Page 120 of Three of a Kind

Locke snorts. “We’re all so fucking old.”

I laugh, but if this is getting old, I don’t mind it a bit.

“It’s not fucking happening, so just put it out of your minds right now,” Noble growls as the three of us stand around in the kitchen later the same night.

“We need someone to stay with Brooklyn and Libby.” Maverick raises his eyebrows. “Someone we know we can trust.”

“How about Locke?” Noble counters. “He’s the one most likely to be recognized.”

My head tilts.

He’s technically not wrong about that, but we’ll all be in masks.

“What if you monitor from here?” Ranger offers, coming into the room. “Merrick has gained access to the outdoor feeds. You’ll be able to watch everything happen in real time.”

“Fuck you,” Noble growls. “I remember how that felt today. I’m going to have to pass.”

I exhale heavily. “You know what it would do to Brooklyn if she lost any one of us. She’s pregnant. Do you feel confident you’re solid enough to go in and watch our backs?”

Noble nods. “Without a doubt.” His confidence filters through the bond as he looks at Maverick. “Would you question Gunner if he was in my place?” He turns to me. “Would you doubt Maverick?”

“I would ask,” Maverick says without hesitation. “I’d also take his word for it.”

I nod.

Noble is my packmate.

If I push any harder for him to stay back, he’s going to feel like we don’t trust him. He’s been a really fucking good sport, too, considering how long Maverick and I have known each other.

My eyes meet Maverick’s.

He nods.

I feel confident we’re on the same page. I wouldn’t trust Brooklyn and Libby with anyone else, but I know what has to be done.

“Nova and Haze will stay with them,” I say, holding out my hand to Noble. “I’m used to having his furry ass to watch my back, so…”

Noble laughs, shaking my hand.

Ranger sighs. “I don’t understand the two of you at all.”

Maverick snorts. “Don’t worry. That particular feeling is mutual.”

Chapter Thirty-Four

Noble

Back when I first started taking contracts, I worked with a small team. They’re still guys I would call on in an emergency, but as my skills advanced, so did my need for control. It became easier to work solo than it did to share control and planning of an op.

Watching Maverick and Gunner coordinate with Ranger is an eye-opening experience.

They saved my ass.

And they clearly have field training.

Soren and Locke mostly watch and listen. I get the feeling they’re most at home acting as I would be. But a lone wolf is nowhere close to as dangerous as a pack. It’s interesting to observe when all of us are alphas. The men of Assurance Security just seem better at placing their egos aside to work as a team.

“You’re counting your chickens before they hatch,” Bless says, crossing her arms over her chest. “The sun doesn’t set until close to eight-thirty these days.”

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