“It stands for our combined DNA indexing system. There’re millions of profiles in it. Many Interpol member countries are also using the CODIS program. We can reach well beyond our own borders.”

“Sounds high-tech.”

“It is. High-speed computers have really improved turnaround time. But with all such systems, they’re only as good the people operating them. We’ve got a great team in our lab at Quantico.”

“No doubt. When are you leaving for Sacramento?”

“Within the hour. I’m flying up there with Lansing in the Lear. He wants a tour of our renovated field office. There’s a bright side to all of this,” she said.

“What’s that?”

“Grangeland. She’s not going anywhere.”

“Speaking of, where is she?”

“I gave her the day off.”

“Smart move, given who’s in town.”

“I’m not comfortable concealing her involvement, but I’m more uncomfortable not having her support you. She’ll get in touch. Or you can call her.”

“Well, I guess this is good-bye for now.”

“Nathan.…”

“I know. I promise, no unnecessary risks.”

“I hate good-byes.”

“Me too.”

“I’ll call if anything turns up on the dead mercs.”

She gave him a kiss and a gentle embrace, then left the room.

Nathan leaned back and stared at the ceiling. Why had Holly become so important to him?

The answer scared him.

Chapter 24

Chapter  24

For the second time in as many days Nathan awoke feeling disoriented and parched.

Quickly he got his bearings. His La Jolla home. On the floor. In his bedroom. Grant and Sherman at his side.

He reached up to his nightstand and grabbed the bottled water. The clock indicated 1910 hours. He thought about Nichole Dalton’s daughters. Too much time was passing. He needed to get moving. He sat up too quickly and the room spun.

“Easy, partner.”

Harv. He focused on the chair near the closet. “How long?”

“A few hours.”

“You been sitting there the entire time?”

“I’ve been catching up on some reading. You know, you could’ve slept in your bed. No one would hold it against you. You were shot in the head.”

“Don’t remind me. Is that a pistol in your lap?”

“Don’t get excited.”

“Are the SWAT guys still here?”

“Yes. Apparently, they’re not going anywhere. I guess our reputation precedes us. Holly said they had more volunteers than they could handle from the San Diego field office alone once the word got out that the Lone Ranger had been shot. You could’ve ducked, you know?”

Nathan stood, feeling stiff and sore.

“Do you feel nauseous at all?”

“I’m fine.” He squinted in thought.

“What?”

“The dead mercs from last night.”

“What about them?”

“I want to see the bodies.”

“Why?”

“We might be able to confirm they were Montez’s men.”

“You have doubts about that?”

“Yeah, I do.”