Not an unwarranted accusation, but from the way Jaz stiffened, I could tell he didn’t like being reprimanded.

“We’re fine,” I said. “When you called, we had to leave lunch, so we’d planned to grab something to eat together later, but obviously that’s not going to work, which is understandable under the circumstances.”

“All right then. I’ll make sure you get fed before tonight, but a tête-à-tête is out of the question. This is going to be a delicate operation and I need you both on task. Completely on task.”

“We will be.”

“Good. Take five minutes, Faith, while Bianca and I talk to these guys, then I want you back here.”

“Yes, sir.”

I WAS COMING back from the restroom when I saw Jaz pacing outside Guy’s door.

“All done?” I said. “Then it must be my turn.”

He reached for me before I could pass. “Don’t worry. I’m not going to spirit you off into a corner. Guy’s already miffed, so I won’t make it worse. I just wanted to say…” He looked around, then pulled me closer. “I just wanted to say I’ll make it up to you.”

I grinned. “I’m counting on it.”

I expected him to grin back, but his face stayed serious, eyes meeting mine. “I mean it, Faith. I’ve screwed up, and I know that. Getting ahead of myself. I…do that a lot. I can’t help it. But when this is over, I’ll make it up to you.” He paused. “Ever heard of Nikki Beach?”

I shook my head.

“It’s a bar on a private beach with beds and teepees. When this is done, that’s where I’m taking you. Dinner, dancing, relaxing on the beach, then off to the best damned hotel I can find. No more making out on a bar stool or a restaurant floor. I’m going to do it right. Make it special.”

I shivered, lifted onto my tiptoes and brushed my lips across his. “I can’t wait.”

HOPE DILEMMA

HOPE

DILEMMA

Guy wanted to discuss the job. He and Bianca would be doing most of the searching, but as long as I was there, I would help, meaning I needed to know what they were looking for. So I thought I’d at least find out the target’s address, maybe his name.