Page 33 of SEAL's Temptation

Ryan cleared his throat.“I did.I wish she hadn’t taken the job to begin with, but Avery’s headstrong and determined.She’s volunteered with them before, but this is different.”

Commander Madden eyed Ryan, his mirrored aviators reflecting Ryan’s image and the parking lot behind him.“There’s been an increase in instability in the region lately from the cartels,” his CO said in a low voice.“They traffic women as well as drugs, as I’m sure you’re aware.I only met Avery once, but she’ll no doubt stand out with her blonde hair amongst all the local women.”

Ryan felt his gut clench.“She will.She knows not to travel anywhere alone.The nurses she works with are all fluent in Spanish.Their movements are somewhat restricted anyway.She’s in a village, not trekking through the jungle.The migrants come to them for medical care.I agree it’s dangerous, but unfortunately, she was determined to take the assignment.”

The CO shook his head.“The entire team ended up with adventurous, headstrong girlfriends,” he said with amusement.“I guess they need to be that way in order to keep you boys in line.I dread the day Sawyer finds a woman.”

Ryan’s hearty laughter filled the area.Other customers were moving around them, and his CO nodded at him before continuing on.They didn’t normally chat like that, but he appreciated the tip about unrest in the area.He’d have to send off a quick note to Avery, asking her to be even more cautious.

Ryan hurried back into the grocery store, grabbing a case of beer for the get together later.It would be good to kick back with his buddies, but he’d feel better if his girl was here, too.

Chapter 16

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AS RYAN SAT IN THEparking lot near the beach that afternoon, he did a double take as he saw Avery’s number flash on his screen.He’d only spoken with her once since she’d flown to Panama, and a brief flash of panic washed over him.He hoped like hell nothing was wrong.

“Hello?”he asked urgently.

“Ry, it’s me.Everything’s okay,” Avery immediately said.“I wanted to surprise you since I got an opportunity to make a call.”

“Avery,” he said, relief washing over him.“I was worried there for a moment.It’s great to hear your voice.”

“Yours too,” she told him.“I miss you.”

“I miss you, too, baby girl.How’d you get cell reception?”he questioned.

“We made a trek north to Panama City today,” she explained.“We’re not alone.Another nurse, one of the doctors, and some local staff came with us.They were getting supplies, and Luciana and I wanted to pick up a few things.I’m glad I caught you.I was worried you’d be off with your friends or something.”

“I’m glad you caught me, too.I’m at the beach about to meet up with the guys.I’m still in the parking lot, but yeah, I might not have heard my phone if we were in the middle of a game of volleyball.”

“That’s what I figured.We decided last minute to make the drive, so I didn’t get to email you about my plans.I miss you,” she told him, and he could hear the slightest trace of sadness in her voice.“I know I already said that, but it’s true.”

“I know.I miss you, too, Av.I’d gotten used to you flying in every month.I got spoiled seeing you so much,” he joked.“I loved talking every night, too.I can’t tell you how many times I’d pick up my phone to shoot you a text or give you a call and realize you probably wouldn’t get it.”

“Ry,” she said softly.

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