been here for years under the radar. Why come now if it’s just for me? No, this has to be bigger than that. Finding me would just be an added bonus.”
“And you think she knows?”
“If she’s here—she knows.”
“Who’s the contact who helps people get settled?
“An older woman we call Nan. She was retired from the business and moved over, then
started helping others. She has a soft spot for us because she lived that life.”
“Or maybe not.”
“No, you don’t actually think it’s her, do you?” The thought made hear heart ache.
“Who better to keep tabs on someone? Betrayal usually comes from the inside. That’s why it hurts so much.”
“We don’t know for sure.”
“No, but I want you to keep your eyes sharp and your mind open. Pres wants you to get
more information on what’s going on. What did Nan tell you?
”
“She told me Mylandra was sniffing around the area and might be coming in soon. I’ve been
on red alert ever since”
“When was that, Gia?”
“Three months ago.”
“Why didn’t you say something?”
“There wasn’t much to say really. It’s all been hearsay and just a maybe until now. Are you sure she’s here?” She clung to the hope he would say no.
“According to Clue, yes.”
“Fuck, that brilliant bastard is never wrong.” She chewed the inside of her mouth. “What do we do?”
“First, we figure out what side Nan is on. Send her some bunk info and see if she goes for it.
Second, you need to send a plant in to scout the area. See what’s happening beneath the surface.”
“I can do that.” Taking control of the situation felt good. It gave her ground to stand on.
“Alright then, we’re settled. Now, you need to get dressed so I can take you out.”
“Wait, what?” His abrupt change made her head spin.
“You need clothes, and we could both use a break from all of this. Play as hard as you work.
That’s the key to staying sane.” He smiled. “Something you need to remember.”
“I run my own business. I have to be a workaholic to keep it going.”
“No, you need a man in your life to distract you. Taffy’s practically runs itself these days.”