The other guys pulled them apart.
“Enough, already!” Cannon yelled, stepping between them. A volunteer, lay pastor, Cannon was normally the easy-going one in the group, determined to help keep the peace. It was always an uphill task considering they were a group of alpha males, constantly vying to be top-dog.
Zane’s brow shot up, a derisive chuckle barking out of his lips. “Careful, Cannon. You know how Corbin hates taking orders from superiors.”
The comment was a knife in the gut. Zane had been the commanding officer in their platoon. He took it as a personal insult when Corbin defied his order on the day Doug was killed. And he’d never let Corbin forget it. “Respect has to be earned, not demanded.” It was probably not the best comeback, but the only one Corbin could come up with.
Zane shook his head in disgust. “Exactly. And you lost our respect the day you hung us out to dry.”
Sutton held up his hands. “Gentlemen, if you’ll please take your seats.” He looked at Corbin. “And put a lid on your anger for a few minutes, you might find this conversation beneficial.”
All eyes turned to Corbin, waiting for his reaction.
“I’m not sure it’s possible for him to cork his anger,” Zane said, an open challenge simmering in his eyes. “Why don’t you just tap the brass bell right now and save us all the trouble?”
It was a low blow, referring to the brass bell which sat in the courtyard at BUD/S Training. When guys couldn’t hack the drills they’d ring the bell three times, signaling that they’d had enough, at which point they’d forfeit their chance to become a SEAL and receive another Naval assignment. Before Zane’s comment, Corbin was ready to leave this room, turn his back on these men forever. But now, the only way anyone would drag him out of here would be in a body bag.
He lifted his chin and sat down in the closest seat, crossing his arms over his chest, his jaw set in stone. He could feel the other guys watching him. There was a time when he’d loved these guys like brothers, almost as much as he’d loved Doug. Their team had a reputation for being one of the best. That all changed the night Doug got killed. Deep down, Corbin didn’t blame the guys for hating him. He hated himself for what happened. All the training in the world, his former achievements, none of it would be enough to make up for those few short, dreadful minutes when he’d lost it and gone on the rampage.
Sutton cleared his throat. “You’re wondering why I asked you to come here tonight.”
“The thought has crossed our minds.”
This came from Blayze who was sitting on the opposite side of the table. Expert at reading people and situations, Corbin could tell from the intense look on Blayze’s face that he was trying to get a read on Sutton. Corbin risked a glance at Cannon who gave him a slight smile. For an instant, Corbin was taken off guard by the kindness. Then again, Cannon had always preached the value of turning the other cheek. Corbin offered a quick nod of acknowledgement before turning his attention back to Sutton.
“All of you are highly trained, retired SEALs. Men who can be trusted. Men whom my son Doug trusted.”
Corbin’s skin crawled a little at that. He knew none of the men in this room trusted him any further than they could throw him. They felt like he’d broken the code and betrayed their trust. Well, maybe he had, but he’d certainly not done it intentionally. If he could relive that day and react differently to Doug’s death, he would in a heartbeat.
Furthermore, everyone around this table would be a little squirrelly at the mention of Doug’s trust. None of them knew for sure whether it had been enemy or friendly fire that killed Doug. Had Sutton brought them here to exact revenge? A shiver raced down Corbin’s spine. Maybe the billionaire philanthropist wasn’t so benevolent, after all. He pushed aside the misgiving. He and Sutton had shared a moment in the holding cell—he saw it in Sutton’s eyes, felt it rattle his core. He and Sutton shared a bond. They’d both loved Doug, both had been completely devastated by Doug’s death. Sutton said this was an opportunity, and Corbin believed the man was being truthful.
“In case you’re wondering, I know every last detail surrounding Doug’s death,” Sutton continued, stroking his short beard, which was more pepper than salt.
An uncomfortable silence froze over the group. The only reason the five former SEALs were alive was because Doug had chosen to die so they could escape the ambush.
Sutton looked around the room, his intense gaze meeting every eye. “I don’t hold any of you responsible. It was a tragic accident.” His voice quivered so slightly that Corbin wondered if he’d only imagined it. “The one consolation is knowing Doug died serving his country and fellow SEALs.”
