The Hero She Deserves - Page 93

While Brynn and Hollis made tea, Vander poured bourbon for the men. “Eagle Rare,” Vander said. “The 17-year-old.”

“His favorite,” Brynn added.

“I’m in,” Park said.

“Me too,” Sawyer said.

“Hey, you’re on painkillers,” Hollis reminded him.

“I think I’ve earned a bourbon.”

After the drinks were poured, Vander sat in an armchair, with Brynn resting on the arm. Parker sat on the other end of the couch. Hollis sat beside Sawyer, Shadow lying between them.

“Well done on a successful mission.” Vander lifted his glass.

Parker and Sawyer held their glasses up as well.

“It was the most important one I’ve ever been on.” Sawyer met her gaze, and she felt a flush of warmth.

Then Sawyer looked over at Vander. “I get it now.”

Vander smiled and tugged his wife closer. “Good.”

“I’ve got a flight back to Alaska tomorrow morning,” Parker announced.

“Already?” Hollis said.

He nodded.

She realized that she’d miss him. “Thank you, Park. For everything.”

He gave her a faint smile. “Thanks for not caving my head in with a frying pan.”

She smiled. From the look on Sawyer’s face, she realized that he’d miss his friend, too.

“You don’t need to leave so soon, Park,” Vander said. “Why don’t you stay a few days.”

“I…need to get back.”

Vander eyed him for a second, then nodded. “You need anything from me, I’m here for you.”

“Me too,” Sawyer said.

Park looked at his boots for a second, then lifted his gaze. “I know.”

The men continued talking, and soon, Hollis could barely keep her eyes open.

“Time for bed, sleeping beauty,” Sawyer murmured.

“Is that an order, Deputy Lane?”

His eyes fired. “It is. I’ll always look after you. No matter what.”

CHAPTER TWENTY

Hollis blew out a breath, leaned down, and felt the stretch.

God, she felt good. The sun was shining, the waves were lapping the shore, and she was doing yoga by the pool.