Whirlwind (SAI Book 2)

by Lea Hart

  “And who are you?” he asked gently.

  “I’m so sorry. How rude. My mama is probably rolling her eyes all the way from Dripping Springs, I’ve clearly forgotten the good manners she drilled into me. I’m Ivy Bellows, and I’m in operations with SAI.”

  “It’s nice to meet you, Ivy Bellows. You must be the woman who’s responsible for Sara’s recent conversion to shoe worship.” He let his eyes move slowly down her legs and admired the red sandals she wore. “Clearly, you have good taste.”

  Rotating her ankle, she nodded her head. “I do believe that the right pair of shoes has the power to change a girl’s attitude. Today mine is fierce and funny. The red fringe tells you everything you need to know about me.”

  He couldn’t help but lean forward, and when he did, he heard a loud voice calling her name. Looking over his shoulder, he saw an unfamiliar man approach them. The guy looked like he wanted to cause harm to one or both of them, so Sam straightened up and gave the asshole a hard glare.

  “Can I help you?” Sam barked out.

  “Don’t need any. I came to find Ivy because we were supposed to have a meeting fifteen minutes ago.”

  Ivy shoved her hands on her hips and sighed. “I swear, Ryan, you have the charm of an armadillo with a cracked back. I’ll be there in a minute.”

  Sam noticed the hot glare that Ryan was giving Ivy and knew at once that he was attracted to her. Too bad for him. Sam shoved his hand in front of the guy’s face and plastered a big fake smile on his face. “I’m Sam Barton, and I’m here with Sara.”

  “He’s a big, mean FBI agent, and he’s here to protect the nice women in this office. Unlike some people who shall go nameless, he has charm and gracious manners.”

  Sam let a satisfied smile play across his face. Now that’s what a man liked to hear from a woman he was interested in. “Ivy, I hope you plan on joining us for lunch after Sara is done with her interviews.”

  She let her hand fall on his chest as she blushed. “I wouldn’t miss it for the world.” Turning on her heel, she sauntered down the hall. “You comin’, Ryan, or do I have to wait all day?”

  Sam watched Ryan follow after her and laughed. Miami had suddenly gotten a lot more interesting.

  ***

  They took up two tables at the Miami institution. Versailles was a large, informal restaurant with great food, and their group was enjoying it. Sam watched Sara relax at the other end of the table and let a moment’s relief settle in his gut. Unfortunately, the easy part was behind them. The actual sit-down with the Outfit was where the rubber was going to meet the road.

  Before he could think about it further, he felt Ivy’s hand on his sleeve. What the hell was wrong with him? He was sitting next to a beautiful woman, and he wasn’t paying attention. “Ivy, is there anything I can get you?”

  “Oh, no, darlin’. I’m enjoying myself.”

  “How did you find yourself keeping company with these people?”

  “It’s a long and twisted tale, and it would take far too long for me to tell it. If you ever find yourself with a couple of extra hours, come find me, and I’ll share it with you.”

  That wasn’t an invitation that he felt like ignoring, so he slipped his phone out of his pocket. “Let me have your number, and when this mafia mess is finished, I’m going to ask you out on a date.”

  Her caramel-colored hair fell over her shoulder, and she lifted her hazel eyes to his. “I think I might enjoy that.”

  She recited her number, and he placed it in his contacts. When he glanced up, he noticed that Ryan was mean-mugging him from across the table. If the man was interested, then he should’ve done something about it. It seemed like they just bickered, and as far as he could tell, that never worked with a woman. Especially a woman as pretty as Ivy. “I look forward to spending some time with you.”

  “Tell me about this meeting that Sara has with the Outfit. She wants me to go shopping with her to pick out some clothes. I’m not sure what the appropriate look would be when meeting criminals. There was a badass look mentioned, and I’m not sure how to translate that.”

  Sam shook his head and studied Sara. “It doesn’t much matter what she wears, but it might be a good idea to stay away from dresses with flowers on them. She seems to favor them, and when she’s not wearing that, she’s in shorts and T-shirts.”

