Page 65 of Absolution

My gut knots as his words sink in. “I know, but it’s time I try.”

“I’ll be in the office next week if there’s anything else I can do, feel free to reach out. We’re here to help, much like the people in the room with you now.” Jackson is an old soul and smart as hell. It must be nice being Jackson Cole.

“Will do, thanks again.” I end the call, excited, and ready to dig into the mission that changed my life and those around me.

A heaviness rests in the pit of my stomach, uncertainty washing over me as I think of the gravity of the situation. Maybe I’m feeling anxious about what I may discover, I’m not sure.

“Are we good to go?” Crawford looks up from his phone to ask.

“Yeah, he’s sending what he has over.”

“Is there something wrong?” He watches me closely.

I nod, trying to shake this off. “Feeling a little uneasy, it’s a lot to take in.”

“Agreed, but I’m proud of you for taking this step. I hope it pays off for you.”

“So do I.”

Now that I have made the daunting choice to look into the failed mission, I’m worried what I may dredge up. I have to be honest with myself since I can’t seem to be with anyone else.

We work diligently throughout the day, setting things up as they come in. All that’s left to do is get the files and start digging through them. Even the slightest clue could possibly help, so I’ll need to be prepared for anything.

“Last one, and we’re good to go.” Kathryn smiles when the computer she was setting up begins to hum with life.

The tension I’ve had building in my body all day is begging to be released, and I know the person that can help. My nerves are frayed, and I’m ready to relax with my ruby haired ladies.

I stand, stretching out my muscles and thinking of Scarlet. “Thank you.”

“So, who put a smile like that on your face?” Crawford scuttles over to Kathryn’s side, both grinning ridiculously.

“Y’all aren’t right,” I kiss Kathryn on top of the head and pop Crawford on the arm. “I’ll be here bright and early to get started on what we have.”

“Craw leave the boy alone. I love seeing his smile.”

“Just wondering if it’s anyone we know, or need to get to know.” Crawford waggles his brows behind her back.

I shake my head. “He’s ruthless.”

“Nothing to be ashamed of, son. Two red-blooded kids, having some good clean fun and a little sex.” Crawford holds his stomach, trying to not make a sound.

“So what, now you’re hip or just an old hippie?”

“I happen to enjoy beautiful women. Are you afraid she’d prefer the original?” He winks, bobbing his head.

I flex, kissing my biceps. “Why would she pick flabs over abs?”

“Boys! What’s gotten into y’all?” Kathryn blushes, reminding me of Scarlet.

“Apparently, women, wine, and fine sex!” Crawford belts out in laughter.

“I’m leaving on that note! Doc, let’s get outta here.” I throw my hand in the air. “See ya, Mom. Later, Dad.”

When Kathryn whimpers, I realize what I said. “Thank you.”

I continue out the door with Doc in tow, knowing full well if I turn around, she may never let me go. They’ve been fantastic, giving me the time I need to come to this decision. I’m not sure if I could’ve withstood what they have.

I help Doc in and then climb into my SUV, but before I can pull out on the road, my phone chimes. Tugging it free from my pocket, I hit answer the minute I recognize the number.