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Without allowing him time to respond, I addressed Cayman.“While I am in no position to issue an order, I would like to suggest Puck be in charge of the new mission with you as his second.”
“Understood, sir.”
“That will be all.”
I stopped Puck on his way out and offered my hand.Rather than shake it, he embraced me, then stepped back.
“I don’t know what to say, sir.”
I put my hand on his shoulder.“If you need anything, no matter what it is, contact me and I’ll do everything in my power to see that you get the help you require.I may even go a bit beyond my power, as you witnessed this evening.”I smiled and winked.
His eyes scrunched.“Why are you doing this?”
“Easy answer.Because you’re one of mine and I let you down.Good night, Puck.”
I stood by the door, ushering everyone out.When Wren, Wilder, Quint, and Decker were all who remained, other than George, I closed the door and returned to the main room, where they waited.
“You four, along with Mila, Darrow, Huck, Wells, and Katherine, are my family, and I love you.”
“We love you, Z,” said Wren.
I smiled at my daughter.“As such, I’m asking you all to understand I need some time.”I turned to George and held out my hand.“We need some time,” I added when she took it.
Wren stood.“I can’t speak for anyone else, but given it’s something you’ve never asked of us before, I think you more than deserve it.”
“Of course he does,” said Decker.
I looked at Quint, who also stood.“Don’t forget I’m the one who pushed you out of the nest and made you return to England.”
“Hey, I was there too,” said Decker, elbowing him.
I laughed and walked to the foyer.“Trust that I will be in touch in a couple of days, yes?”I said when they followed.
“Yes,” answered Wren.“Come on, guys.Let’s leave these two alone.”
20
Z
After watching them leave, I closed the door and locked it.“Now, George, let’s talk about those sexy undergarments.”
“Talk?”she asked.
I leaned in and kissed her for the umpteenth time, then took her hand and led her upstairs, stopping just outside the entrance to my bedroom.“Stay put.I’ll just be a moment.”
She smiled.“Yes, sir.”
As tempted as I was to kiss her again, I let go of her hand and proceeded with my plan.
After dimming the overheads, I lit the candles I’d set out yesterday, checked the flowers like I had earlier, took a deep breath, and returned to her.
“I’ve dreamed of this night so many times,” I said, leading her inside and over to the bed.“Tell me you want this as much as I do.”
She put her hands on my chest.“I want it more, Z.”
“You are so beautiful,” I murmured, stroking her cheek with my fingertips.“I’ve never been able to resist you.”
“I haven’t wanted you to.”
