“Do you have your earpiece with you?” Rage frowns at me.
“Yes.”
“And the documents?” Carter adds.
“That too.” I tap my right pocket.
“How’s the wrist?” Rage grabs my wrist to check it. He takes more time than needed, and I can see what it’s going on.
“I told you, the implant didn’t hurt at all.”
Rage glances at Carter. He looks hesitant, and something is obviously bothering him. Then he says, “Can you give us a few minutes, pretty boy? I need to talk to her alone.”
“No fucking way, Rage,” Carter responds, arms crossed over his chest. His eyes are fixed on us.
He knows.
“Well, fuck you too,” Rage walks over to hug me.
He fuckinghugsme. Tight.
He wraps his muscular arms around me, pushing me against his body. His hair moves down my face, tickling my nose. The scent of his shampoo fills my nostrils. I did not expect that smell, it’s spicy and fresh. I breathe deeply, forcing myself to remember his smell and his body pressed against mine.
“Remember we’ll be in contact all the time,” he whispers in my ear. “You’ve got this. I know you do. Trust your instincts.”
“Thank you, Rage.” That’s all I can manage as he is still crushing me in a bear hug. “I mean it, thanks.”
“Don’t do anything stupid,” he continues, and I bury my face in his chest – such a simple gesture that speaks volumes.
His touch makes the room warmer and my future a little lighter. I squeeze him back, not wanting the moment to end.
“I won’t.”
He loosens his grip, and as he steps back, he lands a sweet and small kiss on the corner of my mouth.
“You know where to find me, kiddo.”
I smile instead of using my voice. I’m afraid of finding myself sayingI want to stay, don’t let me go, please.
Carter is frowning – he is not happy about that hug.
“Come on, it is your turn,” I say to Carter as I extend my arms to him. He scoffs and hugs me but with less intensity than Rage.
It’s understandable. Carter doesn’t wanna get in my pants.
“Be safe,” he implores. “Promise me you’ll be safe.”
“I promise.”
He nods at my words with a sad smile.
This is so fucking depressing. I’m about to leave behind everything in my life for a fantasy.
Rage is right, what if he has someone there?
Many things can happen in two years: You might fall in love, have a baby…move on. Maybe he has forgotten about me… Oh god, what if he is mad at me for ruining his mission?
Stop! Stop it!
