Creed pulled back slightly. “This is going to hurt, love.”
She nodded, wanting the stupid tape off, no matter how badly it hurt. Creed gently held on to her cheek and pried the edge of the tape up then ripped it off. She cried out as it tugged at the tender skin around her lips.
“Sorry.” Creed threw the tape down and pulled her close again. He gently kissed her lips and whispered, “Are they too sore? I’ll stay away.”
“You might have to go easy on them for a day or two.”
Creed shook his head. “I hate the duke even more right now.”
Kiera smiled. “At least I don’t have to worry about an upper lip wax anytime soon.”
Creed chuckled and hugged her. “Oh, I love you.”
“I love you.” She rested her head in the crook of his neck and watched the men being arrested around them and the women being set free. The horror of the night swept over her, and she started trembling and couldn’t stop.
Creed swayed with her slightly. “I’m here, love. Nobody’s ever going to hurt you.”
She glanced up at him. “You won’t leave me again?”
He shook his head, more serious than she’d ever seen him. “Nothing on God’s green Earth could ever take me away from you again.”
Kiera arched up on tiptoes and kissed him. She didn’t care that her lips were tender.
A throat cleared nearby, and they pulled apart and turned as one to focus on the James Bond guy.
“Sutton.” Creed pulled one arm free and extended his hand. “Impeccable timing, old chap.”
Sutton gave him a patient smile. “I’ll show you who’s the old chap, you chump.”
Creed inclined his chin toward William’s body. “Guess you got your wish for a bullet between his eyes.”
Sutton shrugged. “Corbin claims he would’ve shot you.” His smile became more genuine. “I’m not complaining.” He inclined his chin to Kiera. “My apologies, Miss Richins, that things got so out of control. You took a bit of a swim?”
Kiera half-laughed, it came out as a gargle. This Sutton was the guy who had told Creed that she’d been living with Milo. She shouldn’t like him, but it was hard to resist his charm and the obvious respect everyone around him showed to him. “I threw myself into the water to try to get away.”
Creed’s body shuddered against hers, and he pulled her in tighter. “Oh, love. You are so brave.”
Kiera really did laugh then. “You guys are like superhuman warriors. I’m not brave at all.”
Sutton tipped his head to them. “I’ll leave you two alone to fight over who’s bravest. I’ll expect you in California next Monday, Creed.”
“I quit, sir.” Creed turned from Sutton and smiled down at Kiera.
Sutton arched an eyebrow. “I can respect that. Though I doubt you can stay away. I give you two weeks max. The door’s open when you want back in.”
“Thank you, sir.”
Sutton nodded and walked away. Kiera focused on Creed’s handsome face. “I don’t even know what you do for James Bond. You quit so you won’t have to leave me again?”
Creed nodded. “We do this.” He gestured at his buddies who were either hauling men off, comforting the women who had almost been abducted, or joking with each other. “We protect and right wrongs and make the world a better place.”
Kiera studied his handsome face and swallowed. “You know I want you around as much as possible, but I don’t really want you sitting around all day watching me practice dancing.”
Creed tilted his head and smiled. “What are you saying?”
“You were born to right wrongs, Creed. Maybe after a very long extended honeymoon, I might let you help this Sutton guy out a little more while I go back to performing on Broadway.”
Creed shook his head before lifting her off of her feet and spinning her around. “I love you,” he shouted.
The guys around them were chuckling. “Holy sappy sucker, keep it down.” Someone called out.
“Shut it, Jace.” Creed called back.
The guy just laughed in response. Another guy pulled out a pocket bible and a cross, giving them a life is good smile. “I can marry you here and now if you like.”
Creed smiled, still holding her in the air. “Sounds good to me. What do you think? Shall we have Cannon marry us right here?”
Kiera shook her head, grinning. “I’d at least like to have a dry dress on.” She probably looked like a drowned rat but the love shining from Creed’s eyes said he didn’t care.
Creed grinned, lowered her to her feet, and gently kissed her.
“My lips are actually feeling much better,” she whispered.
Creed arched an eyebrow. “That’s the best news I’ve heard all night.” He pulled her against him and captured her lips with his own. Kiera melted into him, safety and love washing over her. The danger was gone, Creed was holding her, and every happiness stretched before them. They might not get married right this moment, but they would soon, and that was more than enough for her right now.
