Career military.
And even a cold-blooded criminal I’d learned had a heart of gold and an intense love of children and families.
They were dressed in black as if hired mercenaries. Threatening in a way that comforted me. Most were tall and muscular, their shoulders filling doorways, their carved faces meant for the covers of magazines. But it was their subtle yet powerful actions and forever watchful eyes that allowed anyone paying attention to realize they were dangerous.
Each one of them had also been mindful of my daughter.
Every one of them had a story to tell, their scars and tattoos an indication of how much peril they’d experienced over the years. I’d overheard a few stories regarding their pasts and experiences they’d had with criminals skating the system as they’d discussed plans, not bothering to try to keep what they intended from me. I was a part of this, a foray into a darker side of the law.
They were far more organized than I’d initially realized, discussing their upcoming mission as if it were a top-secret military action. All with Hudson remaining in charge, directing them as he would team members in the Marines.
I was in awe of all of them but only had eyes for Hudson.
Now eight of them were preparing to leave, double-checking their supplies and discussing the route taken in returning to Miami.
“You all know what we’re facing and the goals we all agreed upon. Don’t stray from the mission unless absolutely necessary.” Hudson’s words were stark and cold, yet the warmth in his eyes as he looked at me stronger than even the time spent in the shower.
“Any questions?” Maverick asked. I’d met three of the four poker buddies, one currently working with the DEA on a case. I suspected given what Hudson had slyly told me that Chase and his team were working in tandem with the behind-the-scenes mission Hudson had undertaken. Maverick was a hoot and I’d read at least one of his bestselling books.
What a small world.
When no one had any, Hudson nodded as if directing them on their way. They filed past him, but he waited, taking deep breaths as he turned his full attention to me.
Sauntering closer, he finally broke into a smile. “Are you going to be alright? Four of the guys will be here, two inside and two out. No one knows the location of the house and there’s tight security, but I’m not taking a single chance. Precious cargo.”
“Oh,” I teased and palmed his chest. “I’m precious cargo now.”
“Mmm… You bet.” He wrapped his arm around me, pulling me close. “Very precious. I won’t allow anything to happen to you. Never again.”
“Don’t worry about me. I think I’m overly protected. Worry about yourself. I don’t want to get some crazy phone call or to read about your heroic story in one of Maverick’s books one day. I want you back safe and sound.”
“So what are you telling me?” His face lit up once again as soon as he grinned.
“I’m telling you I’d like to keep you around for even longer than I thought. Maybe a few weeks. If I can tolerate you.”
His laugh was deep and rough, so much like the man. “I guess I need to be careful.”
My smile faded as the realization I might lose him settled in. “I’m serious. Don’t do anything crazy.”
He pinched my chin and brushed his lips across mine. “You’re going to need to learn I like crazy.”
“That’s what I’m afraid of. By the way. You look like drug dealers.”
He laughed. “That’s what we’re going for. Bad ass boys with guns.”
“My bad ass boy.”
“I like the sound of that.”
As he captured my mouth, for another few beautiful seconds, I was able to fall into the sweet vacuum.
“Ahem,” another deep voice broke through the special moment. “We should get going, Cap’n. Save the kissy face stuff until we finish our mission.”
Hudson pulled away, groaning. “Fine. I’m going.”
“Now you’re a captain?” I asked, teasing.
“I am. And don’t you forget it, babe.” As he backed away, I could see the building concern, but this was something he needed to do.
