“That wasn’t very nice,” a harsh voice said close to Finn’s ear. “Knocking my partner out like that. I guess I should return the favor before I pay a little visit to the senator.”
Finn froze in place, not wanting to piss the guy off and possibly take a bullet to the head. He was still trying to come up with a plan of action when the pressure of the gun was removed, and he heard a grunt and angry muttering behind him. He whirled to find that someone had yanked the intruder away and had the guy in what looked to be a sleeper hold.
“He dropped his gun,” Drew said, appearing untroubled by the struggles of his captive, which became weaker as the man was deprived of oxygen. “You okay?”
“I’m fine,” Finn said, awash in relief. Drew was there. Drew had his back. Just like Joe would have. “Thanks.”
“Anytime, partner.” The man he was holding sank to his knees, and Finn saw a flash of white teeth as Drew grinned. “Saw this asshole come over the wall just as you passed by. Figured that it was safer to sneak up behind him than get you trapped between two opponents. Check and make sure there isn’t a third, okay?”
“On it.”
Finn searched the grounds for any other intruders while Drew secured the ones they’d found, but if those two had any backup, they’d done the smart thing and bailed. He finished his investigation about the time their own backup arrived, and he returned to the van to give his report.
Drew joined him a few minutes later. “The police are here. We’ll have to give statements.” He smiled at Finn, but there was worry in his eyes. “You were as cool as a cucumber when that guy got the drop on you. Nice job. Some guys just can’t keep their heads in a situation like that, and it usually gets them killed. You okay?”
“I’mfine.” Finn was amused but also touched by Drew’s concern. “I’ve been in worse situations.”
“Yeah, I know. You were on that nuke adventure with D-Day,” Drew replied. He stepped closer, reaching out a hand to brush his fingers over Finn’s cheek. “Just wanted to be sure, okay? It matters to me.”
Finn’s heart softened, and when it reformed, he realized part of it had given itself over to Drew’s keeping. He leaned into the touch and offered a smile full of the new warmth and affection he felt. “Thanks. I do appreciate it.”
“Sure.”
Drew said the word softly. With a sigh he closed his eyes and leaned in to claim Finn’s lips. The kiss was gentle, yet somehow full of promise. Finn rested his hands at Drew’s waist, lingering over the moment of connection.
There was a sound from outside the van, and Drew released Finn, stepping back with a crooked smile. “I guess we’d better talk to the police. Once we do, we’re off the clock according to Herc.”
“Let’s get it over with.” Finn moved away, but he paused long enough to smirk over his shoulder at Drew. “Maybe once we’re off the clock, I’ll let you perform a hands-on examination, so you can make sure I’m okay.”
Drew chuckled. “Let me? I was going to insist. It’s only wise to be checked out after a physical confrontation. You’re a medical man. I’m sure you know that.”
“Oh, of course.” Finn chuckled as he went to join the police officers, more than ready to give his statement and finish up all the paperwork so he could go home with Drew and receive the most enjoyablephysical examof his life.
