“Interesting artifact,” Sierra said, returning to the counter. She stopped next to North, almost touching him. “I’m surprised you’ve got it on display up here.”

Gwendolyn blinked. “Why is that?”

“It’s hot,” Sierra said. “Feels like lost lab energy.”

Gwendolyn was riveted now. “Do you think so?”

“I’m almost sure of it. If I were you I’d store it downstairs for safekeeping. You know how rumors fly in this business. The raiders wouldn’t hesitate at a quick smash-and-grab operation.”

Gwendolyn relaxed a little. “You’re right. Thanks for the tip. I’ll move it downstairs later. No sense taking chances.”

North glanced at the camera and hesitated a little. Lost lab artifacts were always compelling to anyone who knew the history of the Bluestone Project. But he had a job to do.

Resolutely he turned back to Gwendolyn and opened his mouth to launch into another question. Before he could speak Sierra kicked his foot. He gave a small start of surprise and glanced at her. She ignored him.

“You mentioned you got the radio from an estate sale,” she said.

Gwendolyn waved a hand. “That’s right. There were several artifacts in the collection that were far more interesting.”

Once again North started to insert a question. Again Sierra abused his foot. She smiled at Gwendolyn.

“Did you ask Mr. Chastain why he wanted the artifact?” she said.

“Yes,” Gwendolyn said. “I was curious because he was obviously an expert and I didn’t understand why he would be so interested in it. He told me he thought it might have belonged to one of his grandparents. I realize family heirlooms hold a sentimental appeal for those in the bloodline, but beyond that there was absolutely nothing special about that radio.”

“Yet someone thought it was worth stealing from my dad,” North said.

Gwendolyn sighed. “I understand your concern, Mr. Chastain. I wish I could help you but I honestly don’t know anything else about the radio.”

Sierra narrowed her eyes ever so slightly. “Did Mr. Chastain show interest in any of the other artifacts in your collection?”

Gwendolyn raised her brows. “Yes, he did, as a matter of fact.” She shot North an icy glare and cleared her throat. “He made another purchase.”

North stilled. “Why didn’t you mention that?”

“Because you asked about the object he took with him when he left my shop,” Gwendolyn said, a little too sweetly. “And because you were starting to annoy me.”

Sierra cleared her throat. “Moving right along, please tell us about the other artifact that Mr. Chastain bought.”

Gwendolyn turned back to her. “Of course. I was going to tell you anyway before you left the shop. Mr. Chastain said he intended to return to pick up the other artifact today. But he added that if he didn’t come by, someone from the Foundation might show up to collect it.”

“What happened to the other relic he bought?” North demanded.

“Your father asked me to store it in my vault until he came back for it. If you’ll wait here, I’ll go downstairs and get it.”