Page 94 of Revenge River

“So, how soon do you have to leave?” Most of Merc's team had already cleared out, the only one who stayed behind was Reaper, Merc's team mate.

“I'm not going anywhere. I spent my entire life living for revenge. But I wasn't living, not really. Now that I found you, I'm never letting you go.”

“I guess I could find some room for you here.”

Merc chuckled, “In this little bitty cottage?”

Nightshade leaned back, unable to resist the temptation of his handsome face. “Are you sure you really forgive me? After everything I did…” She’d betrayed him in the worst way.

Merc cupped her cheeks in his palms. “I forgave you the minute I found out the truth. If anyone on this Earth understands the need for vengeance, it's me. I would've done the same thing you did.”

Warmth bloomed in her chest, taking away a little bit of the pain from her father's abrupt death. “Good, because if you tried to leave, I’d just hunt you down and drag you back.”

“Miss Cotter, the only way you're going to get me to leave is if you kick me out yourself.”

“I love you, Merc Grayson.”

“And I love you Nightshade Marissa Sarah Cotter.”

“You know, this is an awfully big house for just the two of us and Harriet and Francis.” Nightshade said. “Especially when we start searching for my team and your brother's team. This place will be practically empty. There's no telling how long we will be gone.”

“That's true, but with the kind of funding that you've got available now, you'll have unlimited resources at your fingertips, you'll be able to find your teammates and your sister thanks to your father.” Merc pulled her tight, squeezing her in his arms.

“I've been thinking, just now, about my team living here. At least until they settle and figure out where they want to go after this.” The more they looked into Operation Midnight, the worse it had gotten. The operatives would need a peaceful and isolated place to re-acclimate to daily life. General Rainier had disappeared, his bank accounts had been wiped clean and his house had been emptied.

“I think you've got one of the biggest hearts of anyone I know and you awe me with your strength and courage. I couldn't think of a better plan.”

“And I mean your team too. They’re all going to need help when we find them.”

“Perfect. Now that part has to wait until tomorrow. Reaper's been breathing down my neck to get back on task, but I told him today is just for you. What do you want to do?”

Nightshade leaned back in his arms. “I want you to take me to bed.”

The light teasing in Merc's gaze darkened with hunger. “My wish is your command.” He scooped her in his arms and carried her up the stairs and into Nightshade's new bedroom. This one had muted walls of gray and a deep plum bedspread which Merc gently laid her on. He stretched out next to her and took a strand of her hair in his fingers. “I love you.”

She curled her fingers around his neck, pulling him down to her, “I love you, too.”