When I’m able to speak, I ask, “How did you know to do that?”
He brushes away the tear that slips out. “My sister. She had panic attacks for a while after my Da died. I was the only one who could calm her down. Now, can you tell me what triggered this?”
My eyes fill with tears again as I relay the conversation with Detective Morrow. I focus on his face, his eyes tethering me to the here and now.
“He told me I’ll have to testify in court,” I say. “Obviously, I’ll do whatever they need me to, but I don’t think I’m strong enough to be in the same room as him.”
Still kneeling in front of me, he grips my hands in his. “Listen to me, Acushla. You are not only strong enough, but you’re brave enough to do this. And you won’t be alone. There’s no way in hell I’ll let you be anywhere near him without me present. I’ll be with you through it all. If we have to travel back to Missouri a hundred times, so be it. I, personally, won’t rest until this fucker is in prison.”
“Thank you,” I whisper.
“I’m not going anywhere, love,” he says, kissing my forehead and stroking my hair comfortingly. “Do you want to go to Paddy’s for a distraction? It’s been a while, and I know he always makes you smile.”
“He does make me smile, but I’m not exactly ready,” I gesture to my sweatpants.
“So go get ready. You look good enough to eat to me,” he winks, “but if it makes you feel better, do it. I’ll ring the crew and have them meet us there.”
I love this man. Not only does he soothe my panic attacks, but he knows just what to say to bring me back to myself.
“Okay, deal.”
I have the immense satisfaction of watching Eamon’s eyes widen and jaw drop when I walk out of the bathroom in a black cable-knit sweater dress that sits mid-thigh and knee-high black boots. My hair is twisted up into a sleek ballerina bun at the top of my head, showcasing a pair of diamond studs that belonged to my Mom.
Clearing his throat, he slides off the bar stool and slowly stalks towards me.
“I take it back,” he says roughly. “We don’t need to go anywhere tonight. Ihave better ideas involving you and these boots.”
I giggle as he grips my hips and pulls me to him.
“I didn’t put on a full face of makeup just to stay home, Kennedy. But don’t forget that idea for later.” I pat his chest with a hand.
“I don’t think forgetting will be an issue while you’re wearing this, Acushla,” he growls in my ear. “I feel underdressed now.”
“You’re definitely not. You look ridiculously sexy. In fact, if you wanted to wear this leather jacket all the time, I wouldn’t complain,” I tease.
I hadn’t noticed what he was wearing until just now. His black leather jacket covered up a light blue shirt that looks like it’s plastered to his toned body. It makes his eyes pop.
“Yeah? I’ll wear it on the pitch then too?”
I cock my head to the side and purse my lips in mock consideration. “Maybe not while you’re playing, but when we go out, I demand it.”
“Your wish is my command,” he chuckles as he presses a kiss to my forehead. “Shall we go?”
“We shall,” I answer.
Eamon
“Norah, lass! It does my soul good to see you this fine evening!” Paddy exclaims, embracing her warmly. “You look lovely as ever.”
“Thanks, Pat. I’ve missed you,” Norah says, hugging him back.
He looks over his shoulder at me then. “Hello, lad! I wondered when I’d be seeing your ugly mug again. I’ve a list a mile long of things for you to do once you’re on holiday break.”
“‘Course you do,” I say, rolling my eyes before pulling him in for a hug. “How ya gettin’ on, Pat?”
“Ach, grand!” he says, practically dancing a jig. “My oldest boy is coming home for Christmas, and I couldn’t be happier!”
“That’s wonderful!” Norah tells him. “You’ll have such a great time!”
