“I remember,” Clark said.
They steered the canoe accordingly and brought it to a stop in the inlet where they’d caught a plethora of fish.
“Ready to eat?” Vannah asked.
“Yes, I’m starving.”
“I think I’ll pass.” Clark said, his eyes full of mirth.
“Oh my God, I am so sorry.” Vannah covered her mouth.
“It’s okay, you guys enjoy it.”
Vannah opened the basket, took out the bottles of water and handed Carey a sandwich.
“You’re corporal, but you don’t have to eat?” Her words were hesitant as she turned to the side to see them both.
“Basically. I don’t feel the need to do things like eat, sleep, or use the restroom.”
“You don’t sleep?” Carey asked.
“No, I choose to, but I could do without it.”
“Wow,” Vannah whispered.
“Yeah, it’d come in handy if you’re working on something really important, but otherwise it makes life drag.”“Yeah, I’ll bet.” Carey took the ham and cheese sandwich out of the plastic and took a big bite. Chewing thoughtfully, he allowed himself to simply relax. The sun shone down, warming his skin and the boat rocked in the water. It was bizarre yet perfect. The three of them were exactly where they needed to be, no matter how improbable. It had been a long time since he’d been so sure of anything.
Chapter Eleven
“West!” She paused outside the door to her office.
“Yes, sir.”
“In my office.”
She walked inside and shut the door. “You wanted to see me, sir?”
“Take a seat.”
She sank into the seat across from him.
“I want to be kept abreast of what’s going on at all times. This might technically be an F.B.I. case with a federal officer. But you’re in my back yard.” His steely gaze commanded respect.
“I understand, Ssr.”
“They want to send your partner down. What are your feelings on that?”
She pursed her lips. “I’m fine with Officer Carr. But we both know they can go over my head whenever they get good and ready.”
“How much longer do you think we have until that happens?”
“Off the record, Ssr?” She angled her body.
“Of course.”
She sighed. “After they hear about this new package, Dale will be flooded.”
“You don’t sound happy about that, West.” His eyebrows rose.