As Emily sat in the helicopter, she couldn’t believe that she was here, with Tom. It confused her, because Tom was talking with the two helicopter guys for quite a long time. Then they were all laughing and slapping each other on the backs.

He climbed in and took her hand, beaming. “This is going to be great.”

That feeling came over her, the stupid one, but she didn’t want to admit it after last night.

Leaning over, he whispered in her ear. “If you’re having a premonition, don’t freak out. Just go with it.”

Excitement pulsed through her. “What are you up to, Tom?”

“I don’t know, Ems. We need a bit of Christmas magic still, but I think it’s all working out.”

The pilot came and handed them each a monstrous headset. He was doing final checks and giving them safety instructions.

Tom held her close and peered into her eyes as the pilot started the helo. “I love you, Ems.”

Emily thought of the crazy night they’d had last night. She grinned up at him. “When I saw you punch out that guy last night,” she said, squeezing his hand, “I realized I kinda do like the whole firefighter alpha thing you have going on.”

He winked at her. “I know you do.”

The helicopter pilot turned back. “Okay, folks, let’s take off.”

“Wait!”

Emily turned and couldn’t believe her eyes. Brett was running out to the helicopter with another security-looking guy with him.

Brett hopped on. “Emily!” He grinned and reached for her, though she didn’t reciprocate.

Tom puffed out his chest, making it harder for Brett to reach her.

Brett pulled back. “Who are you?”

The security guy pounded the helicopter. “You’re good to go.”

“Wait!” Tom called out, glaring at Brett. “You’re the guy who stood the lady up.”

Brett looked confused, glancing from Tom to Emily and back. Then he shook his head and sat across from them. “You’re the Kent brother. The one she’s been obsessed with since I met her.”

Hearing that made Tom feel good, even if Brett was messing with his plans.

Emily glared at Brett. “Why are you here, Brett?”

“Are we going or not?” the pilot called out.

“Wait a sec, if you don’t mind,” Brett said. “Look, Emily, I don’t know what’s going on, but …” He slipped onto his knee. “I came because I want to marry you.” He pulled a box out of his pocket.

Tom threw his hands in the air. “What? No. No!”

Brett continued. “I haven’t been attentive or there enough, and I’ve been obsessed with my cases, but I do love you, and I want us to be together. Come back to New York with me and let’s get married.”

Emily gaped at him, speechless.

Tom turned to her, letting go of her hand. “What do you want, Ems?” His eyes were like daggers. “What do you want?”

It really wasn’t even a question. She shook her head at Brett and took Tom’s hand. “No, I don’t want you. I found the boy I’ve been in love with my whole life, and I’m not about to leave him behind again.” She peered into Tom’s eyes, overwhelmed by more love than she’d ever believed she could feel.

Tom reached out and gave Brett a little shove that had him almost toppling out of the helicopter. “When she kisses the other guy, it’s time to make your exit.”

“Well.” Brett made some noise, taking off his headset. “So that’s it, Emily?”

“Get off, Brett,” Emily said.

A security guy appeared next to the helo. “Come on, guy. Let’s get you out of here.”

Emily watched Brett go. He flung his head back and yelled, “I’m going to send you a bill for the helicopter!”

The helo took off, and she and Tom looked at each other and burst out laughing.

Tom sighed and held her closer. “Things are always interesting with you, Ems, aren’t they?”