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“What I’m doing is extremely dangerous. If anyone in El Gato’s camp knew I was working for the U.S. government, I’d be dead faster than you can say ‘cocaine.’ My role with NCIS is highly classified for my own safety. And, of course, for the integrity of what I do for them.
“I’m far from perfect, but I’m not the monster you think I am. And I never used you. I tried to stay in control with you, thinking it was best for both of us if I didn’t let you get too close, but you have owned my heart from the first time we met. And the more I get to know you, the deeper I fall.
“I didn’t mean to love you, but I did. I’ve been so careful to not let anyone close, but somehow you pushed past the barriers I erected and made me feel alive again. You healed the gaping hole Sarah’s and Maggie’s deaths left with your smile and your sense of humor and your courage. When you disappeared from the bus station and I realized you’d been kidnapped, my heart stopped. I’ve never been so afraid of losing someone. If you hadn’t been okay…” I trail off, unable to even fathom something happening to her.
“I was also afraid that letting you into my life meant putting your life in danger, but as you said in the cave, the most dangerous thing of all is being afraid to live. And I realized you’re not Sarah. You’re braver and stronger and can hold your own. You’re more like your brother than you think you are. And no offense, sweetheart, but trouble seems to find you whether I’m involved in your life or not. I think your odds are better with me by your side.
“I want all of you, McKenzie. I want to be the swell of the ocean that drives you higher than you ever dreamed possible and your safe harbor when you fall. Tell me you believe me.”
I look into the face of the woman I love more than I ever could have dreamed imaginable, praying like I’ve never prayed before that she will give me the chance to deserve her love.
Finally, she says, “I know you like me blindfolded and tied up, but there is nothing I want more right now than to see your face when you tell me you love me again.”
My God, I love her. I lift the blindfold from her eyes. “Look at me.” Her steady blue gaze meets mine, and I know I’m about to live the rest of my life with my heart residing with someone else again. And I can’t wait.
“I love you. And I want to spend every day of the rest of my life showing you just how much.”
