Page 65 of Critical Doubt

"I know enough," Ryker interrupted. "Savannah is smart, insightful, perceptive, and incredibly determined. She's also a loyal friend. The kind of person you want on your side. She is one hell of a woman, and you should be proud of her. Instead of trying to tear her down every time you see her, you should be building her up. You're her father, not her commander, not her boss. Why don't you act like one for a change?"

Her father was bristling with rage by the time Ryker finished, but he seemed to have lost his ability to speak.

She couldn't believe it. The most intimidating person in her life had been rendered speechless. And Ryker had told her father everything she'd always wanted to tell him and more.

"I don't have to listen to this," her father said, stomping away, his back stiff with anger. He blasted through the front door, letting it slam behind him.

Ryker turned to her. "Sorry if I overstepped."

"Are you kidding? I can't believe what you just said."

"I meant every word."

"I so want to kiss you right now."

His eyes darkened. "You probably picked the worst possible time."

"I know. But I owe you one big kiss."

"I'm going to hold you to that." He paused as the elevator opened once more, and Mason rolled toward them in a wheelchair. "But it will have to be later."

Mason gave Ryker an amazed look. "I couldn't believe it when I was told you were here. It's been too long."

"It has," Ryker agreed, leaning over to give him a hug. "My fault, man."

"And mine. I haven't felt much like talking to my old friends."

Savannah was happy to see that Mason didn't appear to be angry with Ryker. In fact, he seemed to understand.

"I know that feeling," Ryker said. "But I do need to speak to you now."

"Sure. We can go to my office after you introduce me to this beautiful woman."

"Savannah Kane," Ryker said.

Surprise ran through Mason's eyes. "You're Colonel Kane's daughter?"

"Yes, I am. It's nice to meet you."

"You, too. What are you doing with this guy?"

"She's helping me figure things out," Ryker answered for her.

"That sounds interesting. I'm getting the idea this isn't just a catch-up visit." His expression went dark. "It's about Todd and Paul, isn't it? I heard what happened. I'm still in shock. It doesn't seem real."

"Unfortunately, it is real," Ryker said. "And we need to discuss what might be going on."

"All right. Follow me."

Mason led them down a long hallway and through an adjoining courtyard, then used his security card to usher them into one of the windowless buildings.

She could smell burning metal and there was a ricochet of sounds that instantly made Ryker wince. She slid her hand into his as they walked behind Mason.

His fingers tightened around hers as they entered a very small office with a desk, computer, and filing cabinet. She quickly closed the door behind them and could feel Ryker's tension ease in the now quiet room.

There was only one chair in front of the desk and Ryker motioned for her to take it. She let go of his hand and sat down.

"This is where I ended up," Mason said, rolling behind the desk. "I review weapons tests and analyze the results."

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