Natalie surveyed the extravagant indoor/outdoor swimming pool. One rounded end extended into the Nevada morning air, a concrete deck on all sides. A clear, paned canopy covered the center of the pool, the opposite end reaching into the compound walls. The luxurious atmosphere surprised her, considering D.I.R.E’s purpose. Then again, many