your extraordinary investigative skills and tenacity. And therefore I wonder why

you’re not exerting those same skills on behalf of your country during the

course of authorized casework.” “My father—” She cut him off. “You were told

that matter has been dealt with and the inquiry concluded. Mrs. Demirjian is

deceased. Your father’s reputation will not suffer in the least.” She looked at

him inquiringly. “I knew your father. Did you know that?” Puller felt like she

had slapped him in the face. This odious woman had known his father? “No, I

didn’t know,” he said tersely. “Although we didn’t exactly see eye to eye on

things, he was an outstanding soldier. I understand you are too. Which brings me

to the point: Why are you doing what you’re doing?” She glanced at Knox. “And

why is this very valuable agent of our country wasting her time helping you do

it?” Puller said, “My mother was never found. I want to know what happened to

her.” “So why then has it taken you all this time to delve into the case?

 

Surely you’ve had many opportunities to do so.” “The letter from Lynda—” Again

she cut him off. “So your desire to seek the truth had to have a catalyst, then?

An allegation against your father triggered your sudden desire to know what

happened to your mother? Then I take it you cared for your father more than you

did your mother if her fate meant nothing to you for three decades until an

allegation by a dying woman threatened the reputation of Fighting John Puller.”

She paused. “Were I to have a son, I would expect better treatment.” Puller’s

hand actually moved an inch toward his M11.

 

Knox stood and barked, “You are way out of line, lady.” Jericho stared blankly

up at her before settling her gaze back on Puller. “Do you think I’m way out of