Haunted Warrior Read Online Free PDF Page A

man who’d make any woman weak in the knees, but just now reproach showed in every line of his beautifully made male body. He came toward her like a predator, his mouth set in a hard, determined line. The air between them sizzled, his displeasure as tangible as her racing pulse.
    Still, flutters of pure appreciation curled deep in her most sensitive regions. Tingly warmth spread, igniting feelings she needed to squelch.
    Before she could try, his dog leapt forward and bolted for her car. Coming fast, he almost flew the last few feet, not stopping until his muddied paws smeared her window and his friendly black-­and-­white face peered in at her. All lolling tongue and bright eyes, he stole her heart in an instant, even making her laugh.
    The nightmare of driving on the left side of the roadand her fear of sheer rock faces receded, chased by the rascally dog’s eagerness to meet her.
    Until his master sprinted up to the car and his frown dashed her much-­needed levity.
    “Jock, down.” He spoke firmly, taking the dog by the collar and pulling him off the car when he refused to obey. Undaunted, Jock broke away and lunged again at the window, this time slurping the glass.
    Kendra opened the car door, getting out. “It’s okay. Please—­”
    “He’s a ruffian.” The man reached for him again, but the dog bounded aside, circling them. “I’ll clean your window in the village. Jock shouldn’t—­”
    “It doesn’t matter.” Kendra gripped the car door as the wind almost knocked her down. Cold, damp air that smelled of the sea—­tangy, invigorating, and oddly beckoning—­surrounded her. Almost as if the very air called to her, challenging her to breathe it and not be captivated.
    An elixir she’d always yearn for if she left now.
    A ridiculous notion she shoved aside as Jock bumped against her, nudging her hand and eyeing her hopefully as if she had treats.
    She glanced at the smeared window and then at Jock’s master, who still looked furious. “I don’t mind the smudges. I love dogs.”
    “Sit, laddie, and be still.” The man ignored her and motioned to his dog, giving him a look. This time Jock stayed away from her. But he remained standing, his tail wagging happily.
    Obviously, Jock had obedience issues.
    His master…
    Kendra suspected his dog was the only soul able to get the better of him. A law unto himself, he wouldn’tallow others’ rules to sway him. He breathed strength, a roguish self-­assurance that was incredibly appealing.
    He liked dogs.
    That pulled weight with her.
    Jock barked as if he knew and was pleased. Then he dropped onto his haunches and bobbed his head, giving her an enthusiastic canine grin.
    “Your dog is friendly.” Kendra met the man’s eyes, letting her own imply the rest.
    “And I am not?” He took the bait. His dark gaze measured her, his frown firmly in place. “I did pull Jock off your car.”
    “Dogs never bother me.” Kendra stood straighter, hoping the wind would cool her flushed face and hide the film of moisture on her brow.
    His mention of the rental car brought her frustrations spiraling right back to her. They hit her like a fist in the chest, bringing embarrassment, because he’d surely seen her snail-­like reversal from the cliff edge. Knowing she was American and thinking her a tourist, he’d no doubt guessed the reason for her flight.
    Americans were known to dread UK driving.
    As a matter of pride, Kendra tossed back her hair and lifted her chin. “What does bother me is wondering what you’re doing here.”
    “Walking Jock.” He glanced at the dog. “We take the coastal path every afternoon.”
    “Yesterday you were in Aberdeen, at Balmedie Beach.” Kendra expected him to deny it.
    “I had business there.” His honesty surprised her. The way he narrowed his eyes, looking her up and down, annoyed her. “You didn’t say you were headed for Pennard. Not many tourists come here these days.”
    Kendra knew why.
    Zack had told her