  “I have a couple of ideas. Don’t you worry. We are going to get her something that screams mafia chic.”

  “I didn’t realize that was a thing.”

  “Everything can be a thing. It just depends on what kind of attitude you have. My mama taught me that when I was trying to bring back an eighties look when I was in middle school. I can’t remember why I was so obsessed with the idea, but I was. Mama said if the look was going to work, then I needed to show that I believed in myself and my outfit. I guess it worked, because I swear, there was a group of girls who copied my look the next week.”

  Sam looked down at the ball of fun sitting next to him and let out a laugh. “Sara is in good hands, then. As far as I can tell, dressing up has never been on the top of her priority list.”

  “Running for your life will definitely make you reconsider what’s important. I think she’s a terrific girl. Fearless, funny, and kind. No wonder Grady fell in love with her.”

  Sam studied Sara and Grady and nodded. They really were in sync. He could tell that from a couple of feet away. The way they mirrored one another’s gestures made him realize that they were perfect for one another. “We just have to get through the meeting and strike a deal with Solly D, and she’ll be free to return to her life. It’s been a long time coming, and I hope like hell this thing ends.”

  “Me, too,” Ivy replied.

  The waiters started bringing food, and soon their table was groaning under the weight of it. Smiling, Sammy glanced at Sara and watched her blow him a kiss and say thank you. He did the same. This was a story that needed a happy ending, and he was going to do everything he could to make it happen.

  CHAPTER TWENTY-FIVE

  Friday

  The rain wasn’t letting up as they drove over to the airfield where the SAI plane was kept. Looking out the window, Sara didn’t see a break in the clouds. “Can we fly in this?”

  “Sure, honey. Dane is a great pilot, and the storm is no big deal. As long as no one is launching mortars at us, we should be fine. Even if they do, Dane is pretty good at evading them.”

  “I’m not sure if I should be relieved or horrified.”

  “We’re in good hands, and I can fly the plane if I have to. I’m much better with the chopper, though.”

  “Good to know. It’s been a weird week, seeing my face all over the news. I went from complete anonymity to people stopping me at the market. I hope it’s worth it and gives Solly D second thoughts about me.”

  “The good news is that no one can really find you unless they follow us back to the house, and that hasn’t happened. Nor will it. Living under an alias may prove to be your saving grace while the media storm is happening.”

  They pulled into the Kendall-Tamiami Airport and drove over to the hangar. “My agent sent me an email and let me know that the publisher is printing more books. Apparently, Ms. Mittens is flying off the shelf. I spoke with my friend Alicia the other day, and she was really excited.”

  “Is she the writer for the series?”

  “Yes, we were in school together and became good friends. When I finally called her the other day, she cried. I think she and her husband may come out for a visit in the next couple of months. We talked about doing one more book together.”

  “The world could use more Ms. Mittens books,” Grady said, and he parked the truck in front of the hangar. He climbed out and waved to Dane.

  When he opened the door, Sara noticed how focused he was. The next twelve hours were carefully planned out, and Sara knew that Grady considered her safety his responsibility. After this was all done, she was going to show him how much she appreciated it. “Maybe w
e’ll have time to get some famous deep-dish pizza while we’re there.”

  Grady held his arms open and helped her out of the truck. “I think we should get it to go. I don’t plan on spending any more time in Chicago than absolutely necessary.”

  “Okay. This is your op, and I’m following directions.”

  Looping his arm around her shoulders, he grinned. “Like last night?”

  Looking around, Sara made sure no one could hear what Grady was saying. “Don’t talk about it.”

  “I didn’t say anything specific. I just want you to know that I’m enjoying this new shoe fetish you’ve got going. I really like how you wear them with nothing else. I think the pair you had on last night was my favorite.”

  Laughing, she patted his chest. “Wait till you see what I’m wearing today. I think Ivy and I came up with a perfect outfit for the meeting. We’re calling it mafia princess chic.”

  “Unfortunately, I’m not going to be able to enjoy it. My focus will be on your safety and not your fashion. But you can show me the shoes tonight when we get home, and I’ll be sure to appreciate them.”

