Cain gazed at Emma and smiled. Her wife had become a very wise woman in their time together, and she leaned in and kissed her for using her head. If she was a gambling woman, she’d bet the pub there was a listening device under the table. Emma’s time with her had taught her plenty, and the first thing when it came to dealing with the feds was never to underestimate them. She didn’t have to look to see if there was a bug—it was there, operational, and Emma had given them nothing. She was the perfect partner.

“I’m sure they’ll be thrilled to see each other in a week,” Cain said. “It’ll be nice to just have the family around, though, so it’ll be a quiet week.”

The non-couple nodded and gave quick, uncomfortable smiles before they left, Taylor practically dragging Drew from the club.

Cain signaled to Josh, and the band started up again, and Emma moved back to her lap. Another round of drinks came, and if whoever these people were wanted to listen in, they’d get everything they wanted when she started singing along.

“We need to do this more often, honey,” Emma said into her ear.

“Whenever you like, lass. We’re due a little fun.”

They stayed another hour only because Muriel and Kristen joined them. Their conversation revolved around Kristen’s school schedule, and Cain teasing Muriel about helping her with her homework.

“Baby, if anyone should be blushing, it should be me, not you,” Kristen said, kissing Muriel’s cheek. “And thanks for inviting me to tag along.”

“You’re family now, so of course you’re coming,” Emma said. “Once you get a load of all the cousins together, you might run screaming for the hills.”

“I’m not going anywhere, don’t worry. It took me long enough to get this one not to see me as just some kid with a crush, so nothing scares me.”

“Careful with this one, cousin,” Cain said. “She might be the one who breaks you of your solitary ways. Come on,” she added, patting Emma’s bottom. “Let’s get some sleep before we have to peel the kids off the ceiling.”

“I’m sure they’re in bed,” Emma said.

“Um, what’s their last name again?” Muriel tapped her chin with her index finger.

“Good point,” Emma said, shaking her head. “Let’s go, Casey, so I’ll have someone to blame when I have to ground everyone in the house.”

“You know I’ll plead the Fifth.”

Emma pinched her cheeks and laughed. “I wouldn’t expect anything else, lover.”

Chapter Seven