“What would they want with Amara?”
“My guess is that they scooped her up as some sort of leverage or because she got in their way. Nick summoned the Russian ambassador to the White House to get some answers. He’ll order them to release Amara, if they have her, and return Ivanov’s body to our custody.”
“You think they will?”
“Maybe if it’s coming from him.”
“Enough shop talk, you two,” Marti said. “He needs to rest.”
“What can I do for you guys?”
“Have you heard anything about Jeannie?” Joe asked.
“Not since she was brought in earlier. Freddie is checking on her, and we’ll update Marti by text when we hear something.”
“What about Helen?”
“She was uninjured.”
“I can’t believe they had the nerve to bomb our house,” Joe said. “I want the FBI, ATF and anyone else who wants in on this.”
“Yes, sir. I’ll pass that along to the captain. I’m sure you’ll see him before the day’s out.”
“He’s doing what I need him to do at HQ. Keep me posted on anything you hear.”
Sam glanced at Marti as she said, “Yes, sir, I will. Thank you very much for not getting killed.”
His lips curled into a smile that turned into a grimace. “I do what I can for my people.”
She gasped at his use of her trademarked line. “I’ll let that slide this one time.”
“You’re a pal.”
She squeezed his hand. “So are you. Hang in there and do what you’re told.” Turning, she hugged Marti again. “Call me if you need anything at all.”
“I will. Thanks for coming by.”
“Love you both,” Sam said.
“We love you, too,” Marti replied.
“Did you hear all that?” Sam asked Freddie when she left the room.
“I did, and I passed his orders about the FBI and ATF on to Captain Malone.”
“You’re the best partner I’ve ever had.”
The compliment stopped him short as they walked toward the exit. “Really?”
“Duh, of course you are. What’s the story with Jeannie?”
“She’s in labor, and they’re trying to stop it.”
“No,” Sam said on a gasp. “It’s too soon!”
“Michael said the baby should be okay.”
“Should be. God, she must be terrified.” As she walked, Sam composed a text to Marti to update her and Joe on Jeannie’s condition.
