“Not that I noticed. Tell me who you think it is.”

“No. You’ll just go after him.”

“Damn right. Better hit him before he hits us again.”

“It doesn’t work that way. I can’t tell you who this person is. It was a freak occurrence he was able to get to you and Amy in the first place. It won’t happen again. Besides, I’m going to take care of this situation once and for all.”

“You’ll need my help.”

“You’re the one who needs help. Look who you’re traveling with. The police and FBI think you’re dead. You can move around without fear. But with Amy beside you, you’re exposed. Someone will spot her.”

“I’m aware of that. I’m taking steps.”

“That’s only half the problem. Amy herself is more dangerous to you than the authorities. She was born to hurt you. Even if she doesn’t want to betray you, she will. She can’t help herself. Trust me, it’s her nature.”

“People can change.”

“Amy will never change! And you swore to me you’d stay away from her.”

“I’m really sorry about that. It’s true, you did so much for me and I gave you my word. But for good or bad, I love her. I can’t let her spend the rest of her life in jail.”

“She’s a vampire.”

“We’ll see. Besides, you cannot go to trial. That story you cooked up with your partner won’t hold up under close examination. You were so anxious to help me and get back at Amy that you underestimated the number of loose ends. I’ve been thinking about them all day—there’s just too many holes in your account. Amy’s jumping bail helps you as well.”

“I know the law better than you. I’m willing to take my chances in court.”

“You shouldn’t have to take any chance on our account. My problems with Amy are my problems. You have your own life to live. But you have to let me help you with this Acid Man.”

Kelly chuckled sadly. “You give good advice, but you never listen to it when it is offered to you. Amy is your dragon, this guy is mine. The sad truth is, from here on out, we probably can’t help each other. We have to face our fears. I’ll stop the Acid Man. You get away from Amy.”

“I’ve given some thought to the matter. We’ll see … we’ll see what happens.” He swallowed. “They’re asleep in the next room. I better go.”

She sighed. “Take care of yourself.”

“Thanks. Be careful, Kelly.”

Matt broke the connection, and sat alone with his thoughts.

EIGHTEEN

EIGHTEEN