Page 27 of Provoking Bryan

Kane’s sharp gaze lingered on them for a beat longer before he gestured toward the chopper. “Let’s get you onboard.”

Bryan didn’t wait for permission. He guided Sara toward the open door, his hand firm on her waist. She shot him a glare, but she didn’t argue, her energy clearly waning.

Inside, Bryan settled Sara into one of the seats, ensuring the harness was snug. She swatted his hands away when he lingered too long.

“I’m not going to fall out, Bryan,” she said, her voice laced with exasperation.

“Humor me,” he replied, his tone softer now. “I’ll be right back.”

Sara frowned but didn’t argue, her eyes tracking him as he stepped back out of the chopper. Kane was waiting, arms crossed and a knowing look on his face.

“She’s not used to letting people take care of her,” Kane remarked. “But you seem to be doing just fine.”

Bryan’s gaze hardened. “What’s your point?”

Kane grinned, holding up his hands. “No point. Just an observation.”

Bryan let the comment slide, turning his attention to the crates the operatives were unloading. Supplies—medical kits, food, and clean water—were stacked neatly and ready to be distributed to the village that had sheltered them.

“Make sure these get to the elder,” Bryan instructed one of the operatives. “I’ll oversee the handoff.”

Kane raised an eyebrow but didn’t protest as Bryan moved toward the villagers waiting at a respectful distance. The elder stepped forward, his expression a mix of gratitude and concern.

“Doctor,” the elder said, bowing his head slightly. “You and your woman are too kind.”

Bryan shook his head. “You helped us when you didn’t have to. This is the least we can do. Make sure you get them uncratedand then burn the crates. You don’t want the militia or the cartel to know you helped us.”

He spent the next several minutes explaining the contents of the crates and answering questions about the medical supplies. The elder listened intently, his gratitude evident in every word he spoke. Bryan couldn’t ignore the pang of guilt that tugged at his chest. These people were caught in a battle they hadn’t asked for, their kindness putting them at risk.

When he returned to the chopper, Sara was still watching him, her expression unreadable. As he climbed in beside her, she leaned closer.

“They think you hung the moon,” she said softly, a hint of warmth in her tone.

“They’re good people,” Bryan replied, his gaze settling on her. “And they deserve better than what they’re dealing with.”

Sara’s lips parted as if she was about to say something, but she closed them again, leaning back in her seat. Bryan didn’t press. There would be time for that later.

The inland compound was remote and secure, surrounded by dense jungle and equipped with all the necessities for a brief stay. Bryan helped Sara into one of the rooms, her limp more pronounced now that the adrenaline of their escape had worn off.

“Sit,” he ordered, pointing to the cot.

Sara rolled her eyes but obeyed, sinking onto the edge of the mattress. “You’re bossy.”

“You’re stubborn,” Bryan shot back, pulling out the medical kit. “Let’s call it even.”

He knelt in front of her, his hands deftly unwrapping the bandage on her thigh. The wound was healing, but the edges were still raw, the angry red a stark contrast against her pale skin. He cleaned it carefully, his touch firm but gentle.

“You’ve got to stop running around like you’re invincible,” Bryan said, his tone more frustrated than he intended.

“And you’ve got to stop hovering like a mother hen,” Sara retorted, though her voice lacked its usual bite.

Bryan’s lips twitched despite himself. “One of us has to keep you alive.”

“I’m doing just fine,” she muttered, though she winced as he secured the fresh bandage.

“Debatable,” Bryan replied, leaning back on his heels. “Now rest. Doctor’s orders.”

“I hate when you pull rank,” she grumbled but stayed put.

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