Chapter 10
The Rise and Fall
The tinted sky stares into my eyes as I stare out at the Selma landscape. No one found my lead, and I’m sure he’s long gone by now after the infected fall of the woman I killed. No one wants to speak about it in front of me, and I can’t blame them. I was far too emotional yesterday. I’ve been trained my whole life to shut out emotion, but I’ve never been able to. Hale is so much better at that than me. His only weakness for emotion has been me.
I smile as that thought comes to mind, and then I smile bigger as I feel his arms wrapping around me from behind.
“You ready to go?” he asks softly while moving my hair to kiss my neck.
“I won’t be if you keep doing that,” I seduce, and he turns me to face him so that his lips can caress mine lightly before picking up my bag.
“We need to go, or I would definitely have some more fun with you in this old place.”
“I’m glad we stayed in so much,” I chuckle, and he stretches playfully to dramatize the very long night we had.
“I don’t think I’ve ever slept that much in my life, and I think it’s just what I needed. Thank you,” he chirps before pecking me lightly once more.
“I’m surprised we didn’t run into anybody we knew. Not that I’m complaining.”
“Compounds change almost daily. I had three assistants before I got Wendy, and I’ve had numerous other officials. It’s easy for people to come and go and then be replaced. You did all that worrying for nothing.”
“I’m looking forward to returning to Seminole,” I smolder out.
He smirks lightly before running his thumb across my lips, and then he sighs out before taking my hand in his.
“It’s just a temporary stay until we catch a fresh lead. We’ll be back on the road before long.”
“At least I get to be on the road with you.”
He grins upon hearing my giddy words, and his arm drapes over my shoulder while his other carries our bags.
“I wouldn’t go without you.”
“I know. That’s what makes you all the more incredible.”
His cheeks blush lightly as his perfect smile slips across his face, and he rolls his eyes at his own foolishly giddy reaction. I mimic his grin, and Clay walks up with a smile of his own.
“I’m glad to see you feel better,” he says with delight.
“Hale has a way of bringing out the best in me,” I giggle out.
“I know. That’s why I’m glad the two of you are finally back with each other. You bring out the best in him too.”
“Yes she does,” Hale sizzles free while staring into my eyes.
“Let’s get back to Seminole. It’ll be a long ride from here,” Clay sighs in dread.
“I like long rides,” I provocatively dare.
Hale stifles his laughter, and Clay rolls his eyes while shaking his head.
“I think you two bring out the animal in each other as well,” he grumbles before walking away in mock disgust.
I make a playful purring sound, and Hale lets his laughter free before giving me a sweet kiss.
“You feel better?” Brazen chirps from behind as he walks up on our moment.
“Very much so. Thank you for what you did yesterday. I needed that,” I murmur genuinely while staring into his pleased, pale eyes.
