“But you want to see her.”

“I do but I won’t force the issue.”

“Smart.” Slash nodded. “Need help up the wall? I’ll let them know where you are and that you’ve taken my place.” He touched his radio.

Smiley pointed at the tree. “I’ve got it.”

“It’s been quiet.”

“Good.”

Slash turned and walked away, disappearing behind some large bushes. Smiley walked over to the tree next to the wall and started to climb. He had to jump from a branch to the top of the wall that surrounded the perimeter of Homeland. The four-foot-wide walkway ended in a waist-high barrier. He picked up the discarded assault weapon and helmet, putting the latter on. He fixed his attention on the out world. Nothing moved as far as he could see.

His gaze lifted to the sky. Vanni would be flying over soon with Justice. It seemed like forever passed before the sound of the approaching helicopter drew his attention. It flew overhead and he turned, watching it land near the center of Homeland.

Vanni had arrived. He turned his back and kept a close eye on the ground for movement. The last thing he wanted was an attack to go down while Vanni visited the NSO. He was angry enough at that moment to kill anyone who dared try to breach the wall in his section.

Chapter Eleven

Vanni hated the way her stomach grew queasier when they finally reached Homeland. It might have been caused by not having eaten all day but nervousness mixed with the helicopter ride seemed more logical. Justice North smiled encouragingly when she looked at him. The helicopter landed and the uniformed guards opened the door. He motioned her to follow him.

Justice exited but then reached up to assist her down. Her anxiety increased when she glanced around the area. At least a dozen uniformed New Species stared at her, minus the helmets with tinted face shields. Their grim expressions weren’t welcoming or friendly. She followed Justice to a waiting Jeep.

“Take the passenger seat.”

She climbed in but tensed when two large New Species got in the back. Justice slid into the driver’s seat.

“I’m taking you to my office first. It will give my people time to prepare guest quarters for you and we still have a few questions.”

“Okay.” It wasn’t as if she could protest.

The drive was short but they passed a lot of New Species on the street. They turned to peer at her as the Jeep passed. It made her self-conscious and she second-guessed her decision to call the NSO. She’d never felt so out of place before in her life. Justice parked in front of an office building and she climbed out.

“This way.” He waved her toward the front doors where two intimidating New Species protected the entrance. The two guards from the rear of the Jeep took positions behind her. It made her feel as if she were under arrest. Fear inched up her spine and she struggled to remain calm.

“Where is Smiley? Is he here?” She wasn’t sure if she wanted to see him or not but a familiar face might help.

“We weren’t certain if you wanted to see him. He’s currently on duty.”

“Oh.”

“We can arrange for him to visit you later if you wish.”

Vanni just nodded, keeping pace with Justice. They entered a reception area and she got her first look at a New Species woman. The dark-haired, tall woman rose from behind her desk. “Jessie is in her office if you want a female present to make that one more comfortable.”

“Tell her I said thank you but everything is fine. Vanni, please follow me.”

Vanni smiled at the woman but received a frown in response. Her dark gaze wasn’t pleasant either. She hustled to follow Justice. Two men waited inside, both seated on a couch. They rose to their feet when she entered.

“This is Fury and Slade.”

She couldn’t help but gawk at Fury. She’d recognize him anywhere after all the news coverage of the press conference that had turned violent. For weeks footage had been shown of him saving the woman he loved by scooping her into his arms and running for safety after a gunman had opened fire. He’d been shot protecting Ellie. The couple had become an icon of true romance to a lot of women. “It’s an honor to meet you,” she managed to get out.

His eyes widened but he stepped forward and offered his hand. “Thank you. I think.”

“I’m sorry. It’s just that you’re Fury.” She managed to offer her trembling hand.

He had a firm grip and a brisk handshake. “I am.”

Vanni sealed her lips to avoid embarrassing herself further by having a fan-girl moment. She turned her attention on the second guy. He appeared to be canine with jet-black hair and striking blue eyes. He nodded but didn’t offer his hand.

“Why don’t you sit, Vanni?” Justice rounded his large desk and indicated she should take a seat in one of the leather chairs.

She gratefully collapsed into the nearest one. Justice took the lead. “Vanni didn’t willingly offer to participate in the Woods Church press conference. They held her against her will and made threats. Have you heard anything regarding their current status?”

“We did.” Fury resumed his seat. “They have delayed speaking to the press. We’ve gotten a lot of calls asking for comments. The Woods Church looks bad after not delivering what they promised.”

“Good.” Justice reached up and loosened his tie. “Tell them who drugged you and Smiley, Vanni.”

She swallowed and held Fury’s dark gaze. He had nice eyes and he didn’t glare at her. “The bartender. Gregory said they paid him to do it and he even told me the name of the drug.”