Page 15 of Toxic Truth

He chuckled. “Of course. We’re family here.”

They had Lucas’s back and hers despite them not being blood. She couldn’t have been happier for him. He deserved Hank, his other military buddies, and every good thing life offered. “Thanks. About payment for this…”

“We’ll discuss that later. For now, we need to focus on Lucas keeping you and his babies safe.”

Lucas rubbed his eyes. “How about we get on with this?”

There’s more? Already strung out, she wasn’t eager to hear it and spoke to him, her voice lowered. “While you do, I’d like to clean the mud off.”

“Give us a minute, Hank.” He frowned at the entryway then her. “Not happening.” He spoke softly. “Remember me telling you that?”

“I meant here.” She pointed at her soiled jeans. “I’m ready to take you up on your earlier offer.”

Confusion then understanding filled his face. “The bathroom’s down there.” He gestured to the lone hall. “Everything you need is inside.”

Except something fresh to wear. She fingered her sweatshirt. “I didn’t bring along extra clothes.”

“You can have mine.” He gestured her away. “I’ve got plenty that are newly laundered. I’ll put them on the bed.”

Mouthing “thank you,” she then gave him a thumbs-up and retreated alone to the bathroom, wishing he were beside her.

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