“There’s no need to thank me. I just hope your dad gets better.”

“You’re really sweet. How’s work going for you?”

Juan thought of his wrecked apartment, the fact that AgriMed had felt the need to assign security to him, and the concern that someone might have stolen pieces of his work.

“Oh, everything’s going great at work. Just really been slammed.”

“I understand what you mean. I’m back to school next week, and it’s going to be hectic. I’m taking two rather nasty weed-out classes that are supposed to be killers.”

“Well, if you need any help, just let me know.”

Kathy laughed. “I couldn’t do that. But maybe when we both have time, we can go do something relaxing. Like catch a movie or something.”

Juan’s heart skipped a beat. Did that mean she was interested? Of course, it was more likely that she was merely grateful for his help.

“I’d really love that. Just name a time and I’ll work it out.”

Through the phone connection, Juan heard someone talking in the background and he said, “Hey, I got to get going. Go spend time with your parents and I’ll see you when you’re in town.”

“I will,” Kathy said. “I’ll call you when I’m back in DC. Bye.”

The line went dead and Juan turned his attention to his phone contacts. Juan felt more trepidation over his next call—to Steve Chalmers. He wanted to thank him for helping Kathy’s dad—and also to ask him about why he left AgriMed.

But when he dialed Steve’s cell phone, he got a recording. “You have reached a number that has been disconnected or is no longer in service. If you believe you have reached—”

Juan ended the call.

What’s going on with you, Steve?

###

Nate walked into his supervisor’s office and took his seat just as the phone on Jeff’s desk rang. The gray-haired man tapped the speakerphone button. “Binghamton.”

“Jeff, it’s Paul Hutchison, long time no talk.”

“Oh shit, Chief Hutchison? Is that really you? It’s been what, ten years?”

Nate turned to go, but Jeff motioned for him to sit back down.

“Yeah, well, you know me. I don’t screw around and make random social calls. But I think I’ve got something that needs your attention.”

“Okay. What’s up?”

“Well, I’ve moved into the private sector, working as head of security for a pharmaceutical company called AgriMed. Anyway, let’s just say I’ve got a lead for you.”

“A lead? For me?” Jeff yanked open a desk drawer and grabbed a pen, while Nate pulled a small notebook from his jacket pocket and prepared to take notes. “Okay, Chief, I’ve got paper and pen.”