Page 34 of SEAL's Promise
“On a mission, getting the job done is priority,” Cal said. “Texas is ranked at the same level as the rest of the elite teams at Fortress. You’re doing everything right.”
Brody glanced at Eli. “Let’s finish this planning session. We land in Nashville in three hours.”
“Let’s get to it, then.”
For the next hour, Cal divided his attention between the planning session and keeping an eye on Rachelle.
Finally, Eli stood. “That’s it for now. When we land in Nashville, Texas will transport Amy and Eric. Maddox has two SUVs waiting for your use. The rest of us will drive our own SUVs and form a loose circle around your vehicles. Zane will send the safe house address to your phones. I’ll talk to the medics about Eric. If they say he can’t handle the drive, we’ll make alternate arrangements.” He headed toward the bedroom.
Cal returned to his seat beside Rachelle. She closed the laptop lid.
“Thanks for letting me use the computer.”
“Get a lot done?”
She nodded. “Is it possible to stop by my apartment for clothes?”
He hated to disappoint her. Though she probably wasn’t the primary target, he didn’t want to take the risk. “Wouldn’t be wise. It’s the first place someone will look for you.”
Rachelle sighed. “I understand, but I’ll need clothes and toiletries.”
His lips curved. “Maple Valley and the surrounding towns have stores.”
“I don’t have cash with me. I used my credit card in Mexico, but that leaves a trail.”
He threaded his fingers through hers. “I’ll take care of it.”
“If someone discovers I’m with you, you’ll be a target. I don’t want you hurt because of me.”
“I have alternate ID complete with a credit card courtesy of Zane’s mad computer skills.”
She stared. “As a former law enforcement officer, does using a fake ID and credit card bother you?”
He kissed the bridge of her nose. “I’m not defrauding anyone. I’ll pay the bill. Using a fake ID is a way to protect you.”
“Does Zane create alternate IDs for all operatives?”
He nodded. “We have several at our disposal, complete with histories.” He studied her a moment, wondering how she would react to his next words. “Most of us also have IDs not created by Zane.”
“Why?”
“In case of a data breach. It’s another layer of protection in case things go south and our lives are at risk along with our principals.”
“Is a data breach possible? I thought Zane was the ultimate computer geek.”
“He is, but no protection is airtight. That’s why Zane changes our security protocols on a regular basis and experiments with new programs. Staying ahead of super hackers is a never-ending battle.”
She sighed. “Remind me not to complain the next time he introduces new security measures.”
“Deal.” His gaze dropped to her mouth. Man, he’d give anything to have the privacy to kiss her. Not the time, he reminded himself. Soon, though. Waiting much longer to feel her mouth under his might kill him.
Rachelle drew in a shaky breath. “Not fair,” she whispered.
“What isn’t?”
“I want that kiss you promised me, but we’re still not alone.”
“Tell me about it.” Cal reclined his seat and extended his arm to her. “Come here. Even though I can’t do what I want, I can hold you.”