It was close to seven in the morning and the sky was starting to get lighter. The sun was due up around half past eight, but because of the winter storm, the sky only was going to get a little lighter. It looked like the day was going to be under a light gray layer of clouds.
Taylor picked up the menu, and I knew she’d be able to make a quick decision, based on our last dining experience. But I wasn’t going to give her shit over it today. We needed to be quick since we didn’t have a lot of time before we needed to go.
“Make sure you get something that’s going to last you the day,” I suggested as I eyed the picture of the bacon and pancakes. “Hey, they have a bacon and eggs platter with pancakes,” I nonchalantly pointed out.
“Thank you. I’m glad you mentioned that because I considered having Tic-Tacs for breakfast,” she said sarcastically. “I assure you, I’m fully capable of reviewing a menu and making a smart decision with the tasks of the day in mind.”
Military trait.
“Meat and protein are good for you.” I sipped my coffee. Her gaze met mine, and I had to tease her a little. “You should try it more often. I think you’d like it.”
“You’re lucky you were the last child born to your family. Otherwise, your parents may have decided that you were absolutely enough and never would have had any kids after you.”
“Don’t worry. If you’re starting to feel a little sluggish along the way, I can always give you a meat stick and a shot of protein.”
“I wonder how angry Michael would be if you came home with a broken jaw.”
The server appeared. “Have you both decided what you’d like?”
“I’ll have the pancakes with the bacon and eggs, please,” Taylor said. She closed the menu and looked at me.
“I’ll have what she’s having.”
We kept the conversation to a minimum when our food came. It was more important for us to eat so we could get going. As I finished eating, I got a text from Daniel and quickly picked up my phone.
I’m parked just outside the town at a gas station. It won’t be long now.
“Daniel said he’s in position. We should get going,” I suggested. “If we can get this over with sooner rather than later, that would be fine with me.”
“Me too,” Taylor said.
I stayed behind at the table to pay, and Taylor hurried to the cart near the front of the restaurant. She was going to get some fruit and bottled water for the kids to have on the drive to the airport. As soon as I handed the cash over to the server, I headed toward Taylor, then we made our way to the parking garage. As we walked, I sent a text to Daniel.
We’re on our way. Text me the moment he leaves.
Will do. Then I’ll follow him into Stockholm and will wait at the edge of town until he heads your way.
Stay in touch.
So much of the success of this rescue depended upon Daniel doing his job and not getting distracted. Michael would pay him well as long as everything went as planned. Once we were in the parking garage, I sent a text to Michael.
We’re headed out.
Thank you. Please bring them home safely.
That’s the plan.
And take care of yourself and Taylor.
In case you forgot, she can take care of herself.
I know she can. Just make sure you bring everyone home safely.
This isn’t like picking kids up from baseball practice and getting them home in time for dinner. It’s a bit more complicated.
I’m fully aware of what it entails.
I’ll text you when we’re on the jet.
