Her Kind Of Hero

Cover Page

Excerpt

About the Author

Title Page

Dedication

Acknowledgments

Chapter One

Chapter Two

Chapter Three

Chapter Four

Chapter Five

Chapter Six

Chapter Seven

Chapter Eight

Chapter Nine

Chapter Ten

Chapter Eleven

Chapter Twelve

Chapter Thirteen

Chapter Fourteen

Chapter Fifteen

Chapter Sixteen

Chapter Seventeen

Chapter Eighteen

Chapter Nineteen

Chapter Twenty

Chapter Twenty-One

Chapter Twenty-Two

Chapter Twenty-Three

Chapter Twenty-Four

Chapter Twenty-Five

Chapter Twenty-Six

Chapter Twenty-Seven

Epilogue

Dear Reader

Copyright

Only a warm, sunny glow. One that had faded long, long ago.

She relaxed, snug in police officer Luke Northrup’s safe embrace.

This was what she needed, Calli realized. Luke. Witty and compassionate, stubborn yet funny, he knew who and what he was. He had his priorities straight—fatherhood first, law enforcement second—and he didn’t require anyone to affirm his convictions.

Yes, Sergeant Luke Northrup was a man of integrity.

Calli sadly backed away from him.

For the last thing he needed was a woman with none.

CAROL STEWARD

Carol Steward has always been creative. She says, “When I was sixteen, I bought my first key chain. It said Bloom Where You’re Planted, and I’ve tried to follow that advice ever since.” She eventually followed God’s leading to write inspirational stories about men and women overcoming insurmountable obstacles to find that special person who, along with Christ, can make their life complete.

Colorado has been home to Carol for more than thirty-two years. She and her husband have also lived in Wyoming and North Dakota. Their three teenagers keep their lives from becoming mundane. Together, their family enjoys sports, camping and discovering Colorado’s beauty.

Having volunteered for several organizations, Carol encourages others to strive to learn something from each opportunity. “Raising my family is a very rewarding priority in my life. Their love and encouragement continually inspires my own personal growth.”

Carol is a full-time child-care provider, opening her heart and home to six additional preschool children. She finds it very rewarding nurturing God’s little miracles. She also enjoys exercising her creativity through tole-painting, sewing, needlework and cake decorating. Refinishing furniture and collecting Noah’s Ark pieces are just a few of the extras that keep Carol busy in her “spare” time.

www.millsandboon.co.uk

For when we were with you, we told you beforehand that we were to suffer affliction; just as it has come to pass, and as you know. For this reason, when I could bear it no longer, I sent that I might know your faith, for fear that somehow the tempter had tempted you and that our labor would be in vain.

—1 Thessalonians 3:4-5

To my father, Tom Bohannan, for a lifetime of insight on law enforcement and showing me that there’s a hero in each of us. Ken, Todd, Tim, Ed and the Greeley Police Department for their insights and for letting me experience firsthand the excitement and danger of police work.

My husband and kids for their never-ending encouragement. Anne for having faith in my ability to write this story. Helen, Sally, Ellen, LeAnn, Lynn, Margaret, Linda and Bette for motivating me to write through this challenging year. And to the Creator for inspiring me to share these stories.

Calli Giovanni walked through the stained-glass doors praying that she would someday experience the peace of forgiveness.

Why can’t I let it go?

“You can’t get discouraged,” her cousin Hanna said, following her through the doors. “Don’t expect healing to happen all at once. It isn’t easy. Like tonight’s speaker said, it’s one miserable step at a time. For tonight, go home. Stop patrolling.”

“I can’t, Hanna. I would think you’d understand. He was my kid brother. I want justice served. I can’t let it go.”

“I do understand, Calandre. More than you think.” Hanna took Calli by the shoulders. “Who can’t you forgive, Calli? The killer? Or yourself, for not seeing Mike slip out of the house?”

Calli turned and stared into her cousin’s moist eyes. “Neither.” Her own tears dried up years ago. All that was left was this numbness. She was an emotional zombie.

“Don’t you see what this is doing to you?” Hanna asked.

“It’s not worth it. You don’t laugh. You don’t cry. You barely exist.” Hanna paused, then unlocked her car door. “Go home. It’s time for you to stop.”

Calli never finished her college degree. Her brother had been killed at the beginning of her last semester. She’d set new priorities. Priorities that cost her dearly. Her family, her fiancé, her happiness. All in hopes of finding answers. “That’s easier said than done.”

Hanna hugged Calli. “You can do it. Just don’t give in. Sorry I have to rush off, but I’m expecting a call at ninethirty. Take care.” Her petite cousin slid into her sports car and waved.