Page 62 of Aussie
They dished out the food, the aroma of smoky brisket filling the kitchen. As they ate, Aussie exchanged a glance with Ava before clearing his throat.
“Christian, Ava, and I have been talking,” he began. “With everything going on, we think it’s best to spend the holidays with my family in Indiana.”
Christian looked between them. His fork was paused mid-air. “But Ava and I were going to have Christmas here.”
“I know,” Aussie said gently. “I know how much you were looking forward to it. But we’re doing this also to keep you both safe while the FBI continues their investigation.”
Christian then surprised him by smiling. “Actually, I don’t care where we are for Christmas, as long as it’s with both of you.”
Ava reached over and squeezed Christian’s hand. “That means a lot, Christian. Thank you.”
Aussie’s chest swelled with pride. This kid was incredible.
“Oh, I almost forgot. We’ll need to let Judge Holten and my boss know what is going on,” Ava said, turning to Aussie. “Christian’s still technically the state’s responsibility. It also might be best to have the FBI Agent there as well.”
Aussie nodded. “I hadn’t thought of that, but you’re right. How soon can you talk to the judge?”
Ava pulled out her phone and typed a quick message. Moments later, she smiled. “Tomorrow morning.”
Aussie raised his eyebrow in question. Did she have judges in her back pocket?
Ava grinned. “Judge Holten is also a good friend of mine. She said she’ll make time for us.”
Relieved, Aussie grabbed his phone and texted Derek. Within minutes, Derek replied, confirming he’d arrange for Agent Jefferson to meet them at Ava’s office at ten.
“After we finish eating, both of you pack your bags,” Aussie said, looking at both of them. “Once the meeting’s over tomorrow morning and everything’s squared away, we’re leaving.”
Christian finished the last bite of his sandwich and stood. “I’ll start packing now.”
Ava watched him go, then turned to Aussie.
“What about your bags? Don’t you need to pack?”
“Snow is packing my bag for me. He said that he’ll drop it off later this evening.”
Ava walked over and wrapped her arms around his waist. “Thank you. For everything.”
Aussie held her tightly, resting his chin on the top of her head. “I’d do anything for you and Christian. You’re my priority now.”
She looked up at him, her eyes glistening. “We’re lucky to have you.”
He leaned down and kissed her, pouring every ounce of his feelings into that single moment. They might have been caught in chaos, but as long as they were together, they’d find a way through it.
CHAPTER TWENTY-ONE
The atmosphere in the conference room at Ava’s office was tense, with a mix of concern and determination reflected in everyone’s expressions.
Around the long table sat Agent Jefferson, Derek, Judge Holten, Clint, Aussie, Ava, and Christian. Ava stayed quiet with her hands folded in front of her while Agent Jefferson took the lead and explained the situation to Judge Holten and Clint.
The room was silent except for Agent Jefferson’s words. Ava could feel the weight of everyone’s concern. Their eyes would occasionally glance toward Christian, who sat next to her. Even Clint, who was normally composed, looked unusually uneasy as his fingers tapped lightly on the table.
As Jefferson laid out the details, Judge Holten leaned forward, her sharp gaze directed at the agent. “And what exactly do you suggest for their protection while they’re away?”
Jefferson nodded. He glanced at Aussie and then went back to the judge. “Aussie will ensure their safety. He has experience with situations like this and is more than capable of handling any threats that may arise. They will also have the backing of the FBI should it be needed.”
The Judge absorbed that, nodding slowly. She then looked at Aussie. “So, you’ll be staying with your family?”
“Yes, Ma’am,” Aussie replied.
