An Agent for Zennia

The Pinkerton Matchmaker Series

Book 71

By

Patricia PacJac Carroll

An Agent for Zennia ~ The Pinkerton Matchmaker  Book 71 ~ 

Author Patricia PacJac Carroll

      Copyright © April 2020

Published by Patricia PacJac Carroll @ PacJac Publishing

ALL rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced, (except for inclusion in reviews), disseminated or utilized in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, or audio. Including photocopying, recording, or in any information storage and retrieval system, or the Internet/World Wide Web without written permission from the author.

This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, and incidents are either the product of the author’s imagination or used fictitiously. Any resemblance to actual persons living or dead is purely coincidental.

Cover by: Virginia McKevitt

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An Agent for Zennia

The Pinkerton Matchmaker Series

Book 71

By

Patricia PacJac Carroll

Chapter 1

Kyle Logan read the telegram for the tenth time in the two minutes since he’d received it. Slapping it against his leg, he tamped down the anger that exploded inside him. Amanda was in trouble.

He was the only one who could rescue her, but how was he going to get Archie, the head detective of the Denver Pinkerton Office, to let him go to Chicago? The man was Scottish cheap and would want to send someone from the local office.

On his way to the agency, he paused to let his senses recover from the shock. Then he watched as a young woman pulled on the big oaken doors of the Pinkerton Agency. After a small struggle, she entered.

“She’s determined.” Kyle leaned against the oak tree and toyed with an idea. Archie had come up with the plan of pairing women with experienced agents with good success. Kyle could use a female agent to get into Amanda’s college and help him find her.

With a bit of determination of his own, Kyle entered the agency and headed for Archie’s office. After a quick knock, he opened the door, barged in, and threw the telegram on his boss’s desk. “I need to rescue her.”

With an irritated look, Archie pointed across his desk. “I am busy.”

Kyle followed Archie’s finger. There was the young woman he’d seen enter the building. She’d work fine and looked to be the right age of those in the girl’s college that Amanda attended. He smiled at the young woman. “I didn’t mean to intrude, but I have an urgent case that needs attending. Frankly, I could use the young lady’s help.” Kyle turned to Archie and leaned one hand on the desk and pointed to the telegram. “Read it.”

Archie put his glasses on and picked up the crumpled piece of paper. “Help. I’m in trouble. Amanda.” Archie sat back in his chair and stared at Kyle. “Who is Amanda, and what kind of trouble?”

“That was from this morning. She’s my fiancé, almost anyway. Her father sent her to a girl’s college in Chicago, and she told me in her letters that someone had been following her. I have to save her.” Kyle stood and waited.

The young woman jumped out of her chair. “I can help. I am excellent at noticing things other people don’t. I can sketch people. I’m smart. I can go undercover. I can shoot a gun. I am your, er, woman.” She held her hand out to Kyle. “Zennia Fields, at your service.”

Archie groaned. “You know Chicago doesn’t like it when I step on their territory.”

Kyle shook the woman’s hand. “Kyle Logan, Pinkerton Agent.” He pulled his gaze from Zennia and looked at Archie. “I know Ursula works out of the Chicago office, now. She’d vouch for me. Maybe. I did hear she’s softened a lot since marrying that professor fellow.”

Shaking his head, Archie put the telegram down. “Against my better judgment, I’ll agree to it.” He looked at the woman. “You’re very young. In the past, I have made my female agents marry the agent in charge of their training to protect their reputation. Kyle just said he has a fiancé, so I can’t see forcing you two to marry as a viable option.”

Zennia leaned on the desk, inches from Archie’s face. “I’ll do anything. I was born to be a Pinkerton Detective, and you will not regret it.”

Archie sat back to get away from her. “This is what I’m willing to do. Kyle, you’re an excellent agent, and I don’t want to lose you. I read the telegram and agree you need to go and see what you can do for,” Archie glanced at the telegram. “Amanda. Zennia, you can go as his partner, but under cover of being his younger sister.”

“Perfect.” Kyle slammed a palm on the desk. “That is just what I was thinking. She can go undercover and find out what has happened to Amanda.” He grinned at the woman. “You’ll be Zennia Logan. My little sister.”

She put a hand out to him. “Nice to meet you.”

Kyle shook her hand and was surprised at her firm grip. “Sis.”

Archie set out a paper for them to sign. “Kyle, I know you’re a good man, so I’m not worried about you. But watch out for her. She’s young and eager. The very ones who can get into the most trouble.”

Archie handed a pen to Zennia. “You do exactly what Kyle says. No going off on your own. Understand?”

“Yes, sir. I will make you proud.” Zennia stood straight and saluted.

With a grimace, Archie shook his head. “That’s not necessary. Just do what Kyle tells you to do.”

She nodded. “When do we leave? Do I get a gun, or should I buy my own? Are we riding horses?”

Kyle put his hand up. “Whoa. We’ll leave on the next train to get us to Chicago. You can get a derringer, but just for your protection. I don’t want you shooing up the place. Follow me.”

After a nod to Archie, Kyle left the office without looking back. Zennia’s quick footsteps let him know she was following. Despite his worry for Amanda, he liked his new partner. She was smart and eager, but like Archie said, that could get her into trouble. Kyle decided he’d keep a tight rein on her.

Once outside, Kyle turned left to go to the train station. He’d taken several steps when he didn’t hear her behind him. He turned and saw her walk across the street and enter Walt’s Gun Store.

Kyle rolled his eyes. What he didn’t need to be doing was to be following after her. Then he shrugged and followed her. Once inside the store, Kyle saw Walt showing her a lady’s special. The small gun fit neatly in her hand.

Zennia saw him and smiled. “This one is perfect. It will fit in my skirt pocket or reticule.” She turned to Walt. “I’ll take it and a box of cartridges.”

“Yes, ma’am.” Walt nodded at Kyle and then took a box from under the counter and set it in front of her.

Zennia paid and then pocketed the gun and turned to Kyle and headed for the door.

Kyle caught her and tapped her on the shoulder. “Did you load that thing?”

She turned and blushed. “I didn’t check.”

“That’s the first rule of owning a gun. Always check and see if it’s loaded.”

She yanked it out of her pocket and opened the chamber. “It’s loaded.”

Kyle saw the way she handled the derringer that she was no stranger to guns and figured she must have been nervous. “Now, you know. It wouldn’t do you any good if you needed it, and it wasn’t loaded.”

Swallowing hard, Zennia nodded and looked at him with a serious frown. “Note taken. I won’t forget again. Sorry.”

“I’m sure you won’t.” Kyle held open the door. “Now, follow me and continue to follow me.”

Her bouncy attitude returned. “Where are we going?”

Hoping he wouldn’t have to explain his every move, he took the lead but called back to her. “To the train depot.”

Zennia caught him and took his arm. “I need to pack my clothes. Surely, you’re not going to leave with only the clothes on your back.” She pulled him to a stop.

He nodded. “Go ahead and meet me at the depot. Don’t worry, I’ll pick up my bag. I keep one packed for quick trips.”

Pink tinted her cheeks. “Oh, I see. You are the expert.”

“Meet me at the depot,” he pulled out his pocket watch, “in an hour and a half.”

“Yes, sir.” Zennia walked quickly away from him and up the street.

To say she was eager was an understatement. Kyle just hoped he could keep up with her. He stopped at his nearby boardinghouse, picked up his bag, and then went on to the depot. With the advance Archie had authorized, Kyle bought the tickets. The next train left later in the afternoon, so he’d have time for dinner. If Zennia got back in time.

***

Zennia ran to the livery and rented a hackney cab to take her to her home. She had the driver drop her off several blocks from her house and paid the driver to wait. Keeping an eye out for her father, she quietly slipped in the back door and tiptoed up the stairs to her room.

If he knew what she was doing, he’d have stopped her and locked her in her room. Of course, that never worked because she would climb down the trellis, but she didn’t want to risk a confrontation.

Quickly, she packed some clothes and tiptoed down the stairs and back out the door. Her father had made a small fortune from the silver and gold he’d found and mined. Her brothers were scattered between the mines and the ranch Father had bought.

She was left to herself and had tired of going to socials and having young men fall at her feet. Not that she was the most beautiful woman in Denver. That would go to Sheila Caldwell. Still, at every dance, the boys flocked to Zennia because of who her father was and his money. Zennia wanted a man who saw her for who she was.

She also wanted an exciting life, and not the coddled life of a wealthy man’s daughter. Too bad she hadn’t been born a boy. She could take over the family business. Yet, she did enjoy being a woman. To save time, she kept her brown hair tied back to keep her hair out of her face, but that usually failed.

She picked up her bag and ran back to the cab and told the driver to take her to the depot. Kyle Logan seemed like a nice enough man and capable agent. She thought of him and his light brown hair and blue eyes, although they had a little gray in them, too. But it was more than the color of his eyes that had impressed her, it was their sharpness.

Yes, she thought him to be a good agent. The perfect one for her to learn from. Ever since she’d read her first mystery, she’d been intrigued with the idea of becoming a detective.

Zennia had read about the science of crime-fighting and learned that they were identifying bullets to prove which gun was used in a crime. And then there was the idea that fingerprints were unique and could be used to prove if someone was present at a crime scene. Soon, there wouldn’t be any way for a criminal to get away with their crime.

At the depot, she paid the driver and ran to the platform. A quick look at the watch she kept pinned to her blouse showed she was back with more than half-an-hour to spare. After a quick glance, she spotted Kyle sitting on the bench.

His head was down, resting on his hands and elbows on his knees. Thinking. Maybe he was worried about his fiancé. Isn’t that how he’d described the missing woman? Or had he said almost fiancé?

If she was interested in finding a husband, Kyle would be someone she would consider. But she wasn’t ready to get married. Father had tried to marry her off half-a-dozen times. Yet, as she watched Kyle, her interest in him grew. She wasn’t one to be impressed by young men her age, but there was something there. Maybe because he was her boss.

Zennia walked in front of him. “I’m here and on time.”

He looked up and appeared to be sizing her up. “Good. The train won’t leave for a time. Are you hungry?”

“Yes, I am, Agent Kyle Logan.”

He stood and grinned. “Just Kyle will do. Remember, you’re my sister.” He took her bag and set it by his. “The porter will watch them for us. The Cattleman’s Steak House is just down the street. Does that sound all right.”

“Wonderful. I love their food.” She walked beside him, feeling almost as if they were a couple. The thought pricked her conscience. He was going to help save a woman who he thought of as a fiancé. There would be no romance in this partnership. She’d have to watch that.

Kyle held the door for her and then found a table near the back of the restaurant. “I prefer to sit in the back so I can see who comes and goes.”

She put the napkin in her lap. “That makes sense. Are you looking for anyone?”

“No. But once you’ve been in the business long enough, you acquire your share of enemies.”

“Aw, I see. Do you have many?” She took a drink of water and gulped. “Enemies”

He grinned. “No. Not really. But it’s always good to keep a look out. You never know when you’ll see someone who is wanted.”

Zennia had a bite of steak on her fork but stopped it on the way to her mouth. “Like dead or alive?”

Kyle grinned. “Something like that.”

“Do you just shoot them? I don’t think I could do that. I am a fair fighter.”

With a raised eyebrow, Kyle shook his head. “Uh-huh. Women never fight fair. You’re a smart one, all right. I’m going to have to watch you, but ask me before you want to shoot anyone.”

The only person Zennia wanted to watch for was her father. Although being this was Thursday, it would be the day for him to go to the club and have smokes and drinks with the powerful of Denver.

She returned her gaze to Kyle. He was the professional, so she asked him, one detective, to another. “What will be our first move?”

Cutting his steak, Kyle didn’t respond right away. He paused a minute and then looked her in the eye. “We’re going to wait and determine that after we get to Chicago and find out the circumstances.”

She chewed on a piece of steak and nodded. “All right. I’ll follow your lead. So, tell me about Amanda? Where is she from, and how did you meet her?”

Taking a sip of water, Kyle waited. “Later.”

Hmm. That made Zennia wonder about him. Was Amanda his fiancé, or was there another reason he was involved in finding her? Jilted lover? Jealous fiancé? Her mind buzzed with ideas. For now, she’d trust him. But if he was so in love and worried about Amanda, Zennia would have thought he’d want to talk about her.

Chapter 2

Kyle paid for the meal and led Zennia to the depot. He had a feeling she would act every bit the younger sister and pepper him with nonstop questions. For the moment, she was busy looking at the train tickets and trying to decide if she wanted to sit by the window or the aisle.

At least, that gave him time to decide what to tell her about Amanda. He glanced at Zennia and thought how different they were. Amada had blond hair that was always neatly in place.

He almost laughed. Zennia looked the part of a little sister. Her brown hair was tied in the back with ample strands escaping and blowing in her face. She was of slight build. Smaller than Amanda and lacking the womanly curves. Though she was pretty.

Amanda was beautiful. He’d met her in a park a year ago. He had been working with the Pinkerton’s in Chicago and had only come to Denver three months ago when he was needed for an embezzlement case.

She’d begged him not to go, yet, she’d turned down the engagement ring he’d offered her. That had left him with little reason to stay, but now, he wished he had. He missed her. Being with her and going to fancy restaurants and social engagements with her.

Amanda came from the wealthy Vaughn family. Amanda had said their money came from the banking industry, but it wasn’t the wealth that had attracted him to her. Kyle had never felt about a woman as he had Amanda.

He glanced at Zennia and had to laugh. His little sister. She was nothing like Amanda. Everything Amanda did, she did it with slow well-planned meaning. Zennia was brash and fast like a dragonfly buzzing about while Amanda had been the graceful butterfly.

Kyle missed Amanda despite the bruised heart she’d given him. He thought they were finished until she wrote him a couple of letters. That had spiked his interest in her. Amanda had even talked about their engagement if he came back. He’d toyed with the idea, but it didn’t set right to have to ask Archie to transfer back to Chicago because of her. He needed to know she really cared for him.

But that telegram had taken him by surprise. He’d do anything to save her, and she knew that. So, here he was waiting for the train to take him back to her. Just when he thought he was over her. Her letters had stopped. If he saved her, would Amanda think differently and agree to accept his proposal?

He had no idea what kind of trouble she could be in. Still, as he thought back, there were times she’d been reluctant to be with him as if she had things to do that she didn’t want him to know about. Not to mention he’d only seen her parents once, and Amanda had been nervous around them. Kyle had thought she was ashamed of him in front of her parent’s wealth.

She never told him why, and she never agreed to be his fiancé. He’d asked her twice, and she’d balked both times. That was one of the reasons he’d gone to Denver. He thought if he left, she’d come to her senses and agree to be engaged. But she hadn’t. Even though she had written him several letters at first.

Troubled at the memories, he abruptly stopped walking, and Zennia ran into him.

“Why did you stop? Is something wrong?” She quizzed him with that funny look she had.

Kyle laughed. “No. Nothing is wrong. Let’s go to the last car.” He pointed down the tracks and started walking, not waiting for her to answer.

Once again, the silence behind him pulled him to a stop. Kyle looked back to see that she was still standing where he’d left her. With a shrug, he called to her and waved her to him.

She shook her head and pointed to the train car next to her.

Kyle shook his head. “Let’s get on down here.”

“I want this one.” She smiled and stepped into the car and disappeared inside.

Now what? Drag her back, or leave her and go on to the car he had pointed out? He muttered under his breath. She was becoming more and more like a little sister. Well, she wasn’t going to make him do as she pleased. He went on and boarded the train car he’d initially wanted to go on.

Seated by the window, he wondered where she was and why she had to be so obstinate. Well, she could come and find him. He was not budging. He had a comfortable seat in a not very crowded car and was content to stay right where he was.

Kyle leaned back and gazed out the window, but thought of Zennia cluttered his thinking. The woman could just go on her own if she wanted to. He didn’t need her. Not yet, anyway. Once they got to Chicago, he’d send Zennia into the college to sniff out what trouble Amanda may be in and see if she was still staying in the dorm.

Then again, he really didn’t know what Amanda’s trouble was. Once before, Amanda had mentioned that she was afraid, but when he asked her about, she shook her head and said it was nothing.

His thoughts of Amanda blurred with Kyle’s trouble with Zennia. If she didn’t want to do what he said, she could find another job, and he’d find another agent to take her place. Maybe Ulyssa. He’d worked with her some on a counterfeit ring while in Chicago. That had been about the same time he was with Amanda.

The train chugged, lurched, and began its journey. Kyle relaxed or tried to. That his partner wasn’t with him was unnerving. Not that he cared about Zennia, but he was in charge of her. She should be here in front of him so he could ask about her.

He really knew nothing about Zennia Fields. She looked younger than her twenty-two years. Perfect for the cover of his younger sister. They both had brown hair and blue eyes. She needed to get used to being called Zennia Logan and saying she was his brother.

Soon the train was swaying over the tracks and eating up the miles. Kyle wanted to think about Amanda, but Zennia kept getting in the way. Where was she and what was she doing? He was just about to get up when the door opened, and she rushed in.

Her face was flushed, her hair blown about making it messier than usual, and her eyes were bright and shining as if she’d solved a case on her own.

With a grin, she sat down in front of him. “I got a good look at all the people on the train. I didn’t see any outlaws that I recognized.” She folded her hands in front of her as if waiting for further instructions.

He nodded. “I suggest you settle back in the seat and rest. It’s a long ride to Chicago.”

Frowning, Zennia pulled out a notebook and pencil from her pocket. “I thought we could work while we’re on the train. You could tell me about Amanda and what you might think is going on. The surroundings. Where we might look first. That kind of thing.”

