Page 140 of The Assignment: Room 3

“Thank you, Dalton.”

“For what?”

“For giving me a job when I needed it. I’d just left Michael. I was on the run, and everywhere I turned seemed like a dead end. I wasn’t the best candidate for the job, but you gave me a shot anyway. It gave me the chance to better myself and provide a life for Gracie.”

“And I stand by my decision. Everything you’ve achieved since then has been your own hard work and determination. I was about to announce your promotion when all this happened.”

My heart sinks. Another positive in my life taken away by my actions. “I understand. Things have changed.”

“You misunderstand me. You’re taking a few months off with paid leave to be with Flex through all of this. Then, when he’s back on his feet, you’ll be returning as VP in charge of acquisitions.”

“I don’t understand.”

“You’re my new VP of Acquisitions. It’s as simple and as complicated as that. So, don’t worry about anything right now. You look after Gracie, and we’ll all get Flex back and fighting fit.”

“What if he doesn’t wake up?”

“I’m not prepared to accept that as an outcome. He’ll wake up. He’s Flex-fucking-Navarro.” That makes me smile for the first time since I heard Michael’s voice that day in the lobby of The Callaghan Group.

“It’s a long shot, but I know something that might give him a reason to come back.”

“Then let’s go.”

When Naddie arrives with Ryder, I pull each of them into my arms, thanking them for everything they’re doing for their friend. I imagine most people from the club have been to see him. He’s an integral and beloved part of Venom.

“Hey, girl,” Ryder says as he pulls me into his arms. “How are you holding up?”

Tears fill my eyes. “I’ve been better. I’m going over to Flex’s to grab some of his stuff and bring it in.”

“I can come with you if you want company.”

“Thank you.” I squeeze him as tight as I can manage right now, which isn’t much, but I appreciate him. Ryder is a great guy, but Iknow very little about him. I didn’t even realize he owned Dulip until Flex told me. “Dalton is going to go with me. I’m sure Flex would like to hear you talk for a while. All I do is cry.”

“He’ll be okay.” He presses a kiss to the top of my head, letting me breathe for just a moment. The Doms in this room are a testament to what Flex means to each and every one of us. They have loved and cared for me and Gracie through all of this, knowing that Flex would want them to comfort me in ways only a Dom can. It’s nothing sexual. It is a feeling. A warmth and safety they know I need as a submissive. Not only them but their partners. Freya held my hand while Pierce cradled me in his arms. That is genuinelovewith no hidden agenda. I feel blessed to know these people and call them friends.

“We’ll be back in an hour or so.” Dalton holds the door open for me, and I follow him out, pausing just long enough to catch a last glimpse of Flex. I’m praying I can find what I’m looking for. I’m afraid on the journey over, scared tofeelwhat has become our home without him in it. I’m terrified I won’t be able to find what I need. And I’m petrified that he won’t come back to me.

The ride to his penthouse is quiet, Dalton and I lost in our thoughts and hoping like hell that Flex will pull through.

Dalton unlocks the front door. Michael tossed my purse when he kidnapped Gracie and me.Gracie.

“Where’s my daughter?” I ask, my voice timid, guilt constricting my throat. She needs me, and I haven’t been here.

“At your mom’s. Luther has been there the entire time, making sure they’re safe. She’s doing well. Carter brought his kids over to keep Gracie company, watching movies, playing games, and probably eating way more candy than you want to know about.”

“That is so kind of him.”

“You’ve got family, Celest. Helena. It’s going to take a while to get used to that. Sorry.”

“I know. My mom is amazing. Gracie is my heart, and Flex… he’s my soulmate.”

“Yes, but it extends beyond that. We’re your family. When you hitched your wagon to Flex, you get the whole package. Me, Naddie, Pierce, Freya, Ryder, Matteo, Eli, Genevieve. We’ve all been splitting our time between your room and Flex’s at the hospital. We’re a big, dysfunctional, kink family, and it’s pretty amazing. You and Gracie are part of the family now, so get used to it. We will always have your back. Now, what are we looking for?”

“An answering machine.” He looks at me like I just told him I need the blood of a virgin for sacrifice.

“Are you kidding?”

“No. I told you, it’s his story to tell, and I don’t want to betray his confidence. Just trust me. Where would Flex keep his most prized possessions.”

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