Page 14 of Fighting for Family

The screen buzzed, and Bear adjusted something before they came into view. The men’s eyes searched for their loved ones. Catherine saw Taco light up at seeing Tess. She turned her head to see Ty wipe his eyes at seeing Sparky. Stormy grinned at Cole while Brody and Brownie sat beside her. Hollywood didn’t move his gaze from Addyson’s face. The only person missing was Leo. Her heart felt the heavy dread that accompanied every video call. Forcing a smile, she greeted them.

“We’re happy to see all of you. Do you have everything you need?” she asked.

Saint spoke for the team. “We miss all of you. Yeah, we appreciate the supplies you sent with Ivan.”

Taking a deep breath, she asked the question they were all waiting for. “How’s the search going?”

Saint appeared in pain as he delivered the news. “We moved our search to the outer perimeter, and we’ve found…nothing. It’s as if he disappeared into thin air. We’re sorry to have to tell you this, Catherine, especially in your condition.”

Keeping her expression strong, she held her chin higher. “I know you’re doing your best. Leo expected nothing less.”

Saint glanced down at his lap. “We’ve heard rumors of villagers rioting with each other. Things have become more dangerous. We may not call for a while as we shift our focus again.”

Catherine heard the words Saint didn’t say. They already searched the area, and they planned to double back.

“Have they given you any trouble?” Chase asked.

“For the most part, no,” Shadow replied, staring at Avie.

“How’s Sparky getting along without Ice?” Ty asked as Ice stood and yipped.

“I miss you, too, boy,” she said, smiling tremulously. “I can’t wait to see you. Has Jake checked him out again?” she asked, taking the attention off her.

“Yes, he’s recovering fine,” Ty assured her. “He’s playing with Brownie and Brody at the facility and going for daily swims to get his strength back.”

“Has anyone else sustained injuries since our last meeting?” Kassie asked, watching the screen intently. “Where’s Ivan, and have you seen Victoria?”

The men glanced wearily at Saint, and he nodded before confessing. “Ivan and his men have spread out, hoping to hear of any rumors of an injured American.”

Catherine knew what he refused to say. “I’m sure if he can be found, you’ll find him,” she assured them as she took in the team Leo called his brothers and sisters. They all appeared tired and worn. Saint seemed uncomfortable, miserable, and guilty of a crime he never committed. She imagined he blamed himself. The same mannerisms echoed as she glanced at Shadow, Taco, Ragu, Knight, and Patch. Sparky bit her lip, showing her discomfort.

“We’ll do our best to bring him home,” Saint vowed.

“Remember to take care of yourselves,” she reminded them. “Leo wouldn’t want you injured or sick.”

Shadow rubbed his scruffy beard. “How do you feel?”

“We’re doing all right,” Catherine said, faking her enthusiasm. “The baby has kicked nonstop and is already showing signs of becoming a pain in the butt like its father.”

The team grinned sadly. She saw Taco wince and shift. Her chin went up as she stared them down. “I’m sure you want to speak with your loved ones. You’ll keep me posted, all right? I want to know about any of your findings, big or small.”

“You have my word,” Saint promised. “If we find anything…”

“I know,” she rushed to tell him as her eyes filled with tears. “I know it feels like it’s futile and you must be exhausted. I know in my heart, you’ll find his remains and bring them home. Leo deserves to rest among us.”

The men swallowed and moved uncomfortably as their faces grew more determined. Sparky wiped her eyes angrily. Catherine rose from her seat and left the room.

* * *

Doc took her seat and assessed the men and Sparky. “How are you holding up, Ragu and Knight?” Two of Leo’s men insisted on returning to search for him regardless of his orders.

“The damn thing bleeds if I walk too much,” Ragu complained.

“Then stop overdoing it,” Annabelle ordered. “You won’t be any help if you injure it further.”

Doc smiled as he watched the couple argue silently. “Knight, what about you?”

“It’s stiff, but I’m holding my own,” Knight replied.