Prologue
A shot fired into the trees of the forest canopy.
Sterling Bennett’s chest constricted with rage, and he glared at his brother as they increased their speed.
His lungs burned, sweat ran down his back. Determined, he dodged the bushes and trees that jumped in his path compelling him to alter his direction. Mud oozed over his new riding boots with every step, and he groaned, wishing he hadn’t left his horse with the blacksmith.
Behind a large rock formation, his brother’s footsteps pounded behind him. “What kind of mess have you gotten yourself into this time, Bruce?” he asked in a hoarse whisper as he searched for shelter.
“The usual.” Bruce barked. “A man needs to enjoy himself.” Bruce tore stray twigs from his jacket, breathing heavily beside Sterling. “Besides, what’s life if you aren’t going to have a little adventure?” Bruce stomped through a particularly large mud puddle, splattering them both. Sterling frowned at the amused expression on Bruce’s face.
“If you don’t reign in this infernal habit of yours, you’ll get killed.”
Bruce had such potential – if the infuriating whelp would only apply himself toward something worthwhile.
Bruce laughed. “You’ll never let that happen.”
Sterling glanced around the rocks. “Don’t tempt me, little brother.” He pointed and led them to a dense section of trees several paces away. “I’m tired of bailing you out. It’s time you started being responsible.”
“Where’s the fun in that?”
“I mean it, Bruce. One of these days you’ll land in a hole, six feet under if you don’t change your ways.” He stepped over a log and continued his fierce pace.
“You’ll keep bailing me out because you love being so helpful all the time,” Bruce mocked. “To everyone except your family.”
Another shot whizzed through the air and Bruce buckled and groaned. Blood oozed from his shoulder at an alarming rate as Bruce dropped to his knees.
“We need to get out of here, and find you a doctor.”
