30

Conrad’s gaze swept from side to side, and then back to the rearview mirror. Someone was out there watching for Maria and he was determined to keep her safe.

Her dark, sultry eyes touched him. It was hard to imagine all she’d been through the past year. And yet she was still sweet, kind, and funny.

Her smile made him believe love was possible for him once again. A sad longing filled him that it wouldn’t be with Maria. She would have to disappear as soon as the FBI released her. Still, she’d awakened emotions that had been dormant since his wife’s death. Love and a full life were possible again. God might still have a few surprises for him.

“So once we get to the hotel the FBI will question you, and when they’re done the U.S. Marshals will escort you back to Zink’s to pick up Layla.”

“I’m so tired of moving.”

A spark of hope ignited, but he immediately extinguished it. “I’m sure you are, but they can keep you safe. That’s the important thing.”

“I suppose you’re right.”

“But I want you to know that no matter where you end up, if you need me, all you have to do is call and I’ll come running.”

“Aren’t those the words to a song?”

“Close enough.” He chuckled. “In fact, go ahead and put my cell phone number into your phone. Right now. That way you’ll always have a way to get hold of me.”

“They won’t let me keep in touch. It’s too easy these days to do an electronic trace.”

“Memorize my number and call from a pay phone, then.”

She nodded, but remained silent.

They arrived at the hotel without incident. He drove to the back entrance. A man and a woman stood by the door.

“That’s Morgan Reed, my liaison with the Marshals.”

“I’ll drop you off, and then park. See you in a minute.” He reached over and squeezed her hand.

Maria rewarded him with a smile and stepped out of the car.