Her eagerness made him feel tired. “We have plenty of time for that. I’d like to get some shut-eye.”

Not only did she not shut her eyes, she rolled them. “You’re acting like an old man. I know you’re supposed to be my older brother, but I didn’t think that meant elderly.”

That woke him up. He was not old, and only a couple of years older than Zennia. “We have plenty of time.”

Her lips went together, giving him a look of disapproval. “I would think you would want to find out what happened to her. Did you bring the telegram?”

Kyle opened one eye a slit and glared at her best he could without opening the other eye. As to do so would be defeat. “Later. I didn’t sleep well. Nothing we can do on the train. Once we get to Chicago, we’ll be going full speed.”

She tilted her head and frowned at him. “Oh, well, I hope you’ll let me know when we get to full speed, so I don’t get left behind.” Zennia turned away from him and looked out the window.

Forcing his eyes to remain closed, Kyle wondered how he’d been so unlucky as to get Zennia as his partner. At least, Archie had not made them get married. Apparently, he’d talked enough about Amanda that the lead detective knew that wouldn’t be an option.

Zennia remained quiet for about a minute. “Kyle, wake up.”

“I wasn’t asleep.” He sat up, all idea of taking a rest gone. “What?”

She put her pencil to her notebook. “What does Amanda look like? Do you have a picture?”

With a sudden burst of reality, Kyle realized, no, he didn’t have a picture of her. He’d arranged for them to have one together, but she’d made excuses about her hair and dress. Of which, there had been nothing wrong with either. He’d chalked it up to a woman’s ways.

He shook his head. “No. I don’t have a picture of her.”

Zennia sighed. “That would have been helpful.” She stared at him.

Kyle could see the wheels in Zennia’s mind turning.

She huffed a little sigh. “Why don’t you have a picture of your fiancé? Most men would.”

He had the money to pay for one. So, why didn’t he? Troubled that he had no reason, he remained quiet.

After a few minutes, Zennia smiled. “All right, you describe her to me, and I’ll try and draw her. I’m rather good at it.”

Seeing that he had no avenue of escape, he relented to her wishes. Besides, having a drawing of Amanda would be helpful when questioning others about her whereabouts. “All right. Are you ready?”

Zennia nodded, her eagerness barely contained in her smile.

“She’s taller than you and more, well, rounded.”

Zennia stared at him with a lopsided look of disapproval. “I’m drawing her face.”

“Oh. Well, Amanda’s face is long and oval. She has blond hair that she keeps up in a fashionable bun like most of the ladies in Chicago. Her eyes are brown, warm, and loving. Her lips are full and pink. Her cheekbones are high. Her skin is soft and flawless. And she wears this perfume that smells like heaven.”

Muttering as she sketched, Zennia finally turned her work for him to see. “Does that look like her? Sorry I couldn’t get the heavenly smell to show.”

Kyle was amazed at the likeness. It did look like her. Not perfect, but a keen resemblance. “That’s good, Zennia.” He was genuinely impressed.

Beaming with pride, Zennia stared at the picture, and her smile wavered. “She is pretty.”

Kyle nodded. “Beautiful. I was surprised she gave me the time of day.”

Zennia stared at him. “You’re a handsome man, smart, and interesting. I can see why she would.”

Suddenly, Kyle didn’t mind Zennia’s inexperience. She would be useful. Besides, the key was to find Amanda. She’d written in letters that she was afraid of someone. He thought maybe because of her wealthy father. He’d mentioned it to Amanda once, but she’d said no and assured him she would be fine. Now, it appears she wasn’t. He’d let her down. Kyle felt he should have been there to protect her.

“Who would want to hurt her?” Zennia looked at him with bright, innocent eyes.

Although the question was valid, it riled Kyle. He should have been ahead of the newcomer. Instead, he answered her truthfully. “I don’t know.”

She frowned. “Enemies to the family? A jilted lover? Or a madman intent on doing her harm or worse?”

Her questions hit him like worded bullets. Any of the options could apply. Kyle stared at her. She was pretty. Honest. And looking to him as if he had the answers.

Kyle turned to the window. “I don’t know. Any of those, I suppose.”

“She didn’t mention that someone was following her?”

He put a hand to his forehead. Was the woman a mind reader? “Not really, she’d written and said that she was afraid of someone, but that she thought she could handle it, and not to worry.”

Kyle recalled a day some time ago when he and Amanda had gone out. They were walking along the pier when she suddenly stopped and pushed him down an alley. Breathless, she’d told him not to make a sound. He tried to get around her to see who she was afraid of, but she pushed him back and kissed him as someone walked by. The memory flooded back to him.

The kiss had held nothing of a promise. More of a ruse to keep him from seeing the man who walked by. Amanda had shielded him from seeing the man.

“How long ago was that?”

Forgetting that Zennia was across from him, questioning him, Kyle turned to look at the girl. Then again, Zennia was no girl. She was a woman in her own right. And apparently smarter than he’d thought. Her questions were right on point. It took him a moment to remember what she’d asked. “Two months ago.”

Zennia chewed on the end of her pencil and nodded. “When we get to Chicago, we should enquire about her family’s company. I can get into her college and look for her friends. Do you know anyone that she talked about or hung around with frequently?”

The small headache that had begun in the back of his head had moved to his forehead just above his eyes. Would she interrogate him the entire way to Chicago? He thought back to his time with Amanda. There was one friend he remembered. What was her name? Julie, Julia, something like that. But Amanda never hung around with any friends.

“I remember one girl she sat next to in one of her classes. A friend who sometimes ate lunch with us. I think her name was Julia.”

“Maybe you can remember before we get to Chicago.” Zennia smiled sweetly. “You don’t need to worry. My father sent me to school so I can carry my own in a college environment. Do you think you could describe Julia enough for me to draw?”

He shook his head. “No, I didn’t pay much attention to her.” The truth was the woman had been nothing but a distraction to him when he was with Amanda. “It’s possible when we get there Amanda will be fine and tell me it’s nothing.”

“But you don’t believe that, do you?” Zennia sketched on her pad.

“No. I think she’s in trouble and reached out to me. She trusts me.”

“I can see why she would.” Zennia sighed. “Well, it doesn’t matter. I am sure I can sniff Amanda’s friends out. I’m good at that. Did I tell you I grew up with four brothers? I’m the youngest. My mother died when I was thirteen, so at the critical time of approaching womanhood, I was left in the care of my father and brothers.”

She flipped a hand through her hair. “You can see that I really don’t know what to do with my hair. That is why. Pigtails and ponytails were all that my father knew to do.” She blushed. “I may have to go to a woman to fix my hair before I enter the college. I need to fit in with the wealthy.” Zennia grinned. “But don’t worry, I come from a very wealthy family.”

Kyle sat up straight in his seat. Zennia was becoming more interesting by the mile. “I think you’ll do just fine. You impress me with your questions and intuitive style of deduction.”

She smiled. “Thank you. I’ve read detective books. Those by Pinkertons, and some from England. Did you know they are studying bullets and the marks they make to prove what gun they were fired from? And my favorite new item is that everyone has unique fingerprints and leaves them on guns, glasses, and solid objects. I find it fascinating.”

He’d heard of the studies but not really looked into them. Still, to prove that he was the experienced one, he nodded his head as if he knew all about it. Kyle looked at Zennia, but this time as if she were his equal. A detective. Then as he studied her, he began to see her as a woman. A pretty one at that.

Chapter 3

Zennia stared out the window and smiled as she saw the outline of Chicago come into view. She was more than ready to get off the train and jump into the case at hand. Kyle seemed a bit reluctant to share things about Amanda. Still, Zennia figured once they began the investigation, he’d be freer with the information.

She swept her gaze over him and then back to the window. He was sleeping. She wondered if all agents made a point of sleeping on trains as much as he did. She couldn’t. Ever since Mr. Gordon had hired her as a Pinkerton agent, she’d been on the alert.

Yes, she slept a little, but she had to admit it was strange to fall asleep on the train, knowing that a man was in the seat in front of her. Yet, she felt safe with Kyle. He was a gentleman as far as she could tell. He’d made no untoward comments or actions against her.

She’d tried asking him questions about Amanda, but he didn’t act like he wanted to answer her. Perhaps he was feeling sad that something had happened to her. She was his fiancé, after all.

Stealing a look at Kyle, she had to admit he was handsome. Zennia didn’t like the small feeling of jealousy that was rising up inside her. She needed to want to find Amanda and make sure she was safe as much as Kyle. He was nothing to her but her partner. Zennia needed to remind herself of that.

Amanda was Kyle’s fiancé and in trouble. That was all she needed to remember. Zennia sighed and gazed out the window. If only. But then her life had been a series of if onlys. If only mother hadn’t died so suddenly, leaving her alone without telling her about womanly things. Father grieved by cutting himself off from his family. Her oldest brother, Dale, was already married and on his own.

Rick and Jack were away at college in New York. And her youngest brother Steve was busy running the ranch. She had been left on her own. Not that she minded wholly, but there were times when she would have appreciated some fatherly advice.

Then when she became old enough, she was sent to a girl’s school in Richmond. She’d excelled in her studies and failed in social manners. After skipping class because she wanted to see a lecture by a Pinkerton agent and a woman who had been a union spy in the civil war, the school had sent her home.

Father was disgusted, but his form of punishment was to let her do what she wanted. Zennia knew he loved her, but he was in his own private prison of grief. Once he’d told her that she reminded him of Mother, and it hurt too much to be around her.

So, Zennia was free. With all the money she could want, she answered to no one. Having a lead detective might prove to be a challenge as she wasn’t used to doing what anyone said. So far, Kyle hadn’t been very demanding.

He stretched, glanced out the window, and then nodded at her. His blue-gray eyes gazed at her as if sorting her out with a mixture of readiness and wariness. He didn’t trust her. She could tell by the way he stared at her.

Zennia wished she looked her age. Instead, she seemed almost schoolgirlish because of her carefree attitude and zest to get on with the case. She often forgot how she looked before running out of the house to do whatever she wanted. Her mother would have been disappointed.

Shaking off her failures where her family was concerned, Zennia turned to the job at hand. “We’re almost at the depot.” She wanted to engage with Kyle. Let him know she was here as a Pinkerton agent and not a young woman. Or girl as he had called her at the depot. She might be playing the part of his kid sister, but she wasn’t a kid.

He nodded. “Yes, we are. We don’t need to hurry off the train. We’ll wait until the others get off, and then we’ll exit.”

“So, we can watch for those wanted dead or alive?”

Kyle stared at her for a moment. “So, the conductor can get our bags off the car, and we don’t have to wait.”

“Oh. What is the first thing we do? Check-in with the Pinkerton agency?”

“The first thing we’ll do is get a hotel. Two rooms.” He looked at her pointedly as if to set things straight. “Then, we’ll visit the college.”

Zennia bit her lip but couldn’t keep her silence. “I think you should go to the college alone. If I’m to sign up for classes, I don’t think it would look good for others to see me with you.”

He nodded. “Good point. You stay at the hotel, and I’ll check out Amanda’s room in the school. See if anyone has seen her.” He stopped talking abruptly. “Could be she’s not even missing. Could be this whole case is a mistake.”

Zennia wondered if he expected to see Amanda at home, and the telegram was merely a ruse to get him back to Chicago. Zennia had wondered if Amanda really loved Kyle, she might be the type to act deviously to get her way. Then again, Zennia needed to keep her motives straight and squash her schoolgirl feelings about Kyle. 

After being quiet a few minutes, Zennia came up with a question. “Can you tell where the telegram came from? The address?”

Kyle stared at her. She could tell the thought hadn’t occurred to him. He took it out of his pocket and nodded. “Yes, here it is. The telegram office at 2805 Second Street.”

Zennia held up her notebook. “While you’re checking out the school, I can see about the telegraph office and show them my drawing. Perhaps someone might recall her sending the wire.”

She could see Kyle didn’t want her to go by herself.

He hemmed and hawed and finally blurted. “No. You wait for me. I have one woman who might be missing, and I don’t need you to disappear on me, too.”

While she felt a twinge of warmth that someone cared about her, she also resented the idea that he would tell her to stay put until he could be with her. “I am not your kid sister. I am an agent—”

“In training. You remember what Archie said. I’m to train you. That means you do as I say. And I say you stay in the hotel until I come back for you. If I can’t trust you, I’ll send you back on this train today.” His eyes were sharp while his voice and tone said he’d not be disobeyed.

“You don’t have to get so upset. A simple no would have been fine.” She met his stare with her own challenging glare.

His gaze didn’t waver. “Somehow, Little Sis, I doubt that. I’ve been watching you, and I think you’re used to having your own way. Spoiled rotten if you ask me.”

Zennia huffed. “How dare you say such a thing. You don’t even know me. Not really. You will find me capable—”

“And obedient? Somehow, I don’t think so. But I’m warning you if you don’t do as I say, I’ll send you home and write you up in a report that will make Archie fire you. You are in training. Remember that.”

Her mouth was open. She closed it, thinking about how she must have looked like a catfish with it hanging open. How dare he, but he was right. “I understand. I’ll wait for you to figure out what to do. In the meantime, while you’re deciding, I’ll pray for Amanda that nothing awful has happened to her. Because, if it was me, I’d want people actively looking for me.”

His eyes narrowed along with his lips. But before he could say more, the train lurched to a halt, throwing her against him.

Zennia hit him in the chest with her head and shoulders. She felt his strong muscles and warmth. Embarrassed, she struggled to sit up straight and get away from him.

He almost picked her up and set her back in the seat. “Are you all right?”

“Of course, I am. Sorry. It caught me off guard.”

“And that is why you need to do as I say.”

She stared at him. His eyes had softened some, and the fight had been knocked out of her. “Yes, sir. I will.” Zennia meant the words, too. Pretty much any way.

He stood. “Follow me.”

“I thought we were waiting until the care emptied.”

He pointed behind her. “It is.”

She turned. He was right. Not a soul remained in the car. “They sure ran out of here. Wonder what the hurry was?”

He pointed out the window. “I’d say they were meeting family. Loved ones.”

Zennia stared out the window at a man embracing a woman. From the looks of it, they were lovers. Husband and wife? A man meeting his fiancé. She glanced at Kyle to see if the couple’s embrace affected him. Was he missing his fiancé? Worried about Amanda?

Instead, he looked straight ahead and ushered her out of the car. Chicago was a bustling city on the go. Trains were boarding as well as letting passengers off. Excitement filled her at all the activity, and as she watched, people met with joy and departed one another with heartfelt sadness.

She followed Kyle and took in the untold stories going on around her. Yet, as she looked at the broad shoulders of the man in front of her, she wondered about his story and his missing fiancé.

He picked up her bag and then his. “We’ll get a cab and go to the Grand Pacific Hotel. It is one of the finest and first built after the great fire. I think you’ll like it. Five dollars a night but includes meals.”

She nodded. “I’ve heard of it. The fire must have been terrible.”

Kyle nodded. “It all started in a barn by O’Leary’s cow. I helped fight the fire. In fact, it was because of the fire that I met Amanda. I came into a relief center after looking for the injured.” He stopped for a moment. “It was horrendous, killing three hundred people. The fire was so hot it took days for it to cool enough before we could go through the rubble.”

“That must have been horrible.” She felt his great sorrow.

“Amanda handed me a cup of coffee. I’ll never forget her sweet smile. So genuine and loving. I was immediately taken with her. Over the next three days, we became friends. She told me she was going to Carver’s Girls College and invited me to come to their Sunday luncheon. After that, we met regularly.”

Zennia waited for more, but Kyle was finished. He waved a cab over and helped her into the carriage.

“The hotel has elevators and hot water. Excellent cuisine with French and Italian chefs.” He looked at her and smiled. “You won’t want to leave the hotel.”

She grinned. Wealth was no stranger to her. Apparently, Kyle had not connected her with Arthur Fields and his grand wealth from the gold mines, ranching, and banking. Whatever her father touched turned to, if not gold, wealth.

She sat in the carriage and adjusted her skirt. “I may do some shopping to find some dresses more appropriate for college. When you go, pick up a brochure so I can talk to the dean. I’m sure they’ll accept me. We hit the right time as this is the beginning of a new semester.”

Kyle studied her as if looking at her for the first time. “New clothes? Well, the hotel has some stores in it. I don’t feel comfortable with you going about the city unescorted. I love Chicago, but it does have its seedier side.”

Zennia had to admit, she liked the idea that he cared about her safety. But she did have her derringer. And she was a Pinkerton agent. It was not likely that other agents were babied by their partner while in town.

She threw off her irritation and tried to get him to see her as an agent and not a little sister. “Will we stop at the Pinkerton Agency?”

He shrugged. “Maybe. I’ll probably meet with Ulyssa. She’s married now to Cade Monroe, a professor at the University. She’d be a good one to ask for help. Ulyssa knows the gangs and families in Chicago that might have a feud with Amanda’s family.”

Zennia chuckled. “I guess Chicago isn’t far removed from the wild west.”

“No, it’s not. After the fire, General Sheridan coordinated the federal relief efforts. Maybe he should have stayed and kept the peace.”

“Is it that bad?”

“No. Not really. I guess I’m just unsettled about Amanda.”

Zennia put a hand on his arm. “Perhaps she’ll be in her room, and it’s all a big misunderstanding.”

“Thanks, but I have a gut feeling that she’s in trouble. Her last letter was filled with her worry and trouble. Nothing big but small things. A stranger pushing her down. Someone stealing her mail. A man following her to class.” He looked away and tapped his finger on the carriage door.

