Page 53 of No More Lies

“What would be the plan?” He turned back to Dex.

“You take Megan to school as normal tomorrow. If you’re still being watched, the fact that you’re taking her to school sends the message that everything is fine. Agent Jessica Adams will be in school undercover. A teaching assistant in her class. She will be with Megan the whole time. More plainclothes agents will be outside. If we haven’t secured Volkov by the end of the school day, we will decide then what’s next.”

“And Diane?”

“And Diane what?” Diane appeared in the living room, hands on hips. “Steve?”

Fuck, he could barely look at her. Guilt at what happened earlier swept over him.

“Why don’t you explain it to us both?” he said to Dex.

When Diane sat in the other chair, Dex went over the plan.

“I know it’s a lot to ask, Diane,” Dex said.

“You’re sure Megan will be safe?”

“I promise. FBI will have eyes on her all the time.”

“Steve? You’re OK with this?” She turned to face him, waiting for his agreement. He wasn’t OK with this, but he needed to reassure his wife.

“Megan will be safe. And it’s probably better that she’s not near you. I know Agent Adams. She’ll make Megan feel comfortable and protect her.”

“So long as Megan is protected, I’ll do whatever you need me to. I want that bastard gone.” Diane turned her attention back to Dex.

Steve heard the determination in her voice and was proud and scared for her at the same time. Goddamn, this whole thing was a nightmare.

“OK. You know Nyx, Diane. Liam, Jay, and Lucas will have eyes on your office building from outside. Ethan will monitor camera feeds. Scottie and Logan will be in your office tomorrow right beside you.”

“How? That will look kind of suspicious.”

“Sam will clear it with your firm.”

Diane shook her head. “No.”

Steve and Dex looked at her in surprise.

“I can’t be sure, but I think maybe the partners are involved, or are at least covering some not so legal stuff for Volkov.”

“Like what?” Steve asked.

“Pay offs, maybe. I went to them, and they shut me down. Wouldn’t listen. I’m just not sure I trust them anymore.”

“Alright,” Dex said. “Sam has someone combing through everything you gave us. If they are helping Volkov in any way, they’ll find it. But to be safe we won’t tell them. We’ll find another way to get Scottie and Logan inside.”

Steve studied his wife as she listened to Dex. She’d had these suspicions and had been trying to deal with all of this completely alone? That took strength and courage.

“Why Nyx? I’ve known you for years, Dex. I’d feel more comfortable with you.”

Steve answered, “If Volkov has been poking around asking questions about me, he may know who the rest of Raven are. We’ve been a team a long time. It’s not worth the risk that he might have pictures, might recognize someone. They wouldn't have found a connection to Nyx.”

“OK.” She didn’t sound thrilled.

“Diane?” He waited until she turned to face him. “I trust Nyx. They are as much family as Raven. You are in good hands.” Steve softened his voice, offering the comfort and reassurance she needed.

“I know. I’m sure they will be great.”

“I wouldn’t let them do this if I didn’t trust them with yours and Megan’s life.”

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