Texas Takedown. Heather Woodhaven

      

      LETHAL SABOTAGE

      Presenting her research findings at an oceanology conference should be marine biologist Isabelle Barrows’s big break—until she spots two men chasing her. With shadowy assailants on her tail, impressing potential investors becomes the least of her concerns. Especially when the men chase her straight into the arms of her high school crush. Unbeknownst to Isabelle, Matt McGuire still regrets the way they parted. Determined not to repeat past mistakes, Matt vows to keep her safe and make things right. But what good is a second chance when Isabelle’s attackers will stop at nothing to destroy everything she holds dear—her life, her promising career and any possibility of a happily-ever-after?

      “He’s getting away!”

      He couldn’t call for an ambulance without his phone, which still resided in the inner pocket of his suit jacket. He reached for Isabelle and his eyes focused on the rip in his suit where she’d been stabbed. Matt pulled the jacket back slowly, prepared for the worst.

      Instead of blood he only saw fabric. His eyes lifted.

      She pressed her hand on her stomach. “It didn’t pierce me. Your jacket... Was there something in the pocket?” Her frown cleared as she pulled out his phone and wallet. Cracks radiated across the screen. In the center of the phone he could see the point of impact. If the blade had hit flesh... He gulped.

      Her right hand reached for his wrist.

      “Isabelle, you could’ve been—”

      “But I wasn’t. You saved my life,” she whispered. Her eyes filled. “He got away with everything. My phone, my wallet, my tablet...it’s all gone.”

      He squeezed her hand. “All replaceable.” Unlike her.

      Dear Reader,

      Two years ago, my husband had a work trip scheduled for San Antonio in June. As our twentieth anniversary was fast approaching, my husband’s parents agreed to come watch the children so I could take the opportunity to travel with him. It was such a blessing. I knew Matt McGuire, the final brother, had been working hard as a hotel manager somewhere, waiting for me to tell his story.

      While my husband was at his conference, I explored. On the first day, I got lost in a construction area near Hemisfair Park and found myself in an underground grotto with no one around except shadows. This inspired the first chapter. Thankfully, I was in no danger.

      After climbing the steps aboveground, a group of nurses attending a conference adopted me until I could get my bearings. I also wanted my characters to get some time to enjoy all the delicious food I experienced on the River Walk. Sadly, those pesky villains wouldn’t allow it. Even thinking about it makes me crave some tableside guacamole.

      I’ve had a lot of good times with the McGuire family. I’m glad all four brothers got a chance to find love. I hope from here on out, they can enjoy some family time without danger following them.

      I love to hear from readers. Feel free to contact me through my website, WritingHeather.com. In addition, those who subscribe to my newsletter are occasionally given opportunities to receive advance reader copies of my books.

      Blessings,

      Heather Woodhaven

      HEATHER WOODHAVEN earned her pilot’s license, rode a hot-air balloon over the safari lands of Kenya, parasailed over Caribbean seas, lived through an accidental detour onto a black-diamond ski trail in Aspen and snorkeled among stingrays before becoming a mother of three and wife of one. She channels her love for adventure into writing characters who find themselves in extraordinary circumstances.

      Texas Takedown

      Heather Woodhaven

       www.millsandboon.co.uk

      MILLS & BOON

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      For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.

      —Matthew 6:21

      For Don and Mary. Thank you for cheering me on.

      I’m so thankful you welcomed me into your family.

      Contents

       Cover

       Back Cover Text

       Introduction

       Dear Reader

       About the Author

       Title Page

       Bible Verse

       Dedication

       ONE

       TWO

       THREE

       FOUR

       FIVE

       SIX

       SEVEN

       EIGHT

       NINE

       TEN