She nodded jerkily. “But I’m not tired. Stop ordering me around. I should be the one in control of this.” Still, she headed for the bathroom and relieved herself before washing up and taking a deep breath. She was feeling a little light-headed, and she took a cup of water from the dispenser and drained it. It wasn’t enough; she drained another one. Then she started back down the aisle, where Tanner was standing beside the keyboard drinking a cup of coffee. “You could have been right. Maybe I was a little tired, but I’m fine now.”

“Good.” He nodded at the tray on the window seat on which he’d set a sandwich and salad. “Sit down, have a bite to eat, and then I won’t object to you playing for a little while longer.” He looked at his watch. “Maybe another two hours before we put this keyboard away. We’ll be landing soon after that.”

“Object? I told you that I’m in control where my music is concerned.” She dropped down on the seat and started to eat the salad. “You were correct, I know how to pace myself.”

“Except this time you were suffering from withdrawal and exhaustion besides a heady exhilaration that might have made the pacing a little off kilter.” He sat down beside her. “Not to mention that you were under severe pressure to blow me away.”

She made a rude sound. “That was no pressure. I knew I could do it once I became accustomed to the instrument. Piece of cake.”

“That’s what Maria told me.” He made a face. “I’m sorry that neither of you considered me a worthy challenge.”

She grinned. “You didn’t stand a chance.” Her smile faded. “Because it wasn’t me, it was the music. I knew it would take you to another place.”

“The music and you,” Tanner said softly. “I’d say you had a little to do with it.”

“Of course I did. I’m part of it.” She took another bite of salad. “I’m meant to be part of it. I’ve always known that.” She glanced down the aisle. “Is Maria all right? We should get her something to eat.”

“She’s fine. I called the cockpit and told Mallory to take care of her. When I left her, she was busy on her computer.” He added dryly, “I gave her a project.”

She gave him a wary glance. “What kind of project?”

“One that I’m sure you’ll approve of.” He took a drink of coffee. “Since she’s the one who initiated it. Ever since I met your mother, we’ve been exchanging information in order to reach a harmonious agreement regarding my proposed participation in getting you both to safety. It’s been very interesting. Particularly since she doesn’t trust me any more than you do.”

“Why should she?” she said fiercely. “You don’t know what she—”

“But I do know, she told me,” he interrupted. “And that’s why I’ve felt she had every right to be suspicious of anyone who crossed her path. I’m a very private person. I’ve been much more open with her than I usually am with anyone. I want you to know I respect her, or I wouldn’t even consider letting her know anything more. I’d put a stop to it.”