“We were careful and we worked on separate issues. I don’t think that’s what happened here,” Michael said then turned to Chad, wondering if he was thinking about what they had discussed.
“Michael and I think that this new guy Solandro Cruz is taking over the business. He’s ruthless and conceited. Nate took a real risk going to that party. That wasn’t what the job called for. He risked his identity,” Chad stated.
“We should take the proper precautions just in case. Keep our eyes peeled for anything suspicious,” Michael added.
“You don’t have to tell me twice,” Virgo said.
“How did Nate’s sister handle it?” Michael asked.
Mason shook his head and Michael cursed.
“This sick motherfucker has to go down. When is the commander going to move in on the operation on the Mexican border?” Dale asked.
“Within the next two days. Maybe sooner now that this guy sent Nate’s body home. He wants to send a message,” Chad said.
“Yeah, he’s telling us that his organization will not be brought down or infiltrated again,” Virgo said.
“I think this mission might have to be our last, Chad,” Michael stated.
“I think you’re right,” Chad responded.
“Your last mission? You guys thinking about throwing in the towel?” Virgo asked. Mike and Chad nodded. Then they heard the light knock on the door. Chad got up and opened it. Alexa stood there fully dressed with her cell phone in hand.
“Sorry to interrupt. I just called my sister. She’s on her way.”
Chad rubbed her arms and stared into her eyes. “Are you sure you have to go? This won’t take too long.”
“It’s okay.
“Hey, do we get to meet her or what?” Virgo asked.
“Come meet our team,” Chad said as he opened the door. Virgo’s and Dale’s eyes widened, and then they smiled.
“Hot damn, Phillips brothers, where have you been hiding this sweet young thang?” Dale walked over to her and pulled her into his arms then dipped her in a swift move that had her holding on to him for dear life.
“Baby, you’re with the wrong men,” he teased.
“Get her up and cut that shit out,” Michael reprimanded as Dale pulled her back up but kept her in his arms. She laughed at him.
“Hey, my turn to meet the woman who’s changed our commander’s life.”
Virgo took her hand and brought it to his lips, laying a soft kiss on it. Chad gave Virgo a slap on the back of the head, and they all laughed. Quickly Chad pulled her into his arms.
“Give us a minute, will you please?” Michael stated as Chad walked Alexa out. Michael followed.
They each kissed her deeply before hugging her good-bye.
“Sorry this happened, baby. A good friend of ours, a soldier, was killed.”
Alexa covered her mouth with her hand.
“I’m so sorry. Is there anything I can do?” she asked and Chad smiled.
“No, sweetie, we’ll take care of it.”
“We may need to leave for a few days. We’ll call and let you know, all right?” Michael told her. She nodded her head then reached for Michael, pulled him into her arms, and hugged him. “I’m sorry for your loss, Michael. I—”
Before she could finish he pulled her tight and hugged her.