Free Marshal Law by Kris Norris Page A

me in to be sentenced before a judge.”
    Ethan’s growled against her ear, the sound conveying the same warning she’d heard in Jude’s the previous night. “As far as we’re concerned, Bret and Frank Wilson’s actions have justified yours. Hell, the mayor in Ralston only contacted us as a means of getting you to agree to be their damn sheriff. Consider yourself pardoned.”
    “You can’t—”
    “We can and as soon as you’re strong enough to ride, we’ll head to Ralston…make it official. It’s like you said. You didn’t murder those men. You were simply defending yourself. We both saw that last night. And don’t think we missed the fact you were willing to sacrifice your life to save us, not to mention those people in the saloon. A killer wouldn’t have done that.”
    Jude somehow got closer without intimidating her. “As for not knowing you…we know the important things. That you have an honorable heart. That you’re fearless. That your scent, your touch, your smile makes us feel more like men than we ever have.” He trailed a single finger along her jaw. “The rest will come in time. But we don’t have any doubts.”
    The honesty in his voice humbled her, the truth of his statements gleaming in his eyes.
    She took a deep breath, not quite sure how to answer. “I’m not a shifter.”
    “Not important, though you’re closer than you think.”
    “What if I have doubts? I haven’t stayed in one place long enough in the past ten years to make a friend let alone consider a permanent relationship.” She pushed a hand through her hair. “I don’t even know how to let you boys in without wanting to run.”
    Ethan released a slow breath, the whisper of air drawing a low moan from her. “All we’re asking for is some time. A chance. Rest. Heal. Once you’re feelin’ better, we’ll talk some more.”
    “That’s it? You’re going to be content just watchin’ me sleep?”
    Ethan slipped his hands around her waist, tugging her firmer against him. “Make no mistake. If we thought we could tempt you into our bed for more than just sleeping, we would. But we both know you’re not ready. To push you would make us just as guilty as the other men you’ve come across. We have a lifetime together.” His tongue flicked across her nape. “But you’re foolin’ yourself if you think there’s nothing between us…that your desire doesn’t burn as hot and pure as ours. We can smell what we do to you. And sooner or later, you’ll have to address that.”
    Each word sent a tremble of longing through her, and she tilted her head in response, granting him access to where he’d marked her. The rasp of his lips across the small punctures made the room spin, and she reached for him before she’d even realized her legs had buckled. Ethan’s strong arms gathered her close as he covered the short distance to the bed. She looked up at him as he placed her on the mattress, a sinful smile making her heart race. The man was dangerously handsome, and she knew she wouldn’t be able to deny her feelings forever.
    “Jude and I will take turns checkin’ the surrounding area. I’m hopin’ Bret stays put in Tombstone until his brother’s wound heals…that’s if your shot didn’t kill the bastard outright. We should be long gone by the time they come lookin’. But either way, stay put. No going outside until you’re steady.” He pressed a finger against her lips. “And yeah, I know that sounds bossy, but it’s our best course of action until you’re fit and we can get those warrants on you taken care of.” He grinned. “You’re still worth quite a hefty sum to someone should they be able to bring you in.”
    She glanced at Jude as the man stood at the foot of the bed. “Are you boys sure you wouldn’t rather collect that money than wait for me to come to my senses?”
    Jude chuckled. “Trust me, darlin’, it’s tempting. You are all sorts of ornery.” He winked. “But we’ll wait it out,