Sitting back, Zennia pondered the information he’d given her. Along with the examples he cited, and the ominous telegram, she couldn’t help but worry about Amanda. She prayed for the woman, asking the Lord to protect her, and that He would give them direction in saving her from danger.

***

Kyle checked them into the hotel. He’d made sure that his room was across the hall from Zennia’s. He figured he was going to have to watch out for his eager partner. She fit the little sister role perfectly.

It was early enough that he could take Zennia to lunch and then check out Amanda’s room at the college. He glanced at her door and smiled. Kyle wanted to show her the best and treat her to the wonders of Chicago.

He knocked.

Zennia swung open the door and looked at him with that funny adoring smile she had. “Yes?”

“I thought we’d have lunch in the dining room.” He suddenly felt awkward as if he was betraying Amanda. Then he chided himself. Zennia was nothing more than his partner, and he only looked at her like a kid sister.

“I’d love to.” She blushed and went into her room to gather her reticule and shawl. “It was a bit chilly in the carriage.”

He offered her his arm. Amanda had said it was the proper way for a man to accompany a woman in Chicago.

Zennia grinned and put her hand in the crook of his elbow. “Lead on, Big Brother.”

He wasn’t prepared for the warmth of her hand on his arm. Kyle set his mind on Amanda, the reason he was here. Zennia was his partner only, and it was going to stay that way. He led her to the escalator and then to the dining room. He didn’t say much, and for once, Zennia was quiet.

Kyle nodded at the waiter and followed him as he led them to a table at the far end of the room close to the window. After Zennia was seated, Kyle picked up the menu. He couldn’t read French. Amanda had always ordered for him.

Zennia nodded at the waiter. “The Fricassee de poulets en vol-au-vent, please.”

Kyle stared at the foreign words.

Zennia lightly touched his hand. “Would you like beef as in a pot roast?”

He smiled and nodded.

Zennia ordered, sounding as if she’d walked off the streets of Paris. After the waiter left, she smiled. “I could tell by the confused look you had that you didn’t read French. This is a lovely hotel and restaurant. Thank you for booking us rooms here. Did Archie give us enough of an advance to cover the cost?”

Kyle nodded. The answer was no, but he thought if he scrimped, and if the case didn’t last too long, they’d have enough.

Zennia grinned at him, looking mischievous as well as quite feminine. “Well, I have plenty of money if you need some. I can pay my own way.” She took a sip of water and set the glass down, running her finger over the crystal. “I’m quite wealthy.”

He couldn’t have been more surprised. “I didn’t know.”

She nodded. “Zennia Fields of Denver. Perhaps you’ve heard of the Field’s Mine? My father’s.”

Kyle knew his mouth was probably hanging open, but he couldn’t even begin to close it. Fancy restaurant or not. Finally, he recovered from his shock. “I’m sorry. I had no idea. Not that it matters. You’re still my partner, and I’m the lead agent.”

She laughed. A delightful light sound that set off a buzz of warning in the back of his mind. What had he been thinking when he agreed to take her along as his partner? What would Amanda think?

Zennia shook her head. “Neither you nor Archie took the time to investigate me. I find that rather odd for a detective agency.”

Kyle stared at her. She was right. “I guess I barged in and needed a partner to help me find Amanda. Archie must have thought that I knew you.”

“Possible. Still, I would have thought that you would want to make sure I wasn’t wanted.” She grinned, and her eyes lit up playfully.

He put a hand on the stem of his glass and tapped his finger. “Maybe we did. You don’t exactly fit the profile of a criminal.” He put a hand under her chin and turned her head as he studied her profile. “Nope, your nose is too delicate. Eyes are perfectly placed and not too far apart. I’d say you’re a wonderful young lady.”

Zennia cleared her throat. “I’m a woman, Kyle. I may be playing the role of your little sister, but I am twenty-one years old. That makes me a full-grown woman.”

He sat back and looked at her. “No, you’re my little sister. That’s the way that I’ll look at you.” He took a sip of water and watched her. Was it because she’d told him how old she was that she looked older and more mature? Pretty even. She’d fixed her hair. Changed into a nice skirt and blouse. He shoved thoughts of her away and concentrated on Amanda. That is, he tried.

Head up and eyes shining, Zennia challenged him. “I don’t care what you say. I’m grown, and your partner. I expect you to treat me the way you’d treat any other partner you’ve had.” She pulled away from him.

His hand slid from her to the table. He could still feel the warmth of her. The air between them was full of life and charged like an approaching storm. He could see that she didn’t like being treated like a kid, and in an instant, somehow, he wasn’t seeing her as a girl anymore.

As she sat before him, he noticed that she had been transformed in his eyes to a grown woman. A lovely one at that. Although, he could see that her hair was already rebelling and falling from the bun she’d attempted. Yet, she was no longer the kid sister, but Zennia, a woman, and his partner.

The food came, and he enjoyed it even though there wasn’t much of it. A good Denver steak would have filled him. This portion was barely as big as a woman’s fist. Maybe that was why Napoleon had been so short.

Zennia ate her meal with a dainty hand, and with the etiquette, he remembered Amanda had used. Feeling outclassed, Kyle set his napkin down and pushed away from the table. “That was good.”

She laughed. “Hardly enough to fill a proper man from the west.” Zennia slid one of her rolls toward him. “In case you have room for more food. By the way, I saw a shop in the front of the hotel. Would it be all right if I shopped there while you are gone?”

Busy devouring the roll, he nodded. Still taken by Zennia’s looks, he wondered what had made the difference. He tore his gaze from her and watched the people coming into the dining room. He had to admit, he was hoping he’d see Amanda. They’d often frequented the fancy restaurants of Chicago. He needed to find Amanda. Soon.

Staring at the chandelier, he recalled one of their last meals together. He was leaving in a week, and Amanda took him to a French restaurant near the lake. A going away meal she called it. They had arrived late. She talked to the head waiter in French, and he’d taken them to a table near the water.

Amanda smiled as the music started, she danced with him. She was light as a feather and so warm in his arms and smelled so good. He grinned as he pictured Amanda in the royal blue dress, her blond hair shimmering in the flickering candlelight and the way she looked at him. Then he frowned. As he thought back, her look had been more of sadness and not love.

He hadn’t thought about it, but there were times he caught her looking toward the door as if she was waiting for someone. More than once, he saw her gaze slide away from him. And the way she paraded him around the dance floor, it was almost as if she were showing him off.

Funny that he’d never thought of it before.

“Is something wrong?” Zennia was watching him, concern wrinkling her brow.

Shifting his thoughts to the present, he nodded at her. “My fiancé is missing.” He hoped that would stop her inquisition.

She blushed, but he could see she still had questions and didn’t buy his answer. His kid sister would bear watching. That’s all Zennia was. His partner in her role as his little sister. Nothing more.

Chapter 4

 Kyle made sure Zennia agreed to stay in the hotel and had left her happily going through dresses in the expensive shop. At least she had money. That had surprised him. By her demeanor and excited zest to be a detective, he’d have never guessed she was the daughter of Arthur Fields.

He’d met the man once at a dinner to support the law in Denver. As Kyle remembered, Mr. Fields was a tall man, rugged like the old west, and tough as a railroad spike. He wondered if he knew what his daughter was up to, and then Kyle doubted the man did, or he’d have never let Zennia join the Pinkertons.

Amanda had also been the daughter of a wealthy man. Kyle had met him once. Amanda had arranged it. Trouble scratched at the back of Kyle’s mind. It had been an odd meeting. He didn’t know Amanda had planned it. They were at one of her father’s banks so that she could cash a check.

They’d been standing by the counter when she turned away from him and waved. “Come on, I want you to meet my father.”

She’d grabbed his hand and led him to her father’s office. Kyle had just gotten off from an all-night case and hadn’t slept in a day. His clothes were wrinkled. He didn’t know they were meeting her father until she opened the door and barged in his office, dragging Kyle along with her.

Her father had looked shocked and none too happy. Kyle didn’t blame him. If Amanda had explained she wanted to introduce him to her father, he’d have cleaned up. Why had he not thought of these things while he was with her? Perhaps his head had been influenced too much by his heart.

Kyle stopped in front of the taxi stand and put the past away. He needed to find Amanda. He gave the address to the next available cab and settled in the back of the hackney carriage. The air had turned colder as the wind blew in from Lake Michigan.

Soon, he stepped out of the carriage and onto the college. Carver’s Girl’s College - a renowned institution for the higher learning of women, so the sign said. Amanda had told him repeatedly that is wasn’t a place for the simple-minded rich who needed to know social manners, but for women who were serious about studying.

Amanda had been that way. She was interested in Chicago politics and finances. But what was it she always said? Money makes money and how it was essential to protect your wealth.

Kyle wouldn’t know. He’d never been wealthy. Not poor, but his family had worked hard to make a living. That Amanda had chosen him was still a mystery. She could have had her pick of any of the wealthy young men in Chicago. At least, that was what she’d led him to believe.

He smiled, thinking about her. She always greeted him with a bright smile. That he enjoyed remembering. Kyle walked to the main office. He’d need permission to check her room and pulled out his badge to speak to the headmistress, Miss Walsh.

The woman was stern and reminded him of a female version of General Sherman. Kyle took his badge and the telegram from the woman. “I need to check her room. I’m sure you can see by the telegram that she may be in some sort of danger. Have you seen her today?”

Miss Walsh frowned. “No. Not for several days. I will have to accompany you. This is an all-girls school, you understand.”

“Yes. I’m in a hurry, can we go now?”

Closing the register that she’d been writing in, Miss Walsh stood and walked to a board by the door. She pulled a key from the wall and gestured for him to exit. She followed and locked the door behind her.

“I do see that she has missed her classes. That is distressing. I know Amanda, and she is an excellent student.” They walked across the campus to a dormitory.

Kyle recognized it. A few times, he’d helped her climb the trellis so they could have dinner together. He’d seen her room once. She’d enticed him to come in, and he remembered it as sparsely decorated for someone so wealthy.

Miss Walsh entered the far door and exclaimed. “Man in the hall.” She turned to him. “That’s to warn the women not to come out unless they were dressed for the day.” One floor up, they went to room 234. The first room on the north side of the hallway.

After unlocking the door, Miss Walsh opened it and entered. “You can take your time, Detective. But I’ll remain here with you if you don’t mind.”

“Not at all.” Kyle stood and let his eyes rove over the room. Nothing seemed out of place. No signs of struggle. In fact, everything was neat and tidy. So neat, he wondered how long Amanda had been missing. He’d received the telegram just days ago. He walked to the window and ran his finger along a bookshelf. Dust.

What were you doing in here, Amanda? Not studying by the looks of your desk. He opened the desk drawer, but nothing seemed out of place. Her clothes were in the closet. Her bag under the bed.

The bed was made. There was nothing to tell him what happened to her. In fact, he got the odd thought that there was too much of nothing. His senses were on alert, and he had that warning tick in the back of his mind that the nothing should tell him something.

“Can I talk to the women in the room next door? And those across the hall?”

Miss Walsh looked troubled. “The girl next door moved out before the semester began. Amanda requested her privacy, and the room was never filled. Across the hall, Jane Bigsby moved out three weeks ago, and the room next to her was vacant.

“I see.” Kyle sat on the bed and studied the room. There had to be something. Although it was odd that Amanda never told him she didn’t have neighbors. She’d never struck him as one who wanted friends either.

He rose and went to the dresser. Her brush was missing. “There’s no brush.”

“Well, a woman would take that with her.”

“I suppose. When was the last time you talked to her?” Kyle looked at the window to see if he could tell she’d climbed in recently, but the window was locked.

 Miss Walsh was frowning. “I guess it would have been a week ago. She was in her history class. Though from what I knew of Amanda, she didn’t socialize with the other girls.”

Kyle thought back. The woman was right. All the times that he was with Amanda, she never spoke of having friends. Yet, she was warm and friendly to him. He went to the bookshelf and pulled out a history book.

“Miss Walsh, do you have her attendance records? I’d like to talk to some of her instructors.”

“Yes, let’s go back to my office.” The woman looked perplexed. “She was a very generous student. Or her father was. He paid for her tuition and always added extra for those less fortunate.”

Kyle nodded. “Did you ever meet him?”

“No. He always conversed by mail. Or Amanda.” She entered the building and unlocked her door. “Here we are. Professor Biggs teaches history. He has an hour off if you’d like to talk to him now.”

“Yes, let’s go.” Kyle couldn’t shake the suspicions that had begun to mount against Amanda. Things were not right. He’d never noticed them before and thought she was a delightful woman. Perhaps the one he would marry.

Any characteristics that he had found different about her, he had attributed to her being from a wealthy family. The lack of friends. Never meeting her parents even after she had suggested she might consent to being his fiancé.

“Not a formal engagement,” Amanda had explained. “Just between you and me.” Amanda had whispered to him. So, what good was a secret engagement?

Kyle had been so taken with her, he’d not paid any mind to the conditions. They were perfect together, so he’d thought.

Within minutes, they were at the history professor’s door. Miss Walsh knocked and then entered the small office. “Craig, we have some questions about one of your students.”

The professor looked the part, wearing glasses and beard to make him the perfect example of a college instructor.

“How can I help you?” Professor Biggs lit the pipe that was in his hand. He listened to Kyle’s question, and after a few puffs, he nodded and took the pipe from his mouth. “Amanda Vaughn, yes, I remember her. Bright. Smart. And absent more days than she attended my class. I was on the verge of failing her when she gave me a substantial contribution to our college. I let her stay.”

Kyle leaned against the desk. The man had an accent, but Kyle couldn’t place it. “Did Amanda sit by anyone in class? Did you ever see her with anyone?”

“No. Amanda kept to herself. Amanda likes history and politics. When she did show up, she was an engaging student with unique ideas.”

“Like what?” Kyle was curious.

“She believed we should be free to do as we please. No rules. I got the impression her father wasn’t pleased with her ideas.”

That was news to Kyle. Amanda had always spoken as if she got along with her parents. “Thank you, Professor. Miss Walsh. I may have more questions later.”

Miss Walsh nodded. “I hope you find her. I had not heard of any problems, and I want to assure you that we go to great lengths to protect our students.”

Kyle nodded and left the building. He checked his pocket watch and decided he better get back to the hotel and check on Zennia. He hoped she’d obeyed him and was there.

***

Zennia shopped in the store and bought several skirts and blouses. She even purchased a few that were exquisite and perfect for an expensive restaurant. She wanted to be ready and prepared for whatever Kyle might come up with.

Then she also bought some that were just right for a girl going to college. She wondered what Kyle found out. There was the chance that Amanda was in her room or class. But she doubted it. The telegram did sound as if the woman was scared and in danger.

Still, Zennia pondered the case as she went back to her room to put her items away. Kyle seemed conflicted when talking about their engagement. How did he put it, almost fiancé? How could he be almost engaged? What had happened to keep them from setting a date?

After pacing the room for an hour, she sat at the window and looked at the busy street below. Chicago was a city on the move, and Zennia found it both exciting and unsettling. Denver was a bustling town but didn’t have nearly the population.

Tired of waiting for Kyle to return, she left her room and went to the large hotel lobby. It was extravagant, to say the least. Chandeliers with tall ceilings. Comfortable velvet couches with tables and newspapers from major cities around the country.

Patting her skirt pocket to make sure she had her derringer, she settled on one of the couches and waited for Kyle to return. She used her free time to hone her skills by making detailed descriptions of those in the room.

The man opposite her buried his head in a newspaper from St. Louis. But she didn’t think he was reading it. He was obviously watching someone or waiting for someone. She thought he was interesting and wondered what he was up to.

Zennia pulled out her notebook and pencil to draw the woman at the counter. She’d been waiting sometime but appeared to be looking for someone. The lady had brown hair swooped up from her neck and hidden under a flowery hat.

Her skirt was forest green that contrasted with a pale, yellow blouse decorated with ornate lace. She was a beautiful woman, but there was sadness in her eyes. Quickly, Zennia sketched the woman, wondering about her story as she filled in her hair and drew the intricate feathering on her hat.

A glance at the man in front showed he had put the paper down. Strangely enough, he was looking at the woman Zennia had just drawn. The man seemed to be a little younger than the woman. He was slim, but she thought fit by the way his shoulders stretched his brown jacket.

His hair was dark brown and slicked back. His hands were strong with short fingers. Short fingernails with some dirt around them. A hard worker. Not a genteel gentleman for sure. So, what would he want with Miss Pretty?

After a glance at Miss Pretty, she changed it to Mrs. Pretty as Zennia saw that the woman’s delicate hand was graced with a wedding ring. Was she waiting for her husband? Had he agreed to meet her but was late?

And why was Mr. Hard Worker watching her with such interest?

“Well, I see you were watching for me?” Kyle sat down beside her. “If I’d been one of those wanted-dead-or-alive outlaws, you’d have been in real trouble.”

She grinned and showed him her sketches. “I was practicing.”

“I see.” He took the notebook from her and stared at the woman. Kyle looked around. Where is this one?”

Zennia went to point to the counter, but Mrs. Pretty was gone. Apparently, her husband must have shown up. “She was standing by the counter, but she’s gone now. Why? Does she look familiar?”

He stared at the drawing. “No, I guess not.” He flipped the page and saw Mr. Hard Worker. “And this guy, where is he?”

Zennia looked across from them and saw that he had left, too. “He was sitting on the couch opposite me. Perhaps your reputation scared them away, and they left when the Pinkerton agent entered the hotel.”

He laughed and shoved the notebook against her shoulder. “You are a Pinkerton agent, too. I’m surprised you’d forget that.”

