Chapter 13

When they entered the gym, Ranger took a moment to look around and evaluate the equipment available. Given Stephanie's anger and emotion, he knew it had to be hand-to-hand since there was no punching bag. While Stephanie was changing, he texted Lester, who had just entered the gym.

"Stephanie, I want you to use the elliptical for about five minutes to warm up; then, I will show you some self-defense. I think that will be best for you right now."

"Okay," Stephanie said. They walked over to two machines next to each other, and Ranger set what he felt would be a moderate program for Stephanie and his usual program for himself. They both climbed on and began. At the end of the five minutes, Stephanie was sweating a little, which told Ranger she didn't work out enough.

He walked her over to mats near a mirror. The space was a little tight, but it would work. Ranger showed Stephanie how to throw a proper straight punch, jab, uppercut, and hook. After he saw she had the correct form, he put up his arms. "Okay, Stephanie, use whatever punch you want. Please don't hold back; you won't hurt me. I will block your punches. I'm an attacker that you need to keep away from you. Understand?"

Stephanie nodded in reply; her eyes fixated on Ranger, a steely blue, none of the humor or passion he's used to seeing.

"Start."

Stephanie started being deliberate with her punches, but Ranger saw the moment her anger, grief, and confusion took over as her form became sloppy and her punches more indiscriminate. Soon she was hitting Ranger's chest, with tears flowing. At that moment, Ranger wrapped his arms around Stephanie and pulled her against him, partially for his protection since she wasn't aiming and, more importantly, to provide her with comfort.

Ranger knew that today was a roller coaster of emotion for Stephanie. He also understood that it would take her time to understand her mother's letter. Ranger felt her body fall limp and gently sat them both on the floor. He held and rubbed her back while she cried, wishing he could do more to remove her pain.

Lester watched the scene before him in disbelief. Yeah, Carlos was so into this woman. He hesitated to call it love, but he felt they both were falling for each other. Lester hated to see Stephanie so upset. He's unsure what triggered her this time, but it had to be something with her mother because she seemed okay after the briefing.

Suddenly he saw Ranger begin to stand, holding Stephanie in his arms, bridal style, with her head against his chest. "She fell asleep," he said when they reached Lester.

"What happened?"

"She and her mother had a complicated relationship. Her mother tried to atone for her mistakes with a letter to Steph."

"Ah. Got it," Lester said.

Lester knew that of all people, Ranger would understand. A few years ago, Ranger's father, Ricardo Carlos Manoso, Jr., died from multiple sclerosis. The relationship between that father and son was strained since Ranger was fourteen and sent to live in Miami with Abuela Rosa. Ricardo never forgave his son for joining the gang and then joining the Army. He was disappointed in his son, who he hoped would take over the restaurant he had so painstakingly built. Fortunately, Ranger's sister Celia and her husband took it over, so Mama Rosa's remains a popular establishment. Ranger's mother tried to get the two to reconcile, but while Ranger was willing, his father wasn't. It wasn't until the last month or so of his life that Ricardo finally decided to talk to Ranger. While Ranger forgave his father because his choices made him the man he is today, he still has a lot of hatred toward him because he feels the apology was insincere, made only so that his father could die in peace.

Lester walked with Ranger and Stephanie back to her suite. If any SS agents at their stations were surprised or curious, they didn't show it. Lester opened the door to Stephanie's suite, guarded by Marco, and turned down her bed so Ranger could place her there. Ranger nodded to Lester, signaling his dismissal. Lester let himself out of the room.

"No one will enter that room without Ranger or Steph's approval. Not even her nieces." Lester said to Marco.

"Understood."

Marco had never seen the caring side of Ranger before. Ranger was a fair boss and leader, but no one could accuse him of being soft. While Ranger supported and was there for all his employees when needed, it was never tender. But, with the President's daughter, Ranger was different. Marco and Ranger have known each other since basic training, and Marco knows what a bitch Rachel was. Even though Ranger married Rachel, their relationship was volatile at best, usually combustible. Marco knew that Ranger would officially claim this woman as his before long.

