“I’m sorry, Lucky. We need to rock – duty calls.”
An unexpected wash of disappointment hits me. For the first time since I joined the SEALs, I’m not amped for a mission.
“Can I at least say goodbye?”
He nods. “Just keep it short. We’ve gotta move.”
I hurry back the way I’ve just come to check in on Agatha and make sure she’s got someone she can call. Between them, Agatha and Indigo assure me she’ll be fine. Indie hugs me, then turns to Knight while Agatha assures me she’ll be fine, her friend is on the way.
Her expressive eyes cling to mine for a long moment. “Be careful out there. Come home safe.”
“I will.”
“Promise?”
A warmth spreads in my chest at her words. “I promise.”
As I drive toward base, I know I’m going to catch shit from the guys about my one-eighty about Agatha and, quite frankly, I couldn’t care. I judged her harshly with no factual basis, and I’m man enough to admit I was wrong. In fact, so wrong I can’t wait to get back from this mission so I can learn more about the intriguing Agatha Traeger.
8
AGATHA
Other than the occasional headache, which the doctor warned would happen, I’m no worse for wear after my accident. My book, however, isn’t faring as well since there’s a chunk of research I never managed to finish before Jessen and his team were deployed.
It’s been weeks since they left, and I’ve not heard a word from him. I don’t know whether I should be worried that something’s happened to him, or if he’s back and decided against reaching out to me again.
It’s also possible that they’re not back yet, but for some reason my mind keeps defaulting to it being that he doesn’t want to talk to me again. I have no idea why. I’m not generally so lacking in confidence. For the millionth time, I regret not getting his cell number.
But I have an appointment for a follow up visit at the hospital today, so I’ve decided to seek Indigo Jones out and see if I can subtly pump her for any information about the team. At least I’ll know whether Jessen made it home safely or not.
A giant mug of coffee in my hand, I settle at my desk to figure out what the hell I’m going to do about the book when my phone rings. Seeing Toni’s name on the display has me smiling.
“Hey muffin. How are you?”
“Hey Tigs. That was going to be my line.”
“I’m feeling fine. I have a check-up today, but I’m doing great.”
“I’m happy to hear it. I just wanted to touch base and see how you were doing.”
“Thanks, Toni. I appreciate it.”
“How’s the book coming along?”
With a sigh, I admit, “Not well, if I’m being honest. I’ve had to skip a chunk of the story without the research, and now the story isn’t flowing as smoothly because of it. You know my process.”
“Yeah, I do. But I also know you. You’ll figure something out. Maybe work on something else in the meantime. I can always get you an extension on this book in you need it.”
“Actually, that’s not a bad idea. Maybe a palate cleanser is exactly what I need right now. Thanks.”
“Anytime.”
Our chat turns to more personal topics and before I know it, when I next notice I’ve been on the phone for over an hour.
“I’ve got to dash, muffin. I need to get ready for my appointment. Don’t want to be late.”
“Let me know what the doc says, yeah?”