“I didn’t. But I don’t have a reputation yet.” She grinned. She did like Kyle. He wasn’t at all like she’d thought he’d be. Of course, she’d pictured the Pinkerton agents to look like Archie Gordon. Beard, glasses, and all serious. Kyle was none of those things.

“Well, would you like to walk around Chicago a bit? Then we can have dinner, and I can tell you about my meeting at the college.” Kyle stood and offered her his hand.

Zennia took his hand, and warmth shot through her fingers. She smiled at him and was caught by surprise with sudden feelings at his touch. She reminded herself that he was almost engaged, and they were here to find Amanda.

He put a hand lightly on her back and guided her toward the door.

Her breath caught at his touch as tingles prickled her spine. Zennia chided herself to stop such silly school-girl feelings. He was her partner. Big brother. Nothing else.

Once outside, he pointed to a carriage and helped her inside. “I thought a ride by the lake would be nice.”

Zennia pulled her shawl around her. “It’s beautiful. Almost like looking at the ocean.”

“The breeze coming off the lake is always cool. Are you warm enough?”

A gust of wind caused her to shiver.

Kyle reached under the seat, pulled out a blanket, and wrapped it around her shoulders. “How’s that?”

Zennia looked at him, and their gazes met. “Fine. Thank you.” She wondered if he was looking at her as a little sister. She had to admit, every time he was near her or touched her, tingles went through the midst of her.

He pointed to a restaurant. “I’ve eaten here a few times.” He grinned. “I can read the menu in this one.”

She laughed. “I learned to speak French while I was in school. Thank you for showing me some of the sites of the town.”

Kyle looked at her and smiled. “My pleasure. I’ve missed the city. Tomorrow, I want you to go to the college and ask to room in the dormitory room 235. That’s the room across from Amanda’s.”

“Will do. I’m looking forward to getting started. What classes should I take?”

Kyle helped her from the carriage and held the door for her into the restaurant. “I’ll give you the list of classes that Amanda was in. If you take those, that would be the best.” He led her to a table and held her chair for her.

“I could get used to being treated this way.” She smiled at him and couldn’t deny she had feelings for him. She unfolded her napkin and tried to shake the feelings.

Kyle sat next to her. “Amanda’s room looked like she hadn’t been there in a while. The one professor I talked to said she only came to class occasionally, and he hadn’t seen her in the last week.”

“Did you talk to her friends?” Zennia stared at the menu and settled on the fish. With difficulty, she forced her thinking toward the case and away from Kyle. She watched him as he ordered steak.

“I hope you like the hotel?”

“I love it. Denver has some fancy ones, but this one is amazing. I noticed they had a menu of Game Dinners.”

Kyle nodded. “Exotic game. If you want buffalo, bear, and more. We’ll have to try and eat during one of them. It’s a social affair, and sometimes the room is full.” His gaze lingered on her.

Looking down to recover her bearings, Zennia then looked around the restaurant. It was decorated with musical instruments. French horns and trombones hung from the ceiling. A grand piano decorated the center of the room while a man in a tuxedo played soothing music.

“The food here is wonderful. It was one of Amanda’s favorite places.” Kyle’s gaze turned to the center of the room, and he looked as if he was watching for his fiancé.

Almost fiancé, Zennia reminded herself, and then she looked at Kyle and pictured him as a man missing the woman he loved. Her schoolgirl tingles abruptly stopped. She was here to be his partner and nothing else.

She enjoyed the dinner and the music but was ready to go back to the hotel when it was over. Kyle was a perfect gentleman and offered her no reason to consider anything else other than her place as a partner.

Zennia sat straight and reined in her thoughts. She’d be professional in her work and keep her focus on the case. To find Amanda. Kyle’s fiancé.

Chapter 5

Zennia had a quick breakfast with Kyle and then took a carriage to the college. She had memorized the classes she wanted to enroll in. History. Geography. Politics. Finance. It would seem Amanda was into economics and history with a side of politics.

Well, she was well versed in history. Finance, her father had taught her well, and she knew quite a bit about the workings of money and wealth. History, Zennia had loved and should be able to do quite well in class.

Zennia had been thinking about the Vaughn name and how their fortune was made. She’d kept from asking Kyle about it because she thought he might be conflicted. He seemed reluctant to talk to her about Amanda.

The taxi stopped in front of Carver’s Girl’s College, and she exited the carriage and walked to the admitting office. Miss Walsh greeted her and welcomed her warmly. The woman was a little reluctant to let her enroll until Zennia pulled out a check register from her father’s bank. Only the wealthy were privileged to have them, and Father had made sure she was well taken care of should she want to shop.

Somehow, Father thought the only things women could do was shop for clothes and trinkets. Although, Zennia had bought several horses before with her checks. Father had been angry until he saw they were excellent breeding stock for the ranch. Today, she was able to enroll in the college because of her position of wealth.

“Would you like to see your room?”

Zennia nodded. “When is my next class?”

“Professor Biggs, your history class. But that won’t start until after lunch.”

“Fine. I’d like to see my room. Later I’ll have my things brought to my dormitory.” Zennia followed the woman across the campus. Memories of her time in Virginia flooded back to her.

She’d enjoyed her time, although her instructors had often been perturbed by her questions. Zennia didn’t care about how to greet dignitaries. She wanted to know why the rich thought they could rule nations. They considered her a bit of a rebel, and too soon, she was sent home.

As she walked into her room, she glanced across the hall to Amanda’s room. The door was closed.

Miss Walsh handed her the key. “I hope you’ll enjoy your time here. We like to challenge our students.”

“I’ll enjoy that very much. Thank you, Miss Walsh.”

After the woman left her room, Zennia looked around. It wasn’t bad as far as dorm rooms go. The bed was small but comfortable. She would definitely miss staying at the hotel and miss seeing Kyle, too.

“Stop that.” She shook her head and looked around the room. After her class, she’d go back to the hotel and have her trunk delivered to the dorm. But for now, she needed to put something on the door across the hall so she could tell if anyone came back to the room.

Zennia had a feeling that something wasn’t right regarding Amanda. No one had reported her missing. Tomorrow was Saturday, so she and Kyle would talk to the family and see if they knew of Amanda’s whereabouts.

After scouring her room, Zennia took paper from her notebook and tore it into small strips. Carefully, she shoved a strip above the door, and one shoved under the door. When she came back to her room, she’d check and see if anyone had entered the room.

Excited to have a challenge, Zennia left her room and went to the building where Professor Biggs would teach about history. Carrying her notebook, she stuffed the pencil in her hair above her ear and went to the classroom.

The professor nodded to her and welcomed her to the class. He tapped his pencil on the podium to get everyone’s attention and told them to open to page fifty-one. He glanced at Zennia and passed a book along the row to her.

She opened the page and was happy to see it was about George Washington. One of her favorite heroes from the founding of the nation. Zennia tuned out the professor’s droning voice and read the chapter, finishing long before the professor.

She used the extra time to look at the other students in the class and tried to decide who Amanda might have befriended. Zennia chided herself for not looking for a seating chart to see where Amanda had sat.

The room was practically full. There was an empty seat in the back. Perhaps that was Amanda’s. Zennia locked the descriptions of the two women next to the empty chair and purposed to find them after the class and talk to them.

She’d already come up with an idea. Zennia would pose as Amanda’s distant cousin. To be Kyle’s kid sister wouldn’t work to get her close to Amanda’s friends if she had any.

Finally, the professor closed the book and said the class was dismissed.

Zennia went up to him. “Fascinating. Washington is my favorite hero.”

“Oh, is that so. I’m glad you enjoyed the lecture.” He cleared his throat and gave her a humorous grin.

“I’m sorry. I opened the book and couldn’t help but read ahead.” She handed the book to him. “I’ll have to find out where to buy the book.”

“Keep it. It’s exciting to find someone who enjoys history.”

“Could I ask about one of your students? Amanda Vaughn. I’m a distant cousin, and I was hoping to see her.”

“Amanda. Yes, she has missed some of my classes. She sat in the back.”

“Thank you, perhaps the girls sitting next to her might know where she is.”

The professor frowned. “You can ask them, but I am afraid Amanda keeps to herself. She’s a very private person.” He paused. “It is against school policy to tell about the students. I would hate to divulge private information about her.”

“I understand. Thank you. I look forward to hearing more of your lectures.” She smiled at him and then went toward the girls who sat next to the empty chair. Professor Biggs had an odd attitude about Amanda, but then professors often acted oddly.

Zennia turned to see if the two girls were still in the room. One of them was gone, but the one to Amanda’s left was still gathering her things. Zennia climbed the steps to the back of the room and stopped her.

“Hi, I’m Zennia Fields. I was wondering if you’d seen Amanda lately. I’m a distant cousin of hers and wanted to meet her.”

The young woman smiled. “I’m Julia Watkins. No, I haven’t seen Amanda lately, but I saw her the other day near the Grand Hotel. I tried to get her attention, but she didn’t see me. I was meeting my mother for a shopping trip.”

“Oh, how nice. I was staying at the Grand. It’s a lovely hotel. And I did shop at that little dress shop inside and got some beautiful dresses.”

“I know. I love that little shop. If you’re around, maybe we can have lunch.”

Zennia grinned. “I’d like that.” She stopped. “You said you saw her a few days ago?”

“Yes, let me see, it was Wednesday. I hope you find her. She’s missed classes this week, so I was surprised to see her. I thought maybe she was traveling. Once, she talked about family that lived out of state. Her mother, I think.”

“Thank you, Jennifer. I hope to see you again.”

Zennia left the campus and went back to her dorm room. She wondered what to tell Kyle. His almost fiancé was a mystery. She dropped off her things and then stepped into the hall, making sure no one else was around.

She went to Amanda’s room and looked to see if the things she’d put by the door were still there. Sadly, they were. No one had disturbed the door.

After a look at the watch pinned to her blouse, Zennia left the campus and found a taxi to take her back to the hotel. She hoped Kyle had found something out.

She entered the hotel. It was still early, and Kyle wouldn’t expect her back for another hour, so she sat on the couch and decided to watch people again. It puzzled her that Julia had said she saw Amanda here at the hotel Wednesday. That was right after she’d sent the telegram to Kyle.

Zennia’s intuition told her that there was more to Amanda than Kyle understood. She wouldn’t confront him about it until necessary. One thing she wanted to know was what Amanda’s family had done to gain their wealth.

After looking at the clock on the wall, Zennia sighed and rose. She was about to go to the elevator when she stopped. The woman she’d drawn this morning entered the hotel. Zennia sat back down and decided to watch her.

Kyle had looked at her drawing with more interest than the one of the man. Then again, Kyle was a man, and women would interest him. But her instincts told her to watch. Zennia sat back down and pulled out her sketchbook.

The woman went to the front desk and asked the clerk something. He disappeared in the office and came out with a package. With a smile, the lady left and went to the elevator. Zennia followed and waited to see what floor the woman stopped at. The third floor.

Zennia waited for the elevator and then let it take her to the third floor. She stepped out and looked about. No one. She walked down the hall and listened to see if she could find what room the woman had entered.

Then she walked the other direction down the hallway. Again, nothing. Feeling a bit foolish, Zennia found the stairs and walked down a floor. She opened the door and stepped into her hall.

Up ahead, she saw the woman stop at the door near Zennia’s room, look around, and then enter. The door clicked shut as Zennia walked past. She would have stopped and listened if another couple hadn’t been walking down the hall.

Zennia stopped at her door and then thought better of it and walked across the hall and knocked on Kyle’s door. She wasn’t sure if she should expect him in or not.

The door opened. Kyle looked about the hall and pulled her inside his room.

Breathless at the surprise of seeing him and that he’d grabbed her to him and hadn’t let go yet, Zennia finally took in a deep breath.

Kyle let her go and stepped away from her. “Did you find anything out?”

Staring at her partner, she swallowed and gathered her thoughts. “Not really. The girl who sits next to her in history said she thought she saw her Wednesday here at this hotel. Is it possible she stays somewhere else?”

He rubbed the back of his neck and stepped to the window, moving the curtain to look out at the scene below. “I’m not sure.”

“Are we going to visit her parents?”

He turned and stared at her. “Yes.”

Zennia watched him. Kyle was disturbed about something. She debated about telling him of the woman she’d drawn but changed her mind. I did mark her door in the dorm, so I could tell if anyone entered or not.”

“Good.” He said the words, but his attention was outside.

“Do you see someone you know? Like that woman I drew downstairs?”

He whirled and faced her. “I don’t know who she is?”

“Don’t you?”

“I met her once at one of the parties Amanda took me to. She’s the British Ambassador’s wife or was. Her name is Lady Jane Haversham.” He stopped talking as if to say that was all she needed to know.

Zennia didn’t push him. If he wanted to tell her more, he would. “Lady Jane is staying a couple of rooms down from me. I saw her as I was coming to my room.” She folded her arms. “Did she know Amanda?”

Kyle nodded. “Yes, she did.” Again, his information wasn’t forthcoming, and he wasn’t looking at her.

“Did you find anything else out about where Amanda might be?”

He shook his head. “Let’s pay her parents a visit.” Kyle faced her and grinned that boyish look he had when he wanted to please her.

Not wanting to start an argument, Zennia nodded. “I’d like to change first.” She left his room and went to hers. Things were not adding up, and she was having a hard time trusting that Kyle was telling her everything.

***

Kyle watched Zennia go across the hall and shut the door. She was a good detective. Young and inexperienced or not, she was observant, asked the right questions, and wasn’t fooled one bit by him.

Somehow, he’d let on about knowing Lady Jane. He must have looked too long at the picture Zennia had drawn. Anyway, his partner had picked up on it and had the instincts to remember and tell him about her.

He ran a hand through his hair, grabbed his hat, and waited for Zennia. Kyle wasn’t sure about why Lady Jane was hanging around the hotel or if she had anything to do with Amanda or not. But he’d never liked Jane or her husband. And he often got the sense that Amanda wasn’t fond of her either.

Kyle walked across the hall and knocked on Zennia’s door. “You about ready?”

She didn’t answer, just opened the door and stood there with a pleased look on her face. “I wanted to freshen up. If we’re going to see a wealthy family, I don’t want to show up like a schoolgirl, but I think you should stick to the cover that I’m your little sister. I did tell the school I was a distant cousin of Amanda’s. Just so we have our stories straight.”

Kyle stared at her. He was going to have to take notes to keep up with her, and he was the senior agent. She did look pretty in her new outfit. Her hair was neat and not sticking out like usual.

“Let’s go.” Zennia rushed past him.

A waft of sweet aromas turned his head, and he followed her. Whatever perfume she put on was heavenly. He caught her at the elevator and held out his arm. “A proper lady should have an escort.” He winked at her.

She put her arm in his. “So, what do you know about Amanda’s family?”

“Later. I don’t want anyone to hear.”

“Like Lady Jane?” She looked at him, her eyes serious.

She’d picked up on that too. He nodded. “Yes.”

Chapter 6

Zennia took in a deep breath as the carriage drove up the long drive to the Vaughn estate. Amanda was rich, all right. Was that what had attracted Kyle to her? Then again, Zennia didn’t believe Kyle was shallow like several of the young men who had wanted to woo her

If she loved a man, she’d never leave him, and if he had to go somewhere, she’d follow. Why hadn’t Amanda? Perhaps after visiting her parents, Zennia would have some answers. First, she just hoped they were home.

Kyle hadn’t let them know he was coming. The wealthy didn’t take to surprise visits as they were often an inquiry about money. Father had warned her about it, and she’d seen too many instances to prove his theory correct.

Stopping in front of the elegant house, Kyle jumped down and then helped her from the carriage. He was nervous. She could feel it in the way he took her arm, his furtive glances, and the tenseness in his voice.

She patted his hand. “Relax.” Then she realized what she’d said. If he truly loved Amanda, he had to be worried about what had happened to her. Yet, Zennia was beginning to wonder if anything had happened to Amanda. Why would Julia see her at The Grand just the other day? And Amanda’s classmate hadn’t mentioned that Amanda looked worried or scared.

Zennia wasn’t sure why she felt that way, but something wasn’t right. Even the telegram sounded amiss to her. She stared at Kyle as he fiddled with the tight collar of his suit. He was handsome. She should have told him so.

Now, as the wide door opened, it was too late. A man, who she thought must be the butler, opened the door.

“Yes?”

“Kyle Logan and my sister to see Mr. and Mrs. Vaughn.” He waited, looking straight ahead.

In a few minutes, the butler came back and gestured for them to follow. Zennia saw places on the wall that showed missing pictures. Tables with nothing on them. And only the butler in the house.

Soon, they were in a quaint parlor that was filled with statues and pictures, looking as if it had been the last room to be ransacked. The one kept to entertain unsuspecting visitors. Mr. Vaughn was sitting on the divan puffing on a pipe as if he had not a care in the world.

Zennia saw right through him. Things were not at all well in their world. Mrs. Vaughn, was dressed in an exquisite gown that was at least several years old. The hem frayed. Few pieces of jewelry. This couple was in dire straits money-wise. Yet, doing everything they could to hide it.

She and Kyle sat across from them in older chairs covered in worn fabric. Zennia decided she’d keep quiet and pretend to be amazed at the lavish furnishings of their house. No reason they needed to know that she could tell their predicament.

“What a beautiful home you have?” Zennia looked around, forcing a look of awe about her.

Kyle nodded. “I think you might remember me. Amanda and I were almost engaged. She sent me a telegram, and she asked for help. Do you know where she is?”

Zennia watched them closely. The father didn’t flinch at all, but the mother’s eyes darted to her husband. They were in on something together.

