Page 65 of Dangerous Rhythm

Lina smiled. “I’m sure you’ll figure it out.”

“You made major changes in your life when you left the Army. Did that help?”

She looked across the way, contemplating her answer. “Somewhat. But I’ve accepted what and where I am.”

“Are you happy with what and where you are?”

Lina looked at him with a surprised, blank look. “Happy? I’m not unhappy.”

“That’s not the same as happy.”

She shrugged. “It’s where I am.”

They fell into silence, as Curtis didn’t know how to respond further.

“I know it’s not comfortable, but why don’t you try getting some rest?” Lina finally suggested. “I’m going to check in with Carmen.”

He nodded and watched Lina knock on the cockpit door before joining Carmen and her co-pilot in the cockpit.

Curtis realized how vastly different Lina’s life was from his. Though they’d shared major moments in this adventure, when this was all over, could she ever see him permanently in her life?

twenty-seven

Hong Kong—Thirty-something hours later.

Lina looked out of the window as their plane landed. Beyond the brightly lit international airport, dark water and mountains surrounded them. Though she knew in a quick thirty-minute train ride, tall, bright buildings and civilization would welcome them.

After a nearly thirty-hour trip out of Europe, she and Curtis were ready to stop moving for a while. After flying to Dubai with Carmen, she’d arranged for Lina and Curtis to catch rides with her associates through Mumbai and Bangkok before arriving at their destination. She’d strategized between the differentcargo flights, waits, and under-the-table custom necessities; the Stilettos would have a hard time following them this time.

She turned her gaze to the sleeping man sitting next to her. It’d been difficult to rest in these uncomfortable seats, but Curtis hadn’t complained. In fact, he’d become quieter with each leg of their trip, which concerned her.

He can’t go on like this for much longer.

Though the travel, long hours, and minimal sleep weren’t anything new to him, being hunted by a criminal family was taking its toll.

I have to find a way to give him his life back.

She might be used to this nomadic life, not seeing friends and family for months or years at a time. But Curtis couldn’t keep on living this way. He needed his music, friends, and family.

The plane touched down, waking Curtis. His eyes startled open and blinked rapidly as they adjusted to the dim light.

“Are we there yet?” he asked.

“Yes. We’ve arrived.”

It took a little more time to clear their papers. It’d taken some grease to smooth the process, but Lina would do whatever she could to keep Curtis’ arrival under wraps as much as possible.

They were escorted out through the side doors. Outside, her uncle,káuhfúEd, greeted them with a huge smile.

“Lina, you’re here!” he said in Cantonese and slapped her upper arms enthusiastically. “Did everything go well? You could’ve given me more warning. My friend took care of you, didn’t he?”

“Yes, Uncle. He did.” Lina smiled and thanked him. “Do ze.”

“Good.” He beamed.

Lina had gotten word to Ed that she was coming his way but would need some help with discretion. Her uncle was not in her line of work, but he was well-connected. He was the type of guy who knew a guy who could help with something you need. She’dbeen sad when he’d moved away, but she was glad she could call him now.

“Uncle, this is Curtis, my friend.” She turned to the tired but patiently waiting Curtis and explained he didn’t speak Cantonese. “This is my uncle, Ed.”

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