Her Wilde Marines (Wilde, Nevada 4)

“God, isn’t she the most gorgeous woman you’ve ever seen, Bane?”

“Damn right, she is. And her beauty isn’t just on the outside, bro. It runs through all of her.” Bane was absolutely right about Emma.

They were both thrilled to be spending time with such an amazing woman.

“Bane, she’s not even aware we are here, is she?”

“She doesn’t seem to be. Obviously, she’s lost in thought about something.”

As they got closer, they could see her beautiful eyes had tears starting to overflow. Realizing she was upset about something concerned him. Though they’d only just met, he had a strong urge to hold and comfort her.

He and Bane rushed to Emma.

They glanced at her cell and saw the pictures of her dead sisters on her screen. She had suffered so many losses and was obviously struggling with her grief.

Emma looked up at them, quickly wiping her eyes. “You’re here already.”

He sat down on one side of her and took her hand. Bane moved to the other side, putting his arm around her shoulders.

“We understand that you’re sad, Em.” He squeezed her delicate hand.

Bane jumped in. “Would you like to get a drink before we leave?”

Believing she needed to open up to heal, he added, “Or we could go somewhere private to talk if you like.”

“I appreciate your concern, but I’d rather just go if you don’t mind.” She stood and shoved her cell into her purse.

He realized she wasn’t ready to talk about what was troubling her. “Emma, whate

ver you need is what we’ll do.”

“Thank you, but I don’t want to be late. Maude is expecting me.”

* * * *

As they turned onto Windfall, Emma saw Maude’s truck parked in front of the cutest house on the block. The outside was so eye catching with its large trees and beautiful landscaping. She could tell it had been very well taken care of. “I hope the inside is as nice as the outside.”

“Knowing Maude, I’m sure it is.” Adam parked his truck next to Maude’s.

Bane got out from the back and opened her door. “Ready to take a look at your new place, Em?”

She nodded.

The three of them walked up to the pretty porch that wrapped around the entire front and sides. The door opened, revealing Maude.

“I heard you drive up. Come on inside, Emma. I think you will love this place.”

She walked inside and realized how perfect this home would be for her and her girls. It was gorgeous. “Maude, this is amazing. I love the open floor plan, and the kitchen with all the stainless steel appliances is a dream. I’m just not sure I can afford something this elaborate.”

Maude smiled. “You’ve only taken a single step into the house, Em. Let’s go see the rest of it. Okay?”

She turned to Bane and Adam. “Would you mind looking at the place with me guys? I would appreciate your opinion.” Why did I say that?

Bane nodded.

“Absolutely,” Adam answered.

She’d been on her own for years, handling everything herself. Still, it was nice to have these two Marines by her side to at least ask their advice.