Enrique Rijado had enlisted in the Navy, earning a coveted spot as a SEAL. Maverick had been fresh out of OCS and the junior of two officers leading an eight-man squad. He and Enrique had hit it off right away. Stayed tight while they served.
Three years ago, Maverick left the Navy. Enrique retired last year after twenty years of service. Regardless of where they were, the men remained close. Enrique and his wife, Elena, had asked Maverick to be Godfather to their second child.
Maverick’s guts twisted. “What’s going on, Julia?”
“Enrique’s gone.”
The muscles running along his shoulders turned to lead. “What do you mean, gone?”
“He died.” Her voice trembled. “I’m sorry I didn’t call sooner. He left us Monday. Elena was so grief stricken, she had to be hospitalized. We’re in shock.”
Maverick struggled to comprehend what she was saying. “Was he in a car accident? Was he sick?”
“He took his own life.” Her voice broke and she choked back a sob.
Maverick’s heart jolted to a stop and he shoved out of his seat. “What?”
“Elena found him.”
“Oh, God. I’m so sorry.”
“They did an autopsy. Now we’re awaiting the drug test results. It’s so upsetting. Enrique didn’t do drugs.”
“I know he didn’t.” Maverick forced down the billowing emotion. Had to get a grip. “Can I do anything? Help with arrangements? I can’t believe this.”
“Somehow, we got it all done. The funeral is Saturday. I’m sorry for the short notice. It’s just that everything has been so crazy. I hope you can make it.”
“I’ll be there.”
“Elena wanted me to ask if you’d be a pallbearer.”
His heart broke. “I’d be honored.”
“She and the kids are staying with me in Virginia Beach. She hasn’t been able to go home. We’re receiving visitors at my home tomorrow night. I’ll text you my address.”
“Thank you.”
“Enrique talked about you all the time.”
“Yeah, we’re close. I’m sorry, we were close.” He cleared his throat. “Do you have Gunner—Marshall Young—on your list?”
“Um…yes, I do.”
“He’s with me. I can let him know, if you’d like.”
“Thank you. See you tomorrow.”
Maverick hung up and a mountain of grief barreled toward him. Enrique killed himself? He texted Gunner. “Come outside NOW.”
When he shifted his attention to Carly, she stood and hugged him. He wanted to crumple in her arms. Instead, he gritted his teeth, refusing to let grief overtake him.
“I’m so sorry,” she whispered.
Gunner bolted over to the table. “What’s wrong?”
“I should get out—” Carly blurted.
“Don’t leave,” Maverick said.
