Chapter 22

“I hope that the boy does not fall out and break a bone,” he said.

“I hope you don’t break the girl’s heart,” Vincent replied.

Nikoloz glanced up, one eyebrow raised. “What are you talking about?”

Vincent had to grin. “Clueless. Just clueless. I’m telling you, you need to let her down easy.”

“I am too old to be interesting to her.”

“Just remember I told you so.”

“I will remember. Billy is climbing down from the tree.”

“I’ll go keep an eye on the kid.” Vincent trotted outside. Billy dropped the last few feet to the ground and scampered toward his father’s workshop. “Hold up there, Agent 29-X. You didn’t report to headquarters before you left your post.”

Billy stopped in surprise. “I didn’t know I was supposed to.”

“Well, your guards need to know where you are at all times. Don’t go out of sight of the house, either, until we’re certain it’s safe.”

Billy’s eyes widened. “You really think there are enemy agents around?”