Falcon was convinced this wouldn’t be enough to challenge Vic and waited for Vic to contact him. They’ve been talking about the work Storm takes on, and Vic is on the verge of making the decision as to whether we’d fit into his life. Vic would be the first man we’d hire who hadn’t served with the team in the army. Vic enlisted, but after his first tour, he was disillusioned by the colonel he worked under. He found out the man was dirty, and his team was too scared to speak up. Vic’s not stupid and understood that speaking out would only make things worse for him. He bided his time until the end of his tour, and as he walked onto the plane home, he handed his findings to the pilot to give to the general on his return to the base. What came of it, no one knows. Vic never followed up and put that part of his life behind him.
Vic’s a huge monster of a man, like a prizefighter. He works out like a demon, doing it religiously. He’s come to Storm a few times, and his favorite room is the workout space. After we all met him, we agreed that Vic would be a great addition to the team. But the decision rests with Vic. His longish blond hair is tied back in a man bun, and he’s wearing army green chinos and black T-shirt while he leans against his dark navy truck when we come into view.
I open Remmi’s door, and we approach the others. “Sorry, we’re late,” I apologize, then reach out to take Vic’s hand. “It’s good to see you, man. Are you joining us at Storm?” I say, giving him a little nudge to join the team.
Vic chuckles, showing off his dimple. “You sure know how to make a guy feel welcome,” he replies.
“He’s here to keep an eye open and take care of Remmi and Maya,” Bull cuts in. “This way, you’ll be able to concentrate on the situation at hand.”
I know he’s joking, but I’m grateful that Vic is going to be hanging around today. Mentally, I know that Remmi is safe, but I haven’t been able to do the upgrades necessary to be happy with the situation. I’m also wondering if it’s worth the effort, since I want her to move in with me. Yeah, this is moving fast, but I can’t imagine Remmi not being home when I get there.
Wolfie barks to remind us that he’s here, and cautiously makes his move to sniff out Vic. He’s deciding whether or not he’s a good or bad guy. Vic comes down on one knee and lets Wolfie do his thing, holding out his hand as he waits for Wolfie to give his approval.
“He’s a well-trained dog,” Vic says, then strokes Wolfie’s head. “Hey, boy. Are you going to keep me company today?” he asks, and Wolfie answers with a bark.
“He won’t let you down,” I tell Vic. “This is Remmi.”
Vic comes to his feet. “Good to meet you,” Vic says.
“Hi,” Remmi replies. “I guess you drew the short straw, huh?” She giggles.
Vic smiles. “Nope. I get to spend the day with two beautiful ladies. It’s my dream job.”
Bull rolls his eyes. “Geez, man! They’re taken,” he reminds him.
“Story of my life. All the good ones are taken,” Vic replies, melodramatically putting his hand over his heart.
“You’re really hamming this up,” Remmi says with a giggle.
Bull looks straight at me and taps his watch. “We gotta go.”
“Yeah, right.” I move Remmi off to the side. “Do not move away from Vic. Do as he says, and I’ll pick you up as soon as I can. Be good, baby.”
She wraps her arms around my neck and presses her lips to mine. It’s a sweet, chaste kiss, but it still makes my lips tingle. “I hope it all goes well today.”
I hate leaving her, but we both need to go back to a normal routine. It’s good that she’s able to come back to her house and feel safe. Having Maya and Vic around makes me feel better, and I’m thankful to Bull for making the call.
We say our goodbyes and head over to Storm.
Kailyn is coming out of the boardroom, which means that she’s feeding us again. Kailyn is an amazing office manager. She does a little of everything, but she feels it’s part of her duties to make sure we all eat.
“Morning, Kaylie,” I say.
“What did you bring us this morning?” Bull jokes.
“Hey, guys. It was Phoenix’s choice this morning, and he wanted bagels. Help yourself, fellas,” she responds with a huge smile. “How’s Remmi doing? I was thinking of dropping by tomorrow, if she’s up to it.”
“She’s great. Remmi would love the company. Maya is with her today, and she could use the help. She’s got a bunch of orders that need packing and shipping. It’s stressing her out a bit,” I confide.
“Tell her help is on the way. I’m all caught up and can be there first thing tomorrow.”
“Thanks, Kaylie. It means a lot.”
Kailyn reaches up and kisses my cheek. “I’m glad you finally made your move. She’s lovely.”
“What the hell are you doing kissing Wire?” Phoenix asks, his arms crossed over his chest, staring at us from the doorway leading to the boardroom. If it weren’t for the teasing tone and raised brow, you’d think he was serious.
Kailyn traipses over to her man and moves to kiss his cheek. Phoenix twists at the last moment to have their mouths meet. “Better now?” she asks.
