Max’s Mission (The Wagner Brigade #6)

Prologue

F ourteen months ago…

Acid burned in Tad Gaultier’s esophagus, and he swallowed hard, attempting to force it back where it belonged. His hands shook as he set the manila envelope on the counter.

He didn’t want to do this.

But there wasn’t any other way. Not if he wanted to keep his family safe.

He’d screwed up.

Royally.

Margot would be okay, though. She was the toughest person he knew. She’d navigate Em and Lily through this, and they’d come out the other side just fine. And much better off than they would if he stayed.

He stepped away from the counter. It took a monumental effort—like ripping off a limb—but he tore his gaze away from the envelope and turned. Leaning down, he picked up his duffel and raised the handle on his suitcase.

The wheels rumbled on the floor as he headed for the front door. Cool metal teased his skin as he turned the doorknob.

With one final glance over his shoulder, he said a silent goodbye and walked outside to a waiting vehicle and the federal agent in the driver’s seat.