Page 219 of State of Suspense

“Enter.”

The chief stuck his head in. “Safe to come into the hornet’s nest?”

“The queen hornet is perturbed.”

Farnsworth came in and shut the door. “Over what now?”

“Captain Ruiz doesn’t do teamwork when she’s not the one calling the shots.”

“Ah, I see. Well, you’re in charge of this operation, so hopefully she’s giving you what you need.”

“Yes, and she’s thrilled about it.”

“Are we all systems go?”

“Yes, sir.”

“Then I’ll leave you to it and hope for the best possible outcome.”

“You and me both.”

At eight thirty, Sam was the last one to be wired in the conference room, with an earpiece that would allow her to monitor the activity of the entire team.

“Thank you,” she said to Ruiz.

“You’re welcome.”

Sam and Vernon followed Ruiz to the Emergency Response vehicle parked outside the main entrance. It looked like a cross between a bus and an oversized fire truck, emblazoned with the MPD logo, which gave her pause.

“This can’t be anywhere near the church,” she said.

Ruiz glanced back over her shoulder. “No kidding.”

“What’s your problem?”

“I have no problems.”

“You could’ve fooled me.”

“I know you’re used to being the boss of everything, but in this truck, you’re under my command.”

Sam laughed, which resulted in a nasty scowl from the other woman. “Whatever you say, Captain.”

“That’s right, Lieutenant. Whatever I say.”

She glanced at Vernon, caught him trying not to laugh and rolled her eyes. “Glad we got that worked out before people’s lives were in danger. Phew, what a relief.”

Ruiz gave her a filthy look and went to the other end of the vehicle.

“What the hell?” Sam asked Vernon as they took seats on one of the benches behind the row of computer terminals where members of Ruiz’s team were positioned.

“She hates you cuz she ain’t you.”

One of the guys sitting behind a computer turned to them. “That’s the truth. She wishes she had your swagger.”

Sam never knew what to say to that. “All I care about is making sure this goes off without a hitch. The rest is just a distraction.”

“Agreed.”

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