Page 64 of Special Agent Isabella

“We’ll stop at the center before heading over to Stacy’s. Okay? We can check on her then.” He felt her relax from his words. When she lifted her face to his, her eyes brilliant from tears and her expression hopeful, he couldn’t have stopped his lips from finding hers. His kiss was meant to be a soft, tender show of encouragement but the minute her mouth fused with his, things changed dramatically.

She twisted around so she was fully enclosed in his embrace and before he knew it would happen, in unison, their bodies lowered to the bed with their lips still connected. Passion exploded instantly and within a few seconds, their heated breaths grew louder.

His body reacted, becoming hard and needy. Enclosed in his arms, she appeared wanting and ready… and yet was this the right time? God, his brain thought only of release, but his heart had to know for sure that he wouldn’t be stepping out of line.

When he tried to pull away, worrying that she might be vulnerable and this move considered to be taking advantage, she hauled him back into her embrace. Her mouth hot and willing, she moaned, “No. Don’t go. Love me.” Those whispered entreaties tilted the scale, and he became completely focused on doing exactly as she requested.

He stripped her of her clothes while she did the same for him, their hands in each other’s way in a comical kind of playfulness. All the while, they kissed and touched until soon both were naked and lying in the center of the bed, wrapped in each other’s arms.

Once they’d settled, he lay over her, his hands grasping hers above her head. Pulling away from her seeking mouth, he stared down into eyes filled with hunger and excitement.

When she saw his face, her expression changed. Tenderness flooded and he saw the love shining. Knowing she’d see the same in his eyes, he said the words, mouthing them without sound. Then he watched as she did the same.

His moan of wonder had her lifting her face from the pillow, searching for his mouth. At the same time as their lips connected, his body slipped into the wet sanctuary of her heat and for the glorious duration, they became one.

* * *

Before arriving at the governor’s mansion, Tanner and Bella made a quick stop at the center as he’d promised. They found that Demi had been there briefly but had left. Nora, who’s face held sadness and dried tear tracks, greeted them with the wretched news, and a letter meant for them.

“She’s gone. Packed her bags and left. Says she’ll be in touch and not to worry.”

Stunned, Bella reached for the note. “She told you this?”

“It’s in her goodbye note. She’s left this place to a larger shelter, and they’ll be using the money to take on another facility like this one, for teens on the streets. She wrote that they’ll be in touch, and they’ve promised to hire our workers, so we won’t be without jobs. It’ll never be the same though. Demi ran this place like a home away from home. Those people have so many rules, it’s more like a government resource than a safe haven.”

Tanner took the note from Bella’s shaking hand while she hugged Nora and wished her well. As they walked to the car, he read the words.

Bella and Tanner,

My Family.

My Friends.

Please be happy for me. I’ve finally decided to follow my path, the one I’ve always known was in my future. I bought a bus ticket and have my inheritance to search for. Once I reach Alaska and get settled, I’ll write and let you know how to get in touch.

I’m excited for me and thrilled for you two – that you finally found each other. The two people I care most about.

Be happy for me. I’m happy for you.

Love, Demi

Tanner reached for her hand. “Are you okay?”

“She’s taking a bus to Alaska. Going to find the place her grandfather left her so many years ago.”

“That’s what she says.”

“I know. It makes sense, but I can’t help but worry that she’ll be alone out there.”

“Although, she seems defenseless, I know she can take care of herself. I’ve been giving her self-defense lessons over the years. Though the girl hates violence, she’s equipped to handle herself if in danger. The place she’s going to look for has been stuck in her memory since she was a child. Now might just be the best time for her search to begin.”

“You’re right. Guess, I’m just an old mama bear about her.” Bella chuckled, thinking of all the times Demi called for her help rather than take on situations that might lead to violence. “Do you find it odd that she wrote that note to both of us like we were a couple.”

“Yeah. I noticed it too. She must have seen us on the couch earlier.”

“I wonder if she got the wrong idea?”

Tanner opened the passenger door, and after Bella slid in, he crouched down beside her. “Did she? Get the wrong idea?”

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