Page 114 of SEAL's Promise

“The feds have arrived.”

Rachelle groaned. “Great. At least we’ll get this over with. Maybe we can go home soon. I owe you a homecooked breakfast.”

“Looking forward to that.”

Two men in black suits, white shirts, and black ties walked inside. Both had sour expressions on their faces. After introducing themselves, the one named Bryant scowled at Cal. “You left the scene. You’re a former homicide detective. You know better.”

He caught the gleam of a wedding band on Bryant’s finger. “Would you let your wife go to the hospital alone after she was kidnapped?”

“Of course not.” He blinked. “Wait. You’re married?”

“Not yet. Soon.” He needed time to court the lady first.

“I’ll interview you while Hicks interviews Ms. Carter.”

“No. You boys interview us together.”

“That’s not how this works,” Hicks snapped.

“Until Hale’s organization is dismantled and his men are behind bars, Rachelle’s life is still in danger. My team is tied up with your FBI buddies. I’m not leaving her. Ask your questions or you’ll have to do it by video chat after we leave the hospital.”

“We can arrest you for obstruction. We already suspect that you murdered the Under Secretary. Shouldn’t be hard to find proof.”

“Good luck proving it. Ask your questions or get out. Last chance, boys.”

After exchanging a glance, they slid notebooks from their pockets.

CHAPTER THIRTY

Rachelle walked into the Rocking M’s kitchen ahead of Wolf Pack, anxious to see Mrs. Grady for herself. Yes, the sheriff told Eli that the woman was a little banged up. She wanted to see for herself that the housekeeper was all right.

The older woman glanced over her shoulder. She dropped the knife in her hand and spun to face Rachelle. Her eyes widened. “Oh, Rachelle. Your poor face.” She scowled at Cal. “How did that happen?”

“A thug slugged her. I didn’t reach her fast enough to prevent the injury.”

Rachelle’s heart melted at his words. Her warrior had taken the bruise to her face hard, angry with himself for allowing the injury to happen.

“I hope you taught him a lesson on how to treat a lady.”

He chuckled. “Yes, ma’am, with help from Rafe.”

Mrs. Grady gave Rafe a nod of approval. “Good job.”

With a grin, the handsome operative gave the housekeeper a light kiss on the cheek, making her blush. “Thank you, Mrs. G.”

The older woman hugged Rachelle and led her to the kitchen table. “Would you like a cup of tea? I baked blueberry scones a few minutes ago.”

“That sounds wonderful.”

Mrs. Grady motioned for Wolf Pack to sit. “Coffee and scones for you boys?”

“Yes, ma’am,” came the chorus of male voices.

“Are you all right, Mrs. Grady,” Rachelle asked. Her gaze strayed to the bandage on the other woman’s temple.

“Nothing a couple of stitches and over-the-counter pain medicine couldn’t fix.” She hustled around the kitchen brewing tea and coffee for her guests, and filling three plates full of scones and muffins before setting out smaller plates and napkins. “How long will you be able to stay at the Rocking M?”

“We’re not sure yet,” Eli said. “Depends on how long the feds take to do their jobs.”