Chapter 7

Panic gripped her. Racing pulse, rapid heartbeat, and cold sweats overloaded her senses as Kerry fought to wake up. When she did, she didn’t know where she was. She couldn’t even remember going to bed. She panted as she tried to calm down.

A hand touched her shoulder, and she practically flew out of bed.

Backing up too fast, she hit the wall hard and slid down to the floor, landing in a shivering heap.

“It’s me,” said Leaper, switching on the light. He came over to sit beside her. “Bad dream?”

“Don’t know.” She was rocking. “Disoriented. So much…fear. I don’t know how, where the time went.” Her breathing was growing strained. She was on the verge of an anxiety attack. “You and me, coming here… How did that happen?”

“Kerry, slow down. Breathe with me and I’ll explain everything.” Leaper had her inhaling and exhaling on a four count until she could feel the terror lifting.

“Thanks,” she said softly. “I’m better.”

He nodded. “You texted me and asked me to come get you in the boat. You were asleep next to Juliet’s pen, the place where we had a dinner date. I picked you up, brought you here, and tucked you into bed.”

“Right. The text. I remember that.” Kerry looked down at her body. She was wearing a T-shirt and panties. She raised an eyebrow. “Did you undress me?”

He nodded, like a pup that was happy to see his owner. “The first thing you always do is take off your bra, and I didn’t want you to get cold, so I put my SEAL Team FIVE shirt on you, which you fill out better than I do.”

She rolled her eyes. “And I slept through the whole thing.”

“Like a babe. I was gentle and respectful.”

Kerry didn’t doubt that for a moment. “Sorry I got freaked out. It was such a long and overwhelming day.”

He stood up and offered her a hand. “C’mon, I make a great cup of hot cocoa, if you want to tell me all about it.”

Placing her hand in his, she nodded. “I’d like that.” This was precisely what she needed, to unwind. “Are we having marshmallows or whipped cream?”

Leaper pulled her to her feet. He held her close for several seconds, and then he kissed her nose and led the way into the kitchen. “I’m a professional. We’re using both.”

* * *

The boat skipped over the frothy waves as if it were giddy to be cutting through the ocean at full speed. She’d spent three grueling days producing the vaccine correctly, per the instructions of the Greenland vet, and she was praying that it would work. Going into the vast ocean to find a pod of dolphins was like hunting for a yellow needle in a stack of loose hay, but they were still going to do it. One look at her man and she knew his determination matched her own.

She breathed deeply. The fresh air was so sweet, she practically gulped it in as she stared at the horizon. Kerry knew she would always choose the outdoors to being cooped up, no matter what the weather was like, though she also preferred having control. Mother Nature rarely allowed human beings that privilege.

A cool wind smacked her face hard, whipping her hair into her eyes. Kerry pulled up the hood of Leaper’s sweatshirt and cinched it tightly over her hair. She couldn’t stop herself from winding her fingers into the dangling strings and chewing on one of the giant string notes until her inner turmoil became so heavy, she finally blurted out, “Are you sure?”

He glanced at her and said, “For the fourth time, yes. Kerry, please relax. Fidgeting isn’t going to make this go any faster or any better. Just take some time to review your tasks and chill and then face the situation, do your best, and go home. It’s all any of us can do.”

“I bet you say that to all the trainees.”

He raised his eyebrow and made a noise.

“Yeah, you’re right. I get it.” She rubbed her cold nose and tucked her hands into the giant front pocket. Underneath the soft sweatshirt, her body was encased in a wetsuit and her core was toasty warm. In truth, it probably wasn’t even that chilly out, but her concern about the vaccine was seriously getting to her. If someone put the fate of an entire species in your hand, wouldn’t you be nervous?

Glancing over her shoulder, she review their supplies. They’d laid down waterproof camp mattresses in the back of his boat, because this was a risky endeavor—heading into the ocean to find a wild bottlenose that would allow itself to be captured and tagged—and if a human being didn’t use it, then they could hoist a dolphin into the boat. Seriously, she was glad to have him with her.

Tucked between her feet was a bag of dry clothes, a large thermos of coffee, breakfast bars, salty snacks, potassium treats, and bottles of water. In back was a massive first aid kit and the doses of vaccine were split between two coolers. There was even an empty cooler for samples. What more could she do?

As Leaper chomped on a breakfast bar, she threw him a wry look. How he could eat was beyond her understanding or capability. She was more likely to heave than swallow food. Her adrenaline was rushing, and she was too keyed up to devour anything. Of course, she thought, looking at him, I do have a special kind of hunger for him. That thought made her smile.

Dang, he’s right. I need to loosen up.

“Are we heading to San Clemente Island? We took our samples from a pod near the Coronados. Can we head there?”