Corbin remembered Doug mentioning that Sutton was a Commodore in the Royal Navy. He would have a personal appreciation and respect for service to country and fellow comrades.
“Doug was a cut above the rest, the embodiment of excellence,” Zane said.
“Yes, he was. He never gave up on any of us.” Even when we gave up on ourselves, Corbin added mentally. It wasn’t until he saw the surprised looks that he realized he’d spoken out loud. He and Zane locked gazes and in his former commander’s eyes, he caught a glimpse of mutual understanding. At least that was one point on which he and Zane could agree. Doug was the best, the glue that held the team together.
“I’m assembling a special ops group of retired Navy SEALs. Our intent will be to help those whose problems fall outside the realm of traditional law enforcement. People who are backed in a corner with nowhere else to go for help.”
Zane grunted. “I think I speak for most of the guys here that under the circumstance …” he cleared his throat cutting his eyes at Corbin “… we don’t feel comfortable putting our lives in the hands of someone who’s so unpredictable.”
Heat burned over Corbin as his eyes narrowed. He was about to go on the rampage again, then saw the mixture of resentment and pity in Zane’s eyes. It hit him in that moment, had he been in Zane’s shoes, he’d probably say the same thing.
Sutton held up a hand. “Group is a loose term. You’ll work as independent contractors and will be paid per assignment. Additionally, each of you will receive a souped-up, black SUV with bulletproof windows. I have other security personnel that you can have access to, should you need their assistance. Other retired SEALs will be brought in as time goes on.”
Still smarting from the insults, Corbin’s mind raced in circles like a hamster in a ball. No clear destination in sight, but he had to keep running all the same. It wasn’t until Sutton got to the substantial sums of money they’d earn that he felt a quiver of excitement. This could be the start of a new career. The chance to do something useful. Also, it would be nice to earn some real money. Maybe get a new bike … take a trip somewhere warm. He was tired of the Colorado snow and sick of pinching pennies.
“How will you determine which assignments we’re given?” Zane asked. “Will it be done on an ‘as needed’ basis?”
“Good question. The jobs will be assigned according to your skill set.” Sutton punched the table with his finger. “You have my word that I’ll make sure you have every available resource you need to be successful.” He motioned. “And while it doesn’t look like it, this mansion is a veritable fortress ... a hub, from which we’ll conduct our business.”
Corbin’s eyes popped slightly thinking about the holding cell where he’d been detained. It had been solid as a tomb. There was no telling how many secret tunnels and areas ran through the mansion.
Sutton’s voice grew intense, his penetrating blue eyes scoping the room. “Gentlemen, in a small way, we’ll be paying homage to Doug, helping right some of the many wrongs in this tragic world.” He squared his jaw, straightening to his full height. “Let’s do this. The Warrior Project. Not only for Doug, but also for God and Country.”
Corbin’s chest burned with a new determination. He’d come into this room floundering, no real direction in his life. But now he had something he could sink his teeth into. An u
nexpected feeling of hope kindled in his chest. This could be a way to get the one thing he craved most … redemption. “The Warrior Project. For Doug, God and Country,” he repeated softly.
5
When the fight broke out between Delaney’s bodyguard and that annoying guy, Delaney feared Sutton might order her to leave. Thankfully, that didn’t happen. After the guy was hauled away by security guards, things settled back down. Delaney cooled her heels for three more hours, waiting for the party to wind down, before Agatha found her and announced that Sutton would see her in his study.
Delaney had been a nervous wreck, not sure what to expect, but the meeting with Sutton Smith went much better than she expected. All in all, it was anticlimactic. She’d been prepared to plead her case, trying to figure out the best way to convey how truly cutthroat Hugh Allen was. As it turned out, anything she could’ve said would’ve been a waste of breath because Sutton already knew. He’d done his research on the Allens, probably knew more about their nefarious business dealings than she did. Rumors had been floating around Noble for years. Some had Hugh being an arms dealer to terrorist groups. Others said Hugh was the head of a private militia. Whatever Hugh was involved in, it wasn’t good. People who crossed him disappeared. Delaney’s philosophy had always been the less she knew the better.