Ranger was untying Stephanie's sneakers when she started to stir a little. "Shh, go back to sleep, Babe."

"No, I need to change. I can't sleep in this," Stephanie said as she got up. "I'm sorry I keep falling asleep on you."

"It's fine. I don't mind. Between the stress and your hectic schedule, it's expected."

"Still," Stephanie said as she walked into her bathroom, where she changed back into the nightshirt she had worn earlier. Stephanie climbed into her bed and pulled the comforter up to her waist, sitting against the headboard. "Carlos, why would she write this?"

She handed the letter to Ranger, who took it from her. "May I?" he asked, wanting to be clear of her intentions. Stephanie nodded.

Ranger read the letter and felt his anger rise. The letter reminded him of his last conversation with his father, who, like Stephanie's mom, needed to clear the air before taking his last breath. Fuck him, Ranger thought, still bitter.

"It seems like your mother took a leaf from my father's book."

Stephanie tilted her head, looking at Ranger. "What do you mean?"

"My father and I had a relationship similar to you and your mom. We tolerated each other, but I was a disappointment. I am the oldest of six children. I have four younger sisters and a younger brother. My grandparents on my father's side opened a restaurant when they immigrated from Cuba in the sixties. It was a small establishment with about fifteen tables. My Abuela had two children, my father, Ricardo Carlos Manoso, Jr., and a daughter, Rosa. Rosa is Lester's mother. My father and Tia Rosa grew up in the restaurant and started to help my grandparents run it in high school. My dad always knew he wanted to be a restauranteur and learned everything he could. My Tia helped until she married and had Lester and his sister Isabella. Then, she would help on weekends.

"My father met my mother when he was nineteen. She was a hostess at the restaurant. He proposed two years later, and they married a year later. Together, they worked at the restaurant. I was born three years later, and before my first birthday, my Abuelo Ric died. My father took over the restaurant completely, and my Abuela helped until she decided to move to Miami, where her sister was living. They were both widows, and she had enough of working. My parents had my sister Celia when I was two and a half; a year later, Juliana was born, followed by Mariela and Gabriela two years later. They are identical twins. Five years later, my brother, Julio, was born. I was ten. Suddenly, I was expected to help at the restaurant on weekends and during breaks as a busboy. All I wanted to do was play soccer. But, with my sisters, my mom couldn't work, so I had to pitch in. I was angry and resentful. I hated working in the restaurant. I wanted to be outside. So, when I was thirteen, I joined a gang. My parents were so caught up with my sisters and brother that they had no clue for almost a year. When I got caught joyriding in a car that didn't belong to me, they found out.

"My father was livid. He called me a disgrace. He said that I embarrassed him and our family. He told me that I was to live with Abuela Rosa in Miami because he didn't want to be associated with me," Ranger pauses, remembering how he felt, scared in the police station. "The next day, he put me on a plane to Miami. I was angry. My Abuela worked hard to help me get through my anger. She allowed me to play soccer and football and take karate. Those activities gave me the sense of belonging I sought when I joined the gang. The sports gave me discipline. As a senior, I had no idea what I wanted to do. I knew I didn't want to work at Mama Rosa's. One afternoon, a recruiter for the Army came to my high school. I signed up that day. The prospect of traveling the world, being outdoors, and being part of a group is what I craved.

"Once again, my father was disappointed with me. He said I let down not only him but the family. We had a legacy, and as Ricardo Carlos Manoso, III, I had to carry on that legacy. He said he regretted giving me his name. Up until then, my family and friends called Ricky. That day, I started to ask people to call me Carlos. My nickname of Ranger didn't come until I was in Ranger school. Anyway, things were never the same between us. Eleven years ago, my father was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. His body slowly degenerated. It was sad to watch, but there was nothing I could do. My father still refused to acknowledge that I had made the best decision for my future. Five years ago, he forgave me after my mother's pleading became too much. He told me he was proud of me, much like your mother.

"I felt it was insincere. I forgave my father only because I had moved on. I knew that God would judge him for his actions. When I left the house that afternoon, I was angry, like you are. But, in the years that followed, I eventually became at peace. It still grates me, but I don't let it ruin my life. I'm proud of the company I've built and what I did for my country. I wouldn't change anything. His disapproval pushed me to be the best I could be to prove him wrong. I don't know if I would have everything now if it weren't for him."

