Generation 18 (Spook Squad 2)

“Only a fool would do that. And while I may be many things, a fool is not one of them.”

Amusement warmed the silver in her eyes. “I’m tempted to disagree with that statement.”

He smiled. “Undoubtedly.”

“So, is this reluctance to get involved with a partner the reason why you’re trying to ditch me? So you can feel free to play?”

He hesitated. It was tempting, very tempting, to go down the same route, to play the bastard card yet again. But he just couldn’t do it. And maybe if he was honest, she’d understand his reasons and stop pushing. “In truth, no. I have a habit of killing partners. I don’t want you—or anyone else—to join the list.”

She nodded, and he had the odd feeling she wasn’t exactly surprised. “Then this ‘no involvement’ rule is one you’ve had from the beginning?”

Again he hesitated. “Not really.”

She raised her eyebrow. “Then you have been involved with a partner?”

“It

went badly,” he said, “and I realized my mistake. Hence the rule.”

“How badly?”

“She died.” He paused, not wanting to get into a discussion about an event that had happened long ago, even if that event still haunted him today. “I can’t make that mistake again. I won’t. While you’re my partner, nothing will ever happen between us.”

“And if I happen to ask for a transfer? What then?”

Then he’d definitely be tempted. But to what end? As much as part of him longed for something deeper, his changer half—the half that had already lost its soul mate—wasn’t looking for anything more than a casual relationship, and that was exactly what he had with Sandy. Free and easy, with no commitment or restraint on either side. And in the brief time he’d known Sam, he’d learned one thing—she wasn’t the casual type.

“And are you considering asking for a transfer?”

“At this point, no.”

“Then it’s a moot point, isn’t it?”

His wristcom chose that moment to ring. Almost gratefully, he answered it.

Stephan’s grim features greeted him. “There’s been another murder.”

Something clenched in Gabriel’s gut. Surely not Miranda. “Where?”

“Up in Greenvale. The neighbors reported hearing two women screaming. The local cops have called us in.”

Tension flowed from his body. Greenvale was nowhere near Strathmore. “So it’s definitely connected to our serial killings?”

“From what they said, yes.”

“Damn.” Gabriel glanced at Sam. “There’s been another murder. Are you able to handle the general alone?”

“I’ve been a cop for ten years. I don’t think an interview with a general is beyond me.”

He wasn’t worried about her interviewing techniques; he was worried about leaving her alone with a man instinct told him they couldn’t trust. He looked back at the wristcom. “I’ll head there immediately. Have you heard anything about Miranda?”

“No. I called the old man, and he’s still waiting to hear from Jess and Alain. You?”

“Nothing.” If he didn’t hear something soon, he’d call Jess and see what was going on. “You home?”

“Yes. Call me if anything happens.”

He meant Miranda-wise, not case-wise. “Will do.”