“You know the answer. Not only was he a law unto himself, but he knew how independent you are. He encouraged it from the minute he brought you here. Like to like.” He paused. “It was the same with me. I asked no questions when he drove out the gate that last day. But I’m asking them now, Tanner. And you’re the only one left I can ask. Find me someone else who knows more, and I won’t bother you again.” He turned on his heel and strode down the path.

Tanner stared after him for a moment before he finished his whiskey and turned toward the French doors. He had learned more about Rennell tonight than he had all the years he’d known him. Considering how wary they both were, it was no surprise. But evidently it was going to change, he thought wearily. And why not? Maybe it was time. After all, they had Sandrino in common.

It had been one hell of a night and it wasn’t over yet. Volkov and Balkon had his name, and that made him vulnerable. He’d have to contact his casinos and put his supervisors on alert to protect his assets. He’d already lost men in Stockholm and one here tonight because he’d taken on this extraction. He didn’t want there to be any other deaths or complications before this was over.

He glanced up at the windows of the suites on the second floor.

Don’t think about her. Out of bounds.

Hell, easy to say. He could still feel the touch of her finger on the curve of his lip as she explored…

Get to work. Don’t think about it.

Chapter 9

Chapter
9

9:20 A.M.

Why didn’t you wake me?” Maria asked when Lara had finished telling her about the attack on the airport. “Why wait until this morning to tell me? You must have been frightened.”

“I was at first. But then I thought this morning would do as well. Why disturb you? Tanner told me that we were still safe here. That was all that was important.”

“And you believed him?”

She nodded. “He told me right away. He kept his promise. Hell, he pulled me out of bed to tell me. Yes, I believed him.” She paused. “He doesn’t want to hurt us, Maria. I told you about his friend Sandrino.”

“Which means he has a stronger reason than cash to bargain with Kaskov.” Maria’s gaze was searching her face. “You’ve taken that into consideration?”