Protecting Ellis (Loved by the SEAL #1)

Chapter 14

CHAPTER FOURTEEN

Ellis’s hands shook as she stood in the bathroom, staring at her reflection. Would Trip’s friends like her? Would they think her lazy because she hadn’t cooked, and the place wasn’t spotless? As she left the bathroom, the urge to vacuum and dust hit, but Trip was making her rest. A part of her thought she should make them cookies, but Trip nixed that suggestion.

At noon, a knock sounded on the door, and her stomach tightened. She hoped they liked her. The guys filed in, giving Trip fist bumps or hugs. They moved into the apartment and shook her hand. They were gentle, their gazes respectful, but searching her face, probably taking in the fading bruises. Ellis wasn’t sure what she expected, but the guys were very nice.

“I’m Zip,” a tall guy with a beard said. “I’m glad you’re recovering. When Trip told us about what happened, we all were upset.”

“Yeah, very upset. I’m Q. Just the letter Q. I’ve known Trip for a while. He’s like a brother to me, so that means you’re like a sister. We protect our own.”

Q wasn’t as tall as Zip, and he had less facial hair. Based on the look in his brown eyes, she could tell it wasn’t just talk. He would protect her.

“I’m Rider. I’m sorry you went through that. Are you feeling okay now?” Rider was about Trip’s size but a little heavier. It was probably mostly muscle. He looked a little more country, like he would fit in very well in the rural areas of Georgia.

“I’m Hop. Been friends with Trip for years. He’s a good guy. I’m glad you’re with him.”

“And I’m Bud. Trip said you were planning on moving your studio. We can help.”

“Wow, thank you all. I’m surprised you all wanted to check on me and that you’re willing to help move my studio.”

“Of course. You’re with Trip. That means you’re family,” Rider said.

She wasn’t sure what their definition of family was. She didn’t have the best track record, but she felt like these guys would show her how real families operated. “It’s a lot for me to take in.”

Bud chuckled. “Well, get used to it. You not only have us, we’re friends with other guys and teams. Then, there are a few retired SEALs who are still around. We help each other out when in need. I think you’ll be safe from here on out.”

“Thank you.”

The guys got everything ready in the kitchen and handed out slices of pizza. They joked with Trip and included her in the conversation, explaining the jargon they were using, and making her feel like she was part of their group. When it was time for them to leave, they cleaned up the kitchen and took the trash out for them. It was amazing.

Trip walked the guys out, then came in and sat on the couch next to her. “Was that okay?”

She nodded. “Yes. They are all so nice.”

“They are when they’re in situations like this. They also are warriors and won’t hesitate to take out the enemy, which includes the people hurting you. If we find out it was Bennet who attacked you, he might not have a happy time of it.”

“They wouldn’t kill him, would they?”

Trip shook his head. “No, but Bennet might wish they had.”

“They won’t do anything to get in trouble, would they?”

Laughter spilled from Trip. “If Bennet did this, no one would have any idea who brought the guy down. We’re good at what we do.”

She nodded, worried about what would happen. “I trust you.”

“Good, because I will work to make sure you’re safe.”

She fought the building yawn, but it won. Trip stood and picked her up. “Hey, what are you doing?”

“Meeting my buddies was tiring. You should get some sleep.”

She tried to waggle her eyebrows, but it may have looked ridiculous. “We could fool around.”

Trip shook his head. “You’re tired. We can mess around next weekend after you’ve had more time to heal.”

She laughed, and he squeezed her tighter. Being with Trip was perfect for her. She was falling for him, and she hoped that was okay with him. Maybe they were moving way too fast, but she knew what she wanted.