The Archer [Book 13 of the Hawkman Series] (24 page)

"I didn't even see her. Our class together is tomorrow.” She pushed some stray hair out of her face and bit her lower lip. “This is a nightmare. I'm even scared to go to school now. Maybe I should go to my uncle's ranch where I'd be safe."

"It won't be necessary. Cindy is about to drop over the edge. She'll make a mistake. I just need to be there to witness it.” He opened the door to the Ford. “Don't leave in the morning until I'm here. We'll caravan to the campus."

Hawkman traveled home with a plan forming in his mind. He'd throw it out to his mystery writing wife and see if it made sense. When he walked in the door, Jennifer sat at her computer and put a finger to her lips to hush him.

"Okay, but hit a stopping point, I need to talk to you."

She nodded, then her fingers flew across the keys. Soon, she stood. “Got that scene finished. Sorry about shushing you, but if I get interrupted and don't get it on paper, the thought disappears."

He grinned. “Understood."

She moved around the table and put her arms around him. “Now, what did you want to talk about, big boy?"

He gave her a kiss, then moved to the refrigerator and took out a beer. “Can I fix you something?"

"A gin and tonic would be delicious."

They retired to the living room, where Jennifer swiveled her chair around and gave Hawkman her full attention.

"How would you like to help me in this case?"

Her eyes twinkled. “I don't know why you ever ask me such a question. You know I'd love to."

He told her what had happened during the day, then explained the strategy he had in mind. “What do you think?"

"Have you talked to Laura about this?"

"No, I wanted to go over it with you first, but I don't think she'll object. She's scared to death right now. I could escort her to class, but then people would know who I'm protecting, and I just think it would be best for a female to be with her. It won't draw as much attention as a one-eyed, good-looking cowboy."

Jennifer laughed. “Right. However, I'm not so sure I can pass for being close to her age."

"You don't have to. People of all ages go to college. Anyway, you've got a beautiful figure, mischievous eyes, and no gray in your chemo hair.” He grinned. “Oh, a few wrinkles around your eyes won't matter; you can cover those with make-up."

"Thanks a million,” she said, sarcastically.

"The main thing is to look hip. Wear jeans and a sweatshirt, even a ball cap. You're an older distant cousin of Laura's, thinking about going back to school, and she's showing you around. I just want you to be with her, especially in the class with Cindy. I don't think anyone will recognize you as my wife. You won't be able to carry your gun onto campus, but have it with you in the car."

"Got it. So what are you going to be doing all this time?"

"I'm guarding her car. I want no more letting air out of tires, or anything else to happen to her vehicle. I'm now at the point of not letting her or her possessions out of my sight."

Jennifer raised a finger in the air. “One more question. What happens if there's a confrontation between Cindy and Laura over this Brett guy?"

Hawkman frowned. “I'm hoping that won't happen. Cindy will not want to be seen in front of her peers as someone who can't hold her man. If it does, you're the one who knows the female mind much better than me, so I'll leave it to you to take the appropriate action."

She let out a sigh. “Let's hope Cindy keeps her mouth shut."

"Laura's no dummy; she could probably take care of any situation. However, if you see it's drifting out of hand, you take over."

Jennifer nodded and stood. “I'll go lay out the clothes I'll wear, then I'll fix us a sandwich. We better hit the sack, as I know we'll have to get up mighty early to get there in time to explain this plan to Laura and get her to class on time."

"While you're taking care of those things, I'm going to switch my stuff out of your Ford and into my four by four."

Tuesday morning, Hawkman and Jennifer were up and ready to head toward Medford before the sun came up.

"Hey, you look great,” Hawkman said, eyeing his jeans-clad spouse.

"I hope Laura thinks so."

"Your attire looks exactly like what she wears when she goes to class. So you'll fit right in. I think she's going to be very happy to have a chaperone."

By the time they reached the Kings’ ranch, they could see the dark clouds forming in the sky.

"Oh, dear, it looks like we're in for a storm,” Jennifer said, gazing out the passenger side window.

"Let's hope it holds off, at least until we get to the college,” Hawkman said, turning into the driveway.

As he pulled around to the rear of the house, Laura and her father came out the back door. Olly didn't appear happy, and marched to the driver's side of Hawkman's vehicle. When he saw Jennifer in the seat, his expression softened.

