Page 49 of Exposed

Jackson’s eyebrow rose in shock.

“I did the same then, when he told me,” Mark chortled.

“We’re doing more international clients and large conglomerates. We do have a case with the King of Monaco wanting to hire us. He’s planning a tour of America and the UK,” Emmanuel informed him.

“Do you need backup? We’re there if you need us, Shooter,” Jackson advised.

“I don't think so, I just got the case a few days ago. I’ll keep you updated though.”

“You know your brothers are always here for you.”

“Frogmen for life,” Mark announced, raising his glass in the air.

Chapter Twenty-Seven

Dominic

She didn’t let my past become our reality, and even though I was afraid of our outcome, I allowed my heart to open up to another woman, and she’d become the best thing to happen to me. I watched as she spoke with her friends and family. I had Danielle help me throw a twenty-sixth birthday party with the team from Raven Cosmetics, as well as a few fans that we vetted with a background check through Cole Security Firm. I started the preliminary stage of getting a second company off the ground. After helping Mark and Jackson out for so many years, I discussed with Emmanuel about having a security firm that handled sports stars and major events. Jacinda could have cost me so much if I didn’t decide to go after what I wanted and needed. She raised her eyes to find me watching her. I winked at her, and she blushed, blowing a kiss back.

Mark came over as I stood near the bar and ordered a drink. He turned with his back to the bar and arms stretched out, facing the room. I rented the Ocean View Hotel for the party once she finished up her radio interviews.

“I see that look in your eye,” Mark commented, voice calm, gaze steady on Charlie as her head tilted back in laughter at something Catherine said.

“See what?” I asked, sipping on the beer bottle.

“Your future. The determination to make everything work and keep her happy no matter what, brings you peace when nothing else is keeping you sane. I’ve had those moments, and Jackson told me you still have a few sleepless nights because of past missions,” Mark told me.

I ran a hand down my face, sighing at the thoughts tearing at my insides. Lauren walked up right as I was about to answer.

“Hey, you. Come dance with me,” she stated, entwining our hands, kissing me on the lips.

“Baby, it’s your day. You don’t want me embarrassing you,” I answered. She smoothed her hand down my jacket and I toyed with a lock of her hair.

Lauren grinned, shaking her head and snapping her fingers to the beat of Beyonce.

“This is my song, and I want to dance with my man.”

“What am I going to do with you?” I let out a mirthless chuckle.

“The only thing you know how to do. Love me,” she stated, rising on her tippy toes capturing my lips. I gripped her by the waist, pulling her in close. She wrapped her arms around my neck.

I heard someone clearing their throat.

“That can wait until after the party, sharpshooter.” Mark laughed, patting me on the back and walking off.

The song was fast, but we continued dancing slowly as the crowd took pictures and cheered.

As the night went on, we continued to party and had a good time until we were the only ones left in the room.

…

“Undress for me.”

I rented a penthouse suite so we wouldn’t need to leave after drinking and dancing all night. She stepped back, biting her bottom lip while removing the red spaghetti strap dress. Starting from her feet, I slowly took in her naked body—every curve that I craved whenever she was near me. Lauren turned and walked off toward the bedroom. I took the last sip of champagne and sat the glass down on the table. I removed my jacket and tie and followed behind her. Entering our bedroom, I shut the door behind me, and she stood in front of me, unbuckling my pants.

Her lips pressed against mine. “I want to thank you for my birthday party.” My hands explored the hollows of her back. Lauren dropped to her knees; the touch of her hand was suddenly unbearable in its tenderness as my head fell back in arousal.

“Baby, you know this drives me crazy when your lips are wrapped-”

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