Page 58 of Stolen Salvation

Eidolon had brought Jack, Gunner, Decker, Waggs, and Blake. They’d also arrived with Dr Decker, who was married to Mark Decker, Eidolon’s profiler. She was a surgeon and having her there in case any of the women needed immediate medical attention had been a good call.

Fortis had arrived with Zack, the man who ran the show, Dane his second, Zin who she only knew by his reputation as the Viper, Smithy, and last but not least Daniel, who bore a strong resemblance to the hot bearded guy from Magic Mike.

Jack had smiled when he’d seen her and Bishop together and she felt like she had his approval. She’d try and catch him after this was over so she could thank him for what he’d done for Noah.

“I propose we breach from three sides of the property around three am. It’s when the place is the quietest, the guards will be tired, and the surprise attack gives us an advantage. I’ve arranged for Carter Cavendish to be occupied so we won’t have to worry about him and the chatter is picking up nothing to suggest they know we’re coming.”

Rolling out the plans on the kitchen island, which was the only area big enough to fit them all, Duchess pointed at three dots on the plan. “These three positions are the weakest. If we breach in unison, we can cover the areas faster and decrease the likelihood of casualties. We know there are civilians inside and some will be doctors and possibly nurses, but we can’t assume they’re unarmed just because they have a white coat or are wearing a nurses’ uniform.”

Charlie listened as Duchess explained the plan in detail, stopping every now and again to consider options from either Jack or one of the other military operators who probably had more experience in the field than she did.

“You okay with this?”

Twisting she looked up at Noah and couldn’t help the sliver of fear that wound its way inside her belly at the thought of something happening to him. “Yes, it’s a solid plan.”

“Not what I meant.”

Her smile was small as she patted his cheek. “I know, but I’m trying to not let fear control me, so I’m ignoring it.”

“Nobody would judge if you sat this out, Charl.”

“I know, but that would be worse. I need to be there and make sure Andrea is okay.”

Noah kissed her lips, the contact firm and innocent as kisses went but she still felt her body soften as if just his touch could melt her body and soul. He felt it and gripped her upper arms, a twitch of his lips making him appear younger.

“Hold that thought until we get back because I’m taking you to bed for a week and we’re not leaving it except for food.”

Charlie smiled against his mouth. “Sounds perfect.”

“Grab your gear,” Duchess shouted as everyone began to move, grabbing vests and protective gear as well as their preferred weapons. As she fitted the vest over her abdomen she wondered for a second if she should be going. She knew Noah would do his nut when he found out, but she hadn’t lied when she’d said she needed to be there for Andrea. Who knew what state she’d be in when they found her, and she deserved to have her sister step up for her. Plus, Charlie hoped when she told Noah about her plans to retire from the job he’d forgive her.

“Charlie, you got a second?”

Seeing Duchess standing in the doorway she nodded and followed her out, not looking at Noah who was watching them with interest.

Duchess pulled her out the back door and checked they were alone before crossing her arms. “You sure about this?”

“Yes, I need to be there and I won’t do anything stupid.”

“You told Bishop yet?”

“No.”

“Don’t you think you should? This is his child too.”

“I know and I was about to, but I’m concerned the news will distract him and we both know one tiny distraction in this job can cost you your life.”

Duchess looked sympathetic but also like the leader she was as she assessed her. “You do exactly what your team leader tells you, and if I think for one second you’re in danger, I’ll bench you. Bishop is already going to kill me for letting you go into danger knowing the circumstances but if you die, I won’t be far behind you.”

“I won’t take any unnecessary risks, but I’ll do my job.”

“Fair point.” Duchess shook her head as she straightened Charlie’s vest and fussed with her straps to tighten them. “I’m so going to regret this.”

As she was walking off, Charlie stopped her. “Thank you, Duchess. I mean that. You’ve been a good friend.”

Duchess rolled her eyes and threw an arm around her shoulder. “Jeez, stop with the emotions. Nobody’s going to die tonight.”

They were laughing as they re-entered the room and found the teams suited and booted and ready for action. Her gaze landed on Noah who looked drop-dead gorgeous in his tactical gear. To be fair, he looked that way no matter what he wore.