Page 95 of Silk Shadow

No fucking way. Pat was Izzy's biological father.

Viper sat back and sipped his beer. How had no one figured that out before? Izzy was talking about Joe now, and how they used to listen to Pat’s old records. The former SEAL Commander smiled sadly at the memory of his son. A true hero, who'd died on the battlefield.

For some reason, Pat didn't want Izzy to know he was her father. Viper respected that. He wouldn't say anything. It wasn't his secret to tell.

When the time was right, Pat would tell Izzy—or not. Perhaps out of respect for her parents or his late wife, he wouldn't say anything.

They finished their drinks and got up to leave. Pat walked them to the door where he hugged Izzy. "I really am happy for you.”

"Thanks, Uncle Pat."

Then he shook Viper's hand. "Thank you."

Viper nodded. Pat didn't have to say anymore. His secret was safe.

"Pat is such a sweetheart," said Izzy, when they got back home. "One day I must ask him how he and my mother met."

Viper took her into his arms and smiled at her. "I think that's an excellent idea."