Tanner chuckled at her enthusiasm.

You aren’t a little eager, are you? Tanner replied, smiling.

"You better believe I am. For the last hour,