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Brian signed something and they all waited for Ford to say it aloud. “Brian wants to know what the look was.”
Brian’s hands moved in another series of jerky motions. He was saying something for his brother, but Duke and Quick watched carefully. It crossed Quick’s mind then, and not for the first time, that they all needed to learn a little ASL, so the whole team could communicate without Ford having to interpret. The King brothers were becoming an important part of their business, and it just made sense. After a few more seconds of Brian signing, Ford ran his hand over his buzz cut before speaking.
“Brian thinks we should put a tail on him.”
“Why?” Duke frowned. “What do you see in those papers?”
Brian shook his head. Looking down at the papers, his forehead creased in concentration, he signed while Ford rattled off all the business ventures that the Wellingtons were involved in. It wasn’t just hospital politics. They were connected with the governor and a couple federal judges last names were Wellington. “There appear to be Wellingtons serving in several branches of the federal government.”
“Anything shady or underhanded?” Quick questioned.
“Some things look sketchy, but they’re good at covering their tracks,” Brian signed enthusiastically. “Looking at it from this angle, I don’t see much that appears illegal. But, I’m sure I could find it if I dig hard enough.”
“Fine. Dig deeper.” Ford agreed with his brother. “We may need our own leverage if it comes down to it.”
“In the meantime.” Quick quirked his brow.
“In the meantime, we’re on Defcon Four.”
Duke rolled his eyes. “Civilian talk, please, Ford.”
“Meaning we’re going to increase our watch and tighten up on security.”
“Well, hell. If that’s what that means, then we’re always on Defcon Four.” Quick checked his watch; it was after five. Surely, Cayson should be ready to leave work by now.
“We’re talking about you and your guy’s safety,” Ford chided.
“I know. I’m on it.” Quick stood, ready to conclude this meeting. He wasn’t being honest with himself, or his team. How did he touch on this subject again? He hadn’t had to deal with losing control of his anger in a long time.
“Something else you want to say?” Ford asked.
“If I get my hands on this guy, I’m not sure what I’ll be capable of.”
“We’re all well aware of what you can do. Hopefully it won’t come to that.” Duke clapped Quick on his shoulder on his way by. “Let’s not worry if we don’t have to.”
“Keep this from Vaughan,” Quick said to Duke’s retreating back.
“I keep nothing from Vaughan,” Duke responded, not bothering to look at Quick as he closed himself in his office.
Whipped prick.
Quick didn’t have time to ponder the what-ifs, because as soon as he sat back at his desk, the front door opened. He was so consumed with his thoughts that he didn’t notice Cayson until he was standing over him.
“Hope I’m not interrupting,” Cayson said softly.
Quick stood up and wrapped his arms around Cayson like he hadn’t just seen him that morning. “Hey you.” Quick placed a delicate kiss on Cayson’s neck while he bent low and soaked up all the warmth Cayson could give. His meeting with the guys had gone well, but whenever Quick talked about his anger or fighting, it made him anxious. Cayson showing up right now was exactly what he needed. “This is a nice surprise. I thought I’d meet you at my place.”
Cayson looked nervous, clearing his throat before he could speak. Looking around the office, Quick saw that all eyes were on them in the open space. He didn’t want Cayson to feel uncomfortable or be afraid of them, especially since any one of them would lay down their life for the other, and that now included him.
With his hand on the small of Cayson’s back, he ushered him over to the brothers. “Cayson, this is Brian and Ford King. Fellas, this is Dr. Cayson Chauncey.”
“Cayson is fine,” he corrected, holding his hand out to shake. Both of the men had a solid, forceful grip. “It’s nice to meet you both.”
They both nodded, but Ford was the only one to speak. “It’s good to finally put a face with the name.”
Cayson looked back at him, a slight smile ghosting over his beautiful face.
“Yep. I talk about you all the time.”
“We were just taking about you, actually.” Duke came out of his office, offering his hand to Cayson. “To what do we owe the pleasure, Doc?”
“The pleasure is mine. He’s here to see me… finally.” Quick laughed, pulling Cayson close to his side.
“Well, um.” Cayson shifted. He looked so uneasy. What was going on? “I’m kind of here to speak to all of you.”
Quick looked concerned, as he bent down to look Cayson in the eye. “Did something happen at work, Cays?”
~~~~~~~~~~
Cayson didn’t expect for all of Quick’s coworkers to be in on a Saturday afternoon, but he guessed they didn’t work normal business hours. He looked around the room, astonished at how much smaller he felt around them. They were huge, military trained, and very serious.