He nodded his head. “Were you near the breakers?”

“Yes. I don’t know if we’ll find the same pod, but I want to try.”

The night was dark and there wasn’t much light, except for the stars and moon above and their boat. Leaper turned the boat downwind, and for several seconds they were airborne. “I’m not sure if I’ll find a place to anchor in that area. There are deep caverns. Tell me when to stop, and I’ll see what I can do.”

Kerry stood up and pointed. “Over there, about fifty feet.”

Leaper slowed the engine. The boat passed over the area several times. He looked over at her and held her gaze. “Don’t look so upset. You knew it would be a long shot.”

“Yeah, I know.”

He hugged her.

She broke the embrace and paced the length of the boat. “I want it—this—to matter,” Kerry said, angrily slamming her foot against the toolbox.

Leaper approached her slowly. He opened his arms. “You matter to me.”

“Thank you, but that’s not what I mean.” She allowed herself to find comfort in his embrace again. “I need to leave my mark. I entered this world and I helped someone, something, specifically the dolphins. I can’t let them die.” Her body shook as she wept.

His hands rubbed her back, soothing her. “Let it out.”

She pounded her fist on his chest. “What’s the point of having all this education and experience without putting myself on the line? I need to save the dolphins. How can I look my patients, my friends, my dolphins in the eyes, knowing that I wasn’t willing to risk every ounce of my life for them?”

“I get it. Honestly, I do.” Leaper’s words were gentle. “We’re not giving up. Are you willing to give my spot a try?”

She nodded. “Yes.”

Leaper escorted her back to her seat and then drove the boat away from the breaks. He brought it to the far side of the island. The water was calmer here.

It was nice to be out of the screaming wind.

Out of the coroner of her eye, she caught sight of a fin. “There!”

Bringing the boat into a small grotto that was protected from the wind, Leaper cut the engine and pulled up the prop. He said, “We have about eight to ten minutes before we can haul her onto the sand.” The boat drifted slowly toward a sandy beach.

Kerry’s eyes scanned the water. She tapped her fingers against the boat, hoping the pod might recognize her. No one came. “Crap.” Frustration was welling inside of her.

Several heads popped out of the water. Kerry recognized the older male. “It’s them. Yes, yes, yes! Thank goodness!” Pulling off Leaper’s sweatshirt, she placed it next to the thermos and prepared to lower herself into the water.

“Not so fast,” said Leaper, grabbing her arm. “Take a breath. You need your vaccine and your tagging equipment, and you’re not going into the water without me.”

“You’re right. I’m rushing. I’m excited. I can’t help it.” Kerry sat down and counted to ten before gathering her tagging equipment and the vaccine. “Leaper, am I a monster for wanting to do this? Individuals who don’t quarantine and follow specific protocols can run the risk of unleashing something horrific into the ecosystem.” She shook her head. “Maybe I’ve watched too many zombie movies.”

“Kerry, you’re not a monster. I’m not a monster. What you’re doing in attempting to save an entire subspecies of dolphin takes kindness, love, and respect. Cut yourself some slack.” Leaper squeezed her knee. “Besides, didn’t that guy in Greenland test the vaccine on the dolphins in the Atlantic? It’s already in the ecosystem. If it had negative repercussions, wouldn’t they already have happened?”

“Good point. Let’s go for it. And if this is a giant mess, it’s on me.”

Leaper lowered an anchor, securing the boat in the deeper area, and then dropped lights over the side of the boat and secured the lines to cleats. The entire grotto lit up, and they could both see two different pods in the area. “I see stingrays in the sand, a lot of them, which means you cannot put your feet down under any circumstances,” Leaper said.

“Thanks. I try to be aware of them.” She’d seen a man wearing a wetsuit who was pierced through the chest by a stingray. The wetsuit had barely slowed down the stingray. It was horrifying. “Why don’t you go in first? You can be the safety. Let’s hang by the boat for five minutes and see what happens.”

“Sure thing.” Leaper was attaching several knives, bandanas, and a spear gun to his person. He put the fins on his feet, then splashed water into the mask, dumped it, and put it on. He was in the water before Kerry was done gearing up.

Kerry attached the tagging equipment to her dive belt and then tucked the injectable vaccine into a pouch. Grabbing swim fins and a mask, she lowered herself beside him.

They waited patiently. When none of the dolphins came near, Kerry signaled to Leaper to stay, and she swam toward the older male dolphin. The rest of the members of his pod scattered, but he stayed put.

Stopping a few feet from him, she put out her hand.

He came forward and nudged it with his snout. He allowed her to rub down the length of his back. When her hands were on the fluke where she would normally take blood in an examination, she dove underneath him, gave him the vaccine, and quickly tagged him.