"Wow. That sucks. How is your relationship with the rest of your family?"

"Strong. My siblings didn't understand why I went to live with Abuela then, but as they got older and learned why, they realized it was the best situation for me. When I applied to Ranger School, I discovered that I was in deep shit. The cops who arrested me took pity, and the Assistant District Attorney offered three options. One, I pleaded guilty, and then I would have to do community service; second, she would charge me and ensure I ended up in juvie. The last option was to send me to a military school or relative, and I would be released with no charges brought against me. I think she saw that I was lost. My father wanted her to charge me, to teach me a lesson. My mom decided that Miami would be where I'd go. She wanted me to be with family and to have my future unmarred. I never told my parents I knew, but my dad realized it. Ironically, my CO in the Rangers was the ADA's brother. She often wondered how I turned out and was glad she decided to release me."

"So, what your father said at the end doesn't bother you anymore?"

Ranger sighed. "There are times it still gets me annoyed, but then, I remember that he is gone, and there's nothing I can do. I come to terms with it and strive to be even more successful just to prove him wrong. But it took me about two years to get to that point."

"I'm worried about the next few days. I feel like something is going to happen."

"What do you mean?"

"It's just a feeling I get. I can't explain it, a sense of foreboding. While the wake will be semi-private, the funeral will be open. As much as we try, keeping people out of Arlington will be almost impossible."

"You're right. That's a major concern I have. Stephanie, would you oppose wearing a bullet-proof vest to the funeral?"

Stephanie was glad she wasn't drinking anything because she would have spit it over Ranger. "I…I guess not. You think I need one?"

"I think it would be wise for you to wear one. It will be difficult to get past security unless the threat comes from an agent. They will all be armed."

Stephanie bit her lower lip and closed her eyes. "I'll wear one, but I'm unsure if I have something I can wear over it."

"A button-down blouse with a jacket would work best. I have some new lightweight and thin vests. If it's cool out, like they're predicting, you can wear a jacket that will hide it."

"Alright. I trust you," Stephanie said, yawning. "I hope I didn't hurt you."

Ranger smiled. "Babe, I don't mean this offensively, but you hit like a girl. I regularly spar with Tank, Bobby, and Lester simultaneously. I win ninety-nine percent of the time."

"Wait, three on one, and you win?"

"Yes. You didn't hurt me, but you have good form and can fight off most people with a little training."

"You think so?"

"Absolutely."

After another yawn, Stephanie said, "I better go to sleep. Tomorrow will be a long day."

"I'll be in the other room if you need me."

"Carlos?"

"Yeah?"

"Lay with me, please?"

Ranger knew he should say no, but Carlos said to go fuck off. "Sure, let me just change." Ranger went to his area and changed into his boxers and a different tank top. He went back into Stephanie's room and again went under the covers. Stephanie's head went on his shoulder, and they were soon asleep.

"Joseph, why aren't you by Stephanie's side? Her mother died; you should be there, helping her grieve and seeing if she needs help with any arrangements."

"Ma, I told you, I'm not allowed at the White House. Frank is freezing me out. I have no idea what happened."

Mrs. Morelli took a deep breath. She had a good idea of what had happened. Joseph was not that much unlike his old man. He liked women a little too much. "Joseph, were you playing your games again?"

"No, Ma, why do you always think I did something wrong?"

"Because you usually do. Have you tried calling Stephanie?"

"Yes, but my number is blocked. I don't understand."

"I understand fully. Stephanie is done with you, and frankly, I understand why. You never learn. You never listen. When you were caught the first time, I told you to stop playing games or leave her alone. No woman deserves to be disrespected like that. I thought I raised you better, but I clearly didn't. I don't know why you aren't more like your brother. He's married with four children. He's a great family man and an upstanding citizen. You, you're too like your father."

Morelli was getting annoyed. Why did his mother always take her side? "Thanks for your support."

