Page 24 of The Marine

I’ve never met anyone who speaks with more purpose and conviction.

“What’s going on?”

He better not be fucking dying.

His eyes meet mine. “I think Cassy is pregnant.”

“You think?” My brows lift.

“Yeah.”

I wait for more information, but he just nods and keeps nodding.

“And?”

“And I don’t think it’s a good idea to die if I’m going to be a dad,” Josh says firmly.

Jesus Christ.

“I meant,andis she? Has she done a test? Are you taking her to the doctor?” I press.

“Ah.” He rubs a hand over his jaw. “I’m not sure she knows.”

I bark out a laugh and close the distance, slapping him on the back. “Sounds like someone is scared of becoming a dad.”

“Fuck off and keep your voice down,” he snaps.

I smirk as we keep walking. Seeing him like this is pretty damn funny. I am going to ride this train for as long as I can.

But first business.

“I’ll review the new guys who just started last month and see if Marshall and Toby are interested.”

“Don’t say anything,” he says as we walk past Penny at the front desk.

I shoot her a smile.

“Welcome home, Aidan,” Penny says, sipping her coffee.

It was a smart move on Josh’s part to hire an older woman to work in our office. At any time, there are three dozen paramilitary guys wandering around. Sometimes shirtless as I am now.

I have no doubt she enjoys the view, but Penny doesn’t take shit from any of us. The grandmother of three wouldn’t put up with any intended or unintended harassment from any of us.

That doesn’t mean the boys don’t try to flirt and mess with her. I’m guilty myself when she threatens to forget my favorite coffee on our monthly order.

A man has to do what a man has to do.

“Thanks, Penny,” I say and rub the top of Josh’s head as we turn the corner. “I’m not going to ask your wife if she’s pregnant, you idiot. But you need to tell her you suspect something.”

“Just waiting for the right moment.”

“Well, you have nine months.” I smirk, and he elbows me sharply in the ribs.

I curse and laugh as I bend over.

“I’m getting my head around it. That’s all. But I wanted you to understand why. I’m not...”

“Scared of the action?” I grin, knowing I just asked for it. “Typical SEAL.”

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