Page 64 of Daddy's Pursuit
Matteo nodded. “That’s right. But a quick Google streetview made it obvious those properties wouldn’t work for holding someone. Most of them are houses. Too many neighbors around.”
“Not to mention they’re small,” Jack added. “I’m guessing Frank has lots of men on Iris. The five who took her from the house and a few more.” His expression was grave as he added, “He’ll be careful here. There’s a lot riding on this.”
Isaiah nodded. “Probably millions of dollars. I’m curious who his buyer is. He’s sold weapons to a few petty criminals and some gangs, like the guys that stole those diamonds downtown. But it feels like he’s got something bigger in the works here. Gotta be a heavy hitter.”
“With any luck,” Jack told the group, “we can catch them, too. But my first priority is getting my babygirl back safely.”
“You know any one of us would trade our life for hers,” Ryan chimed in.
Everyone voiced their agreement.
“I know. And I’m in debt to you men.” Jack’s gaze settled on Trevon. “You sure you want in on this? I know you care about her. But I can’t ask you to risk your life. You aren’t a cop and?—”
“I’m doing this.”
Jack wasn’t about to argue with the man. Only a fool would. So, instead, he just extended his hand.
Trevon shook it.
The grip nearly doubled Jack over, but he did his best not to wince, or else he’d never live it down among the guys.
“Don’t forget me.”
Everyone looked to see the words’ source. The clacking of shoes against the pavement was heard before Athena stepped out of the shadows.
“What are you doing here?” Jack asked loudly, not bothering to hide the disapproval in his tone.
“Trevon filled me in. That Little girl is mine, too. I love her. She’ll need her Auntie when you rescue her.” She shook her head, looking sad as she said, “And I spoke with Macy and Elena. Iris was trying to earn money to paymeback! Oh, that just hurts my heart. So, like it or not, I’m in this.”
Jack and some of the other men started to speak, but Athena held up her hands to curtail their protests.
“Relax. I’ll stay in my vehicle where it’s nice and safe. But I’ll be waiting when you bring her out. I have her stuffie and a few other things she might want. It’ll calm her down.”
Jack didn’t like it one bit. And based on the others’ looks, they didn’t like it, either. But he knew better than to argue with Athena, just like he knew better than to say anything to Trevon.
She was one headstrong woman who didn’t accept being toldno. While it could be frustrating, Jack respected that quality.
“Okay, then let’s go over the plan and get to it. Every second we’re out here is more of a chance for my babygirl to be hurt.” He started pointing to the map, explaining who should take which route once they began their assault. Once they were all clear on their roles, he said, “Ready?”
“Ready!” everyone replied.
It was time to get Little Iris back.
Chapter Thirty-One
Jack breached the warehouse’s front door at exactly the same time Ryan, Jordan, and Kendrick breached the back.
He knew because they’d been in constant communication over their phones, syncing their assaults.
Behind him, Ace and Matteo fanned out, their guns drawn as they swept the room.
What they saw stopped them dead in their tracks.
Three men were sprawled out on the floor. Two were out cold, but the other was groaning and rubbing his head, as if trying to alleviate some sort of pain.
“Police!” Jack yelled. “Don’t move!” He kept his gun trained on the writhing man, even though it appeared as if the guy wasn’t much of a threat.
Ace and Matteo kept covered the two unconscious guys. It never hurt to be careful. It could all be a ruse. Though it certainly didn’t seem to be.
