Page 69 of Ready or Not

“Hello,” I say, answering the call once we’re far enough away from the table that it doesn’t seem rude.

“Honey.” Andrew’s voice sends a shiver down my spine. “I’ve missed you. I can’t even see you live on my computer screen anymore, but I’ve got a few favorites saved away. You look more radiant with every passing day. Oh, by the way, how’s Kate?”

I miss a step, stumbling forward as a whine escapes.

Bishop’s hands immediately land on my hips, righting me.

The background noise I could hear while he was speaking disappears.

“Speakerphone,” Bishop growls, keeping his voice low.

I pull my phone up, turning toward him. “He hung up. He said he misses me and my live streams, but I look more radiant with every passing day. Then he asked me how Kate is and hung up.”

“Fuck,” he growls, pulling his phone out of his pocket.

Holt and Mercy buzz in the bond. I can feel Holt approaching, and it’s insane. It’s almost like I can tell exactly how many more steps until he reaches the end of the hallway.

“I’m calling Hargrove and Merryweather.” Bishop kisses my forehead, holding the phone to his ear.

I’m guessing Mercy stayed back to not completely abandon his family at an empty table because he doesn’t get closer.

Holt and Cooper reach us. They surround me as I explain what happened.

Holt pulls me into his chest, palming the back of my head. My nose roots around, but my impulses are on high alert. I bury my face between his chest and his arm. It helps trick my system into thinking we aren’t so exposed.

“Someone try Merryweather. Hargrove hasn’t picked up twice now.” Bishop is full of tension, but I can’t see him.

I know Andrew’s entire goal was to rile me up and put me on edge.

I exhale heavily.

I don’t think I’d ever forgive myself if something happened to Kate.

Kate doesn’t answer when I call or text. My nerves are fried. I vaguely recall Mercy’s mom and dads giving me a hug before we left the restaurant, but by the time we make it home, it all feels a little like a bad dream.

“You’ve pissed off Merrick,” Mercy tells Bishop. “He’s not answering, either, which hasn’t happened in…years.”

“He needed a vacation,” Bishop growls, scooping me up. “If we’re that bad off without him, then it’s time to hire some new tech specialists. I’m taking Vale to the nest.”

“Yes, we probably do need to put out feelers for another tech employee or two.” Mercy sighs, coming over to kiss my forehead. “Don’t stress. We’re safe here, and Kate has two men I trust keeping her safe too.”

“Then why aren’t they answering?” I ask, shaking my head.

It’s not his fault. I know they’re doing everything they can.

“There’s a protocol in place for situations such as these.” Mercy tenderly runs his fingers over my cheek. “I will update you as soon as I know more. Can I borrow your phone?”

“Yeah, of course.” I grab my phone out of my purse and hand it over. “And I know you’re doing everything you can. I’m sorry. I’m just worried.”

“No need to apologize. Landis was calling in hopes of upsetting you. Maybe even hoping to lure you to DC to check on her.” Mercy pecks a final kiss on my lips and nods. “Enjoy your snuggle.”

Bishop doesn’t hesitate before stomping us toward the stairs. He’s upset too, and the bond is a mess of all our concerns. It feels like they’re only feeding off one another. I’m not sure what to do with myself at the moment.

Holt crawls into the nest a few hours later. “Mercy was able to get in touch with Ranger and a couple guys we trust that aren’t too far from DC. They’re going to pop over and check in on Kate.”

Bishop’s arm tightens around my middle, pulling me back into his warm skin.

Holt lies down, facing me. “You know, I’m really going to miss the baby belly once she makes her arrival.” He brushes his hand over my bare stomach. I’ve still got on a pair of hideous maternity underwear and a bra, but I got hot. Bishop helped me strip out of my dress a while ago, but I just didn’t feel up for anything more than a sweet snuggle. “But I’m also really fucking excited to meet her.”

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