Page 38 of Not Ready

“That sounds perfect, but I can cook us something if you’d like.”

“No, no. That won’t do. You need to be resting.” He frowns, pulling out his phone and typing away. “Do me a favor, though? Apparently, Holt isn’t answering his cell. I’m going to have one of the guys call the house phone. Would you mind keeping a listen for it and taking it to the gym? That’s where the GPS indicates he is. It’s the door to the left of the laundry room if you’re headed toward the garage from this direction.”

“Oh yeah, of course.”

Mercer nods and strides over to grab a portable house phone off the wall. He brings it back, handing it to me. His eyes fly to the garage and back again. “I could just order delivery, but I always feel terribly lazy when I do. I could stay with you, though.”

“I’ll be fine.” I chuckle, tossing a thumb toward the couch. “The sofa is calling my name. Is there anything specific I need to say when answering the phone?”

“This is the number to our private residence. You shouldn’t be bothered unless it’s Ranger. He just needs to speak with Holt.”

“Got it.” I give him a bright smile. “You know, if you’re ever hiring a receptionist, then look no further. I worked at a spa for an entire year, checking people in and out and making appointments. Plus, I really need a job.”

“You can answer the work line anytime you’re feeling up to it.” He bends down, running his hand over my hair and kissing my forehead. “Now, get some rest. It shouldn’t take me more than forty-five minutes.”

“Thank you. Ooo, if they have a big Cobb salad with egg and…” I frown. “I forgot I can’t have lunch meat. If they have a side salad, would you add that on to my order from last time? I’m craving croutons and tomatoes.”

“Will do.” He chuckles.

“And extra ranch dressing.”

I’m starting to think the guy is never going to call. There’s a slight possibility I fall asleep while waiting, because the ringing makes me jolt as I snatch up the phone.

“Hello?” I answer, pulling my legs down and trying to push myself off the couch.

My head feels fuzzy.

Yeah, I definitely think I dozed off while waiting.

“Hi,” a confused sounding male voice says. “Hmm, I’ve just verified I called the number I intended to. Are you why Holt hasn’t been answering my calls?”

I grunt, finally managing to stand. “Are you Ranger?”

“That would be me. And who are you, doll?”

“Vale. Sorry. Let me waddle my way down to the gym, and I’ll grab him for you.” I rub my eyes, trying to wake up.

“Waddle? Are you injured?”

“Nope, just extremely pregnant.”

“Really? Now I’m thoroughly intrigued. How did you end up with Holt and Mercy?”

“Through Bishop. I had to leave my apartment when some jerk got a little too comfortable letting himself in without being invited.” I blanch. Usually, I don’t overshare quite so much.

“Ahh, you’re why I lost Hargrove and Merryweather.”

“I suppose so. I’m sorry about that. Kate can be stubborn, but I didn’t want her to be in danger because of me.”

“Indeed. Is he an ex?” Ranger asks conversationally. “Does he have a key he forgot to return?”

“No. We were never together.”

“Right, that does make the situation significantly creepier. Doesn’t it?”

“Yeah,” I agree, opening the door to the gym. Music blares through the speakers, but my jaw falls. “Oh, wow.”

Holt is on the pull-up bar with his back to me. He’s sweaty and covered in bright tattoos that cross his back and sides.

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