The father cleared his throat. “She told us someone was following her. I thought it best if she went to our family home in the country. But she had other ideas. As you know, she’s rather independent. She told us,” He looked at his wife. “a week ago that she might stay in a hotel?”

Mrs. Vaughn nodded.

Mr. Vaughn turned back to face them. “We had an argument, and Amanda stormed out of the house. We haven’t seen her since that day.”

Kyle shifted in his chair. “Then where is she? I’m worried.”

“No need to worry. Amanda is capable of taking care of herself.” Mr. Vaughn smiled as if to show he didn’t have a care.

Zennia kept her attention on the mother. She was worried. Zennia could see it in her eyes and the furrow on her brow. Something was wrong. And Zennia wasn’t at all sure it was with Amanda. The tension in the house was thick, but it wasn’t with worry about a missing daughter.

Kyle shook his head and stood. “Mr. Vaughn, something has happened to Amanda.” He pulled the telegram from his jacket and threw it at the man. “Read it.”

Zennia knew the words by heart. Help. I’m in trouble. Amanda.

Mr. Vaughn stared at the words, then stood, and handed it back to Kyle. Never giving his wife time to read it. “She’s high strung. I am sure she is fine. I’ll have my men look into her whereabouts and get back to you.”

“You do that and do it quick. If I don’t hear from Amanda before Monday, I’m going to the police.” Kyle reached a hand to Zennia.

She took it and felt his sweaty palm. He pulled her up and guided her to the door. “Remember, by Monday.”

Mr. Vaughn followed him. “Really, Mr. Logan. This is none of your business. She never agreed to marry you. She told me she didn’t want to be unequally yoked and was relieved when you moved away. I’ll try and get in touch with her. Where are you staying?”

Kyle kept Zennia moving toward the door. “The Grand Hotel. You can leave a message. I’m showing my sister around the city.”

Mr. Vaughn kept in front of his wife, almost as if he were keeping her from talking. “I hope you enjoy your trip. I’m sorry Amanda has caused you trouble. I don’t know why she would send you such a telegram.”

Zennia went outside and waited for Kyle. He said a few words to Mr. Vaughn and then came out toward her. Anger shown in his eyes as he took her by the hand and nodded to the cab driver.

She started to say something, but Kyle shook his head.

Zennia climbed into the carriage and tried to get a look at Mrs. Vaughn. She would be the one to get answers from.

Finally, they were on their way back to the hotel. She touched Kyle’s hand. “I think we need to have a meeting in our room. Away from ears.”

He nodded. But put a finger to his lips.

Zennia considered the trouble with Amanda. Her parents were in trouble and needed money. What did Amanda know or do? She glanced at Kyle. He looked troubled. How much did he know about his almost fiancé? And did he still have feelings for her?

Kyle glanced at her, and their gazes met. Zennia’s cheeks warmed as she had to admit she liked his attention. Apparently, he was having similar feelings because he turned away.

Zennia looked forward and wondered what they would find out about Amanda. Then she smiled and wondered what she’d find out about Kyle and herself.

***

As soon as they reached the hotel, Kyle swept his gaze over their surroundings. For some reason, he was on edge and felt the need to protect Zennia. He had hoped to hide his feelings from her, but she saw right through Amanda’s parents.

That Amanda was all right, that’s what mattered. He didn’t get the feeling that her parents were worried about her. So, what was going on?

He walked Zennia into the hotel and then to the elevator. Kyle could see she was looking, watching for anything out of the ordinary. She was going to make an excellent agent, and he hated to see that.

She was a sweet young woman who needed a man to love her. He sensed a loneliness about her. As if she’d been by herself too long, and she needed to know someone cared for her. He wondered about her family.

She’d not said much other than her father was wealthy, and she had older brothers. Kyle had to admit, he really didn’t know her at all. He went to the elevator and gave the number. Soon, they stood in front of his room.

“Do you mind having a meeting in my room?” He unlocked the door.

“Not at all. We’re partners. Nothing more.” She entered and went to the chair by the window.

Kyle nodded and followed her, taking the other chair and placing it in front of her. “What do you think of Amanda’s parents?”

Zennia took in a deep breath and nailed him with a hard gaze. “Something is amiss. The mother was worried. The father tried not to be worried. And they are either broke or getting there quickly.”

“Broke?”

“Pictures missing. Tables bare. Her dress was beautiful but at least five years old by the fashion and the worn hem. That family is not as they wanted to seem. And Amanda, what exactly do you know about her? I don’t recall seeing any family pictures. Nothing to show Amanda was their daughter.”

Kyle sat back, not wanting to let her in on what he knew, but saw he had no choice. “I was supposed to follow her on assignment. I never knew why, but I was told to write down whoever she met with. Where she went. And then I fell in love with her.”

Zennia’s gaze hardened. “Think back. Do you recall if she suddenly began to pursue you? Did she want you to notice her? Get you to fall in love with her?”

He stood and paced the room. He’d like to think that he noticed Amanda and went after her. But was that the truth? Kyle rubbed the back of his neck. That first night. He’d been watching her.

Before, she never turned to smile at him. Never acted as if she knew he was following her, but this time, she sat at a table near his, turned to him, and smiled. So friendly that he couldn’t miss her attention. That had been the beginning. Soon after the smile, she’d risen and asked to join him.

“She pursued me.” He stared at Zennia. “How did you know?”

“Because things aren’t right. What did Amanda do? She went to school, but why? What did she want to do with her life? Did she ever say?”

Kyle shook his head. “No, she never really told me what she wanted out of college. Said she liked the history class. I know she had several meetings with her professor.”

“And her friends? Men or women?”

He shook his head. “I didn’t notice any. Not really.”

“Are you sure the Vaughns are even her parents?”

Kyle stared at her. “I never had reason to question that they weren’t.”

Zennia put a finger to her chin. “How often did you meet them?”

“I saw her mother once.” Kyle was beginning to question everything about Amanda. “Why do you think they aren’t her parents?”

“Mr. Vaughn didn’t seem upset. My father would have jumped all over you after reading that telegram. Mrs. Vaughn looked upset, but she didn’t even want to see the telegram. Like I said before, I didn’t see any pictures of their family. They didn’t even strike me as a married couple.”

“That’s stretching things, don’t you think?” Kyle paced to the door and back to the window. “Why do you think they aren’t married?”

“The ring on her finger was smaller than the white space where another ring has been for some time. He didn’t comfort her. They didn’t interact with one another.”

Kyle stared at her. “You mean they didn’t fight?”

She grinned. “Well, that too. I know my parents would be shouting if I was missing. And then my father would be beside her with his arm around her. And my mother would be crying. I didn’t see even a hint of a tear from Mrs. Vaughn.”

“You’re right. Good catch, Zennia.” He shook his head. “Then, who is Amanda Vaughn?”

“I think if we discover the answer to that question, we’ll find out the answers to the others. Any ideas on how to find out about her?”

Kyle looked out the window. “I really don’t know. Do you have any ideas?”

Chapter 7

Zennia sat on her bed and pondered what to do about Amanda and Kyle. Her gut instincts were telling her that Amanda had been using Kyle. She didn’t want to tell him, but she didn’t see any way around it.

They’d agreed to change and then meet for dinner in one of the hotel’s dining rooms. She could tell that Kyle was troubled about Amanda and was questioning the couple who claimed to be her parents.

Zennia fell back on the soft bed and stared at the ceiling. Then there were her feelings to consider. Zennia had to admit that she liked Kyle. And the idea that Amanda had used him gave her a certain amount of relief.

Zennia had caught Kyle looking at her in the way a gentleman looks at a lady he might be impressed with. An odd look for someone worried about a missing almost fiancé. And that gave her more questions.

Yes, Kyle and Amanda had been apart for some time, but he still cared about her. She knew that from the troubled look in his eyes. So why did he now look at her as if he might be interested? She didn’t need a man who was sad about one failed love looking to soothe his broken heart with her feelings.

Still, Zennia was beginning to enjoy his company more than the time she’d spent with any other man she’d known. Father had set her up with many charming young men, but she’d never cared for them. Then from the moment Kyle stumbled into Archie’s office, she’d been intrigued with him.

She lightly tapped her cheek. “You need to stay focused. This is your first case, and you don’t need to be falling for him.” Zennia laughed. She could hear her father instructing her about how to handle men.

She sure missed her mother. Father loved her, but he knew nothing about women. “Oh, Mama. What would you tell me? Do you like Kyle? I think you would. He has good manners and is nice to look at. Smart. Ambitious. We make a great pair of detectives.”

Zennia frowned. She was going to have to watch her responses to Kyle. It wouldn’t help the case if she fell for him. She turned over and checked her watch. She had time for a small nap, and then she’d get ready for dinner. Her eyes were about to close when she heard a faint knock across the hall and a female voice.

Zennia tried to ignore it, but once awake she had to know. She tiptoed to her door and opened it a slit. A woman was standing at Kyle’s door. He opened it and let her in. Zennia couldn’t see her face, but if she had to guess, with that blond hair, it had to be Amanda.

Quickly, she changed into an outfit for dinner and worked to tame her flyaway hair. She slipped on her shoes and opened her door. She went across the hall and listened at the door.

Muffled words met her ears, but she clearly heard Kyle say, “Amanda.” That was all Zennia needed to hear. She knocked boldly on the door. She knew Kyle might want to talk with his almost fiancé in private, but she was a Pinkerton agent, and something wasn’t right.

After a moment of silence inside the room, Kyle opened the door slightly. “Yes?”

“I wondered if you might want to go down for dinner a little early.” Zennia smiled and watched the conflict on his face.

“I’m busy right now. Perhaps a little later.”

“Do you want to discuss the case?” She wasn’t letting him go, but it wasn’t as if she enjoyed watching him squirm. Things were getting a little confusing to her, and Zennia didn’t want to be used by Kyle.

“Not right now. I’ll knock on your door when I’m ready.”

She pouted. “I’ll go downstairs and do some people watching.” She didn’t wait for him to reply but turned and walked toward the elevator. Zennia looked back and saw that he was still watching her.

Zennia smiled and gave him a little wave. She entered the elevator and went to the lobby and sat on the divan to watch. She pulled out her sketchbook and pencil but couldn’t get Kyle’s image out of her mind.

He’d looked at her with regret. Could she interpret that look as if he really wanted to be with her and not his almost fiancé in his room? She closed her eyes to shed herself of her thoughts. She could not go on like a lovesick schoolgirl.

Zennia opened her eyes and saw Lady Jane sitting across the room from her. What part if any, did she have to play in this case? Kyle knew her. What role did Lady Jane have with Amanda?”

There were so many players in this case. All Zennia needed was the why. She considered going to Lady Jane and striking up a conversation when a man approached her and sat beside her.

Quickly, Zennia got ready to sketch him when he turned for a brief second, and she recognized him as Mr. Vaughn but in very different clothes. In fact, he looked very much like a diplomat while Mrs. Vaughn was nowhere to be seen.

Zennia bowed her head as if reading her sketchbook, keeping her face away from the couple. After a crowd went to the counter, she stood and used them as cover and went to the stairs.

Not sure what to do, she went back to her room. She stopped at her door and then went across the hall and hoped Kyle was still there. She listened but didn’t hear anyone talking, and knocked on his door.

Kyle opened the door. Shock registered on his face, but he waved her in. 

Zennia walked in and sat in the chair by the window and watched Kyle. He was just now shutting the door, and after he turned to face her, she could read the story on his face.

“That was Amanda, who visited you. She told you not to bother with her anymore, didn’t she?”

He stared at her. His eyes sad as he nodded. “She told me the telegram had been a mistake. That I was to leave her alone and not bother her parents again.”

“Her parents.” Zennia went to him and touched his shoulder. “Kyle, I saw Mr. Vaughn down in the lobby with Lady Jane. Mrs. Vaughn was nowhere in sight.”

Kyle shook his head. “Nothing makes sense. She said she didn’t care for me anymore. That I was to leave her alone.”

“Amanda?”

He nodded. “She told me to go back to Denver.”

Zennia took his hand and led him to a chair. “We will go back to Denver. As soon as we find out what is going on. Did she say where she is staying?”

Kyle put his head back. “No. She didn’t. I’m afraid I wasn’t a very good Pinkerton agent at the time. I thought I loved her.”

At his words, hope rose in Zennia. Then she pushed it down. They had a job to do. “What are they up to, Kyle? I don’t trust her. She could still be in danger. What was it the telegram said?”

He pulled it from his pocket. “Help. I’m in trouble. Amanda.”

Zennia paced the room. “Could it be Lady Jane and Mr. and Mrs. Vaughn?” She pulled back a curtain and looked at the street below. “We need to follow Amanda.”

Kyle went to the window. “That’s her. getting in the carriage with the green top.”

Zennia grabbed him. “Let’s go. Down the stairs.” She ran, pulling him with her, out of the room, and down the stairs. Outside, she saw the carriage going west.

Kyle paid for a taxi and had him follow Amanda’s.

Zennia turned to him. “Lady Jane. Is she British?”

He nodded. “I think she said her money was in ships.”

“I wonder if the Vaughns or whoever they are, have the same connection? I was reading the paper, and there is concern that the shipping industry in Britain has been decimated by the opening of the Suez Canal. Basically, because of the sailing ships that so many British companies use. They couldn’t make it through the canal because of the winds. But what would Amanda have to do with that?”

Kyle shook his head. “As far as I know, Amanda is American. Although, at times, she spoke with an accent I couldn’t place. Not often.”

Zennia put a hand on the driver. “Stop. Let us off here.”

Kyle nodded and paid the man. “She doesn’t know you. I’ll stop here and walk near the buildings in the shadows.”

After a nod, Zennia set her gaze on the back of Amanda’s head and followed her. If Zennia didn’t know better, she would think that Amanda knew she was being followed. But Zennia made sure to stop and look in the windows of different businesses to use as much as a cover as to make sure Kyle was following. And to make sure no one else was following them.

***

Kyle kept an eye on Zennia. After all, he was responsible for her safety. In the distance, he saw Amanda walking sure and confidently down the streets of Chicago. A very different sight than the woman who had come into his hotel room and begged for him to leave her alone.

Broken and afraid, she’d convinced him that their near engagement had been a mistake. That her father had other plans for her. Kyle had neglected to tell Zennia everything. Maybe because his pride had been damaged, or maybe there were other reasons. He did like his partner maybe a little too much.

Then again, he was still in shock from the meeting with Amanda. He’d never believed she could turn on him in such a way. Amanda had written him loving words that promised they would be together as soon as she graduated from school.

Denver didn’t have any colleges for women, so she’d felt it best to stay in Chicago and finish her studies in history and finance. Then her letters had stopped. He didn’t hear from Amanda for a month and then the telegram.

When he asked her about the telegram, she laughed it off. Said she was confused and not to worry about her. Yet he caught a look of fear in her eyes even if she covered it quickly with a smile. Like Zennia said, things didn’t add up.

Kyle watched Zennia. She was something. Strong, confident, and pretty despite her wild hair. Today, she had managed to tame it somewhat, but the Chicago wind was having its way, and wisps were flying about.

Still, she held an air of pride about her that added to her simple beauty. Suddenly, Kyle realized his attention had been on Zennia and not Amanda. He rushed to the next building and slid into the shadows.

Amanda was still up ahead. She kept a steady pace which indicated she didn’t know she was being followed. Amanda turned up another street and walked toward the lakefront. Kyle tensed and looked for Zennia.

She was following looking nonchalant as if she were out to enjoy the sunny day.

But he knew what dangers lurked in this part of town. Definitely not fit for a lady or two. Kyle glanced again and saw Amanda stop at a shop just before the docks. What on earth could she be doing or wanting there?

Zennia had stopped and was looking out across the lake as if she were admiring the scenery. She was good. A natural detective. He wouldn’t mind keeping her as his partner.

Then Amanda went inside the shopfront.

Kyle hoped Zennia would look at him so he could call her back, but she didn’t. She was looking around. Doing what he should be doing.

Zennia turned and went down the alley.

Kyle shook his head. What was she doing? He started to run after her when he fell facedown from a blow to his head, and all went black.

Chapter 8

Zennia thought she heard a muffled scream. She ran toward the alley and leaned against the brick wall in time to see a man helping Amanda into a buggy.

“Quiet! We have to get out of here.” The man turned, and Zennia gasped. It was Professor Biggs.

Zennia couldn’t let him see her and ducked down beside a box of fish guts. The smell was awful, but she covered her face and remained quiet, wondering what Kyle was doing. Surely, he’d been watching and had seen her.

“Odd place for a pretty girl to be.”

Startled to hear a voice behind her, Zennia whirled.

Mr. Vaughn walked toward her. “What are you doing here?”

Pretending to search for something on the ground, Zennia stood. She patted her blouse. “I had a brooch, and it is gone. Would you help me look for it? The smell is dreadful.”

Mr. Vaughn stared at her and then sighed. He looked around the smelly box and then stood. “You must have lost it somewhere else. Why are you here on the docks?”

“I was looking at the lake.” She decided to tell him some of the truth. “I thought I heard a woman scream and ran back here, but I didn’t see anything. And then I realized my brooch was missing.”

“What did it look like? The brooch.”

“It was my grandmother’s cameo. A treasure. To me anyway.” She looked at him. “Do you come to the docks often? This is my first time in Chicago, so I’m trying to see everything.”

Her answer made him stop and consider her question.

Zennia thought she sounded plausible and hoped he’d bought it. But the bigger puzzle was why he was here. A man of his supposed wealth wouldn’t have much to do with this part of town.

