Page 54 of Her Faithful Protector

Cass offers, “Would you like to order drinks first?”

“Well, let’s wait for Ty and Morgie, thanks,” Ava says politely.

“Sure. If you need anything, you know where I am,” she says before leaving the table.

I press my lips against Ava’s hand, appraising her lightly made-up face. The soft brush of mascara emphasizes her long lashes, making her eyes all the more enticing. And who can resist her lips, alluringly covered in cherry-colored lipstick? They tempt me like we hadn’t already made love today.

Tyler and Morgan make their way into the bar, instantly infusing the already vibrant atmosphere with their presence. Walking hand-in-hand with his wife, the former SEAL appears rejuvenated, as if he has just emerged from a day spa. It’s no surprise, considering he just returned from the trip of his life.

Ava rushes toward Morgan, the sound of her hurried footsteps traceable among the bustling diners. Their tearful reunion begins with heartfelt embraces even before they reach the table. In their silent interaction, I can sense a bond that goes beyond mere friendship. It’s tangible in the way they hold each other, and now their eyes convey reassurance in each other’s presence.

“Are you all right? Are you okay?” Morgan stammers, their embrace still tight.

“I’m fine, but I missed you,” Ava replies, her voice filled with longing.

Morgan was just a toddler when they first met, and with a five-year age gap, Ava has become a nurturing older sister figure to her. But today, they both stand united as equals, sharing the burden of Ava’s ordeal.

“You should have called me!” Morgan exclaims, shaking Ava’s shoulders.

“You were on your honeymoon, for heaven’s sake!”

“I was in Antarctica, but I would have returned to Helena when I reached Argentina. You really should have called me!” Morgan insists in frustration.

Meanwhile, Tyler and I exchange greetings. It has been over a year since I last saw him. Navigating the aisle of the Thirsty Fox, the newly married man wears a contented smile, hinting that his post-wedding affair went off without a hitch.

As I invite him to take a seat, I overhear Ava telling Morgan, “Everything is under control thanks to Jack and Red Mark.” Morgan then glances at me, silently expressing her gratitude. The two women release each other from their embrace, and Morgan swiftly heads toward me, enveloping me in a tight hug. No words are spoken, only a few sobs.

“So, how was your honeymoon?” I query, not wanting to dwell on Quinton’s kidnapping.

“It was out of this world. Literally. Antarctica is like a world of its own,” Morgan says, rounding me to get to Quinton. “Quinnie-Bear! Hello, baby. Do you remember me?” She takes him out of the stroller. “You’ve grown already! You’re so heavy now.” She settles him on her hip with an exaggerated grunt.

“Mo!” He attempts to pinch Morgan’s chin.

“Yes, I’m Morgan, but I think you’re calling your puppy, aren’t you?” Morgan says, kissing Quinton like she can’t get enough of him.

Quinton cringes, wriggling hard.

“Quinton, it’s Aunty Morgie.” Ava tries to calm him, but he insists on getting away.

“Huh… I feel like a boogeyman.” Morgan sighs, putting Quinton back in his stroller.

“Give him time. He’ll warm up to you,” Ava reassures.

Cass takes our order while we talk about the newlyweds’ honeymoon—from glamping in South America to joining a few scientists in Antarctica, thanks to Morgan being a biologist.

Morgan then looks at Ava. “My God, what have you been doing? You’re like… ripped!” She feels Ava’s arm.

“I’ve been working out with Jack,” Ava replies.

“For real?” Morgan exclaims.

“USMC boot camp style?” Tyler quips.

“Kind of. The gentle version,” Ava says.

I give Ty a proud trainer’s wink. Oh yeah, Ava Belle has been hitting the gym with me. I never pressured her because she’s always perfect in my eyes. At first, she was just looking for an energy boost, remembering how exercise helped her recover from endless chemo during her battle with leukemia. But once she started, there was no stopping her. She’s a pocket rocket that keeps throwing surprises. She can do ten pull-ups without breaking a sweat, and she’s solid in her lifting and squats.

Better still, Quinton, my trusty assistant, is always there during our sessions. I especially enjoy our morning jogs with him, where Ava and I take turns pushing his stroller. Sometimes, Elmo joins us, too, as long as we’re not going too fast for his little legs to keep up.

---