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wind.  God, this is going to be a mess until people sort out their turf.

Probably for a lot longer than that. Cam realized Valerie was shivering.  How far did you walk?

Four or five milesI wanted to be sure to flank your guards so theyd have a good look at me as I came up the beach. I
didnt want to come out of nowhere right on top of them and have them shooting at shadows.

You said you thought they were too well-trained for that.

Lets just say I prefer the odds to be solidly stacked in my favor when Im unarmed in hostile territory.

Sound procedure, Cam agreed. Shed find out soon enough just how Valerie had penetrated far enough into the
island to get around the guards. She sensed movement in the shadows off to her right and slid her hand over her
weapon just as Felicia stepped out of the cover of the dunes. Beside her, Valerie tensed.

All clear, Commander? Felicia asked.

Yes. You can let Savard and Stark know to stand down.

Yes maam. Felicia relayed the orders by radio, then regarded Valerie as the trio climbed the path toward the
compound.  Good to see you.

Thanks, Valerie replied.  I feel the same.

You and Savard should take some down time while you can, Davis, Cam said.  Well brief again at 0600.

Yes maam. Felicia veered off the path toward the guesthouse.  Goodnight, Commander.
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Cam stopped midway between the guesthouse and the main house at a point outside the visual range of the perimeter
guards stationed at the rear of the house. She faced Valerie, who looked thin and pale in the moonlight.  Blair is inside.
So is Diane. I know Tanners men already frisked you, but I need to do it myself.

Of course. Valerie unzipped her jacket, then held her arms out to her sides at shoulder level and spread her legs.

Unbutton your blouse and unzip your jeans, Cam said.  Im sorry its cold out here.

Just get it done, Cameron.

Ill be quick.
Wordlessly, Valerie opened her clothing.
Cam swiftly checked for weapons, which she hadnt expected to find, and then more carefully skimmed her fingers
inside the cups of Valeries bra, over the bare skin of her abdomen and back, and underneaththe top of her jeans in
front and back looking for a microphone, which she hoped she wouldnt find. She didnt.  Thanks.
Valerie redressed.  Can I see Diane?

Yes, but just for a minute. You and I need to talk.
They resumed walking.

Ill do whatever you want.

For the record, Cam said,  Im glad you finally got your ass here.
Valerie sighed.  Ive done things I regret, Cameron, but I would never willingly have betrayed you. I didnt know how
the intelligence I passed on was going to be used. I know its not an excuse

I know how the game is played. I know you didnt have any choice. Were okay on that.
Valerie briefly squeezed Cams hand.  Im glad.

Lets get inside so you can warm up.
They climbed the stairs to the rear deck, and Cam nodded to Stark, who stood with her back against the kitchen door,
an assault rifle held loosely in her arms.  All clear, Chief.

Do you need me inside, Commander? Stark asked.

Not at the moment. Standard shifts tonight should be fine. Well brief tomorrow.
Stark glanced at Valerie and stepped away from the door.  Yes maam.
Cam led Valerie inside. The kitchen was empty, as she knew it would be. Stark would have moved Diane and Blair to
the center of the house as soon as she realized security had been breached.  Diane is probably in the living room with
Blair. Ill wait for you here, if you want to tell Blair where I am.

Thank you. Valerie met Cams eyes.  I know you dont have to do this, any of this. Im sure you were told to just turn
me over to whoevers on top of the security heap at the moment.
Cam smiled grimly.  That would be me.
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I hope it stays that way. Valeries tone was wistful.  Thank you, Cameron. Ill be right back.
* * * * *

Oh God, Diane whispered, rising slowly to her feet as Valerie stepped into the room.
Blair hesitated for a second, then rose and gave Diane a quick hug.  Ill see you later. She left Valerie and Diane alone
in the dimly lit room.
Neither moved at first.

Were you ever coming back? Diane asked.

I wanted to.

Why didnt you?
Valerie shivered.  I was afraid youd get hurt.
Diane lifted a log and laid it on the ones already burning.  Come over here by the fire. Youre cold. When she felt
Valerie beside her, she turned to touch her face.  Are you all right?

A little tired. Valerie caught Dianes hand and brushed her lips across the palm.  I missed you so much.

I dont know what to do first, Diane confessed.  I want to feed you. You look too thin. I want to hold you. Your
hands are so cold. I wantyou to hold me. I feelso empty.

First things first. Valerie pulled Diane firmly into her arms.
Diane gave a small cry and slid both hands under the back of Valeries jacket, then buried her face in Valeries neck.  I
dont care what happens after this, but you are not disappearing again. [ Pobierz całość w formacie PDF ]