  “Sweet Lord, Ivy has led me down a dark road. I had no idea how many beautiful shoes were out there waiting for me. I’m going to have to illustrate several books a year to keep up with my habit.”

  “You just let me know what you need. I’m happy to fund this new passion of yours.”

  Dane walked out of the hangar and looked at them both. “What are you going to fund?”

  “Sara’s new shoe habit,” Grady replied.

  “I have to say, the office has gotten a lot more interesting since Ivy arrived. Between her and TT, there isn’t a dull moment. Kyle and Ryan are making idiots out of themselves, and it’s damn entertaining.”

  “Let me grab my stuff out of the car,” Sara said as she turned around.

  “I got it, honey. I have to grab my go bag, so wait for me inside with Dane where it’s dry.”

  “Yes, sir.” She winked and followed Dane into the hangar.

  “I don’t want to know what that was all about,” Dane said as they walked. “But the smile on your face says that you’re torturing my good friend, and I want you to know that I approve.”

  “I’m just teasing him because I want to lighten the mood.”

  “This isn’t a difficult op, but Grady can’t stand the idea of you being in danger, so he’s double-checking everything. This time tomorrow, you’ll be in the pool in your donut float with a big, relaxed smile on your face.”

  “Grady got me a unicorn float. It’s amazing, and I’ve spent way too much time in it lately.”

  “Too much time in what?” Grady asked as he handed Dane a bag.

  “The pool. It seems that’s all I’ve done all summer. Soon it will be time to get back to work.”

  “Today marks the beginning of your new life. After we’re done with Solly D, you’re going to be free to do what you want,” Dane said.

  “I hope to God you’re right,” Sara mumbled, as she followed the men toward the plane. This was a huge risk, but there wasn’t another option. Hiding and hoping weren’t things she was willing to do anymore.

  ***

  Grady disembarked the plane and greeted Hank from the Chicago SAI office. “Should be fun today.”

  Hank shook his head and laughed. “I didn’t think this is what I would end up doing when I left the Teams. Can’t say that I’m disappointed, though.”

  “Thanks for showing up and helping us out.” They stood outside the hangar where Hank kept the company plane and helo, and Grady admired the layout. “I like what you guys have done here. Sara and I were in San Diego last month. I got to see how Max set up his, and it gives me good ideas for expanding ours.”

  Sara walked down the stairs with Dane, and Hank whistled under his breath. “It all makes sense now. I see why we’re spending our day with Solly D and Louie Tomatoes.”

  “Careful, man. You’re talking about the mother of my children.”

  “Does she know about that yet?” Hank laughed.

  “Working on it,” Grady replied.

  Sara walked over and greeted Hank with a big smile. “Thank you so much for helping out today. I appreciate it so much.”

  Dane and Hank greeted one another with a bro hug and then stepped aside. “No problem. Ed and Lucky are on their way over, and Sam confirmed that he’ll be here with an associate in about thirty minutes. Let’s go over to the office and finalize our plans.” Hank led the group to the back of the hangar and into a spacious office area. “Help yourself to drinks. The fridge should be full.”

  The sound of car doors banging shut could be heard, and Grady turned to see who was coming. Waving, he saw Ed as well as Lucky. “Hey, guys.”

  Grady introduced Sara to everyone, and then they got down to work. They had about three hours before the meet was scheduled. The restaurant was in Franklin Park, and it shouldn’t take them more than forty minutes to get there.

  Lucky handed Sara back the locket that Sal had given her. “I didn’t come up with anything. If there’s information imbedded there, then I wish someone luck in finding it.”

  “Thank you, Lucky.” Sara flipped it over in her hand and shook her head. “I’m giving it to Solly D as a good faith gesture. The fact that it has no value isn’t important.”

  Hank flattened a map on the table and circled where they were going. “I’m taking it back to the stone ages here with a paper map, but I’m old-fashioned, and I still like them.”

