Page 139 of The Defiant Curse

“We would, CJ,” he reassured. “That Ethan went there…he’s trying to save her for a change.”

Then, he focused on Ivan and laid down the law.

“I’m with Gene. If you call him, or her, or interfere, Ivan, you’re fired. It’s time we do something in her best interest and loosen up the reins.”

Callen agreed.

They did use her as much as possible.

“She never gets a break. We are too much. She hasn’t asked us to do anything for her like a date, or to cover for her when it comes to the kids. Maybe we need to let Ethan have this so he can help Elizabeth, and we let her be free for a bit. I trust Michael and Graham.”

Ivan said nothing at first, but it was crystal clear when he gave up and backed down.

That was the good thing about Ivan. At some point, he’d relent and see the big picture.

This was what Elizabeth wanted, and Ethan was just doing what he could to help her.

He sighed.

“We love all of you,” he finally admitted. “It’s hard when you know what is at stake.”

And there they were.

Someone had just chilled out.

Immediately, Chris hugged him.

“We know, but in a way, she’s asking for some time without any of us breathing down her neck. She might tell Ethan to head out, and she might not, but either way, we’re not going there. Michael has this under control. We’re going to trust her. That’s all she’s asking for. FAITH.”

It appeared he had no choice.

So, he did the deed.

“I’m sorry I fired you, Raphael.”

The big man laughed.

“I wasn’t worried. None of us are getting off this rollercoaster anytime soon,” he joked. “And if they didn’t stop you from firing me, I would have been rehired as soon as Elizabeth found out—right after she kicked your ass and told your wife what you did.”

He pointed.

“It’s rude to say it to my face.”

He laughed.

Yeah, but family did crazy shit.

This was the proof.

“Everyone, get some rest,” Chris said. “We’re now without Elizabeth and Ethan. If we get a case…we’ve got a million and one problems because we’re up to bat without her or the team profiler. That’s not going to be fun for any of us.”

Yeah, especially those who had only worked with Elizabeth for the majority of their careers.

Chris hoped Gene and Callen would be ready—because they would be up to bat.

How could that go wrong?

Well, they were going to find out.