A Murder in Time(153)

“In the eight months she was on the task force, Agent Donovan was not involved with anyone,” Carson said. “She devoted all her time to her work.”

“You can’t know that.”

Cooper raised his hand to preempt any further argument. A deep frown etched itself on his face. “Despite these inconsistencies, two facts remain irrefutable—Sir Jeremy is dead and Special Agent Donovan was there, but has now vanished. As far as the United States government is concerned, she is a rogue agent and will be treated as such. Her photograph, with several computer variations, has been sent to our embassies and respective agency bureaus, since she will undoubtedly attempt to change her appearance.”

“She is not a threat to the United States,” Leeds said. He felt the need to protest, though he knew it would make no difference. Kendra was worse than a threat; she was an embarrassment.

Cooper gave him a stern look. “We cannot let our agents determine their own brand of justice.”

Whatever had happened in England, Kendra Donovan had most definitely gone rogue. Dammit, Leeds had liked her—he still liked her.

Wherever you are, Kendra, I hope you stay there, he thought.

Cooper pushed himself to his feet, a signal that the meeting was over. He gave them each a hard look. “Make no mistake, gentlemen: Kendra Donovan will be found. She can’t run forever. The United States government will find her. It’s only a matter of time.”





ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

Writing a novel is an interesting adventure, filled with highs and lows. I have to thank my good friends Karre Jacobs, Bonnie McCarthy and Lori McAllister for always pulling me out of those lows (sometimes with a bottle of wine) and pushing me forward with their indefatigable encouragement. What would I have done without you? And I have to give a big shout-out to my agent, Jill Grosjean, whose professionalism is equally balanced with her wonderful sense of humor and decency. I consider myself lucky to have found you. And last, but by no means least, many thanks to the wonderful team at Pegasus, especially my editors, Maia Larson and Katie McGuire. Your deft touch and keen insights were invaluable, and very much appreciated.