Page 29 of Unexpected Heroine

I think that’s enough talk for now.

Swinging my feet on to the floor, I press to a stand. “Babe, would you come lie down with me in bed? I’m tired, and I want you to hold me.”

Am I distracting him? Yes.

Do I still have more questions? Also yes.

But I can’t watch him spiral out in anger or shame. Not when I can barely manage to process my own feelings.

His frantic pacing stops, and his body sags as he faces me. In two large strides, he’s in front of me, cradling my cheeks softly.

Every line on his face is etched with guilt and sorrow. Once again, I’m overcome with an almost crippling need to comfort him.

“Sugar, I’m so fucking sorry. Saying it isn’t enough. It’ll never be enough. But for now, it’s all I can give you.”

Infusing love into my touch, I trail my fingertips through his hair. “I know you’re sorry, babe. But there is nothing for you to be sorry for. You didn’t do this to me. None of this is your fault.”

Although, as more of the things Viktor said to me come rolling through my memory, I’m not sure whether I believe those words.

Chapter 6

Incoming

TOMER

Late in the afternoon, we’re cuddled on the sofa watching Pitch Perfect. Not my favorite, but she wanted a comforting movie that she could sing along with. There was no fucking way I’d deny her that.

Unfortunately, her ribs hurt when she attempts to sing above a whisper, and she’s holding in her laughter for the same reason. But she seems to be enjoying the movie anyhow.

While it plays, I periodically add items to the task list on my phone. That way, once she’s feeling more independent and I’m able to get on my laptop, I’ll be closer to finding those fuckers.

Until then, I’ll keep her in my arms.

She flinches when my phone vibrates.

“That’s my work cell,” I tell her. “I should answer in case it has something to do with your . . .”

I don’t fucking know how to finish my sentence.

Fortunately, she doesn’t make me. “Okay.” She shifts off me, allowing my arms more freedom.

Quietly, I answer. “Hey, Klein. What’s up?”

“You’ve got incoming,” he blurts without preamble.

My spine goes ramrod straight, and my arm hairs stand on end. “What? Who?”

“It’s Boss and Lionheart. They just left for your place.”

“My place? Why? I’m taking personal leave. Doesn’t he understand that?”

Fuck, fuck, fuck.

Both Klein and Mia know about Big Al and Lettie’s connection. Did they tell him about her? This is not the fucking time for this shit.

“Hang on,” I snap at Klein, then cup my hand over the microphone and meet Lettie’s concerned gaze. “I’m gonna take this in the kitchen. I’ll be right over there, and I won’t let you out of my sight.”

She tentatively nods, rolling her lower lip between her teeth.