“Internado is in jail and the FBI is doing its job. We’re safe.”
“I feel more secure when armed. Speaking of which, I’m headed to target practice. Come with me.”
“I definitely want to come with you.” He stroked her breast, hidden beneath her shift. “But shooting a gun wasn’t what I had in mind.”
“C’mon, horndog,” she said and kissed him. “We’ll fool around when we get back.”
WARREN’S BACKYARD was bustling with activity the day of the big event. Hudson’s catered, with Desiree in charge. The tables and chairs had been set up. Both open bars were fully stocked. At one o’clock, guests began arriving.
Internado’s high-profile case had garnered both Carly and Maverick a lot of attention. In the last week, several new clients had contracted with Stone Investigations, along with one Craig Pluckett. According to Carly, he’d apologized for his rude and unprofessional behavior, then hired her to complete so many background checks, she was able to afford a solid advertising campaign.
Still, Maverick worried about her. She toted her weapon wherever she went, even into their bedroom. Today, her holstered gun was hidden beneath her shawl.
When Crockett and Alexandra Wilde arrived, Maverick bear-hugged his friend. “Thanks for coming.”
“Congratulations!” Crockett replied. “It’s about damn time you two admitted what everyone else already knew.”
Maverick laughed.
“You two were always meant to be together.” Alexandra introduced the couple they’d brought with them. “This is my friend and cameraman, Gavin Aviato, and his husband, Bruce.”
“We’re so happy you’re all here today,” Carly said.
Crockett slung an arm around Maverick. “No way would we miss this.”
“Thanks for letting us do a story on your foundation,” Alexandra said.
“For you, baby girl, anything,” Maverick said. “We appreciate you getting the word out.”
“I’m going to set up for the interviews,” Gavin said.
“There’s a ton of appetizers,” Maverick said. “Grab a bite first.”
Colton Mitus and Brigit Farnay walked around back.
“There’s my golden man!” Maverick hugged his friend.
“You married up,” Colton said and everyone laughed.
“Way, way up,” Maverick replied as he locked eyes with his wife.
“Congratulations,” Brigit said as she hugged Carly. “Colton and I brought you a surprise.” She pointed to the back deck.
Jagger Loving and Taylor Hathaway waved. “Surprise!” Hand-in-hand, they hurried down the stairs.
Grinning, Maverick said, “I thought you couldn’t make it.”
“I lied,” Jagger said with a smile. “Congratulations!” The two close friends hugged. “I miss you, man.”
“Miss you, too, bro.”
Jagger pulled an envelope from his sport coat. “From Taylor and me.” He handed the envelope to Carly.
Sinclair joined the group and Carly waited until everyone greeted him before reading the card out loud. “Please honeymoon at our Malibu resort and stay as our guests.” She grinned. “This is awesome. Thank you both so much.”
“I’m definitely in.” Maverick put his arm around Carly. “We could use some R&R.”
“And my jet is available to take you there.” Sinclair said.