  Lucky’s visceral reaction was funny. A shudder was visible, and she leaned away from the map. “It hurts my eyes to look at it.”

  “You’ll come looking for me if the grid goes down.” Hank laughed. “Old-fashioned mapping and tracking skills never become obsolete.”

  Sara nodded and patted Hank’s hand. “I couldn’t agree more. I paint on paper for a living. Imagine how obsolete I’m going to be in a couple of years. I’ll soon be replaced by a computer.”

  “Never, honey,” Grady said as he looped his arm around Sara. “It takes heart and talent to create your drawings.”

  Dane looked at Hank and Ed and shrugged. “Don’t say anything, because it won’t make a difference. This is what I have to live with now.”

  The sound of a car approaching interrupted the meeting, and Hank stepped out to see who was coming. “The Feds have arrived.”

  Sammy strode in with another agent. “Let’s get this party started. Bob and I are ready, willing, and able.”

  Lucky leaned over and whispered to Sara. “When did they let models into the FBI?”

  “I know; his looks are over the top. I’ve learned to see past it and treat him like the annoying pest that he is.”

  “I heard that, Sara.” Slowly shaking his head, Sam put his hand on her shoulder. “There used to be a time when you needed me. Where has all the love gone?”

  “It’s there, just buried under all the mean comments you’ve made about my hair.”

  Lucky stared at Sara and shrugged. “You have pretty hair. Why would he insult you?”

  “The woman who stands before you is a result of hours and hours of effort and beauty products,” Sammy said. “Don’t be fooled.”

  “It’s true.” Sara sighed. “I’ll probably never be able to replicate this again unless I have a team of professionals helping me out.”

  Grady whistled, and everyone turned around. “Enough. We need to finalize the op and get our coms linked. This is serious shit, and I want everyone giving it their best.” Scrubbing his hand down his face, he then stared at the group. “Also, my girlfriend is beautiful, and she doesn’t need to do anything. She’s perfect when she wakes up in the morning.”

  Sara stepped over and hugged him hard. “Thanks, honey. Sometimes it’s easier to talk about silly things when the big thing is too scary. Sammy was just trying to distract me.”

  He ran his thumb over her cheek and then kissed her firmly. “I’m not going to relax until this thing is done and we h
ave an agreement from the Outfit.”

  “Let’s get to work and run through what we’re going to do,” Hank called out to everyone.

  He opened a locker and pulled out his kit. “Lucky will be running coms as well as monitoring the sat images that come in. Sam and Bob are going to keep us informed if any of their taps pick up chatter about moving in on the meeting site. Sammy and I agreed that he and Bob are going to stay out of sight. They will be parked about two miles down from the restaurant. We don’t want to give anyone the idea that this is a sting.”

  Sammy shot his shirt cuffs and then studied the group. “I’ve met Solly D, Louie Tomatoes, and John Pudgy Matassa, so they don’t need to become distrustful by seeing my face. When I asked for the meeting, I told them I would not be attending.”

  Ed leaned forward and studied the map. “Lucky and I are going to be parked in the lot of the La Villa Bakery. It will give us a clear view of the parking lot and the door that is most used by the family.” He grabbed a pencil and circled both spots. “I’ll be ready to support an evac if necessary. There is no decent overwatch position because most of the businesses surrounding the restaurant are owned by someone connected to the Outfit.”

  Hank checked his watch and then glanced at Dane. “I figured you would want to go in with Grady, so I planned on standing at the entrance. That way we have coverage on all exits. Lucky and Ed will have the rear exits covered, and I’ll handle the front. Sam and Bob will be down the road, so they’ll act as backup if we need it.”

  Grady studied the map and then nodded. “Solid plan, Hank.”

  “Thanks, man.” He rapped his knuckles on the table and nodded. “Let’s get suited up and check our gear.”

  “Is there someplace that I can change, or should I just do it in the plane?” Sara asked.

  “We have a bathroom in the back, but it’s small. The plane may work better for you,” Hank said.

  Grady took Sara’s arm and led her out. “I’ll open the hatch for you and then wait for you to get changed.”