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Aspen already knew without question who would be outside the door waiting for her.
“We don’t have time—”
“Please,” she whispered, turning her eyes to Ball.
His lips pressed in a firm line before he blew out a deep breath.
“Fine. A few minutes, then we must go.”
She nodded and stood, watching as the men filed out the room, ignoring Roth’s hard glare as he followed his partner out. Her attention was captured by the sight of a bruised Declan standing by the door.
“You don’t have long, Declan. The captain patted Declan on the back. “I’ll see what I can do.”
“Thanks, Captain,” Declan breathed before stepping into the small room. He shut the door and leaned back against it.
Their eyes met as they stood staring at each other.
She bit her lip to keep the cry from escaping her lips then rushed to him. He stepped forward and caught her in his embrace. His strong arms folded around her, and she squeezed him as tight as she could. Sobs escaped her.
“I’m so sorry,” she hiccupped. Her face was buried against his chest as the sobs continued.
“You don’t have to be sorry,” he murmured, his chest vibrating with his words.
The strength of him brought her comfort. She sniffed, regaining control of herself. In his arms she no longer felt alone. In his arms was where she wanted to stay for all time, but there was a certain federal agent not too far away who would prevent it from happening.
“Are you all right?”
She pulled back with a nod. Declan reached up and wiped her tears away with his thumbs.
“As good as I can ever be.”
“I’m here for you. You don’t have to do this alone.” His eyes searched hers.
He cupped her cheek, and she leaned into it, knowing she could trust him.
Her heart skipped a beat. She shook her head slowly, unsure of what to say. How much did he know?
“I’ve been alone for so long—”
Their conversation was interrupted by the door opening. US Marshal Ball stood in the doorway. His mouth was pressed into a thin line, and he glared at them. Aspen leaned into Declan, not wanting to leave.
“I’m not sure who Captain Spook knows, but it would seem he has called in a favor. Sergeant Owen will be coming with us for the night.”
Chapter 14
“This is a safe house. We’ll use it for tonight,” US Marshal Ball announced, closing the door. He waved Aspen over to the couch while his partner disappeared into the kitchen.
Declan took in the space. The windows were covered with drapes, and a small couch and love seat faced each other. The decor was plain, but it wouldn’t be decorated as if a family lived here. He walked around the room intent on ensuring that this was a safe environment for Aspen.
The car ride had been silent and full of tension. He didn’t know what the hell was going on, but she had a lot of explaining to do.
Why the hell would those men be after her?
He turned, cataloging every detail of the house that was visible.
“I hope it’s to your liking,” Ball drawled, leaning against the wall.
“It will do,” he replied, his gaze landing on Aspen.
