Aegean Intrigue by Patricia Kiyono

Author:Patricia Kiyono [Kiyono, Patricia]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Astraea Press
Published: 2012-02-03T00:19:37+00:00

Chapter Eight

Things didn’t add up. She had had plenty of opportunity to “siphon” pieces from the dig, but every piece had been properly cataloged and stored. Was she being overly cautious, knowing he was on site? Did she suspect him of not being a Project Director?

“Alex?”

He spun around, hand going to his hip for the pistol that wasn’t there. He scowled, chiding himself at being caught off-guard. Francie stepped backward, her eyes wide, her arms held out in front of her for protection.

“Sorry, I didn’t mean to interrupt anything,” she insisted.

Alex forced his facial muscles to relax. It wouldn’t do to frighten her. “I’m the one who should apologize,” he assured her. “My mind was elsewhere, and I was frustrated with myself for not paying attention. How can I help you?”

Instead of answering his question, she tilted her head to one side. Her brown eyes focused on him, her brows dipping in thought. “Why would it be so awful to let your mind wander? When people stop to think, it’s usually because they’re looking for a solution to a problem. There’s nothing wrong with that.”

He couldn’t stop the laugh that erupted. The sound was foreign to him. How long had it been since he had allowed himself to let go and enjoy himself in someone’s company? “Such a philosopher. You’re in the right place for that.”

She colored. “I’m no Socrates.”

“Perhaps not, but your words are wise, nonetheless. What was it you wanted?”

“Oh! I came to let you know that several of us are going into Parikia for dinner and drinks. It’s Saturday, so Dimitri has the night off, and he’s still recovering. Would you like to join us?”

Here was a chance to observe Francie in a larger social setting. Perhaps she would slip off and meet one of her contacts. “That sounds like fun. When will you leave?”

“In about an hour. See you then,” she added, backing away.

“Francie.”

She turned, raising a questioning brow.

“Thank you for inviting me,” he said softly.

He noticed she rubbed her upper arms, as if to ward off a chill. “You’re welcome. See you later.” She turned then and scooted away.

So, I still disturb her, he thought.

He ran a hand through his hair. But not nearly as much as she disturbs me.

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