Page 46 of Fighting for Family

“Do I even want to know?” she asked worriedly.

“I don’t remember much. I saw something and headed toward it when I fell. I skinned up my face and hands. I didn’t realize I got shot until Shadow said something. He shot me full of morphine, and I don’t recall much afterward. I woke up in Germany with Victoria leaning over me and threatening to castrate me if I didn’t wake up soon,” he informed her.

“You’re here, and it’s all that matters,” she said, sounding relieved.

“I didn’t meet you at Kassie’s because I didn’t want you to see me for the first time there. When I thought of you, I always imagined you here in the living room with Zeus cuddled up next to you.”

Hearing his name, Zeus jumped on the couch and curled up on Hollywood’s side. He gave him a rub on the head while he held Addyson in his arms. She lay her head on his shoulder and sighed.

“I like the changes,” he said, nodding toward the plants, a few books on the table, and a large TV over the fireplace.

“It’s kept me busy,” she said. “Do you want anything to eat or drink?”

“Give me a minute to savor you,” he murmured as he kissed her temple.

Her arm wrapped around his waist as they appreciated the moment.

“You should’ve seen Claire and Gabby’s faces when they saw Patch and Knight walk into Kassie’s house,” Addyson said. “It was beautiful.”

“I’m happy for them. I know they’ve worried nonstop about their wives. It must be hell to have a pregnant wife and work thousands of miles away. Honestly, I’ve never given it any thought until working with those two. They kept their heads in the game, but every now and then, they’d get a far-off expression on their faces. I knew they slipped miles away to Serenity.”

“How’s the team?” she asked gently, examining his injured hand.

“They’re holding up,” he said softly. “Losing Leo feels like missing the heart of the team. Don’t worry about the hand. Doc says to watch for infection. Otherwise, it’s fine. My leg will heal, too.”

“Will Apollo return with Sparky when Doc and Whiskey fly over?” she asked, placing his hand gently on a pillow.

“I’m assuming they’ll all return home. I hate leaving them with less support. Damn it, I only started the job, and I’ve gotten hurt twice,” he said, frustrated.

“You work a dangerous job. It’s bound to happen at some point,” she said. “Let’s focus on the fact you’re here.”

Sighing, Hollywood agreed. “I’ve done a lot of thinking. When the team returns, I’m considering resigning. You’ve supported me all this time, but I know you don’t like it. It makes you uncomfortable. Maybe I can find another job elsewhere.”

Addyson rose from her position and stared at him. “If you want to quit, I won’t stop you. It’s your choice. I’m not sure about all the rules, but it will mean you’ll have to give up Apollo. I know I’d never let Zeus go. If you’re considering it because you don’t think I can handle it, then you’re doing it for all the wrong reasons.”

“I might’ve gotten killed. I saw Catherine’s reaction to Leo’s death, and I don’t think I can stand putting you through it again. The pain in her voice still haunts me,” he confessed as he closed his eyes.

“It’s heartbreaking,” she said. “But it’s not a good enough reason for you to abandon the team when they need you the most. I’m committed to this relationship and will support your position on this team. I saw Catherine. I have lived her story, and it’s awful. One day, she’ll wake up, and her heart will hurt a little less, and she’ll breathe a little easier. Leo’s memory will make her smile instead of cry. She has plenty of friends to support her while she grieves. I ran away. You’ve given me a reason to stay.”

“Do you really feel comfortable with us if I decide to keep my job?” he asked, surprised.

“I love you, Liam. I don’t want to see you hurt or deal with your death. While you were away, I’ve made true friends. I volunteer at the community center and know most of the residents of Serenity. This team makes you happy. It’s part of you, and I know now some things are worth the risk.”

“Damn it, Addy. When I think I can’t love you anymore than I do,” he said, his voice cracking with emotion.

She kissed him softly, making him moan.

“I know it’s early, but can I talk you into a nap? Doc says no funny business for the next week until I see him again,” he said, flinching. “I want to fall asleep holding you.”

“How about we take a nap, and I’ll order Ty’s for dinner?” she suggested. “We can stay in and relax.”

“When did Ty start delivering?” he asked

“He hired a couple of veterans to keep up with the demand,” she informed him. “They’ll even deliver Bryanna’s baked goods.”

“Wow, they’re catching up with the times,” he said, marveling at the news.

“Both businesses have thrived, and people seem to like it. For nights like tonight, it’s a perfect idea,” she said, rising from the couch. “Can you make it up the stairs?”