Page 16 of Hard to Kill
Slater nodded. “I’ll revel in that publicity. It’s the least I can do for our mutual friend Aimes.”
“I wish I could see his face when he realizes you’re alive.” She reveled in the thought.
General Slater grinned evilly. “I intend to enjoy that.” He sobered. “And, Captain Adams, I’m glad to help you avoid publicity, if you’re sure that’s the way you want it.”
“I do. You’ll look dashing in a fedora for the photo op.”
“Afedora? God, no. How about an Army cap?”
“With all your insignia?”
“Allow me some modesty. I’ll wear my stars.”
Tongue in cheek, she said, “Thatismodest,”
For all his declared intention to hunt out a meal, he lingered and looked at her far too perceptively. “Where will you go now?”
“I’ll check on my team members who are still in the hospital. Then I guess I’ll head to Washington State—see if I can enjoy some open spaces for a while.”
“I was hoping you’d stay. It has been nice having a woman in the house again. I’d be happy if you would remain a part of my life.”
A proposition, or even a proposal, nicely rendered, without undue pressure. Kellen knew now she could trust him not to hurt her, and with a man like this, her life would be pleasant and easy.
But no. She wasn’t ready for a relationship. She didn’t know if she ever would be again.
Gently, Kellen touched his arm. “General, I will always be your friend.”
9
Kellen sat back in the leather seat and accepted the glass of pinot noir from the flight attendant. She had never traveled first class before. The gate agent had said something about her status as former military, but Kellen suspected that General Slater might have had something to do with it.
Wrapping her complimentary blanket around her legs, Kellen reviewed the news stories on her computer. She found an article inThe Timesout of London about the flurry surrounding a Rubens painting called “Raising of Lazarus,” found by US Army Major Brock Aimes and examined by the Victoria and Albert Museum. Before the reward could be granted, the painting was found to be the work of a master forger. The official was held on suspicion of trying to trick the museum with a fake masterpiece. In addition, the article noted, in a sensational scene, Aimes had been accused of attempted murder by his commanding officer and faced military court-martial.
Kellen smiled out the window at the clouds and sky.
What a delightful end to that story.
She remembered what General Slater had said to her on the curb at the airport in Munich.
“Kellen, I’ve kept my promises. You have your medical discharge. The Victoria and Albert Museum declared the Monets are authentic, and James and Laurie Roy recently received a visit from two officers stationed near their home in Nebraska. They were informed that while nothing could replace their child, the United States Army was proud to present them with a hefty sum because their son’s efforts to decode his great-grandfather’s diary had led to the recovery of priceless works of art.”
“Very good, sir!”
“Yes, I thought you’d like that last part—since you didn’t want the credit, anyway.”
“I’m delighted for the Roy family. Thank you.”
“You have your portion of the reward. What will you do with such a sum?” Once again, he was watching her too perceptively.
“I’ve earmarked it for a particular project.”
“I thought that might be the case... I hope you keep a little of the money for yourself. It will give you a sense of security as you interview for that position you mentioned—what was it? Assistant manager at Yearning Sands Resort?”
“Yes, sir.”
“No need to call me ‘sir’ anymore, Kellen. I’m not your superior officer now. I’m your friend, and that’s an honor I recognize. From now on, you can call me Lawrence.” Slater offered his hand.
Kellen shook it. “Thank you, Lawrence. I’ll let you know if I’m ever back in Germany.”
“Have a safe trip back home.”
She felt his gaze on her all the way into the airport.
Now, as she sat in her comfy seat on the plane and looked out the window at the darkening sky, she contemplated where her reward had been sent, and she smiled.
* * *