Page 226 of Wild Card

“But you’re not an active Marine. You’re not even an active reservist. You’re in a specialized training role!”

I remain quiet, holding back all the connections and backways Robbie and James can construct their operations.

Her hand flies to her mouth, realization washing over her. “This isn’t just intelligence. You’re going after Max, aren’t you?”

“We don’t know what my role will be yet.” This is partially the truth, since the intel on Max’s situation won’t be fully known until Robbie breaks about a dozen National Intelligence Laws.

“But you could be going directly into danger?”

Another bout of silence from me.

Her body bucks, and I knife up as she collapses into my chest. Her tears soak my skin, each one piercing like a blade to my heart.

As much as I want to comfort her, soothe her fears, stop the overactive imagination, and make all the promises she needs to hear—I can’t.

Willow’s trust was broken once by a man who lied and deceived. I won’t be that asshole.

Each quake of her body and round of sobs reach deep in my soul, tearing it apart.

After what seems like an eternity, her wails die down and she clutches to me.

“What about Ace, Major, and Ford?”

“Ford is on his honeymoon. Ace and Major are in.”

“They have babies.”

“Princess, you are letting your mind go awry. We are fucking good at our jobs.”

Her head pops up, her anguished eyes flicking with irritation. “I know that! You’re the best. You take down cartels, save ships, scale buildings to save abducted women… you shut down illegal operations moving drugs through the country!”

Pride slithers through me at the resolution in her rant.

“You should also believe in us.”

Her flushed complexion pales to ash. “I-I-I do. Oh my God… I’m sorry.”

“Why are you apologizing?”

“Because I’m being a selfish bitch. This is the man you are. Hero, warrior, loyal friend, and intelligence genius. Robbie would be stupid not to recruit you.”

I press her head back to my chest, needing to cradle her close. Her speeding heart eventually slows as my hand moves up and down her back.

“Tell me what you were giggling about?”

“What?”

“When I came out of the shower, you were laughing at your phone.”

“I’m not sure it’s relevant right now.”

“Everything is relevant. It’s been a great day. Don’t ruin it by falling asleep with all this on your mind. Tell me what was funny.”

“It was a text from Rowan.”

I can’t stop the bark of laughter that rumbles from my chest. “Rowan’s messaging you from her hotel on her wedding night? That shit is too good. Wait until Ford gets back.”

“It was a text thread with the bridesmaids with a thank you note.”

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