“I had some business down the street. I saw you and wondered if you’d been hurt. This really isn’t a place for a young woman to be unescorted. Dangerous people hang out here.”

“I see. I better go then. Perhaps if I retrace my steps, I can find my brooch. Thank you for helping me look and caring for me.” She smiled and retraced her steps. She didn’t look back even though she wanted to.

And where was Kyle? What kind of partner was he to let her wander into a dangerous part of town? She could feel the threat from the eyes of others watching her. As for Mr. Vaughn, she didn’t hear him following her.

He must have gone on about his business. Whatever that could be? And what of Amanda. Had she been in danger? She hadn’t resisted getting in the carriage and sat still if not comfortably next to Professor Biggs.

Well, all Zennia had was more puzzle pieces than answers.

She was almost to the pier and lake when she saw Kyle leaning against the wall holding his head. Zennia looked back but didn’t see the professor and ran to Kyle. His head was bleeding, and he looked pale.

“What happened?” She gently touched his head and felt a good-sized lump.

He winced. “I don’t know. I was following you, and the next thing I knew, I was face down on the ground.”

“Someone hit you. Could have been Mr. Vaughn. He found me sitting by a box of fish guts. Don’t ask. I heard a woman scream or thought I did. I ran down the alley and saw Professor Biggs putting Amanda into a taxi, and they rode off together. That’s when Mr. Vaughn found me.”

Kyle looked at her. “Mr. Vaughn and a professor? What do they have to do with Amanda and her telegram?”

“Who is Amanda? That is the first question we need to answer. I think maybe I know where to find out. Follow me.”

“Where are we going?”

She looked back at him. “Maybe we better find a doctor. You look a little woozy.”

“I’ll be all right.” He stopped walking and bent down.

She went to him and helped him sit down. “No, you’re going to the doctor first. I don’t want to lose my partner.” She was worried about him. Out by the main street, she flagged down a taxi and had the driver take them to the nearest doctor.

***

Kyle’s head was ringing like a bell. He didn’t want to stop at the doctor’s, but Zennia was insistent. Maybe she was right. He glanced at her. Somehow, she was even prettier than before. Perhaps it was the look she gave him that showed she cared.

Amanda, in all the days they’d been together, never really ever looked at him that way. Kyle could see it now. She’d used him. That was it. Why and what Amanda got from being with him, he wasn’t sure.

If his head didn’t hurt so much, maybe he could figure it out. Then he glanced at Zennia. She would help him. He knew it. She wasn’t using him. She was his partner in every sense of the word. A good partner too.

The buggy stopped, and Zennia jumped down and ran around to his side to help him.

“Easy does it.” She put a hand to his shoulder and helped guide him down the step. She reached in her reticule and paid the driver, and then put his arm around her shoulders and helped him walk into the clinic.

A somewhat older man in a white coat looked and sighed. “I see you met with something harder than your head. Sit up here.” He patted a bed covered by a tattered but clean sheet.

After a few minutes of cleaning, the old doc nodded. “I better put a couple of stitches. Nasty bump. You should rest the better part of today and tomorrow.”

Kyle waved him off. “No, I, we’ve got things to do.”

Zennia shook her head. “We’re going to do exactly what the doctor says.”

“You listen to your wife, buddy. You were lucky your skull wasn’t split wide open. I’d say the one who hit you meant it to be permanent.”

Kyle looked at him. “That so.”

“Yes, sir. I have seen plenty of them. Just friendly fights don’t do this. No, this man meant business. You listen to her and do as I say.”

Feeling dizzy, Kyle nodded and then regretted it.

Finished putting in the stitches, the doctor helped them flag a taxi and helped him into the carriage. The ride to the hotel was nothing but a blur.

Zennia took care of everything. Of him. Of getting him up to his room. And giving him some kind of medicine that the doctor had given her.

She tucked him in his bed and put a cool cloth to his head. “You sleep. I’ll be right here to wake you up in an hour. The doctor said I should make sure you wake up. But you just rest and know that I’m watching out for you. Don’t worry about a thing.”

Kyle smiled. How sweet. He could get used to her taking care of him. How long had it been since anyone really cared about him? He couldn’t remember. But he couldn’t remember hardly anything right now.

Nothing but looking at Zennia and seeing her kind, sweet smile as she put a cloth to his head. So soothing. He forced his eyes open one more time before sleep could take him and stared at her.

Her pretty smile. Blues eyes that sparkled with life. And she looked at him like she really cared. His last thought before sleep took him down was how much he loved her.

Chapter 9

Zennia sat with Kyle the rest of the day. She worried about him. Her thoughts of finding Amanda left as she kept by his side. Whoever Amanda was, she didn’t think she’d ever loved Kyle. What little she knew of the woman, Zennia didn’t like.

Once Kyle was better, she’d go to the dorm and open the door to Amanda’s room. There had to be a clue inside. Amanda was staying somewhere else, but for some reason, Amanda kept the dorm room. And what was Professor Biggs doing with her?

She leaned back in the chair and yawned. No doubt it wasn’t right for her to stay in Kyle’s room, yet, she didn’t feel right leaving him. He needed her. The doc had said to wake him on the hour, and she was afraid not to.

The last time she’d awakened him, it had taken her a good five minutes to get him to sit up and recognize where he was. She was worried.

After standing, she stretched and walked to the window. It was night now. She knelt by the window and prayed for Kyle. That the Lord would heal him. That they would be able to solve the case and that no one else would be injured.

Then she looked at Kyle. “Lord, I’ve never felt this way about a man before. If he is the one, make it plain to us both. Everything is so confused now with Amanda and Mr. Vaughn, the professor. Help us find the answers. But please, let me know about Kyle. I really do like him. Keep him safe, Lord.”

Zennia felt a peace settle over her. She smiled, thinking about how her father would like Kyle. Her brothers, too. She shook her head. “You’re getting way ahead of things, Zenny.” She smiled at the name her father had called her when she was little.

She sat back in the chair and looked at her watch. Ten more minutes before she needed to waken Kyle. She laid her head on her arms and fell asleep.

A noise awakened her. The room was black. She started to reach for the lamp when Kyle grabbed her hand and whispered. “Someone’s trying to break in.”

She pulled her derringer from her pocket. “I’m ready.”

He sat up and held his head. “Let me get my gun.”

Zennia put a hand to him. “Shh. Lay down.”

She walked to the door and listened. Heavy breathing on the other side of the door sent fear through her. Zennia tiptoed back to the window and picked up the chair. Struggling, she carried it to the door and placed it under the doorknob.

She turned, and Kyle was behind her.

Zennia whispered. “Get back to bed.”

The doorknob moved.

They froze.

Kyle pushed her to the wall and leaned against her, putting a finger to her lips.

A gunshot shattered the quiet.

Kyle held her and moved them down by the wardrobe.

Another shot hit the bed, spraying feathers about the room. Then footsteps outside told them the shooter had run.

After a few minutes, Kyle stood and went to the door, with his pistol drawn, he moved the chair and opened the door. After a quick peek outside, he came back in. “No sign of them.”

“How are you feeling.”

“Better. Thanks for staying with me.”

“You still should rest tonight.”

In minutes, a house detective came to the room, and they told him what they knew. He left and said he’d see what he could find out.

Kyle shook his head. “They won’t find anything. Why would they want to kill me?”

“Maybe you know something or someone?”

“Amanda? She wouldn’t hurt me.”

Zennia shook her head. “Come on, it’s still dark out. You can sleep in my bed.” She held up her hand. “I’ll sleep in the chair.” She pulled him out his door and to hers.

She opened the door and gasped. Her room was a wreck with her clothes strewn about and all her things on the floor. Someone had taken a knife to her bed and slashed it, strewing feathers about the room.

On the mirror, words were written in red. “Leave! Go home.”

“Kyle. Who would do this?”

“Someone who doesn’t want us investigating Amanda and her friends. Maybe we should go back to Denver. I don’t want you to get hurt.”

Zennia faced him. “Is that what you told your other partners? I’m not afraid.”

He put his hands on her arms. “I know. That’s what scares me.”

***

Kyle’s hands warmed at touching her. She mattered to him more than he’d thought. He couldn’t bear to have anything happen to her. “We’ll get another room. Side by side so I can keep an eye on you.”

He pulled her to the elevator.

“Your head. You need to rest.”

“I’ve rested enough. I came out here to protect Amanda, but it seems she doesn’t need it. There is no way I’m going to let you get hurt.” Kyle put his gun in the holster under his suitcoat.

Zennia twisted from his grip. “I joined the Pinkertons because I want to be a detective. I’m not afraid, and I’m not going to let you run back to Denver because of me. I’m your partner in every sense. And a good one, too.”

Kyle grinned. She was downright pretty when she was riled. He could tell his grin had made her mad. “Look, you’re a good agent. I’ll tell you that right now. But something is very wrong with this case. It’s nothing like we thought when we started.”

“So, does that mean we quit?”

He stared at her. There was no quit in her. “All right. Tomorrow, we’ll go see Ulyssa. She’s with the Chicago department. She might be able to help us.”

Zennia grinned. “Good. Because I wasn’t leaving.”

Kyle led her down the hall to the elevator. He smiled but kept it from her. Zennia surprised him. When he’d first seen her, he thought she was a girl looking for adventure and would soon go home to her mother.

He’d been wrong about her and was thankful he was. He couldn’t have asked for a better partner.

She ran to keep up with him. “So, what are we going to do first. It’s kind of early.”

Kyle glanced out the hotel entrance and saw that it was still dark. He veered to the left and took her to the dining room. “We’re going to eat breakfast.”

“What if the shooter is here?”

Kyle patted his coat. “I’m prepared. Besides, I think they’re long gone. I don’t think they meant to kill us, just scare us.”

“I am hungry.” She smiled at him. “Thanks for giving me this chance. I don’t think Archie would have hired me if you hadn’t barged in and taken me as your partner.”

“Then, the agency would have missed out on hiring a good agent. Now, we need to try and figure out what all these different players have in common.”

“Amanda seems to be the link between the others.” Zennia looked at him, challenging his feelings for Amanda.

“I thought I was in love with Amanda.” He stopped, not sure how much to tell Zennia. “As I look back, I think she was using me. For what, I’m not sure. I’ve been trying to think back to anything she asked me, but so far, I’ve come up blank.”

Zennia gave her order of scrambled eggs and bacon. Then waited for the waiter to leave. “So, we’ve got the Vaughns, or whoever they are, Lady Jane, and Professor Biggs. They are all into some kind of illegal scheme. The professor speaks with a German accent. The Vaughns and Lady Jane a faint British accent.”

Kyle tapped his spoon on the saucer. “There is a financial panic sweeping Europe. What can they be trying to get from the United States?”

After a sip of coffee, Zennia sat her cup down. “Silver. My father was telling me that the Germans were taking their money off silver and changing to gold. Did Amanda ever talk about the silver market?”

Between bites, Kyle nodded. “Yes, I remember we went to the office of exchange once.”

Zennia nodded. “My father also said the Vienna Stock Exchange crashed. Europe is having trouble from over-expanding, and if they are, then we are. If it hasn’t happened totally here in the states, it will soon. The group may be hedging their bets to make money where they can or to cover their investments that are about to crash.”

“How do you know so much?”

“I listen. My father loves to dig into what is going on in the world. He told me long before I read it, that the British sailing ships, most of their freight fleet, would not be able to use the Suez Canal because of the prevailing winds. My father pulled our investments in British companies long before they started to falter.”

Kyle nodded. “What about silver?”

“There will be many companies, and mines, suffer from the change in coinage. Just a few weeks ago, Father told me that he pulled out of silver mines and invested in gold mines.”

“Well, we have something to go on. We’ll go to the agency and see if Ulyssa is around and knows anything. I worked a case with her once, and she was brilliant. Tough but smart. She’s married now, so maybe she’s not as harsh as she was then. The other agents used to call her the Ice of Hearts.”

Zennia laughed. “Oh, my. I hope I never get such a moniker.”

“No, trust me. You are as far from Ulyssa’s reputation as you can be.” He enjoyed having breakfast with her. Amanda slipped further and further from his mind, and Zennia took up the space.

“That was a wonderful breakfast. Thanks, Kyle.” She smiled. “Are we off to the Pinkerton Agency now?”

He checked his pocket watch. “Yes, the early ones will be there, and unless Ulyssa has changed a lot, she’ll be there.”

Kyle paid for the breakfast, and then waved down a taxi and ordered him to drive them to the Pinkerton Agency. He loved the Pinkertons. They had protected Chicago after the fire by order of Allan Pinkerton.

Kyle remembered the directive Allan had given after the great fire. Upon finding anyone stealing, Pinkerton had put it in writing, Kill the persons by my orders. No Mercy shall be shown, but Death shall be their fate. Allan Pinkerton

Allan Pinkerton’s sons ran the business now because of the founder’s stroke. Robert in New York and William in Chicago. The Eye That Never Sleeps lived on.

Kyle opened the door to the agency and asked about Ulyssa. The man grinned. “She’s in her office. Just down the hall and to the left. Can’t miss it.”

Kyle led Zennia to Ulyssa’s office and knocked on the door. Upon entering, Kyle immediately saw the reason for the man’s smile. Ulyssa sat at her desk, holding a small child.

“Well, married life appeals to you.” Kyle smiled at her. “This is my partner, Zennia Fields.”

Ulyssa nodded. “I’ve heard. Archie himself wired me about you and your partner. Said I was to help.” She hugged her little boy. “Chad and I are happy. This is James. He’s all of one year old today.”

Zennia cooed at the baby. “He’s beautiful.”

Kyle shook his head. “He’s a man. That would be handsome, ladies. Not beautiful.”

Ulyssa laughed. “Beautiful is correct. Ask any mother. How can I help you?”

Kyle filled her in on Amanda and the other characters. Threw Zennia’s ideas out to her about the panic in Europe. “Any ideas you might have will help.”

Ulyssa frowned. “They are a shady bunch. We’ve been tailing Lady Jane as you call her. She’s an assassin. We don’t know who she is after. But she’s been moving about the city for some time now. You say you have a sketch of her?”

Zennia handed it to her.

“Thank you, that will be most helpful. We’ve also been watching Professor Biggs. He’s into metals such as gold and silver. We’ve been watching him but can’t decide what he’s doing. So far, he’s bought up a lot of silver certificates, but we haven’t caught him selling them.”

Kyle held the sketchbook. “Zennia made these sketches from memory of the Vaughns. Supposedly, Amanda’s parents.”

Ulyssa studies the drawings. “They definitely are not the Vaughns. Their last name is Strousberg from Vienna. We believe they are trying to divert money from their country to the United States. Stolen monies.”

Kyle saved Amanda for the last. “That brings Amanda Vaughn. I was nearly engaged to her. She wouldn’t commit, and I went to Denver. That was several months ago. We continued to write, and then her letters stopped until I received this telegram.” He dug in his pocket and handed it to Ulyssa. “She said she was in trouble, but I saw her the other night, and she assured me that she was not in trouble, and she didn’t want to see me again.”

Kyle glanced at Zennia. He’d not told her that bit of information. He wasn’t sure why, and by the way that she looked at him, Zennia found that interesting.

Ulyssa looked at the sketch Zennia had drawn. “I’m not familiar with her, but I have heard of a young woman going around to social circles trying to sell foreign currency. Silver certificates for German coins. Her pitch is they will become more valuable.”

Zennia cleared her throat. “The opposite is true. The Germans are going to the Goldmark.”

Ulyssa nodded. “Very good. Hold onto this girl, Kyle. She’ll make you a good partner.”

Kyle saw the subtle wink Ulyssa gave him, but he had to agree. “I plan to.”

Ulyssa stood. “My husband is on his way. We’re going to the lake for a picnic later. Chad wants me to stop working, and I have to say, I agree. This is my last week at the agency.”

Kyle shook her hand. “I know you’ll both be happy. Make that all three of you.”

Ulyssa nodded. “Make that four in about seven months.”

Zennia congratulated her, and then Kyle walked her out of the office.

Kyle found them a taxi. “Where do you suggest?”

“To the college. Let me check my room and Amanda’s. I don’t think you should go in with me, though.”

Kyle nodded. “I can wait. There is a little café across from her dorm room.”

Chapter 10

Zennia walked up the steps to her dorm room. The campus was quiet as classes were on, and she didn’t see anyone. She unlocked her door and went inside. Nothing looked disturbed. Satisfied, she went across the hall.

The paper she’d put above the door was missing as well as the one on the doorknob. So, someone had been here. Listening to make sure no one was inside, Zennia picked the lock and opened the door.

Shutting it behind her, Zennia looked about the room. Nothing looked different at first glance. Then she opened the wardrobe and saw a box. Zennia opened it and saw certificates. Written in German, she guessed.

She took one and stuffed it in her pocket. Then she put the box back and looked under the bed and in the drawers. No clothes. Amanda was using this room to store her certificates. Who would look in a dorm room?

Zennia started to leave when she heard footsteps. Quietly, she closed the wardrobe and hid under the bed.

A key toyed with the lock, and someone in stylish shoes entered the room. It had to be Amanda. Zennia held her breath and slid under the center of the bed.

The woman sat on the bed and took off her shoes. She went to the wardrobe and put another box inside. She groaned and sat at the desk and uttered something in another language. There was a knock on the door.

Zennia put her hand in her pocket for the derringer and waited.

“What are you doing here? I told you not to meet me here.” Amanda stormed to the window.

Zennia saw men’s shoes. Whose? Professor Biggs would be teaching. Vaughn maybe.

“Is that old boyfriend of yours still hanging around?” Zennia recognized Vaughn’s voice.

