Wrong Place, Wrong Time (Pete 'Monty' Montgomery 1)

“Relax. Not every woman has a big brother. And very few of them have one like Lane. He’s the whole package—looks, brains, magnetic charm, financial success, and an exciting lifestyle.” A purposeful pause. “Actually, I think I just described you.”

That did the trick. James’s eyes glinted with satisfaction. “Now that’s a comparison I can live with. I’d like to meet this brother of yours sometime.”

“Then you’re in luck. He’ll probably be there tonight when you take me home.”

“At your place?”

“Uh-huh. He’s staying with me until we get news about Mom. So’s Merry. Like I said, we’re keeping one another together.”

“I see. Well, that certainly puts a crimp in my plans for the evening. I was hoping you and I would be alone.”

Devon wasn’t going to play games, not when she knew damned well what that comment meant. “It’s a little too soon for what you have in mind. I don’t live life in the fast lane the way you do. Besides, don’t you have to be up early for your flight back to Wellington?”

James nodded, taking her not-yet message gracefully. “The Gold Coast Classic’s this week. I’m competing on Wednesday. I’m riding one of my grandfather’s younger stallions, Future. It’s an intermediate-level event, but it keeps me in shape for Sunday’s Grand Prix.” He caressed her palm before releasing her hand. “I’m assuming that was a ‘later’ and not a ‘no’?”

“That was a combination ‘let’s see what happens’ and ‘let’s give it time.’”

“Fair enough.” James seemed satisfied with her answer. He sat up and glanced around for the waiter. “If this is the only alone time we’re going to get tonight, let’s prolong it. Coffee and dessert time.”

THE BAT PHONE rang.

Sitting in his living room, Monty responded instantly to the expected call. He pressed the mute button on his TV remote, silencing the eleven o’clock news. Then he shifted his La-Z-Boy recliner into the upright position and punched on the phone.

“Right on time,” he greeted.

“And that surprises you?” Sally returned lightly. “I’m not the one who thinks punctual means a half hour late.”

“Ouch.” Monty grinned. “That hurt.”

“You can take it. You’re tough.”

Monty wasn’t fooled by Sally’s banter. He heard the underlying strain, and his grin faded. “You okay?”

“I guess.” Sally drew an unsteady breath. “Physically I’m fine. A dull headache and a scratchy throat are the only lingering effects from the fire. Emotionally’s another story. I hate being cut off. I feel helpless.” She coughed. “Anyway, I’m calling in, as ordered.”

“Good. Now get some sleep. Call in again tomorrow, same time.”

“Pete—wait.” Sally broke in. “Where do things stand? What did you find out?”

“Not a hell of a lot,” he replied, keeping it vague. He couldn’t undo what Sally had been through so far, but he damned well intended to keep her out of the line of fire from here on in. “It’ll take time. Today was just my first day at Pierson & Company.”

“Stop placating me.” Sally’s impatient words told Monty he wasn’t getting off that easily. “Your whole macho protective strategy isn’t going to work. Not anymore. I’m a cop’s ex-wife. I’m too smart. And I know you too well. So stop hedging and answer me.”

“Fine.” Monty relented. “Right now, I’m focusing on Philip Rhodes, trying to figure out if he’s the one Edward and Frederick were arguing about at the barn. He’s jumpy. Could mean something; could mean nothing. Tomorrow, I’m digging into financial, phone, and e-mail records. And Devon’s picking James Pierson’s brain as we speak.”

“Did Devon really want to do this, or did you twist her arm?”

“No arm-twisting was necessary. Devon would do anything to ensure your safety. And don’t worry. I’m watching her back every step of the way.”

“I know you are.” Sally’s voice was getting weaker and raspier. “I just wish—” She broke off to dissolve into a spasm of coughing.

“Go to bed, Sal,” Monty instructed. “You need your rest. I’m on top of this. I’ll fill you in when there’s something to say.”

“I’ll hold you to that.”

His lips curved again. “I never doubted it. Talk to you tomorrow. Same Bat time, same Bat channel.”

A hint of laughter. “Good night, Pete.”