The dolphin didn’t seem to notice she had done anything. If he had… Well, dolphins can stop the blood flow to parts of their body, and she definitely did not want him to do that. So she continued to rub him and caress him until she had to go to the surface for more air.

Poor guy. His lymph glands are horribly swollen and misshapen. I wish I could do more to ease his symptoms.

Taking breaths as deep as she could, she replenished her air supply and made her way back down to him. Where was he? She turned in a circle looking for him.

Leaper pointed above her. It was nice having him there with her. He’d come closer to help her when she was clear of the dolphin. What a thoughtful soul.

Kerry smiled and stroked his arm.

A creature nudged her thigh.

She spun.

The dolphin was in front of her, and then he danced to the side. He was playing hide-and-seek with her. Well, he had to be feeling better. Should it be that instantaneous? Who knew? This was all so new.

Running her hands over the dolphin again, she noticed that the swelling on his body was reducing. The inoculation was definitely helping. The elation made her skin tingly with excitement, and she couldn’t stop smiling.

Leaper had backed up yards to give her room, and he gave her a thumbs-up.

She nodded at him and pointed to the boat. As she swam, she contemplated what this meant. A cure could change everything. Oh God, please let this be true. Surfacing near the boat, she wiped her hand against her chin, dislodging a small piece of seaweed. She didn’t care. She’d become a sea hag, if it could save the dolphins.

“What are the details? How did it work?” Leaper asked.

“It’s amazing, Leaper. I’ve never seen a dolphin heal this fast. Where there was distension when I first touched him, it’s halved. This shot was meant to be preventive, a vaccine to help the body produce antibodies to prevent the disease, and yet it’s acting as a cure. An actual cure.” She put her hand on the side of the boat. “It’s better than I’d hoped. I wish we could get this male in the boat and take him home, but the pod might follow, and I don’t want them getting hurt or trapped in the bay. Human beings have very little awareness of what’s swimming underneath their water transports, and everyone wants to manhandle the dolphins. Bet human beings wouldn’t like to be treated that way.”

Leaper nodded. “Wild dolphins tend to freak out in captivity, don’t they?”

“Sometimes. Wounded ones do okay for a short time, but if they’re in too long, it does something to their spirit. Of course, the dolphins raised in captivity prefer the pen, because it’s home and they are safe and well cared for and tend to live longer.” She was anxious to activate the tracking equipment. “Let’s get going. If I need to come back here or go find him, I have the right tools.”

“Great. Let’s go. You have my full support,” Leaper finished. “Back in the boat?”

“Yes, please.” Kerry was happy when one of Leaper’s strong arms pushed her straight up into the air and onto the boat. Man, he had serious muscles.

He hauled himself up beside her. “You know, there’s a cave system we can stop at on the way home. We can visit all the glowworms inside.”

“I’ve heard of it, but never been. As long as we only go partway in.” Kerry was so happy that she would have agreed to walk on hot coals.

They stored their gear on the boat. Leaper pulled up the anchor, secured it, and lowered the prop into the water. He drove the boat slowly out of the grotto. The lights were still hung over the side, and he was able to avoid hitting any dolphins with the prop. When they were in deeper water, Leaper motioned to Kerry about the lights. She gave him a thumbs-up and pulled up the lights. She turned them off, securing them in the toolbox.

“Ready,” she announced.

“Onward ho,” Leaper said with a smile.

He touched a button on his phone and music filled the night air. The song was “Come Together’” by the Yesteryears. Listening to Leaper sing along made her laugh.

Oh, Leaper, she thought. You’re a great partner in crime, and thank you for bringing so much levity and love to my life.

* * *

Do I love her?

Do I romance with my eyes or my heart? Does every touch set my world on fire?

Dang, is it possible to qualify what it means to spend time with someone?

Leaper pondered these questions as he dropped the anchor. When he touched Kerry, his mind drifted someplace else, and he didn’t even want to force it to function.

The boat was off the coast of La Jolla. The ocean waves were small, and the wind had died down. The water looked peaceful, almost glassy and calm. He made sure there was enough battery charge to keep the lights on. There was, but not enough to drop dive lights over the side. He placed the dive buoy and flag in the water and tied it to a cleat on the boat. “Can you grab flashlights?” he asked Kerry.

“Will do.”

He checked the knives, which were still securely strapped to his thighs. He watched Kerry take flashlights, swim fins, masks, and snorkels from the toolbox.

She handed him gear. Their fingers grazed, sending sparks through his system. He wondered if he’d ever get used to it. Did electricity fade, or would their connection only grow stronger? “Thanks, Kerry.”