"Joseph, I have always supported you. I have always encouraged you, but you constantly do things to undermine yourself. If you lose your job, I cannot help you. If you get fired from the Secret Service, where will you work? You better make sure you toe the line."

"What time will you be here tomorrow?"

"The train arrives at 10:30. Will you be picking me up?"

"I plan to. I must clear it with my supervisor first."

"Okay, let me know if you can't. If not, I'll take an Uber. Good night, Joseph."

"Night, Ma."

Morelli hung up the phone. Could he be on the verge of being fired? No, there's no way Frank would fire him. They were practically family. But, then again, he was demoted. Shit, Morelli, get a grip. I just need to talk to Cupcake. She'll smooth things over with Frank. I'm sure she'll return to me within the next week; now that Ellen is gone, she'll want to honor her by marrying me.

The question Morelli had was how was he going to talk to her. Tomorrow, he'll be at the wake as a member of the Senator's detail. He was informed that he was on the perimeter. He will have a chance to visit the wake in the evening with his mother and grandmother. Maybe he could talk to Stephanie then. With the thoughts of how he would get back in Stephanie's good grace on his mind, he fell into a fitful sleep.

What is that constant beeping? Ranger thought as he was in the phase between sleep and consciousness. Soon, it dawned on him that it was his watch. He tried to turn it off but again found himself trapped by a curly-haired brunette. Fuck, now something else is waking up. Ranger tried to maneuver Stephanie off him and, to his surprise, managed to do so. Once untangled, he went into the bathroom to take a quick shower.

Stephanie woke up, and it took her a few minutes to realize Ranger wasn't in bed with her. I guess he's already up and dressed. She felt the call of nature and stumbled out of bed, heading towards her bathroom, still foggy from sleep. She went into the bathroom and froze at the sight before her.

When Stephanie walked in, Ranger had just opened the shower doors facing the entrance, reaching for a towel. With nothing but his birthday suit, he froze momentarily. Way to be aware of your surroundings, Manoso. If she were an assassin, you would have gotten yourself killed with nothing but your dick in your hand.

Stephanie's eyes took in Ranger's exquisite body, the muscles on top of muscles. Does he have an eight-pack? I didn't think that was possible! She pondered as her eyes continued roaming Ranger's body and locked in on his manhood, which was impressive, even limp. It was bigger than Morelli's. Well, there's no way I'll be able to give him a decent blow job. Wait, where did that come from?

After a moment, Ranger remembered where he was and who was standing before him. He quickly grabbed the towel and wrapped it around his waist. He was not modest or uncomfortable being nude, but standing here with Stephanie felt intimate.

His movement broke Stephanie out of her trance, and she immediately covered her eyes with her hands and turned around. "Oh my god, I'm so sorry. I didn't think to knock. I didn't see anything," she added at the end.

"It's okay. I should have locked the door. You don't need to be embarrassed; I'm not."

"I wouldn't be embarrassed if I had a body like yours."

"Your body is fine the way it is, Stephanie," Ranger said sincerely. She's worn leggings and fitted t-shirts around him. She had curves in all the right places. She was feminine, and Ranger loved that in women.

Ranger stood before her and gently moved her hands away from her eyes. "Look at me, Babe."

Stephanie looked at Ranger's face, a little flush. Ranger was going to say something, but how she looked at him made him momentarily speechless. Instead, he did the only thing any reasonable man would do: he leaned forward and gently kissed Stephanie.

Stephanie pulled back at first, surprised by his kiss, but soon was kissing him back. His tongue ran along her lips, and she parted them, allowing him entrance. The kiss was slow and full of passion. Stephanie had never experienced a kiss like that before. However, before things could get too heated, she broke off.

"Wait, we can't; we shouldn't,"

"I'm sorry, let me go get dressed. The bathroom is yours," Ranger said. Even though they both knew that the kiss was not appropriate, neither one of them went to move away. Their brains were at war with their bodies, humming for the kiss to continue and maybe lead to something more. Instead of moving away from Ranger, Stephanie went up on her tiptoes, pulled his head toward her, and kissed him again.

