Emerson loved living in Stryker’s home, which they’d turned intotheirhome.
“Did you see him chasing the laser?” Stryker asked. “Crazy cat was leaping off the furniture.”
Emerson laughed. “You ready to head out?” She clicked off the lights on their nine-foot Christmas tree.
After helping her into her winter coat, he shrugged into his. He set the house alarm and they climbed into his SUV, parked in the garage.
“I got word that Spinetti’s trial starts in January,” Emerson said. “And I’ve been called by the prosecution to testify.”
“That’ll be a circus.” Stryker pulled out of the driveway.
“I also heard Carla Barnham’s trying to get her sentence reduced, so she turned on her husband.”
“As long as he stays in prison, I don’t care what happens to him,” Stryker said.
She laid her hand on his thigh and he blanketed her hand with his. “I need your help with a case,” she said.
“Which one, babe?”
“A Maryland gang that’s been trafficking women. Providence and I agree it would be smart for me to partner with someone. Well, you, actually. We need someone ruthless.”
“I’m flattered,” he said, his voice thick with sarcasm.
She laughed. “I’ll check your TCS schedule and set up a strategy meeting next week.”
Fifteen minutes later, Stryker pulled into the driveway and cut the engine. As Emerson emerged from the vehicle, he strode around and offered his hand. Holding hands, they headed up the walkway. He rang the doorbell, then opened the door.
“Mom, Dad, we’re here,” Emerson called.
Rick Easton was sitting alone in the living room. “Hey, guys,” Rick said, rising to his feet. “You both look great.”
“Dad, I can’t remember the last time I saw you in a tux,” Emerson said. “You look so handsome.”
“Thank you, dear. Mom is just finishing up.”
“How are you doing?” Stryker asked her dad.
“I’m good. Tia’s been a little emotional. This is a big day for us,” Rick said gesturing to the sofa.
Stryker eased down and Rick returned to his chair as Emerson started up the stairs. “Be right back.”
She found her mom slipping into her heels. “Mom, you look beautiful.”
Tia Easton wore a conservative black dress and a simple strand of pearls. “Thank you, dear. I wore waterproof mascara in case I cry.”
“It’s totally fine if you do. Hopefully, tonight, will help us heal.”
Once everyone had piled into Stryker’s vehicle, they headed over the bridge and into DC. Stryker valet-parked in front of the upscale hotel.
The grand ballroom was filled with guests. As they made their way toward their table, Stryker slid his arm around Emerson’s waist.
“Doing okay, babe?” he asked.
She shot him a little smile. “I am.”
Gratitude filled Emerson’s heart. Tonight, her beloved brother would be honored as a hero who died in the line of duty.
They ran into Captain Perry and her husband. After hugs and hellos, Tiana said, “We’re still pretty mad at this guy”—she gestured at Stryker—“for stealing you away from us.”