I should have seen through his facade. He was keeping me at ease when he got here, because he knew he had bad news to share. He always puts everyone ahead of himself. He’s been doing everything in his power to make me feel safe, so I didn’tfeel the full measure of what happened to me and my family and now possibly his.
We’re all in danger, and Owen thinks it’s his responsibility to keep each one of us safe.
“Sweetheart, we’re gonna get through this. We have protection in place, and every law enforcement agency available is on high alert,” Heather says, trying to get through to him.
Conversation continues with the group, but all I can do is watch the man I love trying to hold everything together. Luckily, the baby cries, which triggers a tantrum from Sawyer. Their parents activate, ending the conversation.
As we say our goodbyes, Owen reminds everyone to call him day or night.
On our way home, he holds my hand but stays quiet.
I’m glad he’s not pretending everything is okay. He doesn’t have to fake a thing with me. The other night he said he wants every piece of me; well, I want the same from him.
If we’re building a life together, it’s not always going to be easy. I intend to be there for him, like he’s been for me.
We’ve just pulled the truck into the garage when his phone rings. My brother's name appears on the dashboard display.
“Hey, Knox.”
“Hopper’s on it. They’re going to shift some guys where there are redundancies of local police and his team. Once his new guys arrive tomorrow, we’ll double back up, but for tonight they’ll get someone to your mom’s place. They’ll keep them safe.”
“Thanks, man. I’ll call tomorrow and work out payment.”
“It’s already taken care of.”
“I can take care of my family, Knox,” Owen says, angrier than I’m sure he means to sound.
“So can I. The Swifts are my family. I’ve got it.”
“Knox—”
“You’ve taken care of my family for the last twenty years while I was living in fantasy land. It’s the least I can do.”
My big brother with his giant heart and the stoic man next to me tug at my heartstrings. Knox’s voice is full of regret and appreciation, while Owen’s is so full of angst it seems he may drown in it.
“We’ll talk later.”
“Nothing to talk about. But you do still owe me beers at the bar. Let’s make sure that happens.”
“I’d like that, Knox. And thank you. For everything.”
“No thanks needed. Just take care of my baby sister.”
“With my life.”
“I know you will. Talk later.”
“Later.”
Owen doesn’t move when the call ends, stuck in his head.
Climbing over the console, boot free, I straddle his lap, tucking myself into him as much as the small space allows. Burying my face in his neck, I place a kiss against his warm skin.
“I wish we had just stayed in bed today.”
I sit up so I can look at him. “I know, baby.”
“I heard what you said to Mia.”