“You’re welcome, Leaper. I’m glad you choose this cave system. It’s big enough to drive a Mack truck through the center of it. I’m a tad bit claustrophobic, so this place works for me on multiple levels.” She leaned over and scooped water in her mask, then dumped it out. “Last one in is a rotten egg.”

Leaper donned his gear and slid quickly over the side of the boat. It took a second for his eyes to adjust and locate Kerry, and then he switched the flashlight on. A bright beam of light illuminated the area around them.

A hammerhead shark veered into the edge of the light and then changed course. Leaper had swum with a variety of marine life and found that if you didn’t bother them, you were often left alone. But if something invaded his personal space, the gloves came off, and Leaper would end the fight very quickly.

Kerry pointed ahead to the cave entrance. He took her hand and they swam side by side underwater, using their fins to propel them. As they entered the caves, they came to the surface.

Leaper blew water out of his snorkel and removed it from his mouth. He pointed his waterproof flashlight at the ceiling and walls. “Right there, in the upper corner, you’ll see glowworms. There are only a few, and I think their presence has something to do with the limestone deposits.” He swam under a drip of water. “This is fresh water. If you open your mouth, you can taste it.”

Kerry laughed. “I don’t have a cast-iron constitution like yours. I’ll take your word for it. How did you learn about glowworms, by the way?”

“I was on a mission, and we stopped off in New Zealand. Declan and I visited Waitomo. Now, there’s a spectacular sight, and one I’d like to see again, if you’re game.” Leaper moved his light to another spot. “Over there is a type of fungus that some people call cave flowers.”

“This cave has so much life in it.” Kerry swam closer to him. “Is that a ledge?”

He nodded. “Want to take a break?”

“Okay.”

Leaper gave Kerry a boost onto the stone ledge. “How’s the view?” He pulled himself up beside her.

“Lovely.” She turned to him, then leaned in and kissed him. “There’s no one around, right?”

“Not unless the Coast Guard stops by. My diving buoy and flag are out, so we should be okay for a little while. What did you have in mind?”

“How about some hanky-panky?” Kerry said softly as she wiggled out of her wetsuit and removed her one-piece bathing suit.

Leaper was already stripped down to his bare skin by the time Kerry finished. She was so free-spirited, confident, and beautiful, and the way her eyes sparkled with mischief…it was intoxicating. “I have my panky, but I think I left my hanky in the boat.”

“Leaper.” She drew his name out in long, sexy syllables that echoed around them.

“That’s some echo. Keep in mind there’s a walkway above, probably with adults and kids.”

“So what?” Kerry shrugged. “It’d take them a while to get down here, and we’ll be done by then.”

“So this is a quickie.”

She pointed at his cock. “No. That’s a longie.”

He chuckled and reached for her. Kerry dodged out of his grasp. Then she lifted her tush in the air and wiggled at him. “Come and get me, big boy.”

Leaper didn’t need to be asked twice. His mouth zeroed in on her clit, and he delighted in her sighs as he played a few of his favorite rhythmic movements against her most sensitive spot. She was dripping with wetness.

He got on his knees and teased the tip of his cock over her entrance.

She pushed back into him. “Leaper.” Her tone was annoyed. “I want you. Now.”

“As you wish.” Leaper thrust his cock into her wet, waiting sheath. Enveloped in warmth and pure delight, Leaper remained very still while she arched her back and came just from the sheer size of him.

Kerry’s breathing returned to normal. That was his cue to thrust in and out of her slick, blissful warmth. Her body continued to reach for him, urging him to go faster and harder, until they moved as one in a powerful union that took them both over the edge.

They cried each other’s names in unison. Their names echoed around them.

Kerry laughed, and Leaper joined in. It wasn’t every day that coital sounds were amplified at this volume.

Leaper sat down on the ledge and pulled Kerry into his lap. He kissed her, their tongues teasing and tantalizing. He could feel his body priming again, but he pulled away when water splashed his feet. “We better scoot. The tide’s coming in.”

Kerry nodded. She pulled on her bathing suit but struggled with her wetsuit. Leaper dressed with ease, and by the time she turned to him for help, he was already ready to go. “How did you get your trunks and wetsuit on so quickly?”

He shrugged. “Practice.” The water was splashing around their ankles, and they needed to get out of the cave before the waves filled the entire space. Leaper helped Kerry tug on her wetsuit. “When we get in the water, I’m going to tie my utility belt to your wrist and connect it to mine. It’s been a while since I’ve been in these caves with the current rushing in so fast, and I want us to stay attached.”

“Thanks,” she said. “I’m a decent swimmer, but this flow looks strong.”

Leaper removed his utility belt. He tied one end of the strap to Kerry’s wrist and the other to his own. Then they sat down on the ledge and eased into the water.

