“Congratulations to you both,” Luther began after they sat down. “You two make one impressive team.”
“Thank you,” Dakota said. “While I might have a stubborn streak in me—”
Providence and Luther laughed.
“I will admit you were right,” Dakota continued. “Working with Providence was for the best.”
“For us both,” she agreed.
“It’s also good for the agency.” Luther offered a warm smile. “Providence, I gave you my word that you could return to the Bureau after this case ended. You don’t need to give me an answer today, but I’d love to have you stay on as an operative.”
“I would like that, but I want Dakota to return here, working cases as his schedule allows.”
“You didn’t mention that to me,” Dakota said.
“We’ve had alotgoing on,” Providence replied.
“I’ve been doing some thinking myself,” Dakota continued. “I’m done being an assassin.”
She smiled. “Seriously?”
Luther leaned back in his chair. “Then, my next offer comes at an opportune time. Dakota, I’m retiring at the end of next year. I would love to groom you to be my replacement over the next eighteen months.”
“Oh, wow,” Providence said.
“Thanks for the vote of confidence,” Dakota replied. “I’ll give it some thought.”
“I’m confident your dad would echo my sentiments,” Luther added.
On the ride home, Providence said, “I love that you know about my career. You understand what’s at stake. You get me, and I love that I don’t have to live my life in isolation because of the secrets I keep.”
“You will never be alone again, babe.”
She leaned over and kissed his cheek as his phone rang. “It’s Juanita,” he said. “Do you mind?”
“Of course not.”
He put the call on speaker. “What’s the word?”
“First, congratulations and hallelujah!” Juanita exclaimed. “What a relief that debacle is behind you.”
“I couldn’t agree more.”
“I sent out a company-wide email letting everyone know the charges against you have been dropped. I’ve heard from all the agents who bailed. They want to come back, but I’m not sure that’s in our best interest.”
“Why?” he asked.
“Their lack of loyalty.”
“I’ll back your decision.”
“And that’s why we make a great team. So, how did the police find the real killer?”
“I heard an undercover FBI agent was working the case,” Dakota replied, glancing at his woman. “And she was a total badass.”
Providence stifled a laugh.
“Ooo, that’s so exciting,” Juanita said.
