Chapter 25

“I have the whole federal government—or at least the enforcement parts of it—at my fingertips. Well…” Paul hedged, “at Helen’s fingertips. We willkeep you safe because I have no intention of losing you.”

“I suppose that’s something in my favor,” Mark replied a bit acidly.

“I mean it. I want you around for the long haul, in my life. I hope that you can believe me, and that maybe you feel the same.”

“Never doubt it for a moment. I’ve become rather fond of you.”

“Just rather?”

Mark grinned for a second. “Take it or leave it. It’s all I have the energy for until this is over.” He leaned close enough to kiss Paul, receiving one in return which, had the situation been different, might have finally led to something more. But things being how they were, the two men drew apart. Mark did keep one arm around Paul though, pulling the man into an embrace. “When do they want us at the safe house?”

“The sooner the better, I think. I’ll call Helen to arrange transportation.”