Page 113 of No Going Back

Sam leaned back in his chair. “And then the whole of Raven would have been rogue, because you and I both know there is no damn way Dex would have left him there.”

Yes, she did know that. Leave no man behind.

“What if they don’t find him?”

His face softened. “Come on. You know them. You know Kelly. They will find him and bring him home.”

“He wasn’t right, Sam. I don’t know exactly what was going on with him, but he was dealing with... stuff.” She didn’t want to betray Tyler’s trust, but at this point she didn’t care. Whatever it took to bring him home safe.

“I know.”

Mira looked at him in surprise.

“The team knows, too. I don’t know all the details, but I’m aware he was not completely himself. Dex and the boys were keeping a close eye on him.”

“And you didn’t bench him?” They knew he wasn't OK and they let him operate? This was news to her, and it pissed her off. Her tone emphasized that.

“Mira, if Dex or I thought he was a danger, he would have been. Neither of us did. And even if he was benched, do you really think that would have made any difference?”

No, it wouldn’t have. He still would have been at the bomb site, and probably still would have left. Left her. Alone. In the hospital. That hurt deeply.

“Sorry. It’s not my place to question yours or Dex’s decisions.”

“Mira. I’ve known you too many years. You can always question a decision. Doesn't mean it will change it, but you can question it.” He grinned and she relaxed. “Look, you obviously care about Tyler a great deal, and that’s what’s making this way worse than if it was any other team member.”

“No. I’d be just as concerned.”

“Mira. I’m not blind, and you told me you loved him.”

She did? Shit. She didn’t remember doing that. Embarrassed, she averted her gaze.

“You don’t remember. I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to embarrass you. But just so you know, Tyler was making it quite clear how he felt about you while you were trapped. That’s why I know how hard this whole situation must be. It’s why I came.”

Mira looked back at him. “If he made it so clear about how he felt, why did he suddenly leave, without a word to anyone? No note. Nothing. That’s the hard part. I’m scared for him, and so damn angry at him at the same time.”

“You and me both.” Sam’s sarcasm made her laugh, lightening the mood.

“If they bring him home, I might just kill him myself.” She reached for her coffee.

“That’s if he lives through meeting with me,” Sam said more serious.

“What will happen to him? His place at Onyx?” she asked, even though she wasn’t sure she wanted to know the answer.

“Let’s get him home, and then we’ll take it from there.”

Well, that was an evasive answer if ever she’d heard one, but she wouldn’t push it. They might only have to answer to Sam, but Onyx was still part of the military, even if no one knew about them. She had no doubt Sam had rules he had to follow, too.

“Have you spoken to Claire?” he asked changing the subject.

“Not yet.”

“You should. Sooner rather than later. You might think you’re OK, but these things have a habit of creeping up on you and causing problems when you least expect them.”

“Is that an order?” She arched an eyebrow.

“If it has to be, yes.” Sam held her gaze showing he wasn’t joking.

She dipped her head and acquiesced. “I’ll call her and book an appointment.”

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