After about ten minutes into the conversation, Delaney realized that as far as Sutton was concerned taking her on as a client was a done deal. She got the feeling he’d already made the decision even before she came here tonight. They discussed the particulars, starting with Sutton’s fee, which was nominal considering the circumstance. Sutton told her he was assigning one of his top guys to provide around-the-clock protection, a retired Navy SEAL.
Considering how easily Tuck had breezed past her bodyguard, Delaney was leery of putting her fate in the hands of one individual. But Sutton assured her that the guy was well-trained, and could be as vicious as Hugh if the situation warranted.
“As cliché as it sounds, the only way to fight fire is with fire,” Sutton said in a British accent. “Rest assured that your bodyguard has access to a team of people and additional resources if need be.” He gave her a piercing look. “It’s not looking good for your ex-husband. The doctors don’t expect him to live past a few more days.”
Her heart lurched as she nodded, tears springing to her eyes. “I know,” she said quietly.
“You’re in good hands,” Sutton assured her.
A feeling of gratitude washed over Delaney. She was so appreciative of Milo who’d put her in touch with Sutton. For the first time since the ordeal with Tuck, she felt like she might have a fighting chance for survival.
Sutton stood, telling her to wait while he went to get her bodyguard. When he got to the door, he turned. “Oh, one more thing,” he said casually.
She tensed slightly. “Yes?”
“In order for this to work, I need you to have complete trust in me and your bodyguard. You have to listen to his instructions, trust that he’ll do everything in his power to keep you safe.”
“Okay.” Odd advice. Why would she do any different? She was hiring Sutton and this guy to keep her safe.
“Hang tight. I’ll return shortly.”
“Sounds good.” She hugged her arms, glancing around at the handsome study. Bookcases lined one of the walls from floor to ceiling. Her gaze ran over the book spines. Most of the books had to do with the military, strategy, or combat. An enormous mahogany desk sat in front of the opposite wall. Underneath it was an ornate Oriental rug. The cozy space exuded old money and prestige. She scooted back into the comfort of the overstuffed chair and crossed her legs. She glanced at the large clock on the wall beside the bookshelves. She assumed that Sutton would return momentarily, but ten minutes went by, then twenty. She rested her head against the back of the chair, letting her mind get lost in the steady rhythm of the ticking clock.
Delaney stifled a yawn. Until she’d sat down, she’d not realized how tired she was from all the stress. Her eyelids grew heavy as she dozed off.
The door opened and she jumped guiltily. She sat up quickly then realized she’d been drooling. Heat crept up her neck as she wiped it away.
“Sorry that took so long,” Sutton said.
“No worries,” she said automatically, then her eyes popped when she realized who was standing behind him. “You!” Her mind reeled. “I thought the security guards took you away.”
“Sorry, darling, I’m not that easy to get rid of,” he said dryly. He held out his hand, an expression of faint amusement on his handsome face. “Corbin Spencer. Nice to officially meet you.”
She just looked at his extended hand like it was a snake about to strike. This couldn’t be happening! He chuckled and dropped his hand to his side. A blistering heat slapped Delaney’s cheeks as she gripped the arms of the chair. Was this some sort of cruel joke? Surely this guy wasn’t her bodyguard. An incredulous laugh bubbled in her throat as she looked at Sutton. “Are you kidding me?”
Sutton’s expression never changed as his eyes met hers. “You and I agreed that you would trust me to pair you with the best man for the job. I’ve done that.”
“No, I don’t want him.” She shook her head back and forth. “There must be someone else.” The thought of this guy being around her twenty-four-seven was too much to take. Even now attraction was zinging through her veins despite her best effort to squelch it. She couldn’t get involved with someone right now, especially not this guy. He was a hothead, all fire and excitement that would burn her to the core, leaving only ashes. She squared her jaw, glaring at Corbin.
Sutton flashed a friendly smile. “You came here for my help, right?”
“Yes,” she said hesitantly.
