Page 77 of Clear Blue Sky

“Are you sure?” Brandi wiped the tears that burned a path down her cheeks.

“We’re sure.” Dina smiled.

She squared her shoulders and followed the doctor through the double doors and down a long corridor.

“Don’t stay too long. He needs his rest.” The doctor pushed open a door. “Ever since he woke up, he’s been talking about you. He’s a lucky man.”

“I’m the lucky one.” She inched into the room. The sound of machines beeping filled her ears. She swallowed.

Nelson lay on a gurney with an IV in his arm pumping fluids and probably pain medication into his system. A machine flashing his vitals was on the other side. Not that she knew much, but she understood enough that his were good.

He turned his head and blinked. “Hey, good-looking.” He lifted his hand and wiggled his finger. “Come sit.”

“You gave everyone quite the scare.” She eased onto the side of the mattress and rested her hand on his thigh. “The bullet just missed your spine and some important organs. It could have been a tricky surgery.”

“So I’ve heard.” His voice sounded raspy and weak. “How long have I been out of it?”

“It’s six in the morning.”

“Wow,” he said. “What was the final outcome? Everyone taken into custody?”

“Jared said the FBI is taking over, but that it’s a solid case and Marcus and his friends will be going away for a long time,” she said. “I must admit, I feel bad for Marcus’ wife. She’s pregnant and will have to raise that baby alone.”

“That is unfortunate, and I wish things were different for her, but I have no regrets for Marcus going to prison.”

“I don’t either.” And that was the truth.

“The doctor said I’m stuck here for a while and will miss your mom’s premiere party.”

“My mom wants to push it off until next weekend. She and Leslie are working out the details.” She took his hand. “Maverick and Phoenix said they can make the adjustment.”

“Of course. Anything for your family.” He reached for her, tugging her closer, and groaned. “Shit, that hurts.”

“You need to be still.”

He lifted her hand to his lips. “I’d take a bullet for you any day.”

“Let’s hope you never have to do that again.” She leaned forward and brushed her mouth against his in a slow, tender kiss. “I love you, Nelson.”

“Not as much as I love you.”

EPILOGUE

FOURTH OF JULY

Brandi leaned against the post and stared at the clear blue sky. The sun hovered just above the mountaintops, beginning its journey into night. She lifted her glass of wine and took a slow sip, savoring the rich flavor. The last couple of months had been a roller coaster. There had been interviews with local law enforcement, the FBI, and even the military.

All ending up with Marcus and his crew facing treason charges.

Nelson had been vindicated. His past completely cleared of any shadow hanging over his head.

Her father had been agreeable to giving Edward more responsibilities and allowing Brandi to work at least two weeks a month remotely in Lake George. Her love for Nelson grew with every waking moment.

“There you are.”

She glanced over her shoulder and smiled.

Nelson had jogged down the steps as if he’d never been shot. His recovery had been lightning fast and he had no lasting issues from the incident. The doctors had been worried there could be some problems down the road, but Nelson had not a single one.

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