Page 50 of Hidden Depths

“That’s weird.”

“It is. Maybe it’s the storm brewing out at sea. It’s made everyone jumpy.”

“Is there a storm coming? I noticed the humidity but hadn’t checked the forecast.”

“Apparently they expect it to make landfall over the next couple days if it keeps moving in the same direction.”

“That’s fine. I came in on a bus. I can go out on a bus.”

“It’s not ideal.”

“Why not?”

“I don’t like the idea of it taking so long for you to reach Peter.”

“If you prefer, I could stay here.”

“There’s no way I’m letting you stay.”

“Then bus it is.”

“Do you have everything you need?”

She held up her bag. “Is it sad I can fit everything in here?”

“By sad I take it you mean pathetic? No. It’s the life you’ve been forced to live. But does it make you sad?”

“A little. But for the first time in a long time, I feel really good.”

“Even after your encounter earlier?”

“Amazingly, yeah. It’s unexpected. But if this is what it takes to move on with my life, then I’ll take bitter if it comes with sweet. It will be worth it in the end.”

“We should get going.”

“Thank you for everything.”

“It’s my job.”

“I know. But you’re off duty.”

“It’s better this way. I’m no good at relaxing, remember?”

“Will you relax at all after I go?” She smiled, already knowing what he would say.

“No way. I’ll stay with you until your bus leaves. Then I’m going to find out what these guys are up to and do everything in my power to bring them down.”

His tone was so intense it moved her. “That means a lot.”

“Like I said, it’s my job.”

She wished he’d stop saying that. But it was the truth. She’d get over the fact that, whileshestill felt like they were on a date, he’d moved on and was an FBI agent once again, doing his duty to protect a civilian.

* * *

Tom pressed his hand against Sara’s back as they approached the bus depot, gently driving her forward as he scanned their surroundings.

He went over in his head how his trip had taken a turn. He’d thought God was using Sara to open him back up to the world around him, but it was only to keep her safe. That was fine. Allowing his work to be his life was what a lot of agents did. It might get him into hot water now and then, but at least he was saving lives. Everything else could take a backseat.

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