Her Wilde Marines (Wilde, Nevada 4)

They could be so gentle and kind under all that toughness. They’d listened to her almost all night. When she’d told them about her worry for her girls, they’d helped her through the worst of her fears. They’d talked to her about what trauma on the battlefield could do and how they’d seen fellow soldiers overcome the pain.

Time. That’s what they said I needed. Time and understanding.

They’d given her their understanding and had promised to give her all the time she needed. The voices hadn’t returned. She was filled with hope because of her two amazing Marines. Whatever demons she had to face she didn’t have to face them alone ever again.

“When do you guys have to turn this truck back in?”

“After our meeting with Caleb, sweetheart,” Bane said.

Adam held her hand. “We’ve got it covered.”

They walked her to the front door of the television station.

“I’ve got it from here, guys.”

Bane pulled her into his arms. “Are you sure you’ll be okay while we’re gone?”

“I’m sure. Plus I have both your numbers in my phone in case I need you.”

Bane kissed her tenderly. “I love you, baby.”

Before she could catch her breath, Adam gave her another kiss. “I love you, darlin’.”

“I love you both. Now go. You don’t want to be late on your first day with the FBI.”

“We’ll be back to pick you up at five,” Bane said firmly.

“I’ll be here.”

After they left, she walked into the station, praying the voices would never return.

* * * *

Larry watched the two bastards drive away from the television station.

Those interfering motherfuckers messed up everything.

Though an aggravation, it was necessary to return to Nevada to keep his plan on track. The timeline had changed, and he must act now. After hearing the assholes’ plan to sweep Emma’s house, he’d driven all night to Wilde.

He stepped out of the bushes and dusted off his suit.

Now was his chance to get Emma alone.

Those Marines think they’re smart, but I’m smarter.

Even having to rush things, all the pieces were in place. Just like when she was sixteen, the bitch would be putty in his hands.

He sent the text to the mimic slut that would get the ball rolling.

* * * *

Sitting in her new office, Emma took the paperwork from Mac.

“These are for your employee file,” her boss said. “You know. Insurance. Contact information. That kind of th

ing. Take your time filling it out. I’ve got to run over to Studio B where we’re taping a cooking show. All hands on deck for this one. Mary Wilde is making one of her signature recipes today and we’re setting up now. Adara is our receptionist. She’s out getting the ingredients Mary requested. While you’re finishing up your paperwork, I hope you don’t mind answering the phone until Adara gets back, which won’t be long.”

“I don’t mind at all.”