Page 93 of Commander in Briefs

Ugh. I was hoping for at least seven but it is scorching hot, in the middle of summer, so I guess it’s best we get most of the work done in the early morning hours.

“We’ll be here.”

We shake hands and I quickly finish cleaning up the rest of my mess. I haven’t seen the guys yet, otherwise I would be making those assholes grab some of these scrap pieces of wood and help me pile them neatly beside an old oak.

By the time I’m done, the sun is starting to set and I’m starving. I hope it’s Commander’s turn to cook. I don’t think I can take another shitty meal after a long ass day like today. I know it’s good for the guys to learn how to cook so they’re self-sufficient but damn…

“Major!” Vic is running down the sidewalk, his eyes full of fear. “We have a problem. We can’t find Lawson.” He’s winded as he tries to hurry out the words. Like that’s going to make it better or something.

My stomach clenches as the thought of having to tell Anniston that I lost Lawson makes me want to heave right here in the bushes. Fuck! I knew I shouldn’t have brought him. I knew it was too soon.

“What do you mean, you can’t find him?” I’m on the move, my eyes scouring the subdivision for any sign of the long-haired blond. “Where’re the others?”

“Mason told us to split up and look for him.”

Thank fuck Mason has some sense.

“Good. When was the last time anyone saw him?” I’m jogging down the sidewalk, focused, Vic right behind me.

“We were working on the ramp, sir, about an hour ago.”

That is absolutely no help, as it’s the last time I saw him. We round a bend and Mason comes into view, a worried look plastered on his face.

“Any luck?” I shout from my position, not giving a shit if we are disturbing the peace of this quiet neighborhood.

Mason shakes his head.

Fuck! This cannot be happening. Anniston is going to lose it.

“What do we do, Major?”

I don’t answer Vic right away. I have no idea what to say.

What we need is more people, to scour the town thoroughly. I only know two other people here and the thought of calling one makes me want to gouge out my eyes with the nails in my pocket. But I’m desperate. Anything to distract me from what I’m about to do. Call Theo.

“I need to make a call.” I dial his number in a fog. My hands feel like someone else’s as I bring the phone to my ear, pacing, my eyes searching the streets for Lawson.

He answers on the fifth ring. “What?”

Yeah, I can’t do this. This may be the worst idea I have ever had in the history of ideas.

“What, Jameson?” His tone is clipped as he barks out his asshole greeting once again.

I almost hang up. The four of us can find him. Maybe we can ask the neighbors for help. They seem like good people.

I groan, frustrated with the position I’ve put myself in. I should have watched Lawson more closely.

“Cade, typically one speaks when they call someone.”

I hate him. I really do.

“I need your help.” There, I said it. I’m prepared for the smartass comment in return.

“Yes, we know that. I’ve told Ans on several occasions I would pay to get you the help you need. You’re welcome.” His voice is smug.

I grit my teeth to stay neutral. I need his help. I can’t afford to piss him off and lose my only resource. But fuck if I don’t want to.

“Lawson is missing. I need you and Hayes to come help look for him.”

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