The Idaho militia would use the PZ’s revenge as an example for their own purposes. See what happens if you get in our way? Can you guard your family against us?

“Yeah, let’s do it,” Conrad shouted.

Nabera gave his lieutenant an approving smile. “We’ll teach those bastards a lesson.”

And Rescue would hear their women scream.

Hours later, Kit and Hawk climbed the stairs to her apartment. His hand was warm in hers, the skin callused, the strength obvious. She smiled up at him. “What a perfect day.”

“Yeah.” Wrapping an arm around her, he bent to nibble on her neck. “Thanks for the cake.”

Her heart softened with tenderness. Caz had mentioned that Hawk’s favorite dessert was chocolate cake, so she’d made one. And, obviously, Hawk had known she made it for him.

After a long, sweet kiss, they continued up the stairs.

The evening had been wonderful, although pizza and cake for supper might get her banned from the good parenting list.

Everyone had been starving, especially the children, and the food disappeared like magic.

Clean-up afterward got jump-started when Caz started picking up plates and singing, “Heigh ho, Heigh ho”.

The children laughed, and the table was cleared in no time.

In the kitchen, Gabe led off with Alabama’s “Forty Hour Week”, and Niko joined in. Apparently, the song was a favorite of his father, Chevy.

After that, Frankie had winked at Kit and belted out Dolly Parton’s “9 to 5”—a totally female tune. Wasn’t it fun that the guys had actually been at a loss? Of course, Frankie knew the lyrics…and hip-bumped Bull when singing about that her boss being out to get her.

Bull’s big laugh had filled the kitchen, sending the children into uncontrollable giggles.

Yes, it had been a wonderful day.

At the top of the stairs, Hawk opened the door for Kit.

Crossing into the bedroom, she glanced at Aric’s divided-off corner. “I feel as if I’ve abandoned my baby.”

When Aric had begged to join the big kids for their overnight, Regan and her friends thought it was a great idea. Niko insisted he needed another boy to make even numbers.

Hadn’t Aric gotten puffed up with that?

“Relax, mama.” Hawk ran his knuckles over her cheek. “JJ’ll call if Aric needs a pick-up.”

“I know.” And the slumber party was just next door.

She should enjoy her time with Hawk—their own “overnight”. Something they hadn’t had since the helicopter trip.

In the bathroom, Kit brushed her teeth and stared in the mirror, trying to decide what to wear. And laughed at herself.

She’d just wear her usual and not make a big deal about it. Stripping down, she smiled and patted her breasts. “Ready, my pretties?”

“Did you say something?” Hawk asked.