Chapter Sixteen
The next day dawned sunny and bright. Creed’s friends had left sometime in the night, and it was only Kiera and Creed again. Just the way she liked it. They ate a late breakfast in her suite and then strolled along the beach, holding hands and savoring simply being together.
Creed suddenly turned to her and dropped down on one knee. “Kiera Richins. I haven’t had time to talk to your father or get you a pretty ring, but I love you so much I can’t stand it any longer. Will you marry me?”
Kiera grinned, staring down at his handsome face. This tough, military man, kneeling in the sand. “What did your friend call you last night? A sappy sucker?”
Creed chuckled and squeezed her hand. “Please don’t make me wait any longer.”
Kiera clung to his hand. “Of course I’ll marry you, Creed.”
He stood quickly and pulled her in tight, kissing her. It started out soft and lovely like a slow ballet, but then it crescendoed into a kiss that would give any salsa dance a run for its money. He pulled back, and they were both breathing hard. Leaning down, he rested his forehead against hers and whispered, “Can we elope today?”
Kiera laughed. Then she groaned, thinking of how wonderful it would be to elope and spend the next few weeks here with Creed. “Our mamas would kill us.”
Creed studied her. “I can handle my mom. It’s amazing how soft people go on you when you come back from the dead.” He winked.
“You should be nicer to your mom, and I definitely can’t disappoint my mama with an elopement. No matter how tempting you are.” Kiera smiled and framed his face with her hands. “Christmas is only six weeks away. How about we fly our families down here for the holiday and get married right here on this beach?”
“Six weeks?” Creed looked pained. “I’ve been waiting my whole life to be married to you. I can’t handle six more weeks.”
Kiera laughed. “Wimp.” She kissed him softly. “Think of what it will mean to our mamas to be part of it.”
“You’re right.” Creed finally agreed. “I suppose I’ve put my mom through enough agony. It’ll kill me, but I’ll wait six weeks.” He straightened and looked out over the beach. The dock where the battle had been last night was clearly visible. “Do you really want to get married here? I mean, after last night?”
Kiera smiled up at him. “This is where you and I reconnected. I’m not going to let some loser ruin the memories we’ve created here.”
Creed grinned down at her. “Let’s make some more good memories, just to make sure you have enough.”
Kiera laughed, but he cut it off as he lifted her closer and kissed her until she was gasping for air. Lack of oxygen had never felt so beautiful.
The Hawk Brothers
I hope you loved Creed and Kiera’s story. If you missed the first Hawk brother’s story about Emmett Hawk you can find it in The Determined Groom. I’m currently writing Callum Hawk’s story, My Billionaire Boss Fake Fiance, whic
h will be released November 6th. Bridger Hawk’s story will be out near Christmas.
Hugs and thanks for reading,
Cami
About the Author
Cami is a part-time author, part-time exercise consultant, part-time housekeeper, full-time wife, and overtime mother of four adorable boys. Sleep and relaxation are fond memories. She’s never been happier.
Join Cami’s VIP list and get a free copy of Oh, Come On, Be Faithful here.
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If you enjoyed The Stealth Warrior read on for an excerpt of The Protective Warrior.
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www.camichecketts.com
The Protective Warrior
“This seat taken?” a nicely timbered voice asked.
Ally glanced up and took her time looking over him before she answered.
He arched an eyebrow and smiled. “Did I pass muster?”
“How do you do?”
He cocked his head to the side. “I’m good. You?”
Ally laughed. “I’m glad you’re good, but ‘how do you do’ is more like ‘hello.’”
“Hello.” He smiled, and ooh, he was cute. “So I do pass muster?” He moved to sit down.
Ally held out a hand. “Not so quick, chump.” His dark hair was short, military or missionary short, but it was nice—clean and thick and would probably feel good beneath her fingertips. His face was lean and proportioned with a firm jaw, a straight nose, and smooth, tanned skin. She liked the crinkles next to his eyes and mouth as he smiled at her, awaiting her perusal. He’d had some experiences in life, good and bad, if those crinkles told her anything. He was a big guy—broad and at least six-three with lots of lovely muscles peeking out from underneath his T-shirt and board shorts. It was his eyes that finally convinced her to accept his request. Their deep brown sparkled at her, though she could tell he could be very serious.
