The Outcast MC - Reaper # 1

Epilog

As the night wore on, Paige and I clung to each other, finding solace in our embrace, our tears, our kisses. While she eventually succumbed to sleep, my mind remained active, tirelessly searching for any options, any possibilities that could offer a different path. And indeed, I had options—government agencies and private companies regularly extended offers my way. But I had chosen to stay where I was, drawn by the freedom of movement and the unparalleled experiences that came with it.

I flirted with the boundaries, pushing myself to the limit, and the results spoke for themselves. Those who witnessed my work knew of my capabilities, and those who didn't were buried in the depths of secrecy. What other agency would allow me to board fighter jets for both professional and personal travel? To hop from one aircraft carrier to another? I found myself unintentionally forging connections with individuals who now owed me their debts. The singer had offered me a high-paying bodyguard job in Beverly Hills, but what would I do in a place that held no interest for me? How many people would I end up hitting after just three days? Hypocrisy was not in my nature.

Washington flirted with me, seducing me in its own subtle ways, but the procedural nature of the work bothered me. It was ironic for a soldier, wasn't it? I craved the freedom to maneuver as I pleased. Just three weeks ago, I "accidentally" crossed paths with an NRO agent who happened to stop next to me on her Ducati Monster motorcycle. We struck up a conversation about motorcycles and ended up at a café, getting to know each other. My file must have been thoroughly updated in Washington. While the National Reconnaissance Office was a military intelligence agency tasked with hunting for spy devices and UFOs, I wasn't quite convinced it was the right fit for me. She had introduced me to the job as part of a recruitment campaign, but the headquarters being located in the suburbs of the capital didn't appeal to me. Spy satellites weren't my main area of interest. However, she had promised me access to unofficial, next-generation aircraft. My file must truly be up to date.

As I pondered my options, I realized that my longing for freedom and the ability to pursue my own path remained strong. The allure of new experiences, of pushing boundaries, called to me. While the decision wasn't clear-cut, it was evident that a conventional and procedural role was not what my heart desired. I needed the space to maneuver and explore, to continue embracing the unique lifestyle I had carved out for myself. The search for my next venture continued, fueled by the knowledge that my capabilities were in high demand.

The morning arrives, painting the sky with its vibrant colors as Paige and I share a tender moment. I feel a strong urge to leave everything behind and commit myself fully to her. She is the first woman who has had such a profound impact on me, stirring emotions I didn't know I was capable of. Yet, I can't ignore the fact that this town is too small for my restless spirit.

But perhaps there is a compromise. If a position were to open up at NCIS (Naval Criminal Investigative Service), I would seriously consider it. It would allow me to stay close to Paige, taking care of the local law enforcement while still pursuing my passion for investigative work. The thought lingers in my mind as I finally succumb to sleep, reassured by the presence of Paige by my side.

"I have experienced a dream with you, Paige. I caught a glimpse of what happiness in a married life could feel like. I want to reiterate, because my feelings are genuine—I love you. If you find someone who brings you true fulfillment, I will genuinely be happy for you. You deserve it."

"You too," she responds softly. "I have never met someone quite like you."

"Ah, well, I am a one-of-a-kind model," I reply with a smile. "The designers knew they had made a blunder and promptly broke the mold."

"You are an extraordinary woman, Emily. It would be challenging to find someone who could replace you. You have set the bar incredibly high."

"That's all me," I say playfully.