“Brrr.” It was cold and gave him one helluva wake-up call.

“You’re not kidding. So much colder in here than it is out there.”

“It’s deeper—all those cavernous tunnels and ledges.”

He turned on their flashlights and gestured for her to do the same. He took slow, deep breaths and watched as she mimicked him. Then he counted to three, and they dove downward, swimming toward the entrance.

The undercurrent was pushing sand and loose plants into the water, and it was hard to see more than a few feet in front of them. Leaper skinned his knee, but he didn’t stop. He plunged ahead, fighting through the current and tugging Kerry along behind him.

His muscles strained as he battled through the water until suddenly he was through the worst of it and could swim more freely. He surfaced and brought Kerry up beside him, using the belt as a safety lead. She coughed and sputtered.

“Are you okay?” Leaper asked.

“Yes,” she managed. “I’m glad…you connected us. The force of that water was intense.”

“It certainly was. I think our timing might have been a bit off.”

Kerry touched a finger to his lips. “Your timing…is remarkable. Nature just has other plans sometimes. That was a beautiful experience.”

He rolled on his back and tugged Kerry on top of him. Using his fins and leg muscles, he propelled them toward the boat.

She laughed. “This is wonderful. You make a delightful flotation device.”

“Wait until you see what I can do with my cork…talk about buoyant.”

She splashed water in his face and giggled. “Let’s pop that cork sooner rather than later.”

He laughed. “Aye, aye.” His head grazed the boat. With a single arm, he thrust Kerry up and into the boat and followed her in.

The boat rocked from side to side. He pulled her close and kissed her.

“Shall we untie the belt?” Kerry asked, holding up her wrist.

“Let’s see how much fun we can have, being attached.” He nipped at her bottom lip.

She rubbed her body against his. “Now that’s a pleasure I haven’t tried before, and I find the idea quite appealing.” Her lips tugged at his as she hugged him closer. “Show me how it’s done.”

He growled with excitement. His body was primed to tangle. He could hardly wait until they were both naked again, just Kerry and him engulfed in glorious waves of passion.

* * *

The sun beat down mercilessly about a mile and a half off the coast of the Amphibious Base, Ocean Side. Sweat dripped down Leaper’s clean-shaven face, and his shirt was soaked all the way through. He shook his head, and sweat droplets flung out in all directions.

He looked over the trainees. Work, work, work.

Two groups had performed terribly during the live-fire exercise—Poshen’s group and his. The main reason had been lack of teamwork, and Leaper knew just the exercise to help the trainees work together. It was an old-school routine that Gich had used on his BUD/S class. The official training had dumped the exercise, because it was hard to find a boat that was slow enough to grab a man from the water without causing harm. But Leaper had tweaked this boat’s engine so it ran slower, and he’d gotten permission from the Commanding Officer of BUD/S to give this Team-building exercise a try.

Leaper watched his trainees fall one by one into the water. He was putting his group in the drink first, and Poshen’s group would follow.

Leaper watched as his trainees spaced themselves out in the water fairly evenly.

At the helm of the boat was Poshen’s crew. Their job was to pick up Leaper’s guys, and then they’d switch. Watching the red-haired Seaman at the helm of the boat, Leaper knew this was going to be one seriously long day. This trainee knew nothing.

Leaper leaned over and said, “There are more than two speeds. Consider the purpose of each one. If you come in at full speed and try to pick up someone from the water, there’s a possibility of harm. We don’t want any dislocations, broken bones, ripped rotator cuffs, etc. So I would suggest using your slowest setting.”

The red-haired helmsman was startled. “It’s my first day at the controls.”

“Interesting. My crew has already been doing swift-boat-driving maneuvers. Why haven’t all of you done it?”

“I don’t know.”

Leaper closed his eyes and pressed his hands against them in frustration. “Who’s been driving your boat the past few weeks?” he asked, then held up his hand. “Wait. Don’t answer that. It was Poshen.” Forcing himself not to raise his voice, Leaper gave the Seaman a swift lesson in boat and wave dynamics. “That should be enough to get through the day without running over anyone. That’s your goal: don’t knock out your classmates.”

“Aye, aye,” he replied.

Leaper briefed the entire crew. “Before we pick up the members of your class who are treading water in the drink, let’s review what’s going to happen. The helmsman will drive a 180—that’s a semicircle, for those who don’t remember their geometry. He will maintain his speed while two people at the back of the boat handle pickup. One will hold the loop and fish, and the other one will roll the sailor out of the way so the next person can get on board. Watch your weight distribution so we don’t flip the boat. Any questions?”

Poshen’s trainees looked at each other nervously.

