Page 4 of Rescuing Rebel

This place—these people—represent more than simple hope to those who need it most. They are Guardians and Saviors, Protectors and Healers, Defenders and Nurturers. Their dedication is unwavering, their commitment unquestionable, and their resolve unshakable.

Every scarred soul that steps through our doors isn’t just a life saved but a life ready to be reborn, rebuilt, and renewed.

As I sit among these heroes, I’m filled with a sense of purpose like never before. The weight of my responsibilities as Charlie-One are daunting but also invigorating. On the shoulders of these giants, I’ll learn, grow, and hopefully, make a difference.

I’m humbled to be a part of Guardian HRS.

After stowing my gear at the back of the plane, I head to the front and rejoin my team. On the way, Alec thrusts out his hand.

“Name’s Alec. Haven’t seen you before.”

“Ethan Blackwood.” I shake his hand. “Took over Charlie team.”

My mentor, long-term friend, and former Charlie team leader, Rex, saw my potential amongst the SEAL teams early on, but it was Sam who took a chance and hired me based solely on Rex’s word.

Rex convinced Sam I’d be an asset to the team, vouching for my skills honed from years in service to the SEALs and Delta Force. Next thing I knew, I was flying out to interview at their headquarters, getting sized up by Sam, the man in charge of the Guardian Hostage Rescue Specialists, and by Forest Summers, founder of the impressive organization.

Now, I find myself one of the best of the best.

With Rex moving on, I’ve got some big shoes to fill, taking over as Charlie-One. His wisdom and decades of experience will be sorely missed, but I’m up to the task. Stepping into a new unit, especially as the commander, is always difficult, but leadership is in my blood. Rex saw that early on and knew this would be a good fit for me.

I recall our last conversation as he handed over the reins, clasping my shoulder with his weathered hand.“Charlie team is yours now. Lead them well. They won’t let you down.”

“Ah, Charlie’s new commander.” Alec gives a solid nod. “Nice to meet you, and thanks for getting me out of that hellhole.” Alec turns to his teammate Brady with a burning question. “How did you guys find us? They removed my trackers.”

“Mitzy Magic,” Brady laughs, leaning back in his chair. “It never ceases to amaze me what that woman can do.”

I’m only now getting to know who’s who around Guardian HRS. They speak of Mitzy, the talented genius of Guardian HRS’s technical team.

As for getting Alec out of that hellhole? Charlie acted in support, never knowing what we would find beneath Artemus Gonzales’s estate.

Alec’s experience makes me curious about what Artemus was after. I lean forward, eyes intent. “What did he want from you anyway?”

“Get this—Forest, of all people.” Alec shakes his head in disbelief.

Forest Summers, along with his foster sister, Skye Summers, are the co-founders of Guardian HRS. A self-made billionaire, Forest’s singular vision is to rid the world of men like Artemus Gonzales, men who feed off the suffering of others.

He’s the reason I’m here; Forest Summers, not that creep Gonzales.

With takeoff imminent and the rescued women settled into their seats, I take a moment to appreciate what my new employers do for the survivors we rescue. We not only rescue those who’ve been taken, but we provide a safe haven for them to heal from unimaginable suffering. Guardian HRS helps survivors rebuild their lives. They manage all stages of recovery through counseling, resources, and community.

With well over a dozen traumatized women on board, the medical team makes the rounds, checking on each under their thin blankets. I assist where I can and find myself assigned to escort each woman to the rear of the plane where she can take advantage of the expanded lavatories and shower—if that’s what she wants—and change into clean clothes provided for their comfort.

While they take a moment for themselves, my job is to be ready to provide aid however needed and assist without triggering them.

It’s a delicate balance.

To be honest, knowing how I look to other women, I can’t help but feel I’m not the best person for this job. I’m a big guy—huge—and more likely to intimidate than anything else. Regardless, I trust the process. Guardian HRS knows what they’re doing.

I hope.

I mean, let’s look at this clinically.

I escort women to the rear of the aircraft from their seats, where I usher them to lavatories to strip and shower while I stand guard outside.

How is that not triggering?

I don’t know, but I’m assured my presence iscomfortingto these women.