“It seemed a good idea. Even though the police and the FBI will want to run their own show, and I thought it might be dangerous.”

“They will, and it would,” Lynch said. “I’ll handle it. I have contacts both in law enforcement and the underbelly of the criminal hierarchy. I’ll tap Zackoff for info on his contacts in the computer field. I’m sure that he has an amazing collection in every category. We should be able to get it done.”

Kendra felt a rush of relief. “How long will it take?”

He shook his head. “I’ll work fast, but it will take as long as it takes.” He paused. “But I won’t be stalled by having to worry about you. That would get in my way, and I’m not having it.”

She stiffened. “I told you that—”

“You told me you intend to play the sacrificial goat waiting for the tiger. Ain’t gonna happen. We’ll work something else out.”

“You’re giving me orders.”

“Would I do that? I’m telling you that your being here and not at my house will cause me to constantly keep an eye on you. Which would result in a slowdown to any attempt to go forward. Is that what you want?”

“No.” She thought about it. She wasn’t sure that he wasn’t manipulating her, but there was a possibility that it might be true. Lynch was very protective, and she didn’t wish him to have to juggle priorities. “It might be possible.”

“Good.” He finished his coffee. “Go and dress. Pack up a suitcase and any evidence or info that you have. Then we’ll be out of here.”

“Right now? There’s no rush at the moment. You go on home. I’ll come in the morning.”

“It’s morning now—4:22 A.M.” He grinned. “Stop stalling. I’m not leaving until you walk out that door with me.”

And he wouldn’t do it, either, she thought ruefully. As long as she’d already acceded to the demand, she might as well give in on this point. “Okay, but I’ll follow you. I want my own car.”

“Of course you do. I’m not trying to keep you prisoner.”

“I wouldn’t put it past you,” she said dryly. “Just don’t try to put an ankle manacle on me.”

“Perish the thought.” His gaze traveled down her bare legs to her ankles, then her feet. “But it’s very tempting. You have very sexy ankles, and I’ve always liked to see you barefoot. I can remember when you were staying with me after we found out that Colby might be alive. I always looked forward to seeing you pad around, digging your toes in the carpet—”

“Weird. If I’d realized you had a foot fetish, I would have been more careful. I’m glad you let me know.”

He sighed. “Talking nether extremities, I’ve just shot myself in the foot.”

“Yes. Better than putting a bullet in my friend, Sam.” She headed for the door. “I’ll be ready to go in fifteen minutes.”

*   *   *

“DOES THAT SUITCASE MEAN WHAT I think it does?” Beth opened the door as Lynch and Kendra approached. She was fully dressed in jeans and shirt though it was only a little before five. She glanced at Lynch. “You’re Adam Lynch? You should have gotten here sooner if you have that kind of clout with her. We’ve been trying to get her to come ever since she brought Sam here.”

“No clout. I merely appealed to her reason. I assume you’re Beth Avery.” He shook her hand. “Welcome to my home. Or should that be your line?”

She chuckled. “Sam said you were a trifle annoyed that we’d invaded your space. He had to come upstairs and wake me and tell me about it. It sounds like a priceless encounter. I was sorry I missed it when you had him at gunpoint.”

“I’m not,” Kendra said as she closed the door. “You would probably have tried to put Lynch down, and that wouldn’t have been wise. He’s no Bubba, either.”

Beth was gazing appraisingly at Lynch. “I can see that.” She smiled. “It’s lucky that I wasn’t tested. But it might have been interesting. I’ve heard a good deal about you from Kendra, Lynch. And I’ve learned more just by living in your house. I hope you’ll forgive us for intruding.”

He shrugged. “It’s over. You’re no longer an intruder. You’re now guests. I’m delighted to meet you. Both Zackoff and Kendra shared a few interesting stories regarding your rather unique character.”

“Unique. Is that a synonym for weird?” Beth didn’t wait for an answer but turned to Kendra. “I’m glad you decided to come. I need someone to help keep Sam in line. Ever since Griffin got his Quantico computer wonder guy to work with Sam, he’s been slaving night and day to try to get a clear line to Colby. Sims is very sharp, and I think it’s becoming a competition thing.”

“Could be,” Kendra said. “He always has to be best.”

“It sounds like he needs a distraction.” Lynch turned and headed for the office. “I’ll see what I can do to give it to him.”

Beth smiled as she watched him disappear into the office. “A powerhouse,” she murmured. “It’s no wonder he was able to whisk you back here.”

“As he said, he used reason.” She wrinkled her nose. “And the faintest tinge of blackmail.”

“A powerhouse,” Beth repeated as she started for the stairs. “Come on. I’ll show you to a guest room.” She laughed. “Though you know the house far better than I do. I guess I’ve kind of taken control since I got here.”

“And I’m glad you have.” Kendra followed her upstairs. “You’ve been a godsend, helping with Sam. It lifted a giant weight off my shoulders.”

“Then I’m glad I could be here for both of you.” She stopped at a door. “Is this room okay?”

“It doesn’t matter. They’re all great. Lynch made sure of that.” She opened the door and glanced inside. Spaciousness. Luxury. Taste. “It will be fine.” She turned back to Beth. “He’s going to try to find Northrup for us, Beth.”

“I figured that might be in the cards.” Beth gave her a hug. “I’ve got a good feeling, Kendra. We’re all together and safe. We have a strong lead and smart, innovative people to follow it. Maybe the dark days are over.”

“Maybe they are.” Her arms tightened around Beth. Lord, she hoped she was right. Sunlight instead of darkness. Life instead of death. It seemed almost too much for which to hope. But Beth was hoping, and she had to follow her star. She gave her another hug and stepped back. “Just let me unpack and take a shower, then I’ll be downstairs. I didn’t get a chance to even freshen up before I left the condo. Lynch was hovering.”

“I can see how that would be distracting.” She turned back toward the stairs. “Come on down when you’re ready. I’ll start breakfast in forty minutes…”

Kendra closed the door and stood there for a moment.

Maybe the dark days are over.

Colby was the quintessence of darkness, and where he was, there would always be darkness.

But Colby was not here now. So shut him out, don’t let him make her weak and apprehensive. If she could not be positive, she could at least look forward and not back.

And the future was always what you made of it.

Beth was right. They had all the weapons they needed. They had a chance.

All they had to do was reach out and take it.

*   *   *

HIS CHAMBER HAD NEVER LOOKED more beautiful.

Colby thrust his mop into the twenty-gallon cart and stepped back onto the stairs for a better look. The floor and walls were now coated with a thick coat of warm, dark tar, which seemed to capture and absorb all light. The cream-colored embalming table stood in stark relief, almost appearing to float in the void.

Beautiful. Simply beautiful.

He’d been working all night in his chamber, preparing it for his grand finale. It would certainly be the last time he’d ever use it, and he envisioned a spectacular end for a place that had served him well for so many years.

He touched the wall closest to the stairs. The tar there was already hardening and cool to the touch.

Perfect.

Just as the rest would be perfect.

Colby smiled. He had been patient, and now he would have his reward.

After all these years, it was going to happen.