Some of the tension gripping Sydney’s back released. “That’s great.”
“Let’s talk.” Her mom eyed Sydney’s wig, then her loose-fitting shirt. “Are you armed?”
Sydney lifted the oversized shirt revealing a belly band holster, her SIG Sauer at the ready. “And I’ve got one strapped to my ankle.”
“Good girl,” Mark said. “Caroline?”
Caroline pulled aside her leather jacket to reveal her holstered gun tucked under her arm.
“Excellent,” he said as he hugged his youngest hello.
“Let’s catch up for a few,” her mom said before moving toward the kitchen table.
The two sisters exchanged glances. Her mom sat ramrod straight. Yes, she had amazing posture, but the woman looked like she was holding court.
Here come the questions.
“We only have thirty minutes,” began their mom. “Aunt Valerie is coming for dinner and she has a surprise.”
“Maybe it’s her homemade fudge or brownies,” Sydney said.
“Those brownies are the best,” Caroline said.
“She told us to set an extra plate,” her dad said.
Sydney’s shoulders fell. “No fudge.”
“No brownies.” Caroline made a sad face.
Their dad pulled a pitcher of iced tea from the fridge.
As he got busy pouring four glasses, Mom said, “Dad and I think she has a new boyfriend.”
Years earlier, Aunt Valerie’s husband had died. To Sydney’s knowledge, she kept busy with work and stayed away from the dating sites.
Her dad set out the filled glasses before joining them at the kitchen table. “We missed you, Sydney.”
Sydney raised her glass. “Love you guys.” They toasted, then sipped the cold drink.
“How long are you home?” her mom asked her.
“No idea,” Sydney answered.
“Why the wig?” her dad asked.
“Bad hair day,” she replied, and Caroline barked out a laugh.
“Sydney, please,” her mom pushed back.
Sydney glanced from her mom to her dad, then paused on her sister who offered an encouraging nod.
“Someone on my team with was gunned down, so I’ve beentoldto lay low.”
Her mom flew to her side, pulling her into a hug. “Honey, I’m so sorry.”
Sydney had to stay strong, so she threw back her shoulders and said, “Thanks. She was a great Op and a good friend.”
As Kathrine sat back down, Sydney said, “I’m not staying at the condo, but I’m safe.”
