“Pick up, pick up,” she pleaded. Her expression dimmed when he didn’t answer.
“Oh, honey,” Kassie said, putting her arm around her. “Maybe he’ll call back.”
“I know the waiting sucks,” Addyson said, recalling both her current situation and the time she married Sam. If he’s calling, you know he’s all right.”
“Yeah, yeah,” Catherine agreed. “Where’s everyone for the meeting?”
Addyson took her by the arm while Kassie took the other.
“We’re here to escort you to your afternoon of pampering. Leo asked me to get you a prenatal massage with Samantha. Dr. Greene agreed to you doing light duty as long as you rest for eight hours during the day. Then, while you’re nice and relaxed, she’s set up a room at her house for you to take a nap until we leave,” Kassie explained.
“Seriously? He called you?” she asked.
“He texted me,” Kassie assured her. “He said you appeared tired and wanted me to make sure you got some rest. Melody will stay the night with Miya and Emma at Bryanna’s house. Carol will take Grace and Derrick. After an afternoon of relaxation, we’ll enjoy a peaceful dinner, and you’ll return home to a quiet house.”
“Mom can’t handle the two babies,” she complained. “Addyson, you’re on this, too? I’ve enjoyed you these past couple of months. I hate to think you’re a traitor.”
“I’d rather call it a mercy intervention,” Addyson said. “We’re coming with you. I haven’t visited Samantha’s. I’m hoping she’ll cut my hair and maybe splurge with a mani/pedi.”
Catherine rolled her eyes. “You don’t know Samantha. Once she gets a hold of you, you’re a goner,” she said, handing Kassie back her phone. “I need to replace mine. I don’t like not having one on me between the kids and Leo.”
“I’ll text Leo and let him know your phone’s broken,” Kassie said as she sent him a message.
Grace broke Catherine’s phone. She’s going to the spa and taking a nap as you ordered. Don’t worry, I’ll take care of her.
CHAPTER 29
Feeling restless,Leo nodded to Patch as he passed. “Keep an eye on things. I’m taking a walk.”
“Will do, boss,” Patch murmured as he scanned the area.
Walking toward the mess hall, Leo heard someone yelling his name.
“Yo, Leo.”
Turning around, he saw Wolf, Cookie, Abe, Dude, Mozart, and Benny approaching him. Surprised, Leo broke out in a grin.
Shaking their hands, he greeted each team member.
“I’m surprised to see you here,” Wolf said, patting his shoulder. “Did Catherine finally kick your ass back to the sandbox?”
Chuckling, he said, “She has every reason to.”
“I get it,” Wolf replied. “We spun up on Caroline’s birthday. This job doesn’t allow us personal time when we want it. What’s your excuse?”
“Working on some leads,” he said quietly.
“Then I don’t need to tell you to watch your back while you’re here,” Wolf warned him subtly.
“We’ve come across reasons to keep our heads on a swivel. Will you be staying a couple of days?” he asked.
“We’re passing by for the night. What’s your plan?” Wolf asked.
“Hoping to complete my mission in the morning and get home. My wife’s expecting again. Patch and Knight’s wives are also pregnant. My men grow restless by the day.”
“Make sure they keep their heads in the game.” Wolf glanced around him. “You did bring Tex’s gift to your team, right?”
Shit. He forgot his.“We have them,” he assured him. “If I don’t see you before we take off in the morning, let us know when you have some free time. We can plan a get-together.”
