Uncle Chris’s frown reversed into a smile. “I know. Sven told me he found your killer all tied up and you passed out nearby, out of reach. Nice job.”
“Thanks.”
“But maybe next time take out the perp before you lose consciousness.”
“I don’t take out people. And I was drugged.”
“That’s no excuse.”
She gritted her teeth. Raine really owed her for picking up their uncle.
“Now, what’s this about a date with Matthew Scott?”
She swore, ignored his laughter, and pressed harder on the accelerator despite not knowing where her uncle wanted to go.
“It’s not a date.”
“That’s not what I heard. Oh, and take me to the ferry.”
“Fine.”
They drove in silence for a few moments before he took pity on her and teasingly said, “I’m told you get this exact look on your face whenever anyone mentions your ex-boss. I’m sorry. I had to see it for myself.”
She managed a grunt, which made him laugh.
“The guys are so going to get it when I see them again.”
“Actually, I heard glowing reports on Matthew Scott, so you have my blessing.”
She said, “I don’t need it” at the same time he said, “Not that you need it.”
Jane blew out a breath, trying to keep her cool. “First, I’m told toget a social life. And when I do, I’m given the third degree. I’m thirty-one, Uncle Chris.”
“And such a pretty thirty-one.”
She gave him the evil eye, which had him grinning so hard she feared he’d lock his jaw.
“You just like to screw with me, don’t you?”
“I admit I do.” He studied her. “You look good. On another hunt, I hear.”
“Yeah. And this one’s got deep roots in something broader. I can feel it.”
“Tell me.”
She did, and as she pulled up to the ferry terminal, her uncle gave her a warning she heard on more than one level.
“Do me a favor, be careful. Whatever you find, let me know. If for some reason you can’t find me, give Lionel a call.”
“Lionel Gambol?”
He nodded, his expression grim. “I deal with danger overseas all the time. I know what it feels like. What it tastes like. And this mess you’re tangling in, it’s got that same bitter tang.” He studied her. “You feel it, too, don’t you?”
She nodded. “It’s connected somehow to the task force I worked for Lionel. I think he knows or suspects it.”
“I think I’ll visit my old friend while I’m home.”
“What a nice gesture.”
