“And since when have you paid attention to Tanner?” Mallory took a step forward so that he was between the weapon and Maria. “And evidently neither does this lady. You’ve met Maria Balkon? She insisted on me bringing her to see you.” He held up his hand. “And Tanner doesn’t know or approve. I didn’t think it would make any difference to you.”

“It doesn’t.” His gaze was back on Maria. “You’re just the mother. You’re not important to me. Take her back, Mallory.”

She took a step forward. “Yes, I’m Lara’s mother.” She looked him in the eye. “And Mallory isn’t going to take me back until I get what I want from you. And I could be important to you, if I decided it was worth my while, you chauvinistic bastard. So put that huge toy gun you’re playing with away and give me what I want. I’ve been abused by experts and you’re not even close to making me afraid.”

“Maria,” Mallory murmured.

She ignored him and took another step closer to Rennell. “You want to get rid of me? Tell me what I want to know.”

Rennell’s expression was enigmatic. “And what do you want me to tell you?”

“You threatened my daughter. I want to know if you meant it or if you were using the threat to strike out at Tanner. I don’t know anything about the two of you, but Lara is not going to be caught because of this Sandrino. She’s been a pawn too long. Which is it?”

“Why should I tell you?”

“Because I’ll do everything I can to help you, if you answer the way I want you to. If you tell me you’d willingly hurt her, I’ll find a way to kill you.”

His brows rose. “I’m the one holding the gun.”

“But Mallory is here and there’s always next time.”

He suddenly smiled faintly. “That’s true. I’m beginning to believe you might be formidable. Except you won’t know if I’m lying to you.”

“Yes, I will. I’ve had experience with liars all my life. I can tell the difference. But you’ll be very difficult. That’s why I want you to let me stay with you for a little while this morning. Show me your target range. Let me see your house. Talk to me.”

“And why should I go to that bother?”

“Because I mean what I say. Because if you convince me, I can convince Lara to help you. Because you might actually be a decent man. You evidently cared for Sandrino.”