Assignment — Stella Marni (27 page)

"I know. They gave me your messages."

"I didn't think you'd care to see me again."

Deirdre smiled. "I suppose I never will get used to the things you do, or the waiting, and the not knowing if you're alive or... or..."

Suddenly she was in his arms, her lips seeking his, and her words broke in a little cry of utter loneliness that found an echo inside him. He held her tight and felt a warmth grow in him and a fear, too, at how close he had come to following the hypnotic flame that might have led him to the brink of the devil's unknown world. He had pulled back in time and he was home again, safe again, for now. For as long as Deirdre was here and waiting for him.

Presently she sat quietly beside him in a silence that said all that needed to be said, and he started the car and they drove away.