"Mr. King, I'd like you to meet my wife, Jennifer. She's going to escort Laura to her classes, while I guard her car. We will be with your daughter every minute."

Jennifer held her hand across Hawkman's body. “Pleasure to finally meet you, Mr. King. Before you ask, yes, I know how to protect your daughter. I've been trained in martial arts and know how to shoot a gun."

Laura walked up to the side of her dad. “I told the folks about the situation yesterday. I couldn't keep it from them; since they know me so well, they knew I was really worried."

"I'm glad you informed them. We all need to be very cautious.” He turned toward Olly. “Be sure to have Ed and Clay keep an eye out for strange cars or people on the property."

"I'll do that,” Olly said, stepping back as Hawkman opened the door.

Jennifer slipped out the passenger side and they met at the back of the vehicle. Hawkman introduced Jennifer to Laura, and then explained the plan. “I hope you find this agreeable, Laura."

She smiled. “I like the idea of having a visiting distant cousin who wants to go back to school. It should be no problem taking her to my classes."

"Good,” Hawkman said. “You gals go ahead and get in the car. I'll follow shortly."

Laura jogged back to the house. “Got to get my backpack."

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Laura parked in the school lot, and as they climbed out of the car, Jennifer removed her fanny pack and slipped it under the seat.

"Oh, you better not leave that in the car. Let me put it in my backpack."

Jennifer grinned. “I don't think so. It's my gun. All we need is for you to be arrested as a terrorist."

Laura's eyes grew wide. “Oh, my gosh, you carry a gun?"

"When I'm helping my husband, yes. I have a permit, but not one for the campus. Besides, Hawkman will be here soon, and no one's getting in this car."

"Who?” Laura said, jerking her head around.

Jennifer laughed. “Mr. Casey; his nickname is Hawkman."

Laura threw her hands up and rolled her eyes. “Boy, I learn something new every day. How'd he acquire such a handle?"

"I'll tell you as we walk to your class,” she said pushing the lock down and shutting the car door.

The two women took off in the direction of the campus grounds. Jennifer checked over her shoulder and spotted Hawkman parking near the green Toyota.

"Okay, first of all, what last name should I give when I introduce you to my friends?” Laura asked.

"How about Jones? Jennifer Jones has a good ring to it."

Laura grinned. “That'll do. Now, tell me how Mr. Casey acquired the Hawkman nickname."

Jennifer told her the story of how the locals had stuck the name to him before they'd met. She explained his love for birds, and how he'd rescued his first falcon. “After the bird died of old age, I found him a female which he calls Pretty Girl. She stays in an aviary he built out on our back deck. Falcons love to hunt, so Hawkman tries to take her out in the wilderness at least once a week. When his schedule is hectic, I'll do it for him."

Laura glanced at Jennifer as they walked. “Really? Do you wear a leather glove?"

"You bet, or those long claws would dig into my arm."

Laura led Jennifer into the classroom, and introduced her to the professor.

"Ms Jones, you're more than welcome to sit in on the class. I hope you'll decide on attending our college."

"Thank you,” Jennifer said, and followed Laura to a couple of empty desks.

Before class began, Jennifer leaned close to Laura's ear. “Is Cindy in here?” she whispered.

"No, next hour."

"Do you have an extra pen and paper? I might want to take some notes."

"Sure.” Laura handed her the items just as the last bell rang. The students grew quiet, and the professor started his lecture.

At the end of the period, Jennifer thanked the instructor for an enlightening hour, then the two women walked to the next class, where Laura again introduced her to the teacher. After they were seated, Laura pointed out Jason Calderidge, Blake Russell, and Joey Higgins.

"Where's Cindy?” Jennifer asked.

"I don't know, she hasn't come in yet."

Just as the last bell rang, Cindy flew into the class and took a seat. “Sorry,” she said. “I got delayed."

The scholar nodded and started the lesson.

Cindy turned in her seat and stared at Laura. Jennifer could tell from the fire in her eyes, the glare was not one of kindness. Laura squirmed in her seat, and Jennifer knew she felt uncomfortable from the heat of the threatening look. Leaning toward Laura, she whispered. “Don't let her worry you. I'm here and Hawkman's outside."

