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“In the Navy, he was the embodiment of honor, courage, and commitment. The waves and vast expanse of the sea were not just a workplace, but a testament to his resilience and dedication. He transitioned to the world of the private sector, where he served with equal valor and distinction.
“His path was not one chosen lightly. It was a path of sacrifice. A path that demanded everything, and Felix gave it willingly. He believed in a world where justice could be upheld and where innocent lives could be protected.”
Ava dabs at her eyes, and Jack holds her to his side. A steady stream of tears runs down Stella’s face. Trevor stands close, on guard, his front melded to her back. Max and I stand side by side, heads bowed.
“Serving in the Navy taught him more than just the art of warfare or the nuances of strategy. It taught him about brotherhood, about selflessness, and about the immeasurable value of human life. It’s no surprise, then, that he continued this service, venturing into roles that few dare to take, but which he took on with honor and determination.”
After reading the police reports and seeing the scene photographs, I can envision how it went down. Hand-to-hand combat, Felix struggling with a gun. He may have been restrained in combat, aware a stray bullet might hit Sage. The protector instinct comes naturally to a guy like Felix.
“Yet amidst the stories of bravery and daring, let us not forget the man behind them. A loving husband and father, a trustworthy friend, and a mentor to many. In his career, where actions often remain unseen and unsung, his impact was profound and will resonate for years to come.”
I wish Sage were here with me. I wish she wasn’t shouldering the blame for Felix’s death. It’s not her fault. The person who hired Omar and Alexis is to blame. I’ll find whoever did this, whoever has Sloane, and the people hunting Sage.
“In our memories, he will always be more than his accomplishments. He will be the laughter shared at soccer matches and barbecues, the wise counsel offered during challenging times, and the unwavering support given to so many of us.
“As we say our goodbyes, let us remember him not for how he left this world, but for how he lived.”
Maria’s son buries his face in his mother’s dress. Stella sobs. Or maybe it’s another woman. A void fills my chest. A deadness tinged with fury.
The phone in my jacket pocket vibrates. I ignore it as the crowd stands. Maria chose to wait until after the crowd disperses to lower the coffin in the ground.
If Felix had died while serving the Navy, this would have been a different ceremony. Far more pomp and circumstance. More like what I assume they did for Sam. I wasn’t Stateside when they held his memorial.
Maybe this is better. Maria spelled out exactly what she wanted, and at the end of the day, funerals are for the living.
Clusters form along the sidewalk that runs parallel to the cemetery road. Hands shake and people hug as they say goodbyes. The phone vibrates. Glancing around the cemetery, I realize almost everyone I know who would call me is present. Everyone except Sage and my parents.
I step off to the side, away from the others. I check the phone. Five missed calls from an unknown number. Sage.
She could be calling from a line within the house. I’ll be the only person on a phone, but the service is over. Something could be wrong. I press to return the call.
“Knox.” The male voice throws me.
“Who is this?”
“This is Miles. I’m working security today at Jack Sullivan’s home.” My skin grows cold. From across the way, Max tilts his head inquisitively. “Sage Watson left.”
“What do you mean, she left?” Heads turn my way, so I step down the sidewalk, toward the car and driver who drove us here from the helipad. “When?”
“About two hours ago.”
“Two hours ago?” My pulse skyrockets. “Where did she go?”
“We’re not sure. She walked out the front gate. We thought maybe she was just exploring the neighborhood. Ava said she had suggested she walk for exercise and for us to give her some privacy. After she didn’t come back, I sent Reno out looking for her. When he didn’t find anything, I checked the footage out front. She got in a cab. I called the cab company, but they won’t share where they dropped her off.”
Max claps me on the shoulder. I spin, ready to throw him a right hook, but he crouches. “What?” he mouths. He’s asking what’s wrong.
“Why the fuck did you let her leave?”
“Our instructions weren’t to keep her on lockdown. They were to keep her safe while she was here.”
Holy fuck, I might strangle this Miles guy the next time I see him. “Did you get the license number for the cab she got in?”
“Yes. California Cab.”
“Text it to me,” I demand then end the call.
Fuck!
