Page 50 of Shadow Undercover

Trace, Ben, and Bridget left Juan’s house by the front door this time. When they returned to her home, Bridget headed for the kitchen. She needed more tea. The possibility of sleeping was remote. Maybe a soothing cup of tea would help.

“Bridget, is it okay for Ben to nap in the guest room?”

She glanced at Trace. “Of course. What about you?”

He smiled. “Ben snores. I’ll stay on the couch.”

“I heard that,” Ben called from the living room.

Trace chuckled. “Go sleep. I’ve got the watch.”

“Wake me if you need me.”

Bridget eyed Trace. “You’re not going to sleep, are you?”

“I’ll be fine.”

Worry gnawed at her. “You can’t function on less than two hours of sleep.”

He closed the distance between them and cupped her nape. “I’ve gone for days without sleep. I’ll walk you upstairs if I score another goodnight kiss.”

“The kiss sounds good. I’m too revved up to sleep, though. That’s why I made myself more tea.”

“How about watching a movie with me while you sip your tea?”

“I’d like that. Want more coffee?”

“Sure. I’ll make a fresh pot. Ben won’t sleep for long. Do you want a snack?”

Bridget grimaced. “The thought of eating turns my stomach.”

Trace prepared the coffee while Bridget’s tea steeped. By the time he’d filled his mug, her chamomile mint mixture was ready. “How do you feel about romances?”

He paused while raising the mug to his lips, eyes narrowed. “I’m all for the real ones. I’m not a fan of romance in movies.”

She grinned. “Let me guess. You’re interested in action movies.”

“Is there any other kind worth watching?”

Bridget laughed. “You might have a point. Come on. Let’s see what we can find.” She picked up her mug of tea and walked with him to the living room. They sat on the couch while he surfed channels.

He landed on one movie that was adventure with a side of romance. “What about this one?”

“Looks good.” It was also a favorite and one she’d watched several times. Maybe that would help her unwind.

They watched the movie in silence until the first commercial break. Trace glanced at her, a twinkle in his eyes. “I’m counting this as a first date.”

She set her empty tea mug next to his coffee. “The traditional first date is dinner and a movie.”

He shrugged. “Coffee or tea with a movie ought to count under the circumstances. I’ll make dinner up to you.”

“Do I still get the goodnight kiss?”

A slow smile curved his mouth. “Want another kiss, huh?”

In the worst way. “Maybe.”

“I think I can accommodate you.”

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