“I’m serious. I’d rather you ask me now than have a problem later,” offered Leaper.

Every trainee raised a hand. Questions shot at Leaper like BBs from a BB gun.

Crap! He wanted to smack his head and then each of theirs. What had Poshen been doing with these guys? Obviously he hadn’t been teaching them—just torturing them.

Did this mean Leaper had to go over each of the basics? Poshen’s trainees needed to know this stuff, or they wouldn’t be able to handle boat-to-boat tactical evasion.

Leaper glanced back at his crew. They looked relaxed enough, treading water or floating. Geez, each of his men was already interested in studying ocean-floor composition. He could pick on any of his men, and they could describe in detail every patch of sea floor from Mexico to Alaska.

Leaper sighed. “Okay, ask me your questions one at a time.”

* * *

Perseverance means hanging in there, and never, ever throwing in the towel. Leaper’s trainees had taken those words to heart and excelled today. He was proud of them. But there were issues to be dealt with outside his Team.

Leaper liked to give people the benefit of the doubt. When he’d tried to call Poshen from the boat, the man had said, “It’s my day off. Fuck you,” and hung up.

Leaper didn’t get angry. He was just sad for Poshen’s trainees.

Being on call 24–7 was part of the process. Leaper always had a phone or beeper with him. The trainees knew they could contact him, and he’d rather they called him than suffer or ring out.

Some individuals made fantastic teachers. They prepared their students with a macro and micro world perspective, including mind-set, physical skills, and tactical awareness. Others couldn’t be bothered to teach more than what was at the end of their noses. Narrow perspectives could endanger lives.

Leaper didn’t want to have to call someone on their shit, but honesty was a big part of Team dynamics. The ability to dish it out and to learn from criticism was vital. Feedback was a core principle of the learning process.

Leaper’s large boots sank into the sand as he climbed the dune that separated the beach from the parking lot on the Amphibious Base. What did it say about his day that the very best part was taking Kerry to work on his boat and receiving that delectable goodbye kiss? Maybe he’d surprise her and stop by after work.

After stomping his boots on the parking lot’s asphalt, he brushed the sand from his pants and walked at a fast clip to BUD/S. He flashed his ID at the gate and headed for Declan’s office. He hated to be that guy, but Declan needed to know what his instructors were doing. Most of the instructors were doing an okay job, and a few—like Zebbi—were performing wonderfully.

But Poshen… Well, he was a lazy fuck. It would be surprising if any of his guys made it through another week. They’d been so hungry for information that Leaper’s men had treaded water for over forty minutes before they were picked up. Not that it was tough on them. Their water skills were very strong.

Watson had floated on his back most of that time. That kid definitely brought joy to Leaper’s heart. He was a good sort.

Walking through the large space of First Phase Grinder, Leaper saw that Declan’s door was open. He knocked on the door.

“Leaper, what’s up? Oh, great, you have that look on your face…like I’m not going to like what you have to say.” Declan pushed back from his desk and stood. His chair squeaked. “Come in and close the door, and give it to me straight.”

Leaper pulled the door closed behind him and sat on the edge of Declan’s desk. “I’m here to share a few words of wisdom about teaching techniques.”

Declan sat down in his chair. It protested loudly. “I knew I wasn’t going to like what you have to say, and that’s not me being psychic.”

Leaper picked up a globe paperweight, tossed it in the air, and caught it. “Good to hear. Declan, my friend. We’re going to lose good people if a few things don’t change. Did you know that there’s a whole boat crew that hasn’t learned or performed swift-boat maneuvers? That’s one of the most important skills; it’s up there with evasive driving techniques on land. Let me give you a brief of what’s going on…”

* * *

I need a cheat sheet to understand my own motivation.

Kerry sighed. Did she ever wonder if her body knew something was about to happen long before her brain caught on? All the fucking time!

Somehow Leaper did that to her. Made her anticipate him so that her body was primed for his appearance.

Her heart pounded as she looked up. There he was, just outside of the Marine Mammal gate. The sight of him made her knees weak. She couldn’t stop herself from rushing into his arms and reaching her mouth to his for a kiss.

As his lips met hers, something in her spirit sang loudly and joyfully. Had love ever felt like this? She didn’t think so. Of course, there was always the possibility that she was experiencing that intense emotional connection for the very first time, as if he completed her energy and spirit. Not that she planned on ever giving up her independent lifestyle, but she was willing to make compromises for the right man—well, for him. Leaper was special, beyond description.

The kiss deepened as her tongue met his, sending sparks of electricity zipping through her body.

“Ahem.” Someone nearby cleared a throat.

