Page 48 of Summer with a SEAL

“Holy hell,” Jacob muttered. “I’m coming over there,” he said, his voice deadly.

“Jacob, I’m so sorry,” she choked out. “I got scared last night, and now I’ll probably never see you again. I’m trapped in here and—” Her voice cut off as she let out another sob.

“Don’t say that,” he admonished. “Don’t cry. Of course you’ll see me again. Last night we had a fight, but I was planning to come over tonight to talk. I’m not giving up on us that easy, angel. Don’t be scared. I’m coming to get you right now.”

“But you’ll get shot! He was shooting at the ceiling, and one of the bank tellers thinks he has explosives.”

“The police are already there. SWAT is probably on the scene as well. The guys and I will head over. Colton’s an explosives expert. We can help the police when we arrive.”

“Oh God, I just—I can’t believe this is happening. I almost went out to the ATM, but I thought this would be safer.”

Regret churned through him. He’d told her not to use the ATM—to go directly inside the bank. Fucking hell. If she’d gone to the ATM like usual, she would’ve been fine. She could’ve been safe in his arms right now, far away from harm.

“I’m coming, angel,” he told her. “I know you’re scared, but sit tight. Don’t do anything stupid. If he comes back in there, make sure no one causes any trouble. Do what he says, and I’ll be there soon.”

“Okay Jacob. I’m sorry.”

“Don’t be sorry. Be safe. I’m on my way, angel. Text me updates. I don’t want you to burn through your battery too quickly from inside the vault. But text me and let me know what’s happening.”

“Okay,” she whispered. “Bye.”

He ended the call, sliding his phone into his pocket. He grabbed his KA-BAR and sidearm, slamming his own locker shut. He was in camo pants, combat boots, and a tee shirt, but at the moment, he wasn’t about to stop and change. Jessica needed him. And the idea of her in harm’s way wasn’t something he was willing to tolerate. If something happened to Jess, he’d never forgive himself. Never.

***

Jessica sank down onto the ground of the bank vault, leaning against the cold wall. The two tellers were conferring with one another, talking on a cell phone they’d somehow smuggled in, and the man in a business suit was trying to call his wife. He finally gave up and began to text her instead.

“Thanks for letting me use your phone,” he said, his face grim. “I’ve got a new baby at home—only three months old.”

“I’m sorry,” she said, her eyes welling.

“Of all the days I pick to come to the bank,” he muttered. “I thought I’d quick swing by on my lunch break—you know, get home sooner tonight to see my wife and baby.”

He resumed texting, and Jessica stared at the wall. What was she to anyone? She was nobody’s wife or mother. Of course, her own family would be devastated if something happened to her. Her friends would be upset. But it wasn’t like she had children or someone depending on her if this was the end.

She hadn’t even thought twice as she’d called Jacob though. Her best friends wouldn’t know what to do—they’d just panic. Cry right along with her. She’d text them soon, when she took a few deep breaths and got her wits about her.

Just hearing Jacob’s deep voice had soothed her. He hadn’t even hesitated; he’d just instantly said he’d be there. After the way she’d broken things off with him last night, she wouldn’t have blamed him if he didn’t even take her call—if he’d gone about with his day and not given her a second thought.

But he had answered the phone. And he was coming.

She swiped a stray tear that rolled down her cheek, taking her phone back from the man. It buzzed a moment later, and she stared at it, blinking.

Ryker’s going to wait at the beach house with Michelle and Amy.

The guys and I are on our way.

She sniffled, thankful her friends wouldn’t be alone. Maybe it would be better if Ryker told them what was happening. She’d managed to mostly hold it together when talking to Jacob, but with them she would probably just fall apart.

Typing a response back to Jacob, she pressed send.

I’m really scared.

Her phone buzzed almost immediately.

I’m coming, angel. Just hang on a little longer.

I won’t let anything happen to you.

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