At that, Jeannie barked out a laugh.
Rachel cocked a brow and grinned. “I’m right, aren’t I?”
Jeannie nodded, still chuckling. “Yes, you are.”
“Carson called earlier and explained what happened and that you were coming here to stay with him. But I also think it’s important for you to know, especially since your life has just been upended, Carson was the happiest I’ve ever seen when he was with you. And he was the unhappiest I’ve ever seen over the last few days when he wasn’t with you.”
Smiling, Jeannie said, “I hadn’t seen my messages from him, but he was already regretting our argument before he found out about Maggie’s cane.”
With a sharp nod, Rachel grinned wider. “And that’s why I love my boss. A good man who learns quickly what’s important.”
By the time they finished their tea, Jeannie felt certain she had a new friend. Waving goodbye as Rachel left, she walked into the kitchen and looked at all the food that had been brought. She had no idea when Carson would get home, but considering she’d barely eaten during the last several days, fixing lunch sounded like the perfect thing to do.
26
“Dave, why the fuck isn’t DEA moving on this?” Carson growled his question, knowing the other man wouldn’t be intimidated, but considering he was pissed as hell, it was the only tone he could manage at this point.
“Because it’s not enough,” Dave replied.
The widescreen on one wall of the compound broadcast the secure video meeting, David’s face proving he was just as frustrated as the Keepers.
“My superiors are not going to go on, you think there’s a tunnel between Tecate, Mexico, into Tecate, California. Listen, I know you’re right, but without any proof, the DEA isn’t going to run a raid that might not produce anything. All that will do will piss off some politicians and DEA higher-ups who think they won’t look good. It’ll also give the Garza families a chance to use a different route.”
“So, what exactly does the DEA need?” Leo asked.
“We need some kind of proof. I need to show them that’s what’s happening, and I promise I’ll get the sanctions for the raid that’ll shut those fuckers down.” Dave sighed heavily, scrubbing his hand over his face. “Carson, I’m sorry as fuck. I know we’ve contracted for you guys to do our shit work and now I can’t even give you backup. I swear, I believe in this job, but there are days I feel like I’m slogging through quicksand and not getting anywhere.”
Carson stared for a moment at the face of the DEA agent that he trusted and considered to be a friend. “Maybe you need to consider a career change to something that has fewer politics and rules.”
Dave chuckled, shaking his head. “Be careful what you suggest, Carson. You never know what I’ll agree to.”
“I’m open for discussion any time. But for now, we’ll work the problem.”
Jeb disconnected their conference call, and the Keepers moved to settle around the conference table. Just then, Rachel walked back in.
“She get settled?” Carson asked.
Rachel dipped her chin, her lips curving slightly. “She’s getting there.”
“Thank you. I appreciate it, Rachel.”
She held his gaze before her smile widened. “I like her, Carson. Now, if you can keep her safe, and more importantly, keep from fucking things up again, I think the two of you just might make it.”
She walked out to the laughter of the others, Carson feeling the tips of his ears heat. Attempting a scowl, he called out, “Tell me why I keep you around?”
Just before Rachel turned the corner, she flipped him off, and the Keepers roared. As their mirth slowed, he looked around his group, realizing they’d needed a few minutes of levity after the call with Dave. Sucking in a deep breath and letting it out slowly, he thought about the beautiful woman close by in his house and realized he wasn’t panicking about not being able to do it all and letting her down.
“So, boss, do you think we go into the warehouse where we were the other night? Go through the tunnel from there?” Rick asked.
“Why can’t we get some kind of camera down there?” Jeb asked. “There ought to be a way to get a visual.”
“You got any ideas on that?” Bennett asked.
“Fuck no,” Jeb admitted.
“Pull the area up on the map,” Carson ordered. As soon as Jeb tapped on his computer, the wall screen showed the satellite view. Standing, Carson walked closer, studying the landscape. “We need eyes inside. We need to see when they use the tunnels to transport. Then, we need to find a way to get eyes into the tunnels. That’s the only way to catch what’s happening to give the DEA enough to put together a raid that can get the Garzas put away.”
Turning, he ordered, “Work the problem. Divide up those who aren’t on another mission and watch the trucks coming and going. Discover their schedules. Top priority on this.”
Walking back to his desk, he added, “And dinner tonight is at the lighthouse. It’s time you all met Jeannie.” He began clicking on his computer, missing the grins coming from behind him.
Carson walked into his house, holding his breath. Seeing Jeannie sitting at his table with her laptop in front of her sent a bolt of excitement as well as nerves throughout him. She looked up and smiled, and his chest heaved as the air rushed out. Her hair was held up on top of her head with a big clip. Her clothes were perfect for lounging, and she appeared comfortable in his house.
“Hi,” she greeted, pushing to a stand, lifting her hands over her head to stretch, allowing his gaze to travel a slow path down her body and back again. Walking toward him, she moved directly into his embrace, lifting on her toes.
Not one to turn down an offering from her, still overwhelmingly glad she’d given her forgiveness so readily and they were back on track, he sealed his mouth over hers. He wanted to keep the kiss going, leading them to his bedroom, but forced their mouths to separate, sucking in a deep breath. “Hate like hell to stop what you’re offering, but I’ve got some people I want you to meet.”
Her head tilted to the side, and she waited for him to explain.
“Rachel gave Teddy the food order and he’s gone to pick it up. He should be back by now, and we’re going to set up dinner on the patio behind the lighthouse.”
“Who all is we?”
“You’re going to meet the Keepers.”
Her body jerked and her eyes snapped open wide. “Seriously? Are you sure? I don’t want you to rush things… or think that I have to… or that they—”
“Babe,” he said, kissing her lightly. “Here’s the deal. It’s not rushing things because you’re in my life in a way where I want you to stay in my life. That means they’re people that are going to get to know you, and you’re going to get to know them. And, if I’m not around, these are the people that will protect you. Plus, these people are my friends. And, honestly, I’m so grateful you’ve given me another chance, I can’t wait to have them meet you.” With each statement he made, he watched her eyes light even more and her smile widened.