Page 126 of Scarlet Angel

Tristan adds, “Someone found the vehicle you dusted. Occupants alive and talking. The world’s taking it as confirmation both of you are still sharing our oxygen.”

“Did they get tags?”

“Yes, they did,” Tristan says. “Which means we need to get you into another vehicle, pronto.”

“I’ve got alternate tags in the back, but?—”

“Your vehicle’s recognizable. Rust and dents. Tags won’t do it, mate.”

Nick’s jaw flexes in irritation.

“We’ve located a garage. You’ll drive in and we’ll have a team waiting for a swap. The mobile you’re on doesn’t have internet, right?”

“Correct.”

“The one we’re tracking you on won’t do. Too many have the number.”

“I suppose that’s true,” Nick says.

“You’ve got some of the best black hats out there tracing you. Extreme caution. Angel, is your mobile turned on?”

“Yes,” I answer, scanning the back for the bag that I packed it in.

“Throw it out the window,” Tristan says.

I thrust myself over the bench seat to dig out the device. Nick’s palm flattens on my bottom.

“What’re you doing?” I ask.

“Making sure you’re stable.”

To be fair, we’re moving well past safe traveling speeds.

“What about you, Falcon? Anything that should be tossed? I’m about to send you an address, but before I do, let’s button you up.”

“I’ve got spares in a bag. Inactive. Never used.”

“Brilliant. Angel, dear, light up a spare. We’re going to pinpoint a location, and you’re going to head in that direction. Bear in mind that if you see a tail, you’ll need to correct course. We’re going to bring you closer to the city proper. Will limit what they’ll do…at least the rational ones. Copy?”

“Copy,” Nick barks.

I locate the spare mobile, and while I wait for it to activate, Nick asks, “This team of yours? By chance, is there a Texan on it?”

Seconds go by without an answer.

“The second mobile’s on. Shall I message the number you called?” I ask, unsure what Nick’s on about, but staying focused even if he can’t.

“No. Let’s zigzag,” Tristan says and repeats a number for me to use.

I message the number and receive a link in return. When I click the link, there’s a blue dot on a map.

“Once we’ve got you, tech won’t be an issue,” Tristan says. “Looks like you’re about twenty minutes out. Could be longer if you get waylaid.”

“I asked about who is on this team getting us in because I need to ascertain the trust level,” Nick says.

“You’ve got my word. We’re getting you out of there.” My breathing slows, and all my attention focuses on the mobile in my hand. The voice is distinctly American. And it’s one I’ve heard before. But it can’t be.

The car spins slightly…or it’s my head that’s off-kilter.

---