Laura partially covered her mouth with a hand. “She's up to no good. I can tell."

"We can handle her."

The students settled as the discourse began. Jennifer found the lesson intriguing, and even scribbled a few notes. She understood why Laura liked this class above them all. As the talk wound down and the teacher pointed out the next assignment written on the chalk board, Jennifer took the moment while everyone was copying it, to study Cindy. A beautiful young woman, but like Hawkman had stated, she wore heavy makeup. She had lovely, natural blond hair which cascaded down her back in soft silky waves. Many women would kill for that look. In spite of her prettiness, Jennifer noticed a harsh side in Cindy's body language. She sat with a stiff back, yet her fingers silently and continuously drummed the desk. Her frown caused a deep wrinkle between her eyes, which would soon make a lasting flaw. There were no happy lines around her mouth nor a sparkle in her deep blue eyes. Jennifer came to the rapid conclusion; this girl showed signs of depression or anxiety.

After the dismissal bell, Jason Calderidge sauntered over to Cindy. “Hi, pretty lady. Wanna go get a coke?"

Cindy glanced at him without smiling. “No, thanks. I've got things to do."

"Okay,” he said, shrugging and walking away.

As Jennifer and Laura walked by Cindy's desk to leave the room, she slammed her book shut. “Laura, I need to talk to you in private."

Laura paused. “I don't think so."

Cindy stood and reached out to grab Laura's arm. Jennifer stepped between the two women and looked Cindy in the eye. “I wouldn't advise you to touch her."

"Who are you?"

"She's my cousin, and trained in the martial arts,” Laura said with a hand on her hip. “So if you don't want your arm broken, you better keep your hands to yourself."

Cindy glared at Jennifer with a cynical smile. “Are you Laura's bodyguard?"

"Not unless she needs me."

Cindy then focused on Laura. “Stay away from Brett."

"It's none of your business who I see."

"He's mine."

"Interesting. He never mentioned your name, so guess the feeling isn't mutual."

Cindy grabbed her books from the desk. “You see him again and you'll be sorry.” She bolted past the two and hurried out the door.

Laura looked at Jennifer. “Wonder what she means by such a threat?"

"Not good, I'm sure,” Jennifer said as they meandered into the hallway crammed with students heading for their next period. “Where do we go next?"

"I have a break right now. Would you like to go to the student union and get something to drink?"

"Sure."

They strolled into the large room filled with people, and each bought a soda. Sitting down at one of the small tables, Jennifer studied Laura. Hawkman is right, she thought. Laura is a natural beauty with a softness about her that Cindy didn't possess. Her healthy tan showed she'd spent time outside. Laura's hair wasn't blond, but it glistened under the lights as her pony tail fell over her shoulders when she moved her head. Her mannerisms showed a side of shyness, but she also exhibited confidence. Jennifer liked what she observed in this young woman.

"Hawkman told me you'd gone out with Brett, who is supposedly Cindy's beau. Did you like him?"

She nodded. “Yes, very much. In fact, we have another date this coming weekend."

"Does Cindy's warning bother you?"

Laura sighed. “Yes. I hate all this stuff going on. Cindy being a crack shot in archery does make me a bit nervous. She doesn't have to be close to shoot an arrow into me."

"You told Cindy, Brett didn't make any comments about her. Were you telling the truth?"

"Only when we walked in on her parents at the restaurant. We immediately left, and he said he wished he'd never taken Cindy out. She'd turned out to be possessive and unpredictable. He didn't like those traits in a woman. He never brought her name up again."

"How would you feel if we talked to him about this situation?"

Laura frowned. “I wouldn't like it, but if you have to, I'd understand."

Jennifer reached over and patted her arm. “It might be necessary for him to know what's going on, as you probably aren't the only one Cindy wants to shoot."

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Jennifer and Laura had lunch, then finished attending the rest of the classes for the afternoon. When they approached the Toyota, they found Hawkman leaning on the fender.

"Are you protecting my car?” Laura said, laughing.

"Yep.” He pointed to the red convertible parked in the next row. “When I saw her drive up, I made myself visible and she stomped past without even speaking. I think she might have had something in mind, but I fouled up her plan."