Page 43 of SEAL'S Secret Vows

We walk slowly to the bedroom. I feel a bit calmer with his hand in mine.

He sits on the bed in deep thought for a moment before looking at me.

“I should take a shower. Can you look through my closet? See if you can find my pajamas or something light to wear.”

“Okay. Do you need anything else?”

“You.” He answers without a second thought.

“What?” I'm unable to hide my shock at his bluntness.

“Stay with me. Don't go downstairs.”

“I won't. Why do you think I would?” I can’t imagine a day I’d belessinclined to be away from him.

“I thought since Joseph's around, you might choose to stay in another room.” He says, voice frustrated. “Who knows about the marriage, who doesn’t… it gets confusing.”

I nod sympathetically. “Joseph’s guest room is far enough away he’s not likely to notice where I’m sleeping.”

Chase nods. “So you won’t leave?”

“No, Chase, I can't leave you alone like this. I can't sleep easy knowing you're in pain if I can help.”

“Really, Nora?” His voice is soft and teasing, but I can see the vulnerable look in his eyes, so I don’t joke back. I move forward and grab his hands.

“Yes. I was so scared back there seeing you leave to confront those men shooting at us. I thought you—” I cut myself off.

A knock comes from the door, followed by Javier's voice.

“Hello, Chase? I brought you some ice and soup to help you recover quickly. Can I come in, sir?”

“Yes, you can.” Chase calls out and Javier comes in with a rather large tray. “Thanks, Javier.”

“I think that's really kind of you, Javier. Thank you.” I collect the tray from him and place it on the table.

“Let me know if you need anything else.” He takes a bow and leaves.

Chase frowns. “I’m notsick.I don’t need soup.”

I raise my brows. “Sit down and eat,” I say firmly.

He looks at me with amusement. “Who are you to boss me around?”

“Your wife,” I say dryly.

His expression softens. He doesn’t eat much, but he does take a few spoonfuls of the soup before he gives up and I decide it’s enough.

“Come on, let me help you to the bathroom.” I gesture to him, but he waves my hand away. He stands on his feet, wincing a little as he makes his way to the bathroom.

“Stubborn,” I mutter under my breath, and he looks back.

“Just like you,” he retorts and heads into the bathroom. I set his pajamas on the bed and start rummaging through his drawers for some pain meds.

“Looking for something?” I whip my head to the back surprised I didn't hear him come out.

“Yes. Pain meds. Do you have any?” I ask him.

“Yes, but I’m not precisely sure where. My sister's coming over tomorrow. I'll ask her to bring some for me. She'll check for any wounds too, but I'm sure she won't find any.”

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