He tapped the edge of his tray. “How about now?”
“Okay, no harm in sharing a table.” She grinned. “But I’m not keen on taking you home … no matter how appealing those puppy-dog eyes are.”
His eyebrows both went up at that. He set his tray down and slid into the seat. “Do you regularly take men home?”
“Don’t get your hopes up.” She winked at him and picked a bite of rib off the bone, savoring the tang of the barbecue sauce and the heartiness of the meat. No, she never took men home, only selectively dated those who passed her intuition test. She trusted her intuition completely and she could have fun with this hot, tough-looking guy.
He laughed and dug into his brisket. “Mm. This place is good.”
“One of my favorites.”
“Have you been on the island long?”
She wished. “A few days.”
“Oh. You act like a local.” He ate a bite of beans and took a drink of water before asking, “Which part of England are you from?”
“London. Kensington, to be exact. You?”
“Long Island originally. I like your accent a lot.”
“I’ve been in the States for over six years, so it’s faded.”
“Don’t let it fade.”
That made her smile. “So, I’m Ally.”
He nodded. “Pleasure to meet you.”
“And you are?” He didn’t seem to reveal much, but he was super attractive and was putting off good vibes. She prided herself on being able to read people, and this good-looking man had a great aura—confident and strong but mindful of others. Ally had no problem making a new friend.
“River.”
“And what are your plans today, River?”
“Besides eating lunch with you?”
She smiled. “Yeah, besides that.”
“I was hoping to go on a hike. You know any good ones?”
“For sure. Fancy a buddy?” She took a bite of the chunky chili.
“I’d love one.”
“Let’s do it.” She took a long sip of water and appraised him. This day kept getting better and better. Picturesque scenery, beautiful weather, nice bike ride, yummy lunch, and now a fine-looking buddy to go on a hike with.
They finished lunch and walked toward the parking lot. “I need to run by my house to pick up my trainers and backpack,” Ally said. “Do you want to meet up in half an hour?”
“Sure. Where?”
She gave him directions to the Nā Pali coastline hike trailhead and walked away. Turning back, she saw him watching and gave him a little wave. Yep, he was cute, yet he had a little bit of a bad-boy feel. She grinned to herself. Running away from home was definitely the best move she’d made.
Find The Protective Warrior here.
Also by Cami Checketts
Navy Seal Romance
The Protective Warrior
The Captivating Warrior
Texas Titan Romance
The Fearless Groom
The Trustworthy Groom
The Beastly Groom
The Irresistible Groom
The Determined Groom
Billionaire Beach Romance
Caribbean Rescue
Cozumel Escape
Cancun Getaway
Trusting the Billionaire
How to Kiss a Billionaire
Onboard for Love
Shadows in the Curtain
Billionaire Bride Pact Romance
The Resilient One
The Feisty One
The Independent One
The Protective One
The Faithful One
The Daring One
Park City Firefighter Romance
Rescued by Love
Reluctant Rescue
Stone Cold Sparks
Echo Ridge Romance
Christmas Makeover
Last of the Gentlemen
My Best Man’s Wedding
Change of Plans
Counterfeit Date
Snow Valley
Full Court Devotion: Christmas in Snow Valley
A Touch of Love: Summer in Snow Valley
Running from the Cowboy: Spring in Snow Valley
Light in Your Eyes: Winter in Snow Valley
Romancing the Singer: Return to Snow Valley
Other Books by Cami
Seeking Mr. Debonair: Jane Austen Pact
Seeking Mr. Dependable: Jane Austen Pact
Pass Interference: A Last Play Romance
Saving Sycamore Bay
How to Design Love
Oh, Come On, Be Faithful
Protect This
Blog This
Redeem This
The Broken Path
Dead Running
Dying to Run
Fourth of July
Love & Loss
Love & Lies
Cami’s Collections
Billionaire Beach Romance Collection
Billionaire Bride Pact Collection
Billionaire Romance Sampler
Echo Ridge Romance Collection
Texas Titans Romance Collection
The Stealth Warrior: Navy SEAL Romance 2.0 Page 12