“I’m in love,” Nathan said. He looked at the processed romaine lettuce on the carpet. “Want me to call housekeeping?”

Ferris just stared.

Harvey grabbed Nathan’s handgun from the bed. “Come on, Nathan, let’s get the hell out of here.” Harvey turned toward Ferris, then pointed at the electronic surveillance equipment. “This is bullshit.”

“Easy partner, don’t shoot the messenger.”

“Why not?” Harvey said. “We’ve been open and honest.” He waved a hand at the black boxes. “And this is the thanks we get?”

“It’s just business,” Nathan said.

Harvey grunted and walked out of the room.

Nathan addressed Ferris. “This doesn’t have to go any further than the four of us. We’ll let you save face with Lansing, but we’re onto you now. If you want to know what we’re up to, just ask.” Nathan joined Harv and closed the door behind him. Still rubbing his throat, he sat on the edge of the bed.

Harv was standing at the window, staring at the State Capitol Building. “I’m sorry I snapped at you.” He turned and smiled. “Your mother held you a lot, you were an only child.”

“No, you’re right, I acted childish in there. I didn’t have to spar with her. I could’ve said no.”

“Why didn’t you?”

“Not sure. I’ll tell you what, she’s tough as nails.”

There was a soft knock at the door. They both turned at the same time. Half-expecting to see the hotel manager standing in the hall, Nathan went to the door and peered through the peephole. It was one of their own security guards. Nathan opened the door and the tech handed him a fax. It was from Dr. Fitzgerald at Fort Leavenworth.