Page 75 of Irons

“I would like to command and partake in domestic violence missions. For my official duties, I’d like to eventually lead our K-9 division.” She was confident and professional as she spoke.

“Do you have experience in domestic violence?” Creed asked.

Wrenly was looking at everyone but me. “I can only say it was a topic touched on while I was at Quantico, but I did diffuse several situations while undercover with the Scorpions.”

I held my breath, wondering if she would mention her first six years of life. That she was one of those children that saw her mother beaten over and over again by men that were strangers.

“What makes you interested in the domestic violence program?” Bolton asked.

Wrenly’s eyes met mine and I gave her a nod before she looked at Bolton. “I was once one of those children. I believe you’re all unaware of my life as a young child, before I went to live with my father. My mother brought men into our lives, some that I unfortunately witnessed hurting my mother. I am also aware in some circumstances there are substance abuse issues. I lost my mother to a drug overdose, in fact, I was the one to find her in a bathroom at a diner in Texas. I may not have ever been in an abusive relationship, but I was a child that experienced it. I know what it is to live in fear, then I also know the recoveryprocess. I spent a great portion of my childhood in therapy. I was left alone and scared until I was reunified with my father and best friend. I think I could connect with the children in these cases.” She looked at me again, so I gave her a wink.

“You’re willing to take the six week training course?” Bolton asked.

“I’ll spend all the time that’s necessary to learn new skills.” I could see the soldier in her as she answered those questions.

“And why have you chosen to work with our K-9 operatives?” Axton asked.

“From the age of sixteen until I was eighteen I worked at a Veterinary clinic. Before that I worked on a horse farm. I battled between the military and being a veterinarian when I was making my career choice and was accepted into a Veterinary science program at Oklahoma University. This is a way to mesh both of those dreams together and have a career that includes animals and helping people.”

I was an idiot not to have guessed her choices.

I watched as Creed looked at his laptop then a smile rose on his face. “You have really settled in nicely here at Creed’s Lake. I see you’re very outgoing and not only joined a Volleyball team, you’ve submitted an application to foster one of our K-9 operatives, and volunteered over at the horse farm. Do you know how to ride?”

I couldn’t help it and chuckled. Yes, Wrenly definitely knew how to ride, she also knew how to laugh her ass off at a kid that was once scared to death of riding a horse. I also remember the Christmas where she begged for a horse and riding lessons. She wouldn’t shut up about it for months beforehand. She drove us all insane, but Santa came through and gave her ridinglessons. The horse came later when she saved her money and Clint paid for half. I’d never forget how happy she was when she learned she would work at the horse farm to pay for boarding and feed. Then after her first day she cried because she had to clean the stalls. But, just like everything Wrenly did, she pulled up her big girl panties and made the best out of it.

“Yes, I took lessons and owned a horse of my own. I also worked at the horse farm from the age of twelve until I was eighteen. I was going away to college and had no choice but to sell my horse.” She spoke softly like thinking back at her memories of Shiloh still made her sad.

“It’s been a month now since you came to Creed’s Lake. What are your thoughts so far?” Creed asked.

She glanced at me, and I gave her another nod before she smiled then looked at Creed. “I never would have dreamed a place like this existed. Not only do I enjoy the tight community and feeling of home it offers, I agree with its core values. There isn’t a division that’s not necessary, and I like how Creed’s Lake is backed by several law enforcement agencies, the military, and the government. I also like being part of what may give people a new found hope after experiencing the evil of this world. Every single day I get to see children enjoying carefree childhoods, and that’s priceless in this world today.”

Damn I loved that girl.

Each Original had a question for her, just like they did the other executive candidates. When she left every single person in that room turned and looked at me.

I put my hands up in surrender. “Don’t look at me, I’m staying out of it.”

“Oh, come on, we all know the two of you are together. That means we need to know your thoughts.” Bolton said.

“You’re right, we are together, but her employment and residence here has nothing to do with me. She earned this on her own and I won’t give my opinion as far as the K-9 training or the DV position. Of course I want her here, but don’t use your votes to please me. She has worked hard and earned this opportunity on her own, so please vote on her accomplishments, not what I want for her.”

“I personally think she’s a perfect fit for both the DV and the K-9 divisions. As you all know, Wrenly and I had our sessions. She’s an amazing young lady and operative. I wasn’t surprised by her choices, and she would be great with both the children and parents. As far as the K-9 division goes, it’s also a great fit. She has a lot to learn in the next several months but she’s a great investment.” Bolton said.

“I agree, obviously she’s a great fit for the community, but she’s intelligent and she also has a warmth about her that would be helpful for the DV division.” Axton said, and I internally growled at him. Her warmth? Fucker, that warmth was mine before you ever knew she existed.

“She’s professional, kind, and has a good head on her shoulders. I think enlight of her experience and accomplishments we should respect and agree to her choices.” Drakos said, and everyone had blank faces as they looked at him.

“No filthy jokes about her nice ass?” Magnus asked and I growled.

“Nothing about those long legs?” Axton asked.

“Not even one joke about her amazing titties?” Bolton asked.

“What the fuck, assholes?” I growled.

Creed chuckled. “What the hell has gotten into you, Drakos? You’ve been weird since that night we don’t talk about.” Creed stared at him then tilted his head. “As a matter of fact, so has Melissa.”

“She broke up with me.” Drakos confessed, very quietly.

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