“I told him I didn’t want to see him again. The telegram was a mistake. If you hadn’t threatened me, I wouldn’t have sent it. I told you I wanted out.” Amanda sounded frightened.

“After this last deal, you can go back to wherever it is you came from. I’m sure your poor sick mother will be happy that you’ve kept her alive.”

Amanda sobbed. “I got you the information you wanted. Kyle wouldn’t tell me much, but I was able to point out several agents to you. After I sell these certificates, you will let me go, won’t you?”

The gruff voice answered. “Maybe. Depends on how well you do.”

“More people know about the silver. It’s getting harder to sell them.”

“There’s a party set up at the Grand. Tomorrow night. Be there. I have some gentlemen for you to entertain and sell the certificates to. Dress up. Before you come, check in with the professor and let him have some. I expect you both to sell out the certificates.”

“I will be there. What about Kyle? He is staying at the hotel.”

“I’ll take care of him.”

“Don’t hurt him. Please.”

Vaughn laughed. “You be sure to do what we say. Maybe he won’t get hurt.”

Amanda stood. “I’m warning you—”

A loud slap and Amanda fell on the bed and cried.

“You do what I say, or he won’t be the only one that gets hurt.” Vaughn stormed out of the room and slammed the door.

Amanda remained on the bed, sobbing.

Zennia prayed that Kyle wouldn’t get restless and come up to her room and then prayed that Amanda would soon leave.

After ten minutes, Amanda left the room, shutting the door with a soft click.

Zennia waited until she heard her steps. Waiting another five minutes, she slid out from under the bed and tiptoed to the door. Holding her breath, she opened it a slit. There was no one in the hall.

She eased out of Amanda’s room and sped across the hall to her own, unlocked the door, and entered. Easing her breath, she turned from the door and saw Amanda sitting in the chair near the window.

“Wondered when you’d leave my room.”

Zennia stared at her. “What do you mean?”

“I knew you were under my bed. I heard you breathing and prayed Vaughn wouldn’t notice. I want you to give Kyle a note for me.” Amanda stood and shoved a piece of paper into Zennia’s hand. “Tell him to leave the Grand Hotel and not to try and find me anymore. Please.”

“What are you into, Amanda?”

“None of your business.”

“Kyle has feelings for you. He came here to save you.” Zennia stuffed the note in her pocket. Aware she had the derringer but didn’t think she needed it. Amanda looked defeated and vulnerable.

“I never was in love with Kyle.” Amanda turned away from her. “I used him. I knew he was a Pinkerton agent and used him to show me who other agents were so I could alert my contacts. Vaughn will kill him if he gets in the way. If you’re his partner, you are in danger, too.”

“What is preventing me from taking you in now?” Zennia held her hand on the derringer.

“I’m asking you, woman to woman, to let me go. I had to warn Kyle.”

“So, you do care about him.”

Tears moistened Amanda’s eyes. “Once, I thought I did, but I realize I was in love with the idea that someone could rescue me. Now, I know that no one can help me. I have to do what they say or my family will die. My life is over.”

Zennia started to go toward her, but Amanda held up her hand. “No, I know what I’m doing. You have a chance to save Kyle. And yourself. Take it. Trust me, Vaughn and his kind won’t hesitate to kill you both.”

Amanda walked to the door, brushing Zennia’s shoulder as she passed her. Before leaving, Amanda stopped and looked at her. “You’re sweet. Take care of Kyle for me. In fact, you would make a good match for him. Remember what I said.” She left, closing the door behind her.

Zennia almost went after her but stopped. She needed to find Kyle and tell him what she’d learned. Amanda had her own problems, but Zennia feared that Kyle would get caught in the middle.

***

Kyle paced the sidewalk in front of the café. What was keeping Zennia so long? Then he saw her. She ran across the street, looking flushed and worried, she grabbed his arm and led him back into the café.

“Did you find Amanda?”

“Yes, I saw her, and she talked to me. Warned you and me.” Zennia pulled the certificate from her pocket. “This is what she is selling. From what I heard Vaughn say, they want to get rid of them quickly and get out of town. He is forcing Amanda to sell them to save her family in Vienna.”

“Vienna.” Kyle frowned and ran a hand down the back of his head and winced. “Ouch, I forgot about that.”

Zennia took his hand. “She said I was to warn you to leave her alone. And we’re to leave the Grand Hotel. There is some social gathering tomorrow, and Amanda will be there to sell off the certificates. She’s trying to save her family.”

Kyle rubbed his thumb over her hand. “Don’t you worry. I won’t let anything happen to you.”

“I’m not worried about me. I’m worried about you.” Zennia left her hand in his, her smile sweet but concerned.

Kyle ordered lunch for them. “Maybe we should find a different hotel.”

“Is that what Pinkerton’s do? That doesn’t sound like Allan Pinkerton or the agency with the slogan the eye never sleeps.” Zennia pulled her hand back and gave him a challenging look.

“Zennia, I brought you out here to save a woman I thought I loved. But now I know she never cared for me. Not like I did for her. But I won’t lose you trying to save Amanda.”

His partner was quiet. Her eyes were soft and full of hope. Then she straightened and held her head high. “We need to do what Pinkerton agents would do. I’m your partner.”

“You could be more.”

“Kyle, not now. We have a job to do.” She halted and looked down.

He reached out to her. “I’ll not lose you. If I have to, I can order you back to Denver.”

Eyes blazing, Zennia glared at him. “Don’t you dare. I’m not afraid. I signed on for this case, and I will see it to the end.”

He sat back. “All right. On one condition. You do exactly what I tell you to do. I’m the senior agent, and that is the terms of your employment. Agreed?”

“Agreed. As long as you treat me like you would any other partner.”

Kyle grinned. “No, I can’t agree with that. You’re not like any partner I’ve ever had, but you are just like the one I’d like to have. Just do as I say. Please.” He smiled at her. “You’re pretty when you get all riled up.”

She looked away and shrugged. Then turned to face him, but her eyes were calm, and her lips formed a slight smile. “I bet you don’t say that to your other partners.”

“No, can’t say that I have.” Kyle looked at her and wondered how he was going to keep her safe. Here he’d come back to Chicago to save one woman, and now he had another to take care of.

Chapter 11

Zennia put on the beautiful green dress she’d bought just in case of going to a dance. She hoped Kyle would like it, but then felt guilty trying to impress him when his almost fiancé had turned him down. Not to mention Amanda might just be guilty and have to be arrested.

Kyle didn’t see anything wrong with the silver certificate, but he said he’d take it to the Pinkerton office and have them look at it.

She checked her watch. He would be here to pick her up in a few minutes. Zennia went to the window and looked out. The sun had just given up for the day, and the night sky was darkening. The first star was visible.

“First star of the night, grant me my wish.” She closed her eyes and then opened them and smiled. Not that she believed in such things, but it did bring back a sweet memory of her mother.

They’d sit outside and watch the sunset. Whoever saw the first star had their wish come true. Her mother always let her see it first.. Mother only wanted the best for her. Zennia knew that.

“I hope you’re happy with me, Mother. I love Kyle. I didn’t want to. I tried not to. But my heart comes alive when I see him. Is that how you and Father knew you were in love?”

She waited and listened but heard no answer. Yet, she felt peace in her heart. Zennia sighed with contentment. Somehow, it would work out with Kyle. For now, she needed to give him time to grieve over Amanda.

A harsh thought stiffened her spine. What if Kyle and Amanda were supposed to get married? What if Amanda confessed and was able to go free, and Kyle really did love her?

Not wanting to consider the outcome, Zennia turned from the window just as there was a knock on her door.

“Coming.” She picked up her matching shawl, stopped by the dresser, and slipped her derringer in her reticule. After pushing an unruly strand of hair to where it belonged, she opened the door.

Kyle stood at the entrance, a look of impatience in his eyes, but it quickly changed to admiration. “You look lovely.”

“Thank you.” She walked past him.

He caught up to her and put her arm in the crook of his elbow. “May I escort you to the social?”

Zennia looked at him. “Why, yes, you may, Mr. Logan.”

“You’re something else, Zennia. I do hope you let me dance with you.”

“Of course, my mother taught me to dance with the one who brought you.” She grinned at him. It would have been fun to toy with him if the look in his eyes hadn’t been so serious.

The gentle way that he patted her hand and the quiet but wanting look in his eyes warned her to be kind to him. Yes, she felt the same way about him, but how could she consider him with Amanda so near?

Even though Amanda had said she didn’t care for Kyle, Zennia didn’t believe her. The woman was trying to save Kyle every bit as much as Zennia would. She would have to be on the alert to watch for anyone that might cause trouble.

After a quick ride down the elevator, they walked to the dining room and up a level of stairs to the private affair. Kyle provided the invitation that Ulyssa had wrangled for him. And the man at the door let them in with a nod.

Zennia had been to fancy socials with her father and knew how to act. Head up, smile on your face, and watch the people to see who is genuine and who isn’t. Rather hard to do when everyone is putting on airs, but she was a pro.

Kyle led her to the punch bowl and got them both cups. He smiled at her, proud to have her with him. She could tell because he didn’t really look at the other women.

She did. So far, she didn’t see Amanda. None of those they were looking for had shown up yet. But the night was young, and they had been some of the first to enter.

The music started up, and Kyle tapped her on the shoulder. “May I have this dance?”

Zennia smiled and put her hand on his shoulder. “I would love to.” She meant it. This dance would be real. And she’d concentrate on Kyle. His arms around her. Her head leaning against his shoulder.

She felt at home. How she hoped the first star of the night was right, and this wish would come true.

Kyle led her gracefully around the dance floor. It was as if they were the only ones in the room. Almost as if they were the only ones in the world. Zennia didn’t want the dance to end. She floated on a cloud of dreams and wished with all her might that Kyle was hers.

They fit as if they’d been made in heaven to be together. She looked up into his eyes. He was looking at her. Only her.

“Zennia, I know I shouldn’t, but I—”

“Kyle, Zennia, what a surprise to see you two here.” Amanda raised a glass to them.

Kyle let Zennia’s hand go and stepped away from her. “Amanda.” He paused, glanced at Zennia, and then back to Amanda. “Are the others here?”

“Not yet. But they will be. I usually get here early and search out my clients. The ones who I think will be interested.”

Kyle nodded. “And does that include me?”

Amanda darted a look to Zennia. “No. Sorry, you’re not in my range of clients.” With another glance at Zennia, Amanda walked away to the other side of the room.

The spell broken, and Zennia’s dreams crushed. She looked around the room. “Maybe we should separate and see who is here.”

Kyle took her hand in his. “No, we came together, it will look best if we stay together.” His words were steady, hard almost. But the look in his eyes and the clamminess of his palm told her otherwise.

Was he embarrassed to have Amanda see them together? Was he angry now that she’d walked off and left him? She couldn’t tell by looking at him. Leaning her head against his chest, she heard his heart beat a steady but fast thumping. Was he angry at Amanda? Or that she’d caught him dancing?

“Kyle, if you want to be with her, you can.” There she’d said it. Given him his freedom. She wanted him. But she wouldn’t settle for a man who was always looking back for the woman he loved.

He shook his head. “No. whatever we had, is finished.”

She detected a sadness in his voice. Zennia wanted no part of filling in where another woman had left a hole in Kyle’s heart. Still, there was the problem with her own heart. The place Kyle had taken.

The music stopped. He put a finger under her chin and lifted her head to look into his eyes.

“Zenny, do you mind if I give you a nickname? Zenny, I like the sound of it. Fits you. Pretty and likable. Smart and fun. What do you say, will you be—”

“Not now, Kyle. We have a case to finish.” She looked at him. Her heart wanted to pour her love into his and knew she needed to be honest. “I don’t want the leftovers. When I find the man I want to marry, I want his whole heart. Just as I want to give my whole heart to him.” To you, she added to herself.

He looked at her. “Then I’ll have to prove to you that you are the only one. Whatever Amanda and I had, it is gone.”

Kyle said the right words, but she needed some distance between him and Amanda. Tonight was not the night. Amanda permeated the air between them. He might think she was gone, but Amanda didn’t.

The woman had come by to put her arrows in Kyle and let him and her know that she was still interested. Zennia could feel it even now. And when she turned, she saw Amanda watching them. Perhaps it was something only another woman could know, but Zennia knew that Amanda wasn’t finished with Kyle. If the woman thought she’d put Kyle in any trouble, she had another thing coming.

Music started up again.

Kyle whispered in her ear. “Dance with me.”

She heard him. But she heard more than his words. The hurt of being turned down. The want to show her off in front of Amanda. Oh, Zennia didn’t want to be used, yet, her wish. The yearning in her heart said yes. She nodded and whispered. “Yes.”

He led her around the floor. His eyes on her, but Zennia couldn’t help but feel his attention had been diverted. She kept her head up and her eyes on his. Perhaps she could put herself in first place and keep his eyes on her.

Kyle grinned. “You’re the prettiest one out here.”

“Don’t, Kyle. Don’t compare me to her. She’s prettier. I can see that. I want you, Kyle. But I won’t be second place.” Zennia pulled away from him. “I think I’ll look around the room. Maybe dance with someone else to see if I can get a feel for who is in this room. We do have a case, you know.”

He nodded. “You’re a wise woman, Zennia.”

“At least, you don’t see me like a girl anymore.”

He grinned. “No, I sure don’t.”

She left him. Zennia worked on getting into her social identity and started watching the people coming into the room. Wealthy was one way to describe them. Carefree and intent on having a good time fit most of them.

After a glance around the room, she stopped on Amanda. The woman was sitting by herself, sipping a drink. Perhaps she was looking for a likely candidate to sell her certificates to. Then she saw Kyle walking toward her.

Amanda looked pleased and patted the seat next to her. Kyle sat, and they began talking.

Disappointed and not sure of what she was feeling, Zennia turned away from them and nearly ran into a nice-looking man. He was about her age and looked somewhat bored.

“Can I have this dance? It’s a shame to let the music go to waste.”

 Zennia nodded and gave him her hand.

He helped her up and put his arm around her. “So, how does a lovely woman like yourself end up sitting alone?”

“Perhaps, I was waiting for the right man to come along.” She grinned. “My name is Zennia.”

“Allan.” He swept her around the room.

“How did you win your fortune, Allan?”

“My fortune? Well, first, I was born into a very wealthy family. Then I grew up and became very wise in the market. It’s said I have the Midas touch.”

“Should I fear turning into gold?”

He laughed. “I doubt that would be possible. You intrigue me, Zennia. Somehow, I don’t think you’re the kind of woman that any man could turn into anything she didn’t want to be turned into.”

“Very perceptive, Allan.”

He swung her around to the music. “You stay with me, and we’ll have all kinds of fun.”

“Sounds interesting, but I’m here to meet people.”

“Ah, so you’re wanting to see who is here. I can introduce you. I know everyone who is important. Not to sound the snob, but I specialize in knowing the wealthy. Good for business, you know.”

Zennia had met such types before. They acted as if their sole purpose in life was to make more money. Nothing more and nothing less. “You can’t eat gold, Allan. You might remember that.” She left him scratching his head.

Not ready to dance with anyone else, she strode to one of the long tables filled with all typed of food. She chose a slice of buffalo and took her plate to one of the many tables.

She nearly choked on her food when she saw Mr. Vaughn walk into the room. Alone. No, Mrs. Vaughn.

Zennia wondered about the woman they’d met with him. She hadn’t seemed like the criminal type. And did seem scared. Perhaps she was another like Amanda and merely used by the others.

As she watched, Lady Jane walked in behind him. They passed casual words to one another and separated. So, the players were here. Amanda, Vaughn and Lady Jane. Zennia watched them.

Kyle had left Amanda and was talking with some gentlemen in a corner. The way they were laughing, Zennia figured it was men telling about conquests. She’d heard her father plenty of times discussing hunts and high blood horses with his friends. They were the likely marks that the gang would talk with.

She looked about and saw Allan dancing with Amanda. It hadn’t taken her long to spot him, and by the way she had him smiling, Amanda was spreading her charm. Zennia glanced at Kyle to see if he’d noticed, but he wasn’t looking at the dance floor.

Zennia sat next to a gentleman who looked a little lonely and hoped he’d ask her to dance.

Within minutes, he smiled at her and indeed did ask her to dance.

She stood and smiled as he took her hand. In minutes, they were waltzing around the room. Zennia had thought he was just another rich man that the group might want to fleece, but as he had his hands around her, he looked her over and grinned, but there was little joy in his smile.

“So, I’ve seen you around. With Amanda. Are you going to take her place?”

Zennia stared at him. Her instincts told her to go along. “Perhaps. I haven’t discussed it with her.”

“I’m the one you need to talk to. Philip Sean.” He stared at her so that she had to look away.

Zennia nodded. “Zennia Fields.”

“And why is it you need to join our group?”

“Money. Is there any other reason?”

He grinned. This time it was genuine. He’d liked her answer. “So, a woman who knows her mind. What is the purpose for your want of money?”

“To buy things. And people.” She kept her eyes locked on his. He was a dangerous man, she knew it. Zennia avoided looking for Kyle. She didn’t want to get him hurt.

“I always do background checks. Are you from Chicago?””

Zennia stared at him. “No.” She didn’t give him any more of an answer and saw that it angered him. His grip tightened on her hand, hurting her. She didn’t want to, but she winced and whispered, “ow.” Just to satisfy the man.

“That’s better. No one plays with me. I hope you’ll remember that.”

“Yes. I can see that.” She kept her eyes on his. So far, he’d not looked around to see where Amanda or Vaughn were.

