Page 86 of Hidden Chance

“You have to admit, she’s looking good,” Hannah said.

Peter gave her a look. “Shouldn’t you be on my side? I got Robby to agree to you coming.”

“That’s because I should be going, and so shouldJemi. There are only two of you experienced in this kind of thing. Why not make it a third?”

“Wait a sec,” Robby said. “Jemi, you’re ex-special forces?”

“In a manner of speaking. It’s been a while. I’m not stupid. I know I’m not capable of going into the field just yet, but I can definitely give you support. And it means we can be together. Just imagine snuggling up to me on the plane ride over.”

Peter scrunched up his face, and Jemi laughed.

“That’s it. I got him.”

“That’s only because you know all my weaknesses. It wasn’t a fair fight.”

“I can live with that.”

“And I’m going to hold you to your promise not to go out into the field. You and Hannah can keep an eye on each other, and neither one of you will be going anywhere near anything resembling danger.”

She looked at Hannah, and the side of her mouth curled in a smile. “Deal.” When she held her hand out for Peter to shake, he squinted at her, then stabbed at a bean on his plate with his fork, shoving it awkwardly in his mouth.

Chapter 21

Hannah closedher eyes and lifted her face to the hot sun when she stepped outside of the airport.

“You’ve missed this?” Robby asked, walking up beside her.

“Yes and no. It still feels like coming home. Or maybe it’s just nostalgia.”

“Do you think you’ll ever come back to live?”

“Don’t know. But probably not.” She took a deep breath. “Thanks for bringing me. I didn’t realize how much it would mean, being here again.”

“I’m not sure I had an option, but now that you’re here, I’m glad you came.”

“You guys ready?” Peter slapped Robby on the back. The years had faded off him on the way over, and Jemi continued to improve. “The van taking us to the hotel is over there.”

“Thanks for organizing this part of the trip,” Robby said. “It helps to have local connections. I know some people in the area, but not this close.”

“I’m glad I could lend a hand, but wait until you see the hotel. You will be very impressed.”

“Didn’t know they had five-star accommodation here.” Robby chuckled. “Last time I was here, I spent a lot of time sleeping outdoors.”

Peter rubbed his hands together. “You’re gonna love it. I had to pull a few strings, but I’m very pleased with the result.”

“Can we visit the school first?” Hannah said.

“What school?”

“I know everyone’s tired, but after hearing about what Robby found. I need to see it. I want to know what TreadCraft has been doing.”

“Hannah,” Robby said. “Are you sure? I think it will upset you.”

“I know. It will. But I need to see for myself.”

“I’m up for it if the rest of you are,” Jemi said.

Peter shook his head. “You astound me. Onlyyouwould be ready for more after rising from the dead.”

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