Page 129 of Visions, Paws, and Claws

That included sharing what he’d discovered all those years ago. The sooner the shifters of the world learned the truth, the better.

Nicholas cupped his cheek. “I still need to give you a quick physical, but when that’s over, I’m done. I’m not about to leave your side.”

If Jake had his way, that was where Nicholas would stay for the rest of eternity.

I lost one love—I’m not going to lose another.

Chapter Twenty-Seven

“SO WHAT’Sthe status?” Duke asked.

“Mission accomplished,” Horvan told him. “All prisoners accounted for. Five Geran fatalities. They were the only ones who put up resistance. And we got Fielding.”

“Excellent. What’s the plan?”

“I’m sending the team back to Illinois in the C-17, with Roadkill in charge. And then they get a week’s leave.” That included Doc, although Horvan had an inkling where he’d be spending his time. After witnessing that kiss he and Jake had shared, he had to wonder where it would lead them.

“Sounds as if they’ve earned it. One question, though. Why aren’t you going with them?”

“I’ve got a little unfinished business here. I’ll let you know when we’re ready to make a move.”

“Who’s staying with you? I need to know how many bodies to accommodate when I send transport for you guys.”

“Twelve.”

“Noted. I’ll try to make it a plane with seats this time.”

Horvan snorted. “You’re all heart.”

“That’s why you love me. Now go deal with your unfinished business.” Duke hung up.

Horvan shook his head. He and Duke went way back, and yeah, he loved the guy like a brother. Which was no bad thing, seeing as they co-owned a business.

Roadkill entered the room. “You wanted to see me?”

Horvan nodded. “The team is heading back to the barracks, and you’re going with ’em. Hashtag and Eve too. You can break the news that everyone’s got a week’s leave.”

Roadkill grinned. “Does that include Hashtag and Eve?”

“No, but you get to stay at Dellan’s place until we return. That means Mrs. Landon’s cooking, uninterrupted use of the hot tub… and privacy.”

His grin widened. “Sir, yes, sir.”

“Tell Hashtag to get working on all those locations Milo gave us. We need to pinpoint every last Geran camp.” Horvan smirked. “A little homework for when he’s not busy with other pursuits.”

Roadkill cocked his head. “WhereisMilo?”

“In a Fridan safe house in Boston, waiting to see Jana as soon as she gets the all-clear. Johan said he was making noises about wanting to fight with us.”

“Well, we know we can trust him.I’dwork with him.”

“Yeah, so would I, but we might need to convince some of the team. You’ve only got to whisperGeranand their hackles rise.”

“Do you blame them?”

Horvan stared at him. “What if we could bring an end to all this?”

“All what? The war that’s waging, even though no one’s actually declared one?”

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