Thunder chuckles. “The one. The reason I’ve never seen you with a woman?”
I scoff. He’s never seen me with a woman because I’m a private person. I’m not one of those guys that goes to the bar and makes a big show of picking someone up. But hell, before I came here, it had been a long time. But I know what my friend means.
“Yeah, she is.”
“Then tell me why you’re planning to watch her from afar rather than try to work things out with her?” He makes a point of glancing over at my attire.
I’m dressed for the cold, in a thick parka, hat, and gloves. There’s no doubt I plan to sit in my car. “She’s unhappy with me at the moment.”
Thunder barks out a laugh. “Why does that not surprise me?”
I sigh. “She overheard me talking with Hawthorne about going back to Afghanistan. She doesn’t think I’ll stick around.”
Thunder turns in his seat to face me. “Wait, you’re gonna stick around? Here? Are you leaving the team?”
I swallow. “I was thinking about it if things work out with her. And if Stormy can find a place for me on his crew.”
Thunder grins.
“What?” I grumble.
“Good for you, going after what you want. And Stormy would be lucky to have you. He’s a great guy. You’ll love his team.” He takes another sip of his coffee. “If you decide that’s what you want, let me know. I’ll put in a good word for you with Stormy.”
“Stormy? That’s Rover’s boss.”
“His real name is Poseidon Thompson, and he’s the other half of Morgan Thompson Security. He’s a cool guy. I’ve worked on several assignments with the guys here, so I’ve gotten to know him a little. You’ll like him. He’s a bit uptight, but a good guy.”
“His name’s really Poseidon?”
“Yep. Hence, Stormy.”
I snort. “Thank you for the offer. I’d appreciate that.”
Thunder continues to drum the steering wheel. “It won’t be the same without you, Pig Pen.”
“Aw, thanks. I love you too.”
I make kissy faces at him, but he pushes my face away with a large hand.
Then his eyes widen. “Oh, shit.”
“What?” I ask.
“If you’re not there to keep Lightning in check, it will be madness.”
I laugh.
“No, seriously, the rest of us don’t want anything to do with your food pranks and the weird things you do to each other.”
I shrug. “Then tell him no.”
Thunder’s mouth falls open. “Tell him no? Did you forget who we are talking about?”
I laugh. “You’re right. Well, I guess you better be ready to step up. One tip, he never checks his creamer before dumping it into his coffee. You’d think after the fourth time I messed with it he would.” I shake my head. “But he doesn’t.”
“That’s because he’s half asleep until he has his first cup of coffee in the office.”
I open the door but turn back to him, smiling. “Well, there’s your opportunity then. I’m going to let you go so you can get some sleep.”
