Page 108 of In Case You Didn't Know

HUDSON:

I swear if she’s sleeping in a hammock above a ravine again?—

EDEN:

Chill. I’m alive. Just busy saving the planet and occasionally stealing Wi-Fi. Miss you weirdos.

A smile curves at my lips and I shove my phone into my pocket just as the helicopter comes into land, climbing out of the backseat to greet the woman who’s always the best part of my day.

FRANCIE

Asher and his car are waiting for me on the ground when the helicopter lands on Pier 6 in New York. It’s not my first time on a helicopter, but it’s also not my preferred method of travel. So by the time I climb out my legs are feeling a little wobbly.

He strides forward, looking almost impatient, as I pull out his glasses.

“There you go,” I say chirpily, putting them in his hand. “I’ll see you later.” I turn around like I’m about to throw myself back into the death trap, but before I can move his warm hands curl around my hips, pulling me toward him.

I’m wearing a short red dress. Because Mr. Control Freak sent me instructions every hour or so throughout the afternoon.

It’s getting chilly in New York. Remember to pack a jacket.

We’re going to head straight to dinner when I pick you up. The dress code is business casual.

But don’t wear heels in the helicopter. If there’s an emergency tennis shoes would be better.

And, my very favorite of all, because it perfectly highlights his demanding ways.

Make sure you listen to the safety instructions. Helicopters can be dangerous.

“You’re not going anywhere,” he murmurs in my ear.

“Well, unless you want me to walk around naked, I’ll need my suitcase,” I point out.

Asher looks over my shoulder, his brows furrowing as the pilot rolls my suitcase across the blacktop. It’s not quite big enough to fit a body in it, but it’s close.

“Are you planning on moving in with me?” he asks, reaching out to take the case from the pilot. They shake hands and weturn, walking to the black town car that takes Asher everywhere when he’s in Manhattan. “Not that I’d mind,” he adds.

That makes my chest feel tight.

“Not unless you want me to move the entire Salinger clan in,” I say lightly. “I’m going to see my brothers, remember? For D-day. I thought I’d head straight to Virginia from here.”

Something flickers in his eyes, but he doesn’t say anything. Just loads my luggage into the trunk like it’s nothing, ignoring his driver’s protests.

Then he opens the car door for me, sliding in next to me as the driver starts the engine.

As we pull out of the lot, I glance over at him. He’s still wearing his suit, but he’s lost his tie. And he looks tired.

“How was your day?” I ask him.

“Long.” He sighs.

I nod, hating how exhausted he looks. “Any more news on the breach?”

He winces, like I’ve asked the wrong question. Then he drops his head back against the leather seat. “Can we talk about literally anything else?” he asks. He doesn’t sound annoyed, just weary. “I’ve spent the whole day swimming in paranoia. Right now I want to lose myself in you.”

I slide my hand into his and squeeze it. “Want me to distract you?” I ask him.

He glances at the driver. The screen is down.