Page 117 of Betrayed

“Dig in.” Beth announced to the group before stepping back.

“You first,” Doug said. A round of “Ladies first” followed.

It was impossible not to see the love in the men’s eyes when they looked at their wives.

I had it all wrong.

Everything these guys did was to honor the women they loved, not dominate them. They didn’t want to control them; they wanted to support and protect them.

Not because they’re weak, but because they’re important.

I was still getting used to the idea that men could be strong, masculine, and protective without needing to diminish the women in their lives.Why id I believed that?I wasn't sure, but I not longer did.

Nothing could have prevented the smile that pulled at my lips when I turned to AJ and saw the same look in his eyes.

So different from the rich, powerful, controlling men in my father’s political circle.

So different from the selfish, spoiled, petty boys I met at college.

I got in line to make myself a sundae, and enjoyed the distraction of the company and the sweet, creamy goodness.

Chapter 54

AJ

The guys cleaned the conference room after everyone finished eating, arguing it was the least we could do. Meg and Blake argued they hadn’t helped set up, so they should help clean.

“Max is helping,” Meg argued. Meg was always looking for ways to connect with Max. Max kept a professional distance, but Meg was determined to bring her into the family fold. So far, Max had declined offers to join the girls’ monthly craft and booze night, which included Meg, Mary, Beth, Emily and her mom, Anne, and sometimes Ashley.I hope Blake takes them up on their offer.

“Because I’m on the team,” Maxwell said.

“You both had terrible days, go relax for a few minutes,” Jack ordered.

Blake, following Meg’s lead, kissed me and said thank you before leaving.

I stared as Blake walked out the door, fighting the urge to follow her.

She’ll be safe downstairs. Sammie was still here, and the doors were locked, and the windows were bulletproof glass.

And we’d killed the men who’d threatened her.

What if there’s more?We killed a lot of men, but not the head of the organization. Would he come for her?

“Janerek, you okay?” John disrupted my thoughts.

I nodded without taking my eyes off the door.

“She’ll be okay,” Jack clapped my shoulder.

Reluctantly, I turned and got to work. We functioned like a well-oiled machine and got the job done in record time.

As we finished up, John asked, “Have you told Blake she can’t go home?”

“Not yet. I wanted to give her a breather before dumping more shit on her.”

“If she isn’t comfortable staying at your place, she’s welcome to stay with us,” Jack offered.

Doug laughed as I shot Jack a scathing look.

---