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“People also say he’s some sort of hero. Folks here love those boys from that company. And the girls as well.”
“They do some fine work, from what I hear.”
“He was in the military, right?”
“SEAL.” Where was she going with that?
“What a shame his marriage didn’t work out. Such a beautiful man like that, someone who served his country and continues to do so, with a baby girl, now all single.”
“Andrea had it coming for all she did to him.”
“Do you think they’ll try their relationship again?”
Even though it seemed like a fat chance in hell, I hated to consider that as a possibility. My insides curled just thinking about that woman touching Danny in any capacity. “Is there anything you want to know, Mom?”
She inhaled deeply and let go of her rounding conversation. “He’s an attractive man. Everyone loves him in this town, so I assume he’s a nice person and a good father. I know you have a crush on him.” I started to refute when she went on. “And I’d hate to see you get hurt by giving him your heart and not getting his in return. I’m not saying he’d hurt you; he does seem like a nice man. But he has baggage you don’t need to carry. Just think about it.”
With that, she went to work, leaving me with a bitter taste in my mouth.
CHAPTER NINE
We’d been working and brainstorming for a few hours after we saw the contents of the box I stole from the cartel base. I was drained, moody, and ready to throw caution to the wind and invade their base again, not leaving until every single one of them was deceased.
I needed a month-long vacation, an energy boost, and an extra dose of patience to deal with ex-wives demanding the money and visitation they weren’t entitled to. As if interrupting my kiss wasn’t bad enough, Andrea decided to pester me on my phone.
When Ben suggested grabbing a cup of coffee at his woman’s coffee shop, I jumped at the opportunity. Mia decided to stay behind with Haley, under the promise we bring them some goods.
Since our temporary space was close to By Any Beans, we walked, me holding Sofia’s hands, and Ben holding Gabe’s. As soon as we entered, the aroma of fresh coffee and pastries assaulted us, making me realize I was hungry.
We managed to find a booth near the counter, so I guided the kids as Ben said hello to Izzie.
It always amazed me to see the changes in him. He had every reason to be averse to relationships, and he was for a long time. But ever since Izzie came into his life and they created Teddy, he was a different man. I had the utmost respect for his improved version.
As I helped Gabe and Fee onto the booth, Ben leaned over the counter, cradling Izzie’s face to kiss her. “Hey, Forest.”
She giggled and gave him a peck. “What are you doing here? I thought you had to work.”
“I needed to recharge and take an extra dose of you.” He kissed her again, with more passion this time, and I positioned myself in front of the kids so they wouldn’t be scarred for life.
I was ready to clear my throat at them when I heard Mr. Cross’s hard voice. “Is this man bothering you, Ms. Isabella?”
I most definitely wouldn’t say she was bothered if her pink cheeks and goofy smile were any indications of her mood. But I couldn’t say I was surprised at his words. John Cross was the town grumpy, and he took it upon himself to chastise Ben whenever he could. If Mia was around, they’d be both doing it. The man was an old moody who had a soft spot for her.
“I could take him outside if you want,” he added. “Just say the word, and I’ll take care of it.”
Izzie grinned at her elderly protector. “Thank you, Mr. Cross. But I think I’m safe with him.”
He didn’t look convinced, glaring at Ben, who tried to keep his composure without caving under the man’s stare. “Hello, Mr. Cross. It’s nice to see you again.”
“Where is your little friend?”
“Mia? Hum, she’s working.”
“And you’re drinking coffee and kissing pure Ms. Isabella, I see.”
It was always a pleasure seeing the confident Benjamin Walker embarrassed. “No, I just...I missed Izzie, I wanted to see her...I was working until just now, I just stopped—”
“It’s good to rest from all your rest.” He turned to me. “What about you? Left any other woman working as you slack?”
