“Tanner doesn’t think we have anything to worry about.”

“Then why was he going to leave both of us here while he went to have his chat with Kaskov? You wouldn’t have given me such a bad time if you hadn’t been afraid things would blow up and we might have to go on the run.”

“I just didn’t know.”

“Exactly. Which is why I should be there with you. Does the hotel have good security?”

“As far as I can tell. It seems to have the best of everything. But I haven’t had a chance to check it out. All I saw was the lobby before he took me up to the guest suite at the penthouse. I’ll go look around later after I take a nap. I need it.”

“You sound a bit on edge. I’m not surprised.”

“I’ll feel better once I get a chance to look around.” She paused. “I just wanted to let you know I’m all right…and that I’m sorry I upset you.”

“You’re not forgiven, but I might change my mind if you call me the minute you finish talking to Kaskov.” She added, “And take care when you’re wandering around that place. I’m not only worrying about Kaskov. Tanner’s right about Anton and Volkov being able to zero in on his location now.”

“I know he is. I’ll be careful. Goodbye, Maria.” She cut the connection.

Not too bad. Maria was still upset, but Lara couldn’t blame her; she would’ve felt the same. Still, she could only do what she thought best. She got to her feet. Now to shower, take that nap, and then see if she could get a look around the property before it was time to meet with Kaskov.

*  *  *

The sun was going down.

Lara knew she’d been here too long, but she’d wanted to check out the river walk before she went back to the hotel. She turned away and quickened her pace as she started down the hill.

“Enjoy your walk?” Tanner was standing at the bottom of the hill. “I’m glad you decided to come back and join me. It’s almost time to dress for dinner. Kaskov just checked into the hotel, and you wouldn’t want to miss the fireworks.”

“I hope there won’t be fireworks. And I thought you’d phone me when you didn’t find me in the suite.” She went past him and continued down the hill. “Or you could have just told one of those security men who have been following me around since I left the hotel to come and let me know.”

“I needed a stroll anyway.” He fell into step with her. “When did you notice they were tailing you?”