Page 91 of Guarding the Singer

"I just want you to remember one thing, Sel."

Selene looked up at him and saw his heart in his eyes.

The same look she knew was mirrored in her own.

"I love you. I'm not looking for an out or for a reason to walk away. I have every reason to hold onto you. The most important being that I see this going the distance, Selene. You, me, and forever. So I'm not going to hedge my bets. I've never been a betting man. I've always trusted my hands. Trusted my own actions.

"And I'm trusting you with my heart."

Badger walked up and cleared his throat. "Sorry, but the pilot is ready to get going. They've turned in the flight plan and your opening on the runway is coming up."

Selene turned to Badger and gave him a smile. "Are you okay for a hug from a Yank?"

He shook his head. "You, my dear, are hardly a Yank. You are a talent."

She gave him a big hug that he returned.

When they stepped apart, he gave her a wink. "You and Heather, this group of men might clean up well, because we're starting to add the most amazing women in our ranks."

Selene smiled. William had told her about Nyx and a few hours earlier, they put in a video call to the other couple. It was lovely to 'meet' Heather/Nyx. It felt like the start of an amazing friendship.

She blushed at Badger's words. "And you, Evander," she smiled at his name, "you really are a good man, like the meaning of your name says. You're also kind. I can't wait for you to fall in love with someone."

He barely reacted. She only saw a little twitch in a muscle near his eye.

"Oh, is there already someone?"

His laugh was easy enough, but she wondered if she'd hit a nerve.

"I'm sorry... that's just not in the cards for me."

She nodded, not wanting to press, but Selene felt there was more to this than what he was trying to say.

"I hope I'll see you soon."

Badger lifted a hand in a wave. "Soon."

William lifted his hand to wave at her, mouthing the words, "I love you."

"I love you, too."

She meant it. She just hoped that her life didn't get between them like it had for so many other people in her industry.

"Selene?"

She turned and saw the pilot, Gary Tindall. A really great guy. He was giving her a look, a raised brow and a hand tapping at his wristwatch.

"Okay. okay. Sorry!" She jogged over to the steps and made her way into the plane and got settled into her seat. “It’s been a while, Selene.”

“I know,” she sighed. “I’m sorry for the wait. I was… saying goodbye.”

He gave her a smile and nodded. "They didn't want to fly with you?"

She half-shrugged at his question. "They're headed to Montana and have their flights leaving from the airport later today."

"Okay. Settle in and I'll call the tower and let them know we're ready to go."

"Thanks, Gary."

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