Page 130 of Choosing Us

And that’s before you consider the birthmark. The heart-shaped birthmark that shows up in the same spot on women in my family.

“My family. I…” I close my eyes and take a slow breath, trying to get control of my breath. “I don’t know what name she goes by now, but I think that woman in the photo … I think she might my sister.”

CHAPTER SIXTY-EIGHT

Ryan is going to wear a hole in the hotel’s carpet.

We are in our suite waiting for my team to arrive, and my darling husband is ready to crawl out of his skin.

I get it, but this comes with the territory. As a federal agent, it is my obligation and duty to testify when called upon, even if it’s a case where the serial killer was stalking me for years unbeknownst to me.

My team still stopped him.

My team still took him off the streets.

And my team is going to do everything we can to put him away for the rest of his life.

I’ve followed the case as close as necessary, but not an ounce more than required. Once Graham was declared competent enough to stand trial, things moved quickly—until Graham started dragging his feet at every turn. It was a last-ditch effort for him to exert control over a situation where he is no longer calling the shots. He fired his representation twice before the judge said if he did that again, they would be appointing counsel for him because he was doing it to stall the court and waste time.

He ensured his lawyers objected to everything—even things that were not necessary to object to, if only to draw out the process.

Until last week.

Last week, the upcoming witness list was released after the jury was finally selected, and I know that Graham saw my name. Ryan will likely be called next week, but I don’t think Graham cares about seeing Ryan, unless I am there as well.

Suddenly, there were minimal objections. The case moved forward three times the pace it had been crawling for months.

He saw my name—professionally listed as Special Agent Dr. Harlow Lane—and knew I was coming. But I don’t think he knows that I got married, and I hope he can’t tell I’m pregnant.

I run a hand over my lower stomach, cradling it. Ryan pauses with a soft smile before he continues his pacing. There’s a slight bump, but only if you know to look. I did my homework and chose an outfit that was as concealing as possible because I have this innate need to shield my baby from this man. We are ten weeks as of yesterday, but the urge to protect and keep them safe is intense.

I have so many things to look forward to, and putting this man and this case firmly in my rearview is definitely on that same list.

There have been a lot of changes in the last year, one of my favorites being The Brigade group chat that is currently blowing up.

Vivian

We’re all thinking of you today, Harlow. Let us know (or have someone let us know!) how today goes. We love you!!

Savannah

If you need anything, just let me know. I am going to drop a casserole in y’all’s fridge so whether you get home tonight or tomorrow, you’ll have food.

Jack

Keeping my phone on today in case anything comes up. Still think you should have let me send Daphne. She can be there from NYC on one of our jets in less than two hours.

Jack

Seriously, just say the word. It’s never a bad idea to have an attorney when federal court is involved.

Theo

They’ll be ok.

Cami

Not sending a jet, but I am sending only good vibes—good kick-ass, strong and capable vibes.