No Way Out. Susan Sleeman

and motioned for her to join him. When she reached the first floor, she found him at the front door.

      “Everything’s secure,” he whispered, likely to keep from waking Paula, and pulled open the door.

      “So will I see you tomorrow?” she asked, suddenly feeling very alone.

      “It’d be a good idea to get together for a status update. Where do you usually meet clients?”

      “At my office or a coffee shop.”

      “If we meet for coffee you won’t have to explain who I am to your coworkers.”

      “Good thinking.” She gave him the location of the place she usually frequented. “Ten would be a typical time I’d meet a client.”

      “Then ten o’clock it is.” He looked at her for a few moments, seeming to memorize everything about her. She figured with his skills he’d already done so, but this look was softer, as if he didn’t want to leave her alone.

      Touched by his kindness, she smiled her thanks. He pulled back, as if she’d branded him.

      “If you need anything tonight,” he stepped onto the porch, “I’ll be standing watch outside.”

      She’d thought he’d drop her off and go home. “I can’t let you stay outside all night. Not in this weather.”

      “Trust me. I’ve had to stand duty in much worse.”

      She didn’t want to impose on him any more tonight, but the iron resolve on his face said it was useless to argue, so she stood in the doorway until he disappeared into the foggy night.

      As she reached for the door, she spotted Nolan’s car turning onto her street. She quickly closed the door and locked it. She rushed through the room, turning out lights. Hopefully she’d snapped them off before Nolan discovered she was awake and stopped by to question her about the night.