Read Embrace of the Enemy (Winds of Betrayal) for Free Online Page A

intention of taking care of you for all your family has done. I have done everything within my power, but it won’t be enough for you.”
    “Don’t play me for a fool!” Jonathan exploded upon the response. “I ask for nothing. I, too, am doing all I can for the cause. I feel I have no control over my life or my family’s lives and I need to regain that control. Starting with Hannah.”
    Lanson stared at him without flinching. “Jonathan, she understood before she left what lay ahead of her. In her mind she searched for an answer, which she found, but along the way, Jonathan, with the foundation she laid out, I’m afraid she won’t be removed at the moment.”
    “Why the hell not?” Jonathan colored.
    “You have no idea what we’re up against. In reality there is no indication she is in immediate danger. She walks freely among them, Jonathan, within their own social group,” Lanson said straight forth. “From her contact she has become a vital link. I don’t think she would want it broken. If there is ever an indication of suspicion, I give you my word I will remove her personally.”
    “Your word be damned! We both know if she is discovered you won’t have the time to rescue her. Punishment is swift for a spy. By God, Lanson. Get her out! I don’t need an additional worry. I don’t want to lose another,” Jonathan covered his face with two hands. Calming, he clasped his hands together in front of his lips in thought.
    “Do you not know I know my sister well? She would be more than willing, I’m sure, to lay down her life for the cause. She believes so fervently and passionate, but I’m not willing to allow her to do so, Lanson. I don’t know what else I need to say. Do you not yourself feel it’s improper to leave her such?”
    Lanson shook his head. “I told you before, Jonathan, I wouldn’t be able to make you happy today.”
    “Tell me this much. Have you told her about Gabriel? He didn’t waste any time being reassigned to Philadelphia. I hear he is to marry Deborah Reynolds. Did you tell her this was her payment for her services?” Jonathan glared at Lanson. “I don’t think so. It is evident that you bribed Gabriel. If she was so willing, you wouldn’t have resorted to bribery. Is she still loyal to him, believing he’s waiting for her?”
    Lanson remained silent. Jonathan stood. “I know that your job isn’t easy, Lanson. It’s not a life I could live, but by God, is it your mission to destroy my entire family?”
    Lanson shook his head again. “I didn’t say I felt good about the situation. But know this, Jonathan, she is an essential part. We can’t afford to lose her at the moment.”
    “What about Hannah?” Jonathan shot back.
    “We can’t consider our personal cost at this time, Jonathan.”
    “What is your personal cost, Lanson? What are you going to lose?” Jonathan asked coolly. “Now Gannon’s in New York. Do you not believe he poses a threat to Hannah? Enough is enough?”
    Jonathan had gained no ground when Catherine appeared in the doorway holding William. He hadn’t long with his family. He had not the patience. His last words he spoke laid his intentions.
    “I have to return to my unit by the end of March. When I return again, my sister better be safe within my house for your sake also.”
    * * * *
    Jonathan tried to reason with his wife, but she seemed confused on the issue of her father’s betrayal. Catherine cried lost in a world of her own. Befuddled, she wanted her father back. She seemed confident that Jonathan could arrange it.
    Jonathan shook his head. Catherine had no concept that if he could get hold of the man, he would strangle the life out of him himself.
    The days of his leave dwindled down and Catherine was becoming more of an issue. He couldn’t leave her alone, but he didn’t fully trust Stephen and saw only one choice.
    Little William supplied Jonathan with determination. Watching his son, he had regained his passion for the fight. He