Philip’s grip tightened on her hand. “I like to test my people. I saw you dance with Allan Scanlin. He’s a very rich man. Find him again and ask if he’d like to get on a sure deal. See if you can make him interested. Then bring him to me.”

Zennia nodded. “That’s all?”

He nodded. “That’s all. If you can do that, you’re in. If not, I never want to see you again. Understood?”

Zennia stared at him. “What do you mean, never want to see me again?”

“I mean, I want you to leave this room. This city and this state. And never come back.”

“And if I don’t agree?”

He sunk his fingers into the flesh of her hand, making her wince.

“All right.”

“Obey me, or else. If you don’t disappear, I assure you that I can make you disappear in other ways.”

Zennia didn’t doubt it. She left him and walked to Allan. “Want to dance?”

He glanced at her. “All right. Why now?” He led her onto the floor and held her to him. “I saw you talking to Philip. He’s a dangerous man.”

“You know that?”

“Yes, I do.” He twirled her around. “I’ve been trying to catch him in the act. If I wasn’t dancing, I’d show you my badge. I’m with the Secret Service.”

Zennia froze. “Secret Service?”

He nodded. “I think Philip must be on to me. What did he want you to do?”

“Get you interested in one of his money ideas, and then I was to bring you over to him. Or else.”

Allan looked concerned. “What is your play in this?  Are you working for him?”

“Pinkerton Agent. My partner is over there with that group of men.”

“Good, maybe we can nail this bunch. They’re dealing in counterfeit silver certificates. We’ve been trying to catch them in the act. I know about Lady Jane, and a couple who call themselves Vaughn. They’re all dangerous, so watch yourself. I must say, the Pinkertons are hiring young and pretty women.”

She blushed. “So, what do you want me to do?”

“Go ahead and tell him I’m interested. Maybe a hundred thousand worth to invest. Then I want you to tell your partner and get out of the building.”

Zennia grinned as he twirled her around but stared him in the eye. “I’ll need to talk to my partner.”

“You can’t. Not after you go back to Allan.” The dance ended. He stared at her. “Go quickly. Philip doesn’t like to be kept waiting. Tell him I’m good for a hundred grand.” He let his hand fall from her.

Zennia gave him a slight nod, turned, and looked for Philip. He was talking to, of all people, Amanda. More than talk, arguing. Zennia held back not sure what to do. She didn’t want Amanda to tell him she recognized her.

Seeing a group of men, Zennia went behind them to shield herself from view. Kyle was at the other side of the room and too far away to reach. As she watched, Amanda left Philip and went to Kyle, and they sat at a table and began talking.

Zennia’s heart sank, but she pulled herself together and went to find Philip. He was where she’d left him. Head up, she went to him. “Allan said he’d be interested in a hundred thousand dollar investment.”

Allan grinned. “Is that so. What did you tell him?”

“That you had a way to make money if he was bold enough to give it a try.” She kept her eyes on the man. Secure that he wouldn’t harm her here in front of everyone.

“That’s good. Real good. You surpassed my opinion of you. By the way, I was talking to a friend of yours.”

She tensed but concentrated on not showing it and keeping her eyes on his. “That so.”

Philip stared at her, searching her out. “Aren’t you going to ask me who?”

Zennia’s gaze matched his. “I think you’ll tell me when you’re ready.”

His eyes flinched, just for a brief movement, but she’d seen it. She’d caught him off guard. He was used to people being afraid of him. Zennia thanked her father, he’d raised her well and not to be afraid of anyone. So, she waited. Not speaking, not flinching, and not afraid.

“Yes, Amanda said you were a friend of a friend of hers. She told me not to bother you. I think she likes you.” He puffed on his cigar, not caring the smoke blew in her face.

Zennia didn’t move, only stared at him. “Is that so. Well, I really don’t know Amanda. She goes to the same college I do. Her room is across from mine. What does she have to do with me and the play I made with Allan?”

“Miss Fields. You are a cool one. I’ll give you that. But not my trust. I think I’ll pass on your man. Too slick. You’re too slick.” He paused and sipped his drink. “Too smart for me.” He nodded.

Before Zennia could utter a word, a man wrapped a hand over her mouth the other around her neck and whispered. “Don’t move or make a sound, or I’ll snap your neck.”

Philip stood, his wide girth shielding her from the rest of the room. “Take her out to the stairs.”

Another man came and grabbed her hands.

Zennia looked up and saw Mr. Vaughn. His stern face hard as stone. Frantically, she looked around but couldn’t spot Kyle or Allan. In minutes, they hauled out the side door and shoved her through another door to the stairs.

She struggled to free a hand, but her reticule was flung away by Vaughn.

He faced her and slapped her. “All right. Tell me who you are with?”

She stared at him. In character, he was a small man, but an angry one. Zennia struggled to try and figure out how best to keep him from beating her. She winced and held a hand to her bleeding lip.

“Amanda goes to the same college as I do.”

Vaughn glared at her. “What about Kyle? Amanda said she was in love with him. Asked me not to hurt him. What does he know?”

The truth. Or some of it. Zennia looked at him but made sure to cower before him. She had to make it look good. “He said he loved her, and she was in trouble. We came to make sure she was all right.”

“Liar.” Vaughn again struck her.

Zennia heard a door open. She screamed, kicked the big man who’d grabbed her first, and slapped Vaughn, taking him by surprise.

She shoved behind her and heard the big man fall.

Lowering her head, she charged Vaughn and hit him in the stomach knocking him down. She was almost to the door when Vaughn grabbed her ankle pulling her down.

“Help!” she screamed.

Footsteps ran to the doorway.

She struggled, kicking at Vaughn’s hand, but he held her tight.

The door opened, and Kyle ran in. Gun drawn, he aimed it at Vaughn’s head. “Let her go.”

Zennia scrambled to Kyle’s side. “I don’t have my derringer.”

“Go back and find Allan. He said he talked to you.” Kyle looked at her. “Danced with you.”

She had to grin. Everything she wanted to know, she saw in Kyle’s eyes and the way he looked at her. “I will. Be careful.”

Zennia ran out the door and into the arms of Philip.

With a growl, he pulled a gun. “I thought you might give them some trouble. You’re little but wiry. Strong for a girl. And not afraid when you should be very afraid.” He put his beefy hand around her arm and twisted it behind her back. “Let’s go help my friends. If I’m not mistaken, we’ll soon take care of the both of you.” He shoved her toward the door.

Zennia twisted and yanked until she felt the cold muzzle of his gun at her head.

“Be still and open that door.”

“You’re going to kill me anyway. Why should I help you? Once the people in the hotel hear the gunshot, they’ll come running.” She shoved away from the door despite the pain in her arm.

Philip shoved her against the door. “I should break your neck?”

“I should kick your fat knee.” And she did as hard as she could.

He groaned and bent down just enough so that she could hit him in the nose with her elbow. All she’d learned wrestling with her four brothers was finally coming in handy.

He reeled back, holding his nose.

She leaped for his gun hand and grabbed it, biting his fat thumb.

Yowling, he swung her away from him, and she fell against the wall.

Dazed, she glared at him and then saw that the gun had come out of his hand and was between them. She lunged for it the same time he did.

Zennia grabbed for the gun.

The door to the party opened.

Philip lunged against her.

Gun in her hand, Zennia rolled out from under the big man and held the gun to his head. “Don’t move.”

“Don’t move.”

Zennia turned to see Lady Jane with a derringer in her hand.

“I’ll shoot Philip unless you hand me that gun.” Zennia took a chance on the woman not wanting to be the cause of her boss’s death.

“Shoot her.” Philip raged.

“I’m a good shot. I can’t miss at this range, and I’ve got the bigger gun. Bigger chance of killing him than you do of hurting me.” Zennia clicked the hammer back. “Now, even if you do shoot me, Philip is dead.”

A knock on the door to the stairs startled her. Was it Kyle? Or one of the other men?

Lady Jane looked up, taking her eyes off of Zennia.

Behind her, the door opened again, and this time Amanda walked into the hall. She gasped.

Philip grinned. “Amanda dear. Take the gun from this girl.”

Zennia shook her head. “Allan!” It was a hope that he would be near enough to hear.

Amanda grinned and stepped aside as Allan came out the door, his gun drawn.

He grabbed Lady Jane and took the derringer from her. “Thanks, Amanda. You were right. There are all kinds of trouble out here.”

Allan nodded at Philip. “Think you can roll over and get up? I’ll try and watch Zennia and make sure she doesn’t shoot you, although if she does, I wouldn’t mind.”

“Really! I’ll have your neck—”

“Ah, ah, ah. Just stand up real slow and get over there by the wall. You to Lady Jane.” Allan grabbed Philip and shoved him against the wall, handcuffing his hands.

Zennia opened the door. “Kyle, are you all right?”

He came out. “I’ve got them handcuffed. Are you all right?” He looked at her. “Where’d you get the gun?”

“It was Philip’s. Amanda helped us. She alerted Allan to the trouble.”

Allan had Amanda with him. “She told me everything. The silver certificates are counterfeit, so we should be able to put this group away for a long time.”

Kyle looked at Amanda. “And Amanda?”

“She’ll turn witness, and we’ll let her go back to Vienna and her family. With the promise, she never steps foot in the United States again. Understood?”

Amanda nodded. “Yes. Could I have a private word with Kyle?”

Zennia looked at him. Kyle had a sad look on his face as he passed her and took Amanda by the arm down the hall.

Allan rounded up the two men down the stairs and then took Philip and Lady Jane. “Want to help me take these outlaws downstairs?”

Zennia looked at Kyle and then nodded. “I’d be happy to.” She grinned at Philip. “I hope they don’t give me a reason to shoot them, but then it’s been a while since I shot a bad man. You know how the wild west is and all.”

Allan laughed. “Well, I won’t stand in your way. Let’s get them off to jail.”

Zennia followed Allan and kept her gun leveled at Philip and Lady Jane.

Philip stopped. “I’m out of breath, and my knee is killing me.”

“Should have thought of that before you tangled with me. I had four brothers who taught me how to fight.” Zennia almost laughed at the look the man gave her.

Lady Jane was a cool one. She didn’t say a word, but Zennia got the impression she was a coiled leopard waiting to pounce.

“I can shoot and hit what I aim at, Lady Jane. Don’t tempt me.”

With a smirk, the woman nodded, but she kept walking. After a few minutes, they were on the first floor, and Allan shoved the four of them into a closet. Stand here, and I’ll get the police.

Zennia waited outside the door, trying to not look to conspicuous with a gun in her hand. It was clear the clientele of The Grand were not accustomed to seeing a gun and kept a wide berth around her.

The four were quiet in the closet. An occasional grumble came through the door, complaining there wasn’t enough room. Zennia shook her head. “Better get used to it. Your cells won’t be much bigger.”

Finally, Allan came with several policemen, and they ushered the men and woman into the wagon outside.

Allan took her hand. “Agent Zennia, it was a pleasure working with you. If you’re ever in Chicago again, look me up.” He stopped talking and grinned. “Although I think I might be a little late.”

Zennia turned to see Amanda and Kyle walking toward them.

He ushered Amanda toward Allan. “Take care of her.”

“Will do.” Allan took her and led her to the police wagon.

Kyle took Zennia’s hand. “I think we have a few dances left.” He rubbed her face, where Philip had slapped her. “I’m sorry I wasn’t there to help you.”

“I did all right.”

“More than all right. I’m proud of you, Zennia. I’d like to keep working with you.”

Zennia held his hand to her face. “I’d like that.” She looked at him. “And more.”

He smiled. “That too. Let’s dance.”

Epilogue

Zennia smiled at her father. He was talking with Kyle as if they were old friends. Her partner had fit in with her family as if he were a long lost member. It had been six months since the case to find Amanda.

And it had been the start of her career as a Pinkerton agent. She and Kyle worked splendidly together. And though Archie had said they didn’t need to get married like so many of his young female agents were ordered to do with their more experienced partners, Kyle had asked for her hand last night.

It had taken him a while. Zennia would have said yes in Chicago. But Kyle, to his credit, wanted to make sure any thoughts of Amanda were out of his mind. She was safe back in Vienna with her family.

The other culprits of the gang were safely in jail. Including Professor Biggs, who they found out, was one of the leaders of the band of swindlers and counterfeiters.

Kyle laughed out loud.

Zennia’s thoughts turned to the present. Kyle had changed. He was happy now. She threw herself onto the chair and watched her family embrace him as one of their own. Pushing some of her always unruly hair from her eyes, she watched the men she loved. And the one man who had won her heart.

The wedding was set for tomorrow. They intended to keep working for the Pinkertons. Although, with the money her father had set aside for her, they didn’t need to. Zennia loved her job.

But today, her love was set on Kyle. Soon, they’d be together and begin an exciting life of adventure together. She sighed. Her heart content. Her dreams coming true.

Kyle turned and looked at her. Holding up his glass, he nodded at her family. “To Zennia. The woman of my heart. I’m a blessed man.”

“Here. Here.” Her brothers and father shouted.

Zennia grinned. “When you’re through with that drink, I’d like to take a walk outside with the man of my dreams.”

Kyle swallowed his and left her family. “Let’s go. I’m sorry if you feel you’ve been neglected.”

She stood and kissed him. “I can wait. I trust you, Kyle Logan.” She took his hand, and they walked outside into the garden. Spring had come early, and the air was enchanted with the aroma of flowers.

“I dreamed of walking this garden with the man of my dreams. I would wish on the first star, and now, here you are.” She kissed his cheek.

Kyle stopped and held her to him. “Let’s dance.”

She laughed. “There’s no music.”

“I hear music. In my heart. If you come close, you’ll hear it, too.”

She put her head on his shoulder. “I think I hear it.”

He led her around the garden in their own private dance.

Zennia felt as if she were floating on a cloud. She thanked the Lord for bringing Kyle to her. For the love they had.

Kyle whispered in her ear. “Tomorrow, we’ll belong to one another.”

She nodded. “I can barely wait.”

***

Kyle fidgeted with the stuffy suit Zennia had got for him. She had promised he wouldn’t have to stay in it for long. Just the wedding and party after. He stood in front of the preacher and then turned.

The music had started, and Zennia was coming down the aisle. Kyle’s breath caught. She was beautiful. Looking like an angel, she was coming to him. To pledge to become his for the rest of their lives. He’d never been so happy in all his life.

Time stopped, and he felt as if they had been transported to their own special world. Soon, he’d take her away, and they’d begin their lives together. Honeymoon in San Francisco. Her father was giving them a house to be built on the family compound while they were away.

Kyle loved her more than life. Zennia, his angel.

She smiled, her hair decorated with a veil of flowers. But it was her eyes that held his gaze. So full of love and growing with each step.

The preacher nodded as Zennia took her place. Her father put her hand in Kyle’s.

“Beloved, we are gathered here today to witness the wedding of Kyle Logan and Zennia Fields. With the blessing of her family, they welcome Kyle into theirs.” The preacher smiled.

“I’ve known you, Zennia, since you were a small child. Full of life and love, I am happy to see you have chosen a man worthy of your love. Kyle, be prepared for an exciting life with this young woman. Now, let us begin.”

The preacher took a ribbon and bound their hands together. “Today, you will be bound together in your love and the Lord’s grace and mercy. Remember, how you are one from now on. Not to be pulled apart for the Lord has put you two together, and no one should come between you.”

Kyle rubbed his thumb over her hands. He was nervous, but Zennia was calm and as always sure of herself. His love for her settled him.

“Kyle, do you take this woman to love and cherish, to care for her in every way, and to meet her needs?”

“I will love her all the days of my life.”

“Zennia, do you take this man to love and honor, respect and obey, to lift up and encourage in the love the Lord has given you for this man?”

“I will all the days of my life.”

“Kyle, do you take this woman to be your wife?”

“I do.”

“Zennia, do you take this man to be your husband?”

“I do.”

The preacher turned them to face the congregation. “I pronounce you as husband and wife for this day forward. Let us all pledge to hold them high esteem and pray for their union from this day forward.”

The congregation shouted amen.

The preacher touched Kyle on the shoulder. “You may kiss your bride.”

Kyle took Zennia in his arms and kissed her tenderly, pouring his love into her. “I love you.”

Zennia smiled at him, loving him with her eyes. “I love you, Kyle.”

Soon, they entered the house and the party her family had arranged for them. Archie and some of the agents from the agency were there. Kyle held onto her so proud to belong to her and her family.

Yes, she had money. But he loved Zennia. Whether she had a dime or a million didn’t matter to him.

Zennia waltzed with him around the room. “I hope I can make you happy.”

Kyle smiled at her. “You have. Everything else will be extra. We leave for the train in an hour.”

She grinned. “I better dance with you and then greet our guests. We’ll have to pack, you know.”

He laughed. “Reminds me of our first trip together.”

She nodded. “Are we going to be looking for outlaws?”

Kyle shook his head. “The only one I’m going to be looking at is you. I love you, Zenny.”

She closed her eyes and then opened them and kissed him.

No more words were needed. He was home with her. Wherever they were, he’d be home as long as she was by his side.

~~~

Author’s Note – I hope you’ve enjoyed Zennia and Kyle’s story. This was the 6th of my books in the Pinkerton Matchmaker Series. I hope you will enjoy them all.

An Agent for Charity

An Agent for Arabella

An Agent for Sabrina

An Agent for Evangeline

An Agent for Ulyssa

An Agent for Zennia

Here is the link to the series and all the Pinkerton Matchmaker series.

You can find more of my books on my Amazon Page ~ Patricia PacJac Carroll

All my books are on Amazon and Kindle Unlimited.

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