All thoughts of anything other than sensual pleasure left their minds as they enjoyed the feel of each other's bodies. Ranger lifted Stephanie, and she wrapped her legs around his waist. He turned, placing her on the bathroom counter, and kissed down her neck. His hands found the hem of her nightshirt and started to bring it up, pausing to see if Stephanie was okay, and when she nodded, Ranger removed it from her body. He spent a moment memorizing her body, trying to decide where to start, and went to her breasts, gently massaging and kissing her nipples, watching them pebble from the pleasure.

Stephanie's arousal was almost instantaneous. She never felt so turned on before. Every touch, every kiss, was pure ecstasy. She could only imagine what he could do with the rest of his body if he were that talented with his mouth. Soon, his kisses trailed down her abdomen as he gently spread her legs before licking her core. As much as Stephanie wanted to watch, she couldn't. Her head fell back, and she let out a moan of pleasure.

Ranger took one taste of Stephanie and needed more. Her scent pushed his arousal, and he felt himself getting so impossibly hard. Between her moans of pleasure and the gentle bucking of her hips, Ranger needed more of Stephanie. He stood up and kissed her, his cock close to her center.

"Do you have condoms?" he asked, needing to feel her wrapped around him.

"No, but I'm on the pill. It's okay," Stephanie said.

Ranger knew he should stop and go to his bag and get a condom, but he couldn't walk away from her. "Are you sure?"

"Yes, I'm sure."

Ranger studied her eyes and saw she wanted him as badly as he wanted her. He lined himself up, slowly pushing into her. He was bigger than most men, and knowing she was only with Morelli, he didn't want to hurt her.

It was a little painful for Stephanie at first, but soon, she could only relish how full she felt with Ranger inside her. She wrapped her legs around him, pulling him further in. Taking the hint, Ranger started to pump into her, gently at first but slowly building. Soon, Ranger knew he was close and saw Stephanie was too. With a gentle rub of her clit while Ranger pumped into her, he felt her body tremble as she orgasmed. Ranger waited until he felt she was done, then pulled out and came on her abdomen.

"I'm sorry for making a mess on you. I didn't feel comfortable without a condom."

"No, it's okay. I have to shower anyway," Stephanie said. "That was amazing."

"It was. I'm sorry I didn't bring you to the bed. You don't deserve to be fucked on a bathroom counter."

"Believe it or not, that made it so much more."

With a final kiss, Ranger helped Stephanie off the counter. "You better clean up. You're expected for breakfast in an hour.

"Shit, I'll never be ready."

Stephanie walked to the shower and turned it on. As she stepped in, she turned to Ranger, "Want to join me?"

"You have no idea. But if you want to make breakfast, you better shower solo. I'll take another one after you."

Lester glanced at his phone. Should I call Ranger? It's not like him to oversleep. Lester thought. It was almost seven, and he hadn't heard from the boss yet. It was very un-Ranger-like. Just when he was ready to call, he got the text.

Will be eating breakfast with the family at the President's request. Push briefing to eleven hundred hours.

Lester took his phone and called Tank.

"What?"

"What's the matter? Did you step in Apple Pie's vomit again?"

"It's Apple Puff, and as a matter of fact, yes, I did."

Lester couldn't help but laugh. At least twice a week, Tank would step in vomit from one of his cats. When would he learn to wear slippers?

"Ranger heard of your predicament and moved the briefing to eleven hundred."

"He pushed it back? Why?"

"I don't know. Ranger said something about having breakfast with the family."

"Shit. Is it getting serious between them?"

"I don't know. Something is happening, but I don't think they acted on it. I haven't seen Ranger act like this since, hell, I can't remember when."

"Fuck. Ranger better not pull his 'my life is too complicated' bullshit. Stephanie knows what she's getting into. Her father was one of us."

"Look, I'll see what I can find out, but you know how Ranger is about us interfering in his private life."

"Yes, but now his private life and our professional lives are merged."

"Point taken. This has FUBAR written all over it," Lester said, shaking his head.

"I'll let the rest of the team know. Bobby and I will be there in about ninety minutes. We're taking the chopper."

"Okay. The SS knows you're coming. We'll see you then, brother."