He hesitated. “Amy’s not with me. But Jimmy’s here.”

“Where is she?”

“Let’s just say you’ll read about her in the papers.” He added, “But I didn’t hurt her. You have to know that.”

“Of course. I know you. As long as you and Jimmy are all right.”

“We’ll be all right now, thank you. How’s the Acid Man?”

“He’s sitting two feet in front of me. He wants to talk to you.”

“What?”

Kelly lowered her voice. “He’s dying. He’ll be dead in a few minutes. Talk to him, it can’t hurt.”

“All right.”

A raspy voice came on the line. “Matt Connor?”

“What can I do for you?”

“First off I would like to apologize for that fright you had last night in Utah. Kelly says she’s told you about my history. I was just trying to help solve your girl problems.”

“I can take care of my own problems.”

“I understand. I overheard what you said to Kelly right now. I take it Amy is no longer in the picture?”

“She has left the picture. What exactly can I do for you?”

The man chuckled. “Nothing. Just wanted to say hi to a fellow warrior. You may not know this, but you and I have fought similar battles. I admire your style. I only wish I could say I was as successful as you. I wouldn’t be in the predicament I’m in now.”

“Are you really dying?”

“Kelly is bleeding me to death. Tough chick, wouldn’t you say?”

“Yes. But inside she has a heart of gold.”

“Good to talk to you, Matt. Watch out for those women. They can kill you.”

“I know.”

The Acid Man gave the phone back to Kelly.

“Matt,” she said softly. “How’s your heart?”

“It went the way you predicted. She was no good. But we’re okay.”

“You’ll do great.” She added, “I wish I didn’t have to say goodbye.”

He understood. “We were lucky. Our paths crossed at a critical time and we were able to help each other. I’ll remember you for a long time.”

“I’ll remember you until the day I die.” She sniffed. “Love you.”

“I love you, Kelly. Take care of yourself.”

He set down the phone and sat for a long time in silence. Jimmy sensed his mood and remained quiet. The night was warm and comforting. So was the sound of his heart as it beat in his chest. At least now it could heal. He decided to drive back to the West Coast and see his mother. He would explain everything. She would be overjoyed to see him. Perhaps she would travel with them to New Zealand. She had always wanted a grandson.

In the distance he heard a scream. A woman falling.

The scream did not last long. The silence returned.