“No, as bride and groom,” Caroline said. “I mean, it’s only a matter of time.”
“Time.” Gabriel dangled Laskin’s pocket watch. “Life gives us limited time.”
“Do good with the time you have,” Halston said, completing the inscription on Laskin’s watch.
A treasured gift from father to son that changed the course of history.
Gabriel and Halston shared a smile.
“We’re getting married in Italy, but we can’t wait to celebrate your special day,” Halston said.
“Yes!” Sydney exclaimed.
“That’s fantastic,” Teddy said.
Caroline hugged Halston. “I’m so happy for you both.”
“Congratulations,” Greystone said to Gabriel. “We gotta celebrate.”
As Halston and Gabriel were being congratulated, the White House waitstaff made their way by, pushing carts loaded with covered plates.
“Let’s eat,” Teddy said. “I’m starving.”
As everyone filed back into The Situation Room, Gabriel curled his hand around Halston’s arm.
Alone in the outer office, he pulled her close. “This is it.” He dropped a light kiss on her lips.
“Yes, it is.”
“You know what you’re getting yourself into, right?”
“Do you know whatyou’regetting yourself into?” She stood tall, kissed his cheek. “I’m on a list. You donotwant to get on my bad side.”
“You don’t have a bad side,” he said. “You’re perfect just the way you are.”
HALSTON
Halston was relieved,ecstatic, and filled with the utmost respect for Gabriel. He had done what no one else in that roomhad been capable of achieving. She would never have guessed he knew about the Physical Constant Code—she’d never even heard her dad talk about it. She had underestimated Gabriel… something she would never do again.
Greystone exited The Situation Room. “There’s plenty of food. Come in and have something. G, you impressed the President. He can’t stop talking about you.”
“Of course,” Gabriel said with a sly smile.
“So cocky,” Halston murmured.
But she was so proud of her fiancé.
Greystone regarded Halston. “Halston, you’re still part of ALPHA until we release you back to Langley. That happens when we close out the mission.”
She nodded. “I’ll make sure my mom and dad get home safely, then I’m taking a few days off. There won’t be an issue with that, right?”
“You earned them,” Greystone said. “You guys were cool under fire. Nice work.”
“That’s how we roll,” Gabriel replied.
Halston’s parents joined them.
“We’re very proud of you, Halston,” her mom said.
