The Survivor (Eve Duncan #30)

“I’ll tell Kirby to order supplies, weapons, and ammunition to take with us on the Gulfstream. If we can get it right away, we’ll be out of here by tomorrow.”

“That may not be soon enough,” Maya said. “Can’t Kirby take me back today?”

“It’s only one day,” Cade said.

“But she has responsibilities,” Riley said quickly. “People count on her. Can’t we take her out in the Gulfstream tonight and have Kirby bring the team and weapons tomorrow?”

“You’re that eager to leave?” Cade asked.

“If we’re going to do it, let’s do it,” Riley said. “It’s possible, isn’t it?”

“Anything is possible,” Cade said as he reached for his phone. “I’ll tell Kirby to call the airport and get the Gulfstream ready to go.”

“Thank you, Riley,” Maya said quietly as Cade started speaking to Kirby.

“It’s Cade who’s doing it,” Riley said coldly. “I only remembered how much those islanders seemed to need you.” She started back toward the cottage. “And don’t think that I’m not still upset with you. I hate being used, and you were very… calculating.”

“Yes, I am,” Maya said soberly. “When I have to be, and I thought I did. I hated doing it. I genuinely like you, Riley. I’d say I was sorry, but I know that’s not enough. I promise I’ll make it up to you.”

“Yes, you will,” Riley said firmly. “Because we’re going hunting for Silvana’s tomb and we’re going to find it. That was part of that fancy proposition you tried to dazzle us with, and I’m going to make you pay up. I’ll help you all I can to get rid of Nadim, but you’re going to make sure Cade is safe and this job is worthwhile for him.”

Maya smothered a smile. “Yes, ma’am.”

Riley ignored the mockery. “I’m glad we understand each other.”

“We’ll understand each other better when I find a way to make all this up to you. Then we’ll be able to be friends again.”

Riley shook her head. “I don’t know if that’s possible.”

“I do.” Maya’s smile suddenly flashed bright. “Just wait and see.”

“You’ll be leaving tonight?” Eve repeated as she watched Cade going down to talk to the sentries.

Riley nodded. “As soon as Cade makes final preparations. We’ll be out of here.”

Eve frowned. “You’re sure that’s what you want, Riley? Somehow, I wasn’t sure this was the way things would turn out. I thought Cade was going to throw in a roadblock.”

“Things became a little complicated,” Riley said. “I assure you, I wasn’t the one forcing him to go.” She glanced at Maya. “Neither was she, though she dangled a few choice prizes to lure him. But none of that matters. We’ll make it work. I’ll see that Cade gets whatever he wants and comes out of this alive.” She met Maya’s eyes. “And I’ll get what I want, dammit.”

“Yes, you will,” Maya said. “We’ll start working on it as soon as we get back to the island. I look forward to it.”

Eve suddenly chuckled. “That all sounds entertaining. I’ll be disappointed not to be able to see it.”

Maya turned to face her. “I won’t ask you to come. I’ve already put too many in danger today.”

“And I didn’t say I wanted to go with you,” Eve said. “I’m just a bit wistful about Silvana. My work is here. I’ve not only got my forensic sculpting to do, I’m going to start overseeing the rebuilding of that boathouse.” She crossed to Riley and gave her a hug. “I’m glad you’ll get your answers, after all,” she whispered. “I hope you get a few more than you’ll find with Silvana. Keep everyone safe.”

“You keep safe,” Riley said. “And you will. Cade is sending his own crew to the island tomorrow. He’s leaving an entire troop of Loring’s men here after we leave. I’ll call and let you know what’s happening on the island.” She kissed her cheek. “Thank you for putting up with me.”

“My pleasure,” Eve said. “No one can say you don’t make life interesting.” She turned away. “Now let’s make a thermos of coffee and pack your bag.” She looked over her shoulder at Maya and smiled. “You’re very intriguing. If you don’t turn out to be troublesome, I could get to like you. Be sure you stay alive so that I get the opportunity.”

CHAPTER 5

ON BOARD THE PLANE

FOURTEEN HOURS LATER

Okay, I’m officially bored.” Maya dropped down in the seat next to Riley. “I have to tell you, my trip to Eve’s with Kirby was much more entertaining. That plane might not have been as fast or palatial as this beauty, but at least someone was talking to me. I realize communication goes two ways. But I left you alone for two excellent reasons. First, I thought that time would help you to cool down a little, because I knew you were angry I’d somehow managed to talk Cade into coming. Second, I wanted to give you and Cade a chance to ignore me and repair whatever damage I’d done by showing up in your life at all.” She grimaced. “I believe I struck out in both cases. Right?”