Read Online Hotshot by Catherine Mann - Free Book Online Page B

certain the target will stay stationary.”
    Congresswoman Raintree gestured with her silver pen. “So the pluses of this method—you’ll be virtually undetectable.”
    “Exactly,” Scanlon answered while the other guests listened raptly. “The plane doesn’t look dangerous or threatening. It’s one of the most innovative additions we’ve seen added to the inventory. It’s cheap and easy to fly.”
    Paulina shifted in her seat, a hint of pink lace playing hide-and-seek in a way that had Don looking at her more often than he wanted. “And the downside? Because in my experience there’s always a downside, Major Deluca.”
    “Nonexistent defenses.”
    Congressman Mooney scrubbed a hand along his tanned jaw. “Colonel, what happens, then, if you are detected?”
    “Someday—hopefully soon—we’ll have radar sensors. We’re actively working to make that happen. But for now, the pilot’s skills with evasive maneuvers would be the only defense.”
    Congresswoman Raintree rolled the Cross pen between two fingers. “Do you trust Major Deluca to have those skills?”
    “Without question, ma’am,” Scanlon answered, no hesitation.
    Congressman Mooney exchanged a look with Raintree before she, as the senior Congress member, continued, “We’re pleased with what you have in place to protect our safety and the integrity of the congressional hearing. We appreciate the time and resources you’re contributing on behalf of this very important piece of legislation.”
    Paulina stood, pink lace dipping out of sight. “Then we’re a go. Major Deluca and his team will carry on in Cleveland and proceed with putting the first nanosensor in place at a teen function scheduled at the center tonight.”
    Don studied his old student filling the screen and hoped Vince was as good at his job as the squadron commander touted. Because God help them all if fiery Shay caught him planting that flying nanosensor bug on her home turf without her knowledge.

    Shay swatted away a mosquito as she leaned into the trunk of her car to heft out another crate of soda bottles.
    This gathering would be a simpler one, given what had happened to Kevin and the student. She pushed herself to move ahead, even when she wanted to shout of her frustration over the senseless deaths. Their murders drove her to bring some kind of peace to this area.
    Starting today.
    For the most part, the community center staff had found low key worked best for these get-togethers. The important element? Food. These kids poured out for food. Problem was, in the long run, hot dogs and pizza had a tough time competing with crack and X. For now, a buffet and a listening ear were about all she had at her disposal.
    And, of course, the local police department came through with an extra car parked conspicuously out front. Anything that brought the East Side Mercenaries and Apocalypse into the same place at once warranted official observation. So far, the rival gangs had kept to a wary standoff throughout the four-hour events.
    A huge, freaking accomplishment on the part of the center’s staff.
    Trying to balance the flat of two-liter colas, she reached to close the hood. A pair of thick, masculine arms came around from behind her and scooped up the drinks. She spun around to find . . .
    “Vince?” Shay covered her confusion with bravado. “Holy crap, has it been seventeen years already?”
    He secured his hold on the sodas, arms bulging in a form-fitting black T-shirt. He smelled of a fresh shower and a scent essentially him . “I’m on vacation. I leave when the wind moves me.”
    “Where’s a good lake effect storm when you need one?”
    His deep laugh caught her off guard. “I actually came by to see if you need help setting up. Quit being an ungrateful brat and grab that grocery sack of chips.”
    She tugged out the blessedly lighter bag, searching his face. What was his real agenda? Because he’d never, ever sought her company without an order from her father.