Page 55 of A SEAL's Protection
I brace myself for disapproval but instead find he’s eyeing us with an amused smile.
“I reckon the only man strong enough to take on my Eggy would be an ex-SEAL.”
“I’m up for the challenge, sir.”
Dad shifts his gaze to me. “Is this what you want?” His voice is gentle. “If you’re happy, then I’m happy.”
I break from Marcus to give my father a hug, overcome with warmth. “It is.”
Dad hugs me back, then releases me into Marcus’ arms. His voice turns stern. “If you hurt her, I can afford the best hitmen.”
By the expression on his face, he’s only half joking.
Marcus tightens his grip on my shoulders. “Understood, sir.”
“Stay for dinner, Marcus.” Dad says. “I want to get to know the man my daughter has finally given her heart to.”
Marcus scans my face as if asking for approval, and I give him a nod.
“And I’ve got a job you might be interested in.”
Marcus cocks his head.
“A friend of mine heard the news story and called to ask who I used for security. He didn’t go into specifics, but do you mind if I pass on your details?”
Marcus hesitates, and I remember the conversation we had about his sister and the farm. My heart clenches.
“You’re leaving. You’re going back to New Zealand.”
He shakes his head quickly. “No. I’ve told Keely I’m not coming back.” He takes a deep breath. “I’m starting my own security firm. Bedrock Security. Mountain specialists.”
My chest swells with pride. “That’s great.”
Dad reaches into his pocket and again produces the envelope of cash. “Take this then, would you? It can be your seed money.”
Marcus hesitates, and Dad thrusts it at him.
“I’ve got more cash than I know what to do with. I’d rather it went to a good cause.”
Marcus eyes the envelope but doesn’t take it. “Thank you, sir. But I’ve got money of my own to start up with.”
“Then get yourself the best equipment and all the safety gear you need. This one won’t be happy if you hurt yourself.”
Marcus looks to me, and I can see he’s torn between wanting to do something on his own and not disrespecting my dad. Not everyone wants a handout.
But I’ve grown up with handouts, and I’m no longer ashamed of using my father’s money to do good.
I snatch the envelope out of Dad’s hands. “I’ll take it.”
They both look at me with raised eyebrows. I press my lips together, then blurt out the idea that’s been forming ever since I had my grant refused.
“I want to start my own research lab.”
Marcus squeezes my shoulder. “Environmental research on protected mountain areas.” I continue, giving voice to my idea. In my mind, I see the deer staring at me in the campsite. “To help local mining and other businesses set their operations up in a way that protects the environment.”
I turn to Marcus, and our gazes lock. “It could be based out of Hope.”
His eyes widen. We’d be in the same town, a way for us to be together.
