yet you’re certainly older than he is,” noted Knox.

 

The inscrutable face turned to her.

 

Jericho said, “Titles are not based on age. They’re based on many factors. Mr.

Quentin has an impeccable reputation in the field. He has risen quickly no

doubt, but solely on his merits.” “And what do you do here?” asked Puller. “We

do contract work with DARPA. Our mission is solely military support. It’s no

secret.” “It’s actually very secret,” said Puller. “I couldn’t find anything on

Atalanta Group at all. You don’t even have a website.” “We have no need for any

of that. We have our work and we have our client and we do our job.” “After you

called I checked on you. I couldn’t find anything on you either. And I know

where to look.” Jericho stared impassively back at him. “I just wanted to let

you know that the matter with Ms. Shepard has been dealt with.” “She was lucky,”

said Puller. “Right after she left a bunch of guys shot up the bar.” “Really?

Was anyone hurt?” “You hadn’t heard about it?” asked Knox. “It didn’t happen

that far from here.” “I was focused on other things.” “Well, as a matter of

fact, quite a few people were killed and injured.” “That is tragic,” Jericho

said, her features still impassive. “Were you aware that four women were

murdered in this area thirty years ago?” asked Puller. “I don’t really

understand the segue, Agent Puller. I thought we were talking about the

present.” “The murders were never solved.” “That is unfortunate, but I don’t see

the relevancy to what we were discussing.” “We’re looking at a possible

connection between the Army and the murders,” said Knox, the remark drawing a

quick glance from Puller. “And why would you be doing that?” asked Jericho.