Page 117 of SEAL's Promise

“He’s lonely and needs a little fun in his life.”

A blink. “How do you know?”

“Woman’s intuition.” And observation in moments when Jackson thought no one was looking.

“I’ll ask. If he has other obligations, are you okay with Rafe coming along?”

“Of course. I enjoy being with your teammates.”

“Good. You’ll be with them often. Teams like ours spend time together on missions and off. It’s how we keep our bond strong.”

Cal captured her mouth with his. Long minutes later, he eased away, his breathing elevated and his eyes glittering with heat. “You’re potent and addictive, beautiful lady. I need to talk to Zane about the accommodations for our beach vacation.”

By the time Cal finished the phone call, Rachelle was stunned speechless. She couldn’t believe Brent and Micah had made arrangements for Rachelle’s and Cal’s families to join them at the beach for the next two weeks.

Cal slid his phone into his pocket.

“We talked about meeting each other’s families soon. I never expected it to happen this fast.”

“I can rent a condo for us and Jackson a short distance away if you’re uncomfortable with the arrangement.”

She shook her head. “It sounds like fun. I love you, Cal. I’m sure I’ll love your family, too.”

She was right. She adored Cal’s parents and siblings, especially his nieces and nephews. They’d had so much fun cooking out and entertaining the kids.

For this last night of their two-week vacation, though, Cal had arranged a date for them, something special that he was keeping a secret from her. From the broad grins she received from both families, they knew the secret. Must be a good one since the women had gone together to purchase an outfit for Rachelle to wear tonight.

When the time came to change for her date with Cal, her mother brought the dress to Rachelle’s room. Eyes wide, Rachelle stroked the soft fabric of the royal blue dress. “Mom, this is gorgeous.”

“Special occasions deserve special attire.” She held out a pair of flats of the same color blue.

“Give me a hint.”

A light laugh. “I’m not spoiling Cal’s surprise. Trust me, you’ll be glad I kept my mouth shut. Change clothes, honey. This will be a night you won’t forget.”

CHAPTER THIRTY-ONE

“What if she turns me down?” Cal pivoted and paced the other direction, passing his amused teammate.

“If she does, you haven’t been doing your job.” Jackson smiled. “Stop worrying, will you? Rachelle loves you. Why would she turn you down?”

“I’m not a good bet. None of us are. Life with an operative isn’t easy.”

The medic leaned one shoulder against the wall, watching Cal pace to the other side of the room again. “Depends on the operative. If she decides you aren’t worth risking her heart, I’ll go after her myself.”

Cal glared at his friend. “Try it and you die a slow, painful death.”

Jackson laughed, raising a hand to hold Cal off when he stalked toward him. “Couldn’t resist yanking your chain. In all seriousness, though, you’re raising your blood pressure for nothing. When you walk into a room, your woman doesn’t see anyone else. She’s totally focused on you.” He sobered, shadows evident in his eyes. “You’re a lucky man, Cal.”

He blew out a breath. “I know. That’s why I don’t want to blow this.”

The medic clapped him on the shoulder. “You’ve got this.”

His gut clenched when he glanced at his watch. Time to pick up his date for dinner. “Any last words of advice?”

“Show her your heart.” With those enigmatic words, he opened the door. “Go get your girl.”

Praying he’d find the right words to say and patting his jacket pocket one more time, Cal walked upstairs.

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