It was never easy to do, cozying up to terrorists and potential threats. Pretending to be on their side. Fueling their issues to get them to open up and confess plans and potential plots. Her anonymity was secure, she was physically safe, and her heart and mind knew what she did was important. But if it could cost her this man, cost her Ira, she was done.
“Come here, sweetheart.” He wrapped his arms around her and she burrowed into his chest, absorbing his heat, reveling in his fresh clean scent. He’d showered since she left him. She rested her head on his chest and took comfort in the steady beating of his heart.
This was where she wanted to be. This was home. He was her home, and her heart.
“That’s a big sigh. Are you sure you’re okay? Do you need anything?”
The warmth and kindness in his voice was nearly her undoing. She swallowed hard and cleared her throat. “I’m good. Cam’s going to check in again in a while. I can’t wait for you to meet him. You’ll like him. He’s a good guy. Kind of a father figure to me. Until then, I figured I’d get back after the work I’ve been neglecting while spending time with you.” That part was only half true. She’d been spending time with him, but not neglecting her work. She’d been staying up late and getting up early just to fit everything in. It was starting to wear on her, which was why when Cam suggested she back off for a few days, she’d agreed, even though she was certain it was a mistake. A mistake which would haunt her if anyone died as a result of the attacks.
“I’m looking forward to meeting someone this important in your life. Knowing your family, adopted, real, or just of the heart, is important to me, just like you knowing my extended family is. I hope you know that.”
“I do. I adore your family. I adore you,” she whispered the last, half afraid to scare him away if his feelings weren’t as strong as hers.
“I adore you too.”
Not exactly a declaration of undying love, but good enough. She smiled up at him and kissed his chin. “I should get back to it. Are we still on for dinner on Tuesday?”
“I’d rather it was tonight,” he grumbled. “But Tuesday will do. I’ll pick you up at six. Does that work with your two jobs?”
“It does. Thank you for being so accommodating. I appreciate it.”
Their lips met in a caring, compassionate kiss which had the power to distract her from her tasks. Only the sure knowledge that lives depended on her research enabled her to move away from him.
She squeezed him tight and stepped back. “I have to get back to it,” she repeated her earlier assertion. “You should go, before I lose my resolve and take you to bed.” She winked, though she wasn’t teasing. She needed him. Physically, emotionally, mentally.
“Don’t tempt me.” He grinned lewdly and backed toward the still open door. “Later. I promise you’ll get what you want.” He winked, pivoted on his heel and jogged down the hallway.
She fanned herself with her hand, pulled the door shut and retreated to the office where the air conditioning could cool her overheated libido.
