Page 30 of Daddy’s Pursuit (The Daddy Guard #1)
Chapter Thirty
Jack looked up from the map that was spread out on the hood of his SUV and took a moment to make eye contact with everyone who was gathered there.
Trevon. Matteo. Ace. Isaiah. Kendrick. Ryan. Jordan.
Seven men who were willing to go into battle with him. Seven brothers. Seven who would risk their lives for precious Iris.
“If anyone wants to back out, I won’t judge you,” he said.
Everyone just gave him a hard, determined stare.
Night had fallen. The sounds of the ocean and far-away liners coming into port filled the darkness, along with the squawking of seagulls. A long, low wail of a boat’s horn temporarily cut off any further conversation.
Once it was over, Jack said, “Just to reiterate, we’re going in unsanctioned.
Sure, a crime has been committed. And yes, we technically have jurisdiction.
But I’m just too worried Frank has men in the department, as much as I hate to admit that.
I can’t risk word getting back to him. He thinks we’re dropping this thing for twenty-four hours. ”
Trevon’s deep voice asked, “What’s so special about twenty-four hours?”
Jack looked at him. “My guess is Frank has a big deal going through tomorrow. After that, he’s splitting town.
He just happened to stumble upon Iris tonight and he saw an opportunity, so he grabbed her.
” He cleared his throat. “But there’s no way he’s going to leave her alive after all this is over.
She could testify against him. That’s why we have to act now. ”
His blood felt like ice water as it coursed through his veins. The thought of anything happening to his babygirl was enough to nearly send him over the edge.
“And we’re sure this warehouse is the spot?” Jordan asked.
“Nope. But it makes the most sense to me,” Jack said, smiling for the first time that night.
“Some old-fashioned detective work came in handy. Turns out, that house was the missing link we needed. At least, I think it was. Did some property searches. The place is owned by a trust. I called my contact in the California Secretary of State’s office, and after promising to get her front row Dodgers tickets, she looked up what else that shell corporation owns.
This warehouse came up, along with several other properties. ”
Matteo nodded. “That’s right. But a quick Google streetview made it obvious those properties wouldn’t work for holding someone. Most of them are houses. Too many neighbors around.”
“Not to mention they’re small,” Jack added. “I’m guessing Frank has lots of men on Iris. The five who took her from the house and a few more.” His expression was grave as he added, “He’ll be careful here. There’s a lot riding on this.”
Isaiah nodded. “Probably millions of dollars. I’m curious who his buyer is. He’s sold weapons to a few petty criminals and some gangs, like the guys that stole those diamonds downtown. But it feels like he’s got something bigger in the works here. Gotta be a heavy hitter.”
“With any luck,” Jack told the group, “we can catch them, too. But my first priority is getting my babygirl back safely.”
“You know any one of us would trade our life for hers,” Ryan chimed in.
Everyone voiced their agreement.
“I know. And I’m in debt to you men.” Jack’s gaze settled on Trevon. “You sure you want in on this? I know you care about her. But I can’t ask you to risk your life. You aren’t a cop and?—”
“I’m doing this.”
Jack wasn’t about to argue with the man. Only a fool would. So, instead, he just extended his hand.
Trevon shook it.
The grip nearly doubled Jack over, but he did his best not to wince, or else he’d never live it down among the guys.
“Don’t forget me.”
Everyone looked to see the words’ source. The clacking of shoes against the pavement was heard before Athena stepped out of the shadows.
“What are you doing here?” Jack asked loudly, not bothering to hide the disapproval in his tone.
“Trevon filled me in. That Little girl is mine, too. I love her. She’ll need her Auntie when you rescue her.” She shook her head, looking sad as she said, “And I spoke with Macy and Elena. Iris was trying to earn money to pay me back! Oh, that just hurts my heart. So, like it or not, I’m in this.”
Jack and some of the other men started to speak, but Athena held up her hands to curtail their protests.
“Relax. I’ll stay in my vehicle where it’s nice and safe. But I’ll be waiting when you bring her out. I have her stuffie and a few other things she might want. It’ll calm her down.”
Jack didn’t like it one bit. And based on the others’ looks, they didn’t like it, either. But he knew better than to argue with Athena, just like he knew better than to say anything to Trevon.
She was one headstrong woman who didn’t accept being told no . While it could be frustrating, Jack respected that quality.
“Okay, then let’s go over the plan and get to it. Every second we’re out here is more of a chance for my babygirl to be hurt.” He started pointing to the map, explaining who should take which route once they began their assault. Once they were all clear on their roles, he said, “Ready?”
“Ready!” everyone replied.
It was time to get Little Iris back.