Ethel's stance softened. "Smythe, go find your lover. Tell her she can join us. Just keep her away from me."
Smythe hurried out. The smiles in the room widened.
Aaron came over to Tawni and drew her aside. "The legate gave you her official stamp of approval. That's a big deal."
"You're the one who found me first, sir," she said. "I never thanked you, so thank you. You gave me the life I always dreamed about."
"You're welcome, but I think I got the better deal. Talented recruits are a priceless asset for a commander."
She smiled. "Just for the record, I still think you're an enormous asshole, sir. You're as compassionate as a pick axe and as warm as dry ice. I hope one day I'll be just like you."
He patted her on the shoulder. "We're going to have a lot of fun together."
"The kind of fun the legate talked about?"
"Is there another kind?" He winked.
Wesley came over.
"When are you leaving?" Aaron said.
"Tomorrow, after breakfast. I think I'll spend a few months in Washington and learn how government works."
"When things settle down, I'll start recruiting Sheryl. Thanks for finding her for me."
"Be gentle," Wesley said. "She isn't tough like Tawni."
"Sheryl is slippery and deceptive. She doesn't like violent confrontation. She'll never be a great fighter, so don't even try. You'll love working with her if you keep that in mind."
"Thanks for the advice," Aaron said. "I'm sure it will be invaluable."
"I have one more piece of advice. Start looking for a new computer hacker."
"Why? I have the twins. They're the best."
"This project with God is moving quickly," Wesley said. "Pretty soon they won't have any time to work on missions. The Lord will demand all of their attention."
Aaron looked distressed. "How long do I have?"
"It's hard to tell." Wesley shrugged. "Months."
Aaron sighed. "I never get a break. When the twins are done with this project, I'll get them back, right? I'll be able to count on them again?"
"No." Wesley shook his head. "If the twins are successful, the Gray Spear Society will be obsolete, and you and Marina will have new jobs."
"What kind of jobs?"
"That would be telling." Wesley winked.
"What if the twins fail?" Aaron said.
"Then we'll all be dead." Wesley walked off.
THE END
Table of Contents
Title
Copyright
Chapter One
Chapter Two
Chapter Three
Chapter Four
Chapter Five
Chapter Six
Chapter Seven
Chapter Eight
Chapter Nine
Chapter Eleven
Chapter Twelve
Chapter Thirteen
Chapter Fourteen
Chapter Fifteen
Chapter Sixteen
Chapter Seventeen
Chapter Eighteen