Page 18 of SEAL's Providence
The buying and selling of humans permeated the world. Saving these women wouldn’t even make a dent in the hundreds, maybe thousands, more that no one knew about. At least they’d done something. No way would she stand by and allow it to continue. They’d rescue these women and Mary’s daughter, no matter what it took.
The women were quiet as they walked across the parking lot to the SUV. Their adrenalin from the mission dissipating. But it was the same every time Providence left Mary, knowing she might never see her again. Still, they had a plan and with any luck and lots of prayers, they’d be able to pull off “Operation Saving the Flowers.”
“Harmony, how are your knees?” Providence asked as they neared the vehicle.
“They’re good. A little sensitive. I promise, it looked worse than it was. I’ve gotten good at bracing myself.” Harmony giggled. “It’s not a skill many people have.”
“No, I bet not. I’d still like to check them. The doctor in me insists on it.” Providence grinned.
Tempest and Grace laughed.
“You’re the Klutz Queen and our savior today. Without that stunt, I wouldn’t have been able to slip Mary the phone. I can’t thank you enough.”
“You don’t have to thank me. I wanted to help. There’s nothing worse than being controlled against your will.”
Harmony’s sad smile dredged up feelings Providence would prefer stay locked away. It seemed like she wasn’t the only one with misery in her background. She didn’t know Harmony’s story yet, but she’d find out.
“I appreciate the help—from all of you. I’m worried he’s going to find the phone, and it will be worse for them.”
Tempest sighed. “There was always going to be that chance. But we need to believe this will work out. It’s the only option we had. Since Mary is determined to make sure her daughter is safe, she’ll be extra careful.”
Providence nodded. Mary’s bravery and need to protect her child pulled on Providence’s heartstrings. It made her even more determined to pry them out of their hell.
“I know what will cheer us all up,” Grace said as they climbed into the SUV.
“What’s that?” Tempest asked.
“Appetizers at the Ready Room and maybe adrink or two. Since the guys won’t be there until later and can drive us home if they need to, I suggest we get a head start.”
“That sounds perfect to me,” Harmony said.
Providence agreed. “Okay, while you drive, I’m going to look at Harmony’s knees. I don’t feel like dying today.”
“Why would you die?”
Providence grinned. “I promised Ry I’d keep you safe from harm. That man is more protective than Whiskey. I thought he was going to make Whiskey come with us on guard dog duty.”
“Seriously? I’m going to have to talk to him. He’s way over the top. I’m a grown woman. Sure, I end up getting hurt a lot, but it’s nothing a band aid or an ice pack won’t cure. He’s so frustrating.”
Tempest laughed from the front seat. “I call b.s. You know damn well that you love his attention. Fuck. We all do. I never thought I’d want a man like that either, but Josh changed my mind.”
“Lucky did, too,” Grace said.
“Really?” Providence asked.
“Really,” they answered in unison.
“How about you? Are you thinking about dating a certain SEAL commander we all know and love?” Tempest asked.
“No. Maybe. Dammit. I don’t know. I’m so confused. I’m going to have to bless my own heart.”
The women chuckled. It was funny, but all too true. Providence liked him. The little time they’d spent together had been lovely. But after so many years on her own, was she ready to adapt to another person in her life?
“What are you worried about?” Grace asked.
“Everything? I haven’t had a serious relationship since med school and that wasn’t all that serious. A few one-night stands over the years don’t count, right?”
“Nope.” Harmony shrugged. “At least you weren’t a twenty-eight-year-old virgin.”
