“Like I said, he didn’t leave me as much as you may think.”

“But he left you what he had.”

“Yes.”

“What happened to the money?”

“It’s a long story.”

And not one she intended to share.

Message received.

He switched gears. “Why come to me—of all people?” He at least deserved an answer to that question.

She watched two seagulls flutter down and snuggle up together ten feet away. “Because you cared for me, once.”

He wasn’t going to fall for the hint of wistfulness in her inflection that suggested she’d harbored feelings for him too, back then. He knew better.

“Like I said, that’s ancient history. Over and forgotten.” He used his most dismissive tone.

She searched his face, her voice soft . . . but certain . . . as she responded. “If that were true, you wouldn’t still be angry with me.”

Checkmate.

Author’s Note

WRITING A NOVEL is a massive—and daunting—undertaking. And the process doesn’t get easier even after 60+ books. That’s why I’m so grateful to all those who share their time, expertise, and experience to help me get the facts and the tone correct.

As has been the case with so many of my suspense books, I relied heavily on FBI veteran and retired police chief Tom Becker, who is always willing to answer my often-complicated law enforcement questions. With his dual background at both the national and local levels, he has been a trusted resource for many years, and I’m deeply grateful for his kind and gracious assistance.

I’d also like to thank Sharri Black, Margarita Flores, and Charles K. Poole for their invaluable insights and suggestions. This book is better because of you.

Heartfelt thanks as well to all those who’ve supported and encouraged me throughout my career—especially my husband, Tom; my mom and dad, Dorothy and James Hannon; the readers who buy my books; and the talented, professional team at Revell, including Dwight Baker, Kristin Kornoelje, Jennifer Leep, Michele Misiak, and Karen Steele.

Looking ahead, in April 2022 I’ll revisit my charming Oregon seaside town of Hope Harbor, where hearts heal . . . and love blooms. You’ll find an excerpt from Sea Glass Cottage at the end of Labyrinth of Lies. And next October, watch for book 3 in the Triple Threat series, when forensic pathologist Grace Reilly enlists the help of a local sheriff after noticing a curious pattern in the autopsies of some elderly residents—and finds herself in the line of fire.

Until next time, be well—and keep reading!

About the Author

Irene Hannon is the bestselling, award-winning author of more than sixty contemporary romance and romantic suspense novels. She is also a three-time winner of the RITA award—the “Oscar” of romance fiction—from Romance Writers of America and is a member of that organization’s elite Hall of Fame.