Page 79 of Storm's Deliverance

Storm laughs. A proper laugh this time. God... I’d never heard a more beautiful sound.

Heavy footsteps thunder back down the hallway. “Got ‘em!” Hap pants, throwing the bolt cutters across the room.

Rage catches them one-handed. “Move.” One snap, and the chain falls away with a heavy clang. Before it even hits the floor, I’ve already scooped Storm into my arms. She curls into my chest with a pained sigh. Ghost steps in front of me, and as he kisses her forehead, he looks me straight in the eyes. No President. No threat. Just a father.

“You bring my daughter home.”

I nod. “I will.”

His hand grips the back of my neck. “If she so much as sheds another tear...” His voice falters. “Don’t let it be because you weren’t there.”

“I won’t.” I tighten my hold on Storm. “You never have to worry about that again.” I turn and run, because I’d waited my whole life to hold this woman in my arms, and I wasn’t about to let go.