Kerry didn’t care who witnessed their public display of affection. She was happy. But the throat clearing turned into a full-blown cough, and her curiosity was piqued. She cut the kiss short and looked over her shoulder. Well, crap, she hadn’t expected to see this sailor at the Marine Mammal department.

Standing in front of the gate was Admiral Dale. With gray creeping into his hair and sideburns, and deep lines etched into his forehead, he was a debonair yet forbidding presence. The Admiral looked like he was going to smile at Kerry, but then his gaze took in the companion to her right. “Lefton.”

“Admiral Dale, good to see you.” Leaper was all kinds of jovial, and Kerry was learning that this meant there was history between this person and Leaper.

But still, Admiral Dale rarely came down here. Maybe Kerry was getting fired. A sinking feeling hit her stomach like a ton of bricks, though Kerry guessed this could be a social call. Hadn’t Emme been trying to date this guy? Right, right, right, she remembered now: Emme had given him a call.

“Are you looking for Miss Stanley?” Kerry asked attempting to be polite.

“No. I came here to speak with you, Dr. Hamilton.” His tone was unreadable, his face a mask devoid of emotion. They must teach that at “fork and knife” school—otherwise known as officer’s training.

Her heart sank. “What can I do for you?”

“Is there somewhere we can speak privately?” Admiral Dale looked around. “The docks are swept, correct?” Kerry nodded, and Admiral Dale added, “Let’s head down there.”

Kerry grabbed Leaper’s hand and pulled him along behind her. Admiral Dale stopped at the gate and looked at Leaper. “He’s coming too,” Kerry insisted.

They walked past the double doors leading to the Marine Mammal Office and down to the gate on the gangplank. Kerry scanned her ID and opened the locked gate. Leading the way, she headed for Juliet’s pen.

As she sat down on the dock, Leaper settled down next to her. It was such a supportive gesture; she gave him brownie points.

The Admiral seemed to contemplate the fact he was in uniform and then he picked up a bucket, flipped it over, and sat on a fairly clean bottom. The proximity was close enough to give them some privacy. “Our phone call…”

“Admiral, I’m sorry about that,” interrupted Kerry. “I was upset. I practically accused everyone except myself of messing around with the numbers. I shouldn’t have jumped the gun so quickly, and I’d like to apologize.”

“There’s no need for that.” His face softened. “Dr. Hamilton, I’m not here to reprimand you or to fire you. Your passion for these animals and your expertise are two reasons we appreciate you being here. That said, you raised the alarm on an extremely important problem. I’m here to brief you, to give you information.”

“Me?” Kerry was shocked. She closed her mouth and attempted to regain her composure. She had never thought there’d be a day when an Admiral reported information to her. It was always the other way around. “Go ahead, please.”

Admiral Dale nodded solemnly. “A while back, we had Special Funding Director Joshua Boscher, and we were able to trace the current situation back to him. He was using the program to springboard himself into a few private government contracts using different types of marine life. He was the one who fudged the numbers and changed the protocol listing for the lab techs. He also used legitimate projects to cover his siphoning of funds, like your tank project. He took off with a third of your spending. Since no one had oversight over Boscher, no one questioned it. Boscher seemed to be in charge when it came to these projects, and the techs thought this was standard procedure.”

“Boscher…really?” Kerry considered the man. “I don’t know him very well, but he was always nice to me. He didn’t spend much time here, if I remember correctly. He was mostly in Washington, DC. And when he was at the Marine Mammal base, he offered to help everyone. I—I just don’t get it. Boscher?”

“Yes,” confirmed Admiral Dale. “He was working with several groups who were lobbying on his behalf too. A lot of this circles back to money. Unfortunately, he got away with over $10.5 million.”

Kerry whistled and then frowned. “Wait, what type of marine life was he working with?” She grabbed the Admiral’s arm. “I think I know. Let me guess—Boscher’s working with sharks.”

The Admiral nodded. “But what makes you say that?”

“Like attracts like.” Kerry nodded. “I’m right, aren’t I? He went for cold-blooded rather than warm-blooded.”

He took a slow, deep breath. “Roger that. I assigned several sailors to retrieve Mr. Boscher, but there was little to retrieve. It seems he was a victim of his enthusiasm.”

“Ugh, the sharks ate him,” said Kerry, swallowing a sudden rush of bile in her throat. “Not a good way to go.”

“We found several fingers embedded in the dock—they had his DNA and some hair. Since the Navy has no one to prosecute for this crime, we have to close the case. But we know there are still outstanding issues, and we want to do the correct thing for our marine mammals. They serve selflessly. So I’m here to ask what you need.” The Admiral spoke succinctly, as if he’d rehearsed his words. Most likely he had. According to Emme, the Admiral was a very precise man. He preferred everything just so.

