Page 144 of Maddox

Alfaro twisted his head from side to side, finally looking me directly in the eyes. “Well done. But you and I know this isn’t finished.”

While I should be surprised, when Charmaine took long strides toward him, I let her go.

“You’re a fucking piece of human trash. Trust me, you will suffer for what you’ve done.”

The brutal punch she issued made me proud. Hissing, she turned to face me, wearing a smile on her face.

The moment Agent Wilshire walked closer, I nodded in response. At least I knew he was one of the good guys.

I was finished with this mission or any mission for that matter. As she walked toward me, I realized it was time for a new chapter in my life. A new life. Rebuilding old friendships.

And enjoying more of the woman I refused to allow out of my life.

“You have been keeping secrets,” she mused and wrapped her arms around my waist.

Shrugging, I slipped my hand over her shoulder, gripping the back of her neck. “I didn’t think you’d approve.”

“Maybe not. However, maybe you’re the one who needs taming.”

Being able to laugh felt damn good. “I guess we’ll see about that.”

“Now you can get rid of me for good.” She arched her back as she lifted her head.

I lowered mine. “Haven’t you figured out that you’re not going anywhere?”

“Ever? Not even to the grocery store?”

“Not even. You are all mine.”

“Get a room,” Kage muttered from behind me.

Her eyes sparkled.

“I love you, Charmaine. It might not be enough, but I needed you to know that.”

The tension eased from her face, tears forming in her eyes. “This is more than enough.” She reared back, pressing the tip of her finger against my chest. “As long as we’re partners.”

With a smile on my face, I crushed my mouth over hers. Partners. Yeah, I could handle that.

As long as it meant for life.

CHAPTER 35

Two weeks later…

Charmaine

“I think we have everything we need, Ms. Douglas. I do appreciate you taking the time.” Agent Wilshire smiled as he stood. “The information you provided was… highly informative.”

I was already standing, eager to get on with my life. “What will happen to Alfaro?”

He shrugged and closed his paper file. “If I or the CIA have anything to do about it, he won’t see the light of day again.”

“And the others involved?”

“It’s up to the various prosecutors since this involves several cities. Including Chicago.”

Nodding, I glanced at my watch. For the last week and a half I’d been in DC meeting with various law enforcement agencies as well as the justice department. They’d grilled me on my accountof what had happened both in El Salvador and at the ranch in Luray. They had everything they needed to make charges against Alfaro as well as the Russian Pakhan. There was also a long list of offenders who’d been involved in various illegal activities.

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