Page 75 of Rescuing Ally: Part 1

“It’s not about putting our lives on hold,” Hank says firmly. “It’s about your safety.”

“You’ve been kidnapped twice,” Gabe points out, his tone gentler than his words. “We’re not risking a third time.”

I can’t argue with that logic. “So what options are we looking at?”

They exchange another look.

“You could come with us,” Hank suggests, turning back to the stove to slide the bacon onto a paper towel. “Though watching us train all day might not be the most exciting way to spend your time.”

“Or we could call in,” Gabe offers. “Stay here with you.”

Hank hesitates, then adds reluctantly, “There’s also the option of having you return to your father’s house. Harrison and his security team would watch over you there.”

I immediately shake my head, the mere suggestion making my chest tighten. The last thing I want is to return to that gilded cage, no matter how well-intentioned my father’s protection might be.

I take a long sip of coffee, considering. The idea of being left alone makes my skin crawl, memories of captivity still too fresh. But I also don’t want to be the reason they neglect their responsibilities.

“I want to go with you,” I say finally. “I’d rather be bored in your company than alone with my thoughts or locked in a gilded cage at home.”

Relief flashes across both their faces, so quick I almost miss it.

“You sure?” Hank asks.

“Yeah, I’m sure. Besides, I’m curious to see what you do all day. When you’re not, you know…” I trail off, heat rising to my cheeks.

Gabe’s grin widens. “When we’re not what, sweetheart?”

“Rescuing geniuses from terrorists?” I deflect, raising an eyebrow.

He laughs, the sound rich and warm. “Is that what we’re calling it now?”

The ease of this—the banter, the domesticity, the way they’ve folded me into their lives—should terrify me. Instead, I find myself leaning into it, craving more.

Gabe leans forward. “If you’re coming with us, you should meet with Mitzy. She’d love to see what you were working on to undermine Malfor’s plans.”

“She heads our tech division,” Hank explains. “The technical half of Guardian HRS. Didn’t you meet her during your debrief?”

“No, remember? My dad whisked me away. I mean, I had the initial one before the flight out, but that was it. I never got a chance to tell anyone. Although, I’m sure Malikai mentioned it. What’s Mitzy like?” I ask, curious about the woman who runs such a critical part of their operation.

Gabe chuckles. “Mitzy’s… unique. Brilliant doesn’t begin to cover it.”

“She’s got this psychedelic hair—changes colors weekly—and an energy that could power a small city,” Hank adds with a fond shake of his head. “Probably the smartest person in the building, and she knows it.”

“Guardian HRS has been working to thwart Malfor for years, but he’s slippery. Your quantum physics work, especially that side project on fusion reactor disruption?—”

“—that Malfor knows nothing about,” I say, understanding clearing my expression. “My side project was completely hidden.”

Hank nods. “Exactly. You were valuable for your quantum fusion expertise. Are you sure Malfor doesn’t know about your hidden modifications?”

“As sure as I can be. It’s groundbreaking and could be the key to undermining his plans. I’d be happy to share what I have, and it’s more along the lines of quantum entanglement than fusion. “Not to mention,” I say casually, “getting back to work will help me feel normal again. Like I’m more than just a victim—or, you know… the sex slave of two insatiable Guardians.”

Gabe chokeson his coffee.

Hank stops mid-zip on his go-bag, blinking. Then slowly turns.

“I’m sorry,” Gabe rasps, setting his mug down with deliberate care. “What was that last part?”

I tilt my head, keeping my voice innocent. “Getting back to work will help me feel normal?”

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