Leaper nudged her as if to say Tell him what you’ve done so far.

It was Kerry’s turn to take a deep breath. “Okay. So I’ve been chatting with a scientist in Greenland who’s had excellent results with a new vaccine he developed. I made a batch and took it to a place where I knew there were sick dolphins.” She lifted her hands and spoke quickly. “I didn’t want to do it this way, but I knew that the Foundation would balk at me using our dolphins as guinea pigs. The funny thing is…the wild dolphin went from lethargic to energized very quickly. I’ve never seen such a fast turnaround. Since this was such a positive response, I was going to ask to speak to you, the Director, and whoever else will listen about testing it on one of our own.”

“Kerry has video she recorded,” added Leaper.

Admiral Dale leaned forward and looked at Leaper. “I suppose you were in on this wild-dolphin mission?”

Leaper grinned.

Admiral Dale nodded. “Well, I agree that I don’t condone sticking a wild creature without knowing the results. It could have caused horrible effects.” The Admiral rubbed the back of his neck. Kerry could almost see the wheels in his head turning.

“She knows that,” Leaper said. “I do too. There are hundreds of contagion movies out there, warning about the dangers of jumping into the unknown with a chemical concoction. But I stand by her, and the dolphin rallied very quickly.” His voice was calm and steady.

Kerry’s eyes misted. She was impressed and touched that he was standing up for her. Rubbing her shoulder against his, she added, “If what I did in the ocean is a criminal offense, I cannot let Leaper take any blame. It’s all on me.”

“I should have figured the two of you would find each other. Stubborn is as stubborn does.” Admiral Dale stood and brushed specks of dirt from his uniform, finally giving up when he noticed a large streak down one leg. “Pick a dolphin and quarantine her. Follow the strictest guidelines of protocol, and then go ahead with the vaccine.”

Gratitude flooded Kerry. She stood at once and shook the Admiral’s hand passionately. “Thank you, Admiral. If the results are as dramatic as I believe, our dolphins will be back to normal very, very soon.”

“Keep me informed. Daily reports.” Admiral Dale stepped away. He tilted his head to the side and said, “Lefton.”

Leaper nodded.

The men seemed to communicate nonverbally, which completely baffled Kerry. As she watched the Admiral walk away, down the dock, and up the gangplank, Leaper’s arms wrapped snuggly around her waist. He squeezed her tightly against him.

“You did it, Kerry,” he whispered in her ear.

“We did it,” she replied as she hugged his arms tighter to her body. She closed her eyes. Relief was easing through her, lifting all the weight from her shoulders. After such a long adrenaline rush, her body was exhausted. “I need rest.”

“Let’s go to our home. The morning is a good time to start this project. Sleep will heal your brain, and I will work on your body.” Leaper kissed the side of her neck.

She sighed. He was right. There were a ton of things she would need to prepare. First thing in the morning would be the best time.

“Have I sparked your interest?” he murmured against her neck.

She tapped her feet. “I’m clicking my heels, but we haven’t arrived home yet.”

He chuckled. “Maybe you’re not clicking in the right spot. Let’s try that again when we get back to the house.”

Together, they walked down the dock and up the gangplank. Letting themselves out of the ID-controlled gate and then the main gate, they headed for her car, which Leaper had brought over for her during the day. When Kerry was tucked behind the steering wheel, he said, “Give me a second and I’ll follow you.”

She started the engine, her eyes tracking him as he walked to his motorcycle. Suddenly it hit her: he’d called his house “our home.” Her mind spun through twenty different interpretations of his slip, unless it wasn’t a mistake. Was this how he really felt—that the two of them should live together? Wow, that they would have a home together?

Leaper flashed the light on his motorcycle, requesting she take the lead.

Kerry backed out of the parking space. She drove to the main checkpoint of the base and turned right, leaving work behind. A part of her psyche—her ego, to be specific—was over the moon with delight at the notion of their being together on a permanent basis. Only a small, cynical portion told her to take it slow.

Her mother had told her time and again, “Never make big decisions when your emotions are high or low. Wait for those steady moments of calm, so you can see all the perspectives and decide wisely.”

Kerry knew her mother was right. If only she could harness her hormones…but nothing could keep them in check. The rush of chemistry was intense, and her body was already primed. She stroked her index finger along her bottom lip, imagining Leaper’s touch.

She directed the car toward Coronado, toward his home and the place they spent most of their time together. Kerry was eager for Leaper’s kisses and caresses, and she squirmed in her seat, anticipating his body fitting perfectly against hers. Skin against skin, hearts beating hard, pulses racing as they brought each other to completion. Oh God, Kerry thought, I can hardly wait. Oh, the things I want to do to Leaper and have him do to me.