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“I already told you—I’m not going to talk about it.” Hannah adjusted the pink shawl she wore over her black dress. “Not this morning.”
“Fine.” But it wasn’t fine, and I was still reeling from the back-to-back conversations I’d had with our respective siblings.
Me to Ellis: I’m going to ask Hannah to move in with me.
Lauren to me: Couples’ therapy is for ‘real’ couples, but you’re so sweet for being a placeholder and helping out!
Hannah sighed. “I don’t want to fight with you. I’m too tired to fight.”
We sat in the backseat as the driver maneuvered the car up in front of the Unitarian Universalist church in Palo Alto. From the passenger seat, Brian watched the crowd waiting outside to go inside to Jim Pace’s service. He let out a low whistle. “There’s a lot of people here.”
I looked at Hannah. “I don’t want to fight, either—but are you sure you’re up for this?”
She peered out the window. “Fiona needs our support.”
I shoved all the other thoughts away—they could wait for later. Hannah needed me, and that was the most important thing. I laced my fingers through hers. “Then let’s go.”
As soon as we were out of the car, I noticed the agents from Betts Security—they were everywhere. Levi was taking no chances at this event. I counted at least nine undercover agents before we even made it through the entrance of the church, in addition to Brian, who followed right behind us.
Hannah stayed close as we made our way up the line. She looked beautiful and completely pulled together. No one would guess that twelve hours ago, she’d had a panic attack so vicious, she’d required emergency medical attention. The procession snaked slowly toward the receiving line, and I kept my arm secured firmly around her waist.
“Is that Ellis?” she asked, peering over my shoulder.
“Where?” But I answered my own question as I turned. My brother was standing behind Fiona Pace, scrutinizing every person who stopped to offer their condolences. “I guess she’s his new assignment.”
“Wow. I guess Levi really was impressed with him.”
A stupid throb of jealousy ran through me. I need to get back to work. “Ellis is amazing, and he’s a total pro. He’ll keep Fiona safe.”
Hannah squeezed my hand. “I know. And I’m sure you’re anxious to get back out there, but stay with me, big guy.” She leaned back against my chest. “I need you.”
My heart squeezed. “I’m right here. I’ve got you, and I’m not letting go.” I kept my arm wrapped firmly around her, emotions battling inside me.
We finally made it to the front of the line, and Fiona immediately reached for Hannah. “I’m so glad you’re here. Thank you.”
“This is Wesley.”
We shook han
ds, and Fiona smiled at me warmly, then Hannah enveloped her in a hug.
“How are you holding up? How are the girls?” Hannah asked.
“I’m…dealing. And the girls are with my mom, playing in the children’s room. I might let them stay back there…”
Fiona turned to me. “Wesley, it’s so nice to finally meet you. I’ve heard wonderful things.”
“I’m so sorry about Jim.” I hugged her, too. “I’m glad to see my brother is on your detail. He’s the best. He’ll keep your family safe.”
“Ellis mentioned you were brothers.” She pulled back and wiped her eyes. “He doesn’t talk much, does he?”
I chuckled as Ellis’s steely gaze flicked to me—he must have overheard her. “No, he doesn’t. It’s actually sort of nice.”
Ellis gave me a dirty look, which I ignored.
The group of people behind us moved closer, so Fiona excused herself after giving Hannah another hug.
The service was about to begin when Gabe and Lauren slid into the pew next to us.
