The Perfect Husband - Lisa Gardner [40]
“Huh.”
“Okay, it’s time for another lap.”
He was surprised. “Chiquita, you’re pretty beat.”
“I have to learn how to do this. If I’m weak, then I’d better get strong. Two more laps, all right?”
“You are stubborn.”
She appeared startled. “I’m not stubborn.”
“Of course you’re stubborn. You made it here, didn’t you? What do you call that?”
“Desperation,” she said frankly.
He shook his head. “No, trust me, you’re stubborn.”
“Really?” She looked pleased. “I’m stubborn. Good. I’m going to need that.”
She pushed off while he remained sitting there, blinking his eyes and wondering if he would ever understand her. The woman had spirit. He would’ve liked to have met her before the world had run her into the ground. He had the feeling that she’d been beautiful once. A petite, smiling woman with long blond hair.
Jesus, J.T. Give it up.
Behind him, the screen door slid open.
“So where’s the mystery intruder?”
J.T. pointed toward the pool.
“Oh, for God’s sake,” Marion said as she walked over to the edge. “She looks like she’s drowning.”
“That’s her version of the doggie paddle.”
“You’re kidding me.”
“Nope. Still think she’s a fugitive?”
Marion finally appeared skeptical. “I don’t know,” she hedged. “She doesn’t look like much, but given the company you usually keep . . .”
“Gee, thanks, Marion. That’s kind of you.”
They watched as Angela reached the end of the pool and struggled her way back. It was a long, painful process for everyone.
J.T. shook his head. “I don’t think one month is going to be enough.”
Angela finally reached J.T. and Marion, her face beet red. She clung to the edge of the pool while introductions were made. The two women showed about as much enthusiasm as could be expected.
“You can call me L.B. for short,” Angela said.
“L.B.?”
“Lizzie Borden.”
“Oh.” Marion had the good grace to flush. “I’ll confess, you’re not what I expected.”
“I’m not a criminal.” Angela tried to pull herself out of the water, but her exhausted arms wouldn’t cooperate. J.T. grabbed her shoulders and lifted her as if she were a featherweight. She returned her attention to Marion. “In fact I’ve worked with the FBI before.”
“Whatever problems you have, I’m sure I can recommend a good law enforcement agency—”
“No, you can’t. I’ve been through it all. I’ve worked with them all. And I know for certain that law enforcement can no longer help me. What I need is someone like your brother. J.T. is going to help.”
“Wait a second.” J.T. took a quick step back, waving his hands in defense. “I’m just training you!”
“Exactly. That’s the help I need. So tell me, sensei, what’s next on the list?”
He looked at her for a moment, then at Marion. His sister was mutinous and disapproving. In fact, the only calm person on the patio was Angela.
“What’s your name?” Marion prodded. “If you have nothing to hide, you won’t mind giving me your name.”
“I have nothing to hide and I do mind giving you my name. It’s none of your business. Besides, if I remember correctly, you told J.T. you were here as his sister, not an agent.”
“Ignore her, Angela, Marion can’t help herself.”
“I’m trying to offer help.”
“Then thanks but no thanks. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I can afford only a month of J.T.’s time and I have a lot to learn. Is it time to eat yet? I’ll make the oat-meal. J.T. is too dangerous with a saucepan.”
She headed for the house without another word. Marion released her pent-up breath in a low hiss. “Jesus Christ, J.T., what have you gotten yourself into now?”
“I’m just training her on how to protect herself, Marion. How bad can it be?”
“With you, J.T., pretty bad. But that’s okay, I’ll keep my opinions to myself for now. Why don’t you go and pour yourself another beer.”
“I can’t.”
“You can’t?”
He scowled. “I agreed to stop drinking for the month.”
She arched a brow. “Of course, J.T.”
“Dammit, I am not an alcoholic!”
“Of course, J.T.”
She smiled sweetly and walked away.
J.T. SQUEEZED ANGELA a glass of fresh orange juice; that gave Marion her first opportunity. A cold drink created condensation on