Page 148 of Finish Line

“I’ll have him on a plane in the next day, two at the most,” Frank says. “So, the same day as graduation.”

“Do it,” Mav says.

Frank once again moves away to make the call.

“Once Mr. Scott is done and we’ve cleaned the house, we need to go into lockdown,” Luke says. “Anytime we talk about him or our plans, it needs to be only us with a jammer in place.”

Dom points to the cars. “Let’s go home.”

Peter leans against his car. “I am about to head out. But I need you to promise me you’ll stay safe.” He looks up at where the guys and Nick stand behind me. “All of you. You’re more than capable of taking care of yourselves, but please don’t be reckless.”

He looks back at me, his gaze hardening. “When you go after him—I have no doubt you will, as you said as much—be smart about it. Use the resources at your disposal. When he is gone, we’ll toast to his demise.”

“I promise.” I hug him. “Now, you promise me that you’ll stay safe and won’t work too hard.”

“I won’t. I’ll return for your graduation in a few days, Nick.” He smiles at his son. “Shelby, remember what I said. You are now and forever part of my family. You’re as much my daughter as Hannah.”

Dammit, I thought I was done with tears. “And I’m keeping you, Peter.”

We watch as he slides into his car and leaves.

I turn to Nick. “Did you tell your dad about college yet?”

“Yes. He took it well. He told me he wants me to be happy, and if that makes me happy, then go for it.”

“I’m glad it worked out, because you’ve found your calling.”

Uncle Brett comes over next and says goodbye.

“Are you sure we can’t talk you into going on a nice, long vacation?” I beg.

He chuckles. “Maybe another time. I’m not running scared because of some punk.”

“He’s smart, Brett,” Nick says. “You don’t want to screw with him.”

“Don’t worry. I’ll watch out for him,” Brett says. “Keep my daughter safe, Nick.”

He hugs Cin and me, then takes off.

“Babe, I’m going to take my family home.” Luke wraps his arms around me. “Are you sure you’ll be all right with me staying with them until they leave?”

I gaze up at him. “I think I’ll be safe at the Knights. Don’t you?”

“I guess.” He gives me a searing kiss. “I’ll call you tonight.”

“You better. Stay safe.” I watch Luke walk over to his car.

Cam cups my cheek. “I’m going to run home and pack.”

“And you’ll be back tonight?” I question.

“No, I was going to spend some time with Camila and Beri tonight. I’ll be back tomorrow.”

I lay my head on his chest. I don’t like us being separated, and I have to trust that they can take care of themselves.

“I’ll be careful, beautiful, I promise.” He kisses my head.

“You better be.”

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