Trixsters Anonymous

One of the men shoots Oliver a disapproving look, telling him he’s said too much.

I grip Marcus’s biceps and use his strength to heave myself up. He keeps a hand on me, holding me supportively.

“Well, let’s get out of your way, so you can go back to finding these men. Leslie and Travis a

re probably already at Walker’s waiting on me.”

Captain opens his mouth, but I hold up a hand. “Your information will stay confidential within the family, I can assure you.”

“I’m trusting that, Emerson.”

“We’ll be at Walker’s and waiting on an update. But before we leave, I need a favor.”

“What’s that?”

“Unless you want to see drama like you’ve never, ever, ever seen before, you tell that pipsqueak in the bullpen I’m going to be around, and if he tries to stop me again, I’ll raise holy hell.”

The mood in the room shifts as a few of the guys start to chuckle.

“Emi, he’s a former naval officer and one of the best technology specialists SLED has.”

“I don’t care if he’s President of the United States with sainthood appointed by the damn Pope! You make sure he knows who I am.”

“Oh, I think he knows. How about you don’t call him a pipsqueak to his face.”

“Humph! We’ll see how our next conversation goes.”

“Emi, I think you made your point. Let’s get out of here,” Marcus urges me.

I let him lead me out to the whispers behind us, undoubtedly about my incredible gall.

Marcus drives us back to Walker’s, the whole way using comforting words meant to reassure me. When we reach the house, I twist so I can look at him and Maren.

“Marcus, you don’t have to be strong for me. I know you’re worried, too.”

“He’s the toughest fucker I know.”

“You’re right, and I believe in the law enforcement agencies to do their job.” A little too much sarcasm drips from my words.

“Thank God. I thought you were gonna turn all weepy and shit.” Maren picks up on my meaning.

“When have you known me to be weepy, hooker? That’s not our style.”

“Well, with your impending panic attack at the station, I was thinking I’d be consoling you until you found yourself.”

“It was a momentary lapse of nerves. I’m back now.”

“Ladies! What the hell is happening here?” Marcus looks between us like we’ve lost our mind.

“Remember your whole ‘I want in’ speech at the cabin? Well, here’s your chance.”

“What does Trixsters have to do with Walker being taken hostage?”

The reminder stings, and my heart squeezes tight, but I force the feeling aside. “Pipsqueak may be a technology specialist, but my bets are on Maren.”

His jaw drops as the realization hits. “I’m in.” He doesn’t hesitate.

“Leslie’s barely holding on. This morning, she was hysterical on the phone, so we need to stay positive, keep everyone calm. My parents are on their way also.”