BLAINE

“BRING ME a teddy.” Ella-Mae whispered in my ear as I hugged her.

“I'll bring you the most handsome teddy.” I promised and watched the grin bloom on her face before she stepped back. I hugged the rest of the kids then moved on to my aunts.

When I hugged Tia Gabriela, she held me extra tight. “Make sure you catch the bad guy, and give him a punch from me.” She whispered.

Tia Gabriela was the only one who knew where I was actually going and why. The rest just thought it was another regular business trip.

I smiled at her so nobody would suspect and nodded. I...