Page 90 of Facing the Enemy

“You’re right, but I’m at fault too. I should have called off the whole thing before we even got started, especially after Luke’s brutal death.” I rubbed a day’s beard growth on my chin. “At the moment, all I have is the mobile pet-grooming van’s plates.”

“A woman drove it, right?”

“Yes, older.”

“Emily Lock in disguise?”

“Could be.”

Risa stared at the door leading into the building. “I’ll request the SAC replace me with another partner for at least this case.”

I had no words to comfort her. All the complimentary things she’d said about my patience and encouragement just went up in flames. Literally. My greatest fear of losing her had almost happened.

“We need to get inside and face the SAC.” I guided Ethan to the entrance. I’d used poor judgment ... because I loved her. Like a fool, I’d let my emotions ignore what should have smacked me in the face.

Yep. Agents involved in a relationship shouldn’t work together.

48

The debriefing with the SAC dissolved Risa’s and my confidence as human beings. Not that we didn’t deserve a good rear chewing. His face and tone matched the inferno we’d left behind near Starbucks.

“Agent Jacobs, didn’t I tell you not to make me regret my concessions to you?”

“Yes, sir.” Risa maintained the formality and respect I’d come to appreciate from her, but my frustration didn’t lessen.

“Then why set up Ethan Mercury to be hurt or murdered? Did I miss your call for backup? Putting innocent people in danger? Resulting in blowing up a perfectly good Jaguar?” He leaned over his desk, his Adam’s apple bouncing in overtime.

If not for the circumstances, I would have laughed with the ribbing about the Jaguar. Not today.

Risa stiffened. “I didn’t think Florakis would react so violently. I thought he’d merely call Mercury after hearing our conversation and demand another list of client info.”

“And?”

“Florakis texted Mercury with a client list after the explosion.”

“Do you think jeopardizing others’ welfare made it all worth it?” The SAC’s voice thundered around the room.

“I’m not sure, sir.”

He leveled his finger at her. “Do you want to keep your job?”

“Yes, sir.”

“I want an appointment made today with one of these psychologists.” He handed her a piece of paper. “Until I see the report of your mental stability to return to work, you keep your rear in the office.”

“Yes, sir.”

“Now get out of my office. Before you leave today, I want the paperwork completed in detail regarding today and sent to my inbox. I don’t care if it takes you all night. Understand?”

“Yes, sir.”

“One more thing, tomorrow afternoon, your apartment will be free for you to move back in. I received notice that the cleaning crew will be finished by then.”

“Thank you. Is someone with Luke’s widow?”

The SAC’s face softened. “Her parents, and she’s under a doctor’s care. A memorial service is scheduled for Friday at ten. You’re dismissed.”

She stood and left without another word. The door closed behind her.