“Then let me help you.” His eyes locked with hers. “Corbin’s the best guy for the job. You have to trust me on this.”
Trust. A double-edged sword. The hard set of Sutton’s jaw let her know that he wasn’t backing down. She ran a hand through her hair. Moisture rose in her eyes as the walls closed in around her. She blinked a few times, trying to clear the emotion. It was ridiculous to get so worked up about this. She had to have help. It was a miracle that she’d even found Sutton. No one else she was aware of could stand up against Hugh. “Okay,” she finally said, exhaling a long breath.
Sutton nodded. “Very good. Corbin has been briefed on the situation. He’ll leave here with you and move into your condo immediately. It’s imperative that you not spend a minute alone until the threat is contained or eliminated.”
Alarm trickled down her spine. She didn’t know which she feared most—Hugh or having Corbin so close. “What about your things … luggage?” Had Corbin come to the party because he was going to be assigned to help her? Another thought struck, making her feel like a complete idiot. Maybe Corbin approached her at the bar to tell her he’d be guarding her. And she assumed he was trying to hit on her. Sheesh. This was getting way too complicated.
Sutton turned to Corbin. “I’ll have someone go to the hotel and retrieve your bags.”
“Thank you.” Corbin said with a slight nod.
Hotel? Why was Corbin staying in a hotel? Did he not live in San Diego? Now that she thought about it, she shouldn’t have been all that surprised that Corbin was a former Navy SEAL. She’d known he was tough from the moment she saw him. At least he was on the good team … or so it appeared. At this point, she didn’t trust anyone. Tuck was good at feigning kindness to get what he wanted. He’d used her love for him as a weapon against her. And now, even his impending death was a threat to her. There seemed to be no end to the treachery.
“It’s probably wise to take the bullet-proof SUV instead of the rental car,” Sutton added.
Bullet-proof? Delaney’s stomach churned thinking about the gravity of the situation. Tuck could die any minute, and she’d have a target on her back. Heck, who was she kidding? She was already a target. For all she knew, Hugh was waiting right outside to ambush her. She hugged her ar
ms, sloughing off the shiver that crawled down her spine.
Sutton brought his hands together. “That’s all for now.” His voice went brisk as he looked at Corbin. “Call me anytime, day or night, on the secure line.”
“Will do. You can count on me,” Corbin said. And from the tone of his voice, Delaney could tell he meant it. That made her feel a little better about things.
She stood. “Thank you. I appreciate all that you’re doing.” She didn’t want Sutton to think she was an ungrateful brat because of her outburst over Corbin. Sutton was a gift sent straight from heaven. She hoped with all her heart that Corbin would be able to keep her safe. She thought of something else. “Will I be able to go about my normal routine?” The deadline for the album was looming over her. The execs at Montana Crew Label were being very understanding about her situation, but she didn’t want to do anything to mess up her big shot.
“We certainly hope that’s the case,” Sutton answered. “There are no guarantees. We’ll just have to see how this thing plays out.”
She nodded, her lips forming a grim line. “I understand.” She appreciated Sutton’s honesty and that he wasn’t just paying her lip service.
A brief smile touched Sutton’s lips as he looked from Delaney to Corbin. “I’ll leave you to it. Good luck.”
When he left the room, Delaney was keenly aware that she and Corbin were alone. An awkward silence descended between them. Should she apologize for earlier? Or just leave well enough alone?
“Are you ready?”
“Huh?” It was hard to form a clear thought with Corbin so close. Plus, she was exhausted. She hoped her mind would turn off tonight so she could get some sleep. Oh, how she desperately needed it.
“To go to your condo.”
“Oh, yeah.” He probably thought she was a complete moron. Where else would they go? Sutton mentioned that Corbin had been briefed about her situation. How much did Sutton know about her relationship with Tuck? Did he realize that Tuck had abused her for so many years? It was embarrassing that she’d been weak enough to let it happen. She tried to keep a lid on her past as much as she could. But now that she’d shot Tuck and put him in the hospital everything was splitting wide open.
The Reckless Warrior (Navy SEAL Romance) Page 4