DAYS
Chapter 1
Cordell Walker put his arms around his wife's waist. Alex leaned back against his broad, muscled chest as they watched the sunset. The last rays of the sun disappeared, and Alex turned to face the man she loved.
"How long will you be gone?" she asked quietly.
He sighed. "I'll be in deep cover for several months."
"Why so long?" She hoped he didn't sense the tears in her voice.
"Because that's how long it's going to take for us to get under his skin."
"Who's 'us'? Is Trivette going, too?"
He shook his head. "No, it'll be me and Gage." He exhaled heavily. "I'm sorry, honey."
"I know. Just make sure you come back in one piece, all right? Gage, too. Sydney will kick your cute little butt if you let anything happen to him." They both chuckled softly. It had taken some time, but Gage and Sydney had finally admitted their deep love for each other. It had, of course, taken a little coaxing—Alex had talked to Sydney more than once, and Walker, Trivette, and CD had been all over Gage. Alex smiled at the memories, and tilted her head to touch her lips to her husband's. When they parted, Walker gazed seriously into Alex's sky-blue eyes, his forehead resting on hers.
"Will you be all right?" he asked gently. Alex raised a hand to cup his cheek, her thumb stroking the surprisingly soft skin.
"Sydney and I will be just fine, Cowboy. After all, we'll still have Trivette and CD to watch over us." She pushed him away playfully. "Now, come one. You need to get packed."
He looked thoughtful for a moment. "I don't suppose I could pack you?"
"I don't think so." By now, her husband's eyes had taken on a mischievous gleam.
"Hmm. Well...I can try!" Alex let out a squeal of laughter as he picked her up, tossing her over his shoulder and carrying her inside.
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