His eyes flick to Lucky then down to a typed sheet of paper he unfolds. “Marines are some tough SOB’s and I respect you so I won’t pull any punches. First off, neither Jack nor I picked up on any vibes about the restaurant and we should’ve. However, now, standing right in front of you, my ears are itching, buddy. You won’t make it if you go back to that God-awful war, a war that can never be won.”
Pacing the middle of the room, Slate continues. “Listen up. I dove under a freakin' subway train to save Lilac, Izzy never gave up searching for Gray when he was washed out to sea, and Jack went undercover to rescue Blake. That's what family does. We don’t fucking run off. Like Jack said, you've paid your dues and got a shitload of nightmares to prove it. Don't break up our team, Loch. You don't have to go overseas to prove you're worthy. You and Suds have pulled off miracles and without you, Patten is less. Stay put, get better, and protect your beautiful wife and daughter.
He coughs into the paper. “I fucking love you, brother."
A long, silence follows as he strides out onto the deck.
“Coffee anyone?” Mel points to the granite-topped kitchen island.
“Wait. I want to say something.” Slate adds his heartfelt words and I cry but Loch mutters under his breath. “Thank fook.”
Shit, this wasn’t what I expected.
