Page 104 of Duty Compromised

This was it. The moment our cover shattered, or the moment we played a card we couldn’t take back.

“Ben.” Lydia pressed her palm against my shoulder, then leaned up to brush her lips against my ear. “If you come after me, we’re both dead.”

I shuddered, my control hanging by a thread. The same thread that had snapped thirteen years ago when I’d beaten a man nearly to death. Only this time, I couldn’t protect her without destroying everything. The frustration burned through me like acid.

“Tick tock,” Briggs said, his eyes dropping to where Lydia stood behind me. “Freeman doesn’t like to wait. And he’s very... eager to get to know you better, Mrs. Harrison.”

I moved fast. My shirt was closer than hers, crumpled at our feet. I grabbed it and yanked it over her head before any of them could react.

“Harrison—“ Briggs started.

“She’s not going anywhere half-dressed.” My voice came out steel. I helped guide her arms through the sleeves, the fabric hanging loose and oversized on her frame. Still warm from my body.

Lydia untangled herself from me slowly, her hand trailing down my chest. I struggled not to grab her, not to keep her with me. She took one step toward the door. Then another.

Behind me, Jolly barked once, sharp and warning.

Then I heard it—the sound that made my blood run cold.

The distinct mechanical click of a hammer being pulled back on a pistol.

“Just in case anyone gets any ideas,” Briggs said softly. “Your husband stays here. You come with us. And if anyone does anything stupid...” He smiled. “Well, widows—minus their dogs—are always welcome in the Guard. Freeman has a special place for them.”

•••••