Page 67 of True Valor
He ambled to the counter, the deputy closebehind.
“Sure, what do you need?”
“I think you might prefer to have thisconversation in private.”
“Really?”
If there was any question whether there was adifference between a smile and a smirk, Julie had the answer.
“Really.”
He buzzed her back to the offices and led theway.When he didn’t close the door behind her, Julie did.
“Now, what is it, Miss Galloway?”
Julie moved forward, purposely backing him upa bit.
“I know the truth.I know who you are and whoyou aren’t.I know what you’ve done.”
If her words were having any effect, shecouldn’t see it on his face.Maybe his eyes had gotten colder.
“People know I’m here and will be checking inwith me regularly.I won’t be committing suicide, and I won’t behaving any tragic accidents.”A bit of a bluff, but who wascounting?
“I don’t...”
Julie didn’t let him launch into denial.Shetook another step forward.
“Got it?”
When he didn’t answer, she turned on her heeland walked out, smiling sweetly to both the deputy and thereceptionist.
“Have a lovely evening,” she added on her wayout the door.
The colonel was walking in as Nic wasleaving.
“Good to see you back, Nic.”
“Thank you, Sir.”
Mac’s smile faded.“Did things go smoothlyback East?”
“As well as could be expected.Joey’s familyis pretty torn up, Sir.”
“No doubt.He was a good man.You ready tohop and pop on Friday?”
“Yes, Sir.”
“Knock off thesirstuff, Nic, for themoment.Are you really okay?”
“Yeah, I think so.”
Mac slapped him on the shoulder.“Good.Seeyou soon.”
Nic lowered the garage door just as Cruzpulled into the driveway.He pushed the button to open itagain.
“Mission accomplished?”
“Yup.”
