Page 160 of Wicked and Claimed

“Me, too.” Kane didn’t hesitate.

Matt grimaced. “With Madison pregnant again, unless you really need me…”

“Same,” Nash put in. “Plus, with the wedding and all…”

He and Haisley were just settling into life again. She was finally not having nightmares all the time. Leaving her now was too risky.

Trees grimaced. “Laila is having some trouble with this pregnancy. I’d rather not leave her.”

One-Mile and Zy, both of whom had been silent until now, exchanged a glance. Between them, they had a passel of kids—and more on the way.

“We understand,” Hunter assured them.

Logan waved One-Mile and Zy away. “If we need a sniper or a demolitions expert, we’ll call on you for spot situations.”

“Ten-four.” One-Mile saluted.

“Thanks.” Zy nodded.

“You got it,” Hunter assured, then turned to Ethan and Kane. “Oracle is sending Trevor and Ghost to assist on this mission. But I want you two to understand the risks. Whoever killed Sterling wasn’t afraid to take out one of the world’s most high-profile men. They won’t think twice about eliminating a few ex-military operators based out of bum-fuck Louisiana.”

“Exactly,” Javier seconded. “Next week our jet will take you to DC.”

“We’ve got an apartment you can crash in until Graven and his brothers give you more specific orders,” Xander added.

“What can you tell us about his brothers?” Kane quizzed.

“Knox Mercer is in knee-deep with the movers and shakers in Austin. Dominik Volkov is based out of St. Petersburg. Henrik Kruger, Berlin. And Zayn Rahimi splits his time between New York and Dubai,” Javier supplied. “All brilliant. All potentially in grave danger.”

“And all determined to find out who killed their father,” Hunter added. “I know you guys are the best. I believe in you. But this won’t be easy.”

“When is it ever?” Kane’s mouth quirked.

“Stay frosty, and stay alive,” Logan ordered. “That’s not a request.”

“Yes, sir.” Ethan wasn’t sporting his usual cocky grin. They all understood the gravity of what they were undertaking.

Joaquin leaned forward. “Since you leave next week, I suggest you get your affairs in order. Now.”

The Santiago brothers rose to leave, exchanging meaningful looks with the bosses.

“We’ll be in touch with more details,” Xander said.

“Good to see you.” Logan hugged his friend for real, then exchanged a handshake with Javier. Hunter and Joaquin followed suit.

As the Santiagos exited, the women filtered back in, their chatter lightening the room’s heavy atmosphere. Nash watched Haisley retake her seat beside him, grateful he could stay here to protect her and their son. His mind briefly wandered to Kane and Ethan. What dangers lurked for them in DC?

Madison’s excited squeal pulled him back to the present. “Two weeks! I can’t believe you’re getting married in two weeks!”

Haisley’s eyes widened. “I know! I hope Charli will be okay. I’m sure it’s hard to be a bridesmaid when she’s in the middle of a divorce.”

“She’s much better now that Daniel is gone. And not for anything would she miss standing up with you while you tie the knot.”

“Thanks for always having the good answers and cheering me up.”

“What are besties for?” Madison flashed her dimples. “It’s going to be a busy two weeks!”

Nash squeezed Haisley’s hand. They’d talked about waiting, about giving themselves time to heal, but in the end… They’d wasted enough time apart. They both wanted their forever to start ASAP.

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