Page 65 of SEAL's Promise

“Most of the time.” He cupped her cheeks. “I’ll set up the computer chat for you. I can stay with you or go back to our seats. It’s your call.”

“Stay.”

“If you start the session and change your mind, tell me.”

She wouldn’t. His presence kept her grounded.

Cal logged onto the computer and contacted the counselor. “Are you ready, Marcus?”

Rachelle breathed a sigh of relief. Marcus Lang and his wife, Paige, were friends. Her cheeks burned. Paige had probably told Marcus about Rachelle’s interest in Cal by now. Would he approve of them dating?

“I’m set.” The dark-haired man on the screen smiled. “Glad you’re safe, Rachelle. I hear you’ve had excitement in the past few days.”

She smiled. “Hi, Marcus. Unfortunately, you’re right.”

“Cal, are you staying with Rachelle or waiting elsewhere?”

“Staying.”

“Rachelle, do you want him to stay or leave? Choose what’s best for you.”

“I want him here.”

His eyebrows shot up. “Do you have news to share?”

“Cal and I are dating.”

Marcus smiled. “Congratulations to both of you. How’s Amy?”

And so the questions began. At the end of the session, Rachelle felt more at peace, her confidence restored. Marcus and Cal had prepared her well for the interview. “Thank you, Marcus.”

“Any time, my friend. I’m always available if you need me.” He shifted his gaze to Cal. “Same goes for you, Cal. Day or night.”

“Thanks.”

“Paige and I will be in town next month. We’d love to take you and Rachelle out for dinner if you’re not deployed.”

“Sounds great. If we can’t work it out, we might drive to Otter Creek one weekend to visit.”

“Perfect. Both of you, be safe.” The screen went dark.

Without a word, Cal drew Rachelle into his arms and held her.

Minutes later, she leaned back to look at him. “You arranged for Marcus to be my counselor.”

“Caught me.”

“You were right. The session helped. Marcus made it easier.” Rachelle kissed him. “More than anything, your presence provided strength and support.”

“I’m glad.” He wrapped his hand around hers. “Time to return to our seats. We land soon.”

After landing, Wolf Pack loaded their gear into two SUVs waiting for them at the private airstrip. Cal climbed into the driver’s seat of one vehicle while Rafe drove the other.

For the next 90 minutes, they battled traffic on the journey into the city and parked several blocks from the Truman Building.

“The State Department should have arranged for parking.” Jackson frowned as they began to walk.

“But that would make sense,” Rafe said, scowling. “Doesn’t happen often in this town.”