Withstanding the Enemy

Fifteen Chance

Chance…

I walk in the direction of Rick’s office to discuss his last email and to give him my list for temporary accommodations. I mentally prepare myself to run into Emma. Keep her at arms distance; think of her as a sister. Don’t compromise the mission… Yeah, right.

I bring my hand up to knock on the office door, just as a woman's giggle seeps through, stopping me from knocking.

I look around to see if anyone is around and drop my hand. No one! I push my ear closer to the door to hear. No mistaking Rick’s muffled voice resonating threw the thick wood.

Then, a loud shuffle sounds and my hand flies to the doorknob as anxiety boils up. I will f*****g kill him if he is hurting her! Just before I turn the knob, a moan echoes—Emma’s moan—I instantly recognize it. I let go of the knob. f**k, what is she doing…?

My temper burns white hot as my vision blurs. I want to throw my fist through the door as pain pierces my heart. Are you f*****g kidding me…?

She’s not yours, Chance… My heart squeezes tighter draining blood out with every beat—slowly killing me with the thought of Rick’s hands all over her body.

The sounds of footsteps bounce off the hallway walls and I quickly control myself. Turning, I see Brutus rounding the corner with two other men dressed in solid black. I walk in their direction.

“Mr. Fletcher, I’m surprised to see you. I didn’t know Master was expecting you, too.”

“I was hoping to find you. I have that list for you.” I lie and hand it to him.

“Thank you. I will have it for you right away,” he says as he takes the list and shoves it into his uniform jacket. “Is there anything else I can do for you?”

“No, I was just looking for you,” I say tipping my head to signal my departure. I add, “Thanks.”

“Very well, good day.” He turns in the direction of the office.

“Hey, Brutus, I didn't see Rick and Emma anywhere. Do you know where they may be?” I ask quickly, unable to stop my roaring need to confirm my suspicions.

“Yes, last I know, they are in the office. They should be going over plans for the library. Did you need them? We are headed that way.”

“No, it can wait till tomorrow. Thanks,” I say as my nails bite into my palms turning my knuckles white.

The f**k they were going over plans…