Paul opens the door for him to hop in the Escalade.
Savannah is in the back, and he makes his way directly toward her, purposely ignoring his two grinning aunts until he is beside her.
“Ladies, you look lovely this evening.”
“Same to you, Logan.” June winks.
His grin widens as he takes in Savannah’s appearance. A long, white fur coat is wrapped around her small frame. Sparkly earrings peek through her curled hair, and that heavenly apple smell is lingering around her. “You look lovely, Ms. Miller.”
“Why, thank you.” She smiles, her eyes dancing. “You look quite handsome yourself.”
“It’s the tie,” he grunts, tugging it away from his neck.
They drive in a convoy of four—two Escalades and two spotter cars. He doesn’t like driving the mountain roads at night. There are too many high areas where a sniper could wait. Cole doesn’t realize Savannah is picking up on his vibe until he sees her face. Reaching for her hand, he threads his fingers through hers, figuring since they’re in the back, no one will notice. June is keeping the conversation going with Paul and Mark up front. She squeezes it, but he can see she’s anxious. He points with his free hand.
“See over there, those lights—that’s the city. Not much further.”
“You’re nervous,” she whispers.
“Not nervous, just alert.” He leans in until his lips brush over the shell of her ear. He breathes in her scent as her grip tightens. “I like having you tucked away on my mountain where I know you’re safe.”
She still seems worried, but before he can ask, his phone begins to vibrate.
“Logan.”
“It’s Keith. We’re at the restaurant and in position. Place looks busy, but Zack is ready for us. Your parents are here, along with a few of their friends.”
He glances at his watch. “Copy that, six minutes out.” He snaps it shut and gives Paul a nod to let him know everything is a go.
“Savi, what do you say if someone you don’t know approaches you?” Mark asks from the front seat.
“That my name is Nicole and I’m here with family on a ski vacation.”
“Perfect. And if you feel uncomfortable or nervous in a situation tonight, what’s your safe word for us to step in?”
“Blackstone.”
Cole looks down at her and hears Mark turn around too.
“Okay, Blackstone.” Mark glances at him, puzzled.
Cole hops out the side door, scanning the parking lot first then helping everyone out. He keeps close to Savannah as they walk into the restaurant. His parents sit at a very long table with Will, a guy he grew up with—it is great to see him—and as they all exchange greetings, his mother nudges him as she meets Savannah. Good Lord, is everyone aware he has feelings for this woman? Or was Abigail just on the horn again?
He gasps as he helps Savannah take off her jacket; her black dress is so tight it’s like a second skin. The sleeves hit right above her elbows, the length a little lower than mid-thigh, and it has a deep V-neck. Scowling at Abigail, who is avoiding his stare, he realizes he’s still clutching her coat. He smoothly tries to wrap it back around her.
“You should keep this on. You’ll freeze.”
“I’m all right, thanks.” She waves a hand and takes her seat.
He grumbles as he hangs the coat on the rack. He sits next to her, watching the guys at the table take in her beauty—or her chest. York is gawking. He has to fight with himself to not wrap his arm around her chair and claim what’s his.
Drinks are served, and Cole’s father rises to deliver a familiar holiday toast to friends. After dinner arrives, everyone dives into various dishes and conversations.
“So, when are you guys heading back to TJ?” Kyle asks. He is one of Cole’s childhood friends who joined the Army the same time Cole did.
“Possibly next week.” He sighs, seeing Mark glance at Savannah. “But I—ah, I’m not sure if I’ll be attending that trip.” He wants to see who is listening to them.
“I’ve never known you to skip out on a chance to snap someone’s neck,” York comments, taking a bite of his turkey.