The woman crossed her legs. “Take a step back. Several, really. Look at the situation as if you weren’t personally involved.” She sipped delicately, the mantle of power seeming natural on her slim shoulders clad in a St. John muted jacket. “Henry Wayne Lassiter brutally murdered Force’s sister as the ultimate move in the cat-and-mouse game between them. They shot each other, and Lassiter died. Force moved to the middle of nowhere to fish and kill his liver with alcohol, and then he came back here, still obsessed. He’s cracked. Everyone has a breaking point. Can’t you see that?”

Nari breathed out. “You think he cracked and turned into a serial killer to keep the game alive?”

Opal’s lips turned down. “I don’t like it, but yes. Can’t you see the possibility?”

“No.” Nari would have rubbed her eyes, but she didn’t want to smear her mascara.

“Nari,” Opal said, almost gently. “You must distance yourself from Angus Force right now. Work hard with your new team and prove that you can rise above your emotional problems with Vaughn. I guarantee you’ll see success. And for goodness’ sake, separate your professional and personal lives.”

Nari studied the woman. It was good advice. “As you have?” she asked quietly.

Opal’s smile widened. “You are observant, aren’t you? Yes. As I have. For years, I’ve kept the two parts of my life separate, and yes, I’ve made mistakes in both. Everyone is human, and most mistakes can be overcome. You have that chance now. And I, now that I’m where I am, can take a risk or two for somebody I think is worth it. You’re not there yet, but someday you will be.” She leaned forward. “I’m at an age when I’m tired of being alone. Your father is a good man.”

Nari had to admire the woman’s confidence. “I really do appreciate your advice.” It had been a kindness for the woman to take an interest, even if it was because she was dating Nari’s father. She stood. “I’m supposed to report to Agent Fields’s office to make a statement about the bombing last night.”

“Yes. Say hi to Kurt for me.” Opal also stood and held out a hand.

Nari took it. “Thank you for everything.” She walked toward the door.

Opal’s voice stopped her at the doorway. “Nari? I do want to be your mentor, but I’m also your boss. Just in case I wasn’t clear, I’m also ordering you to cease all interaction with Angus Force and anybody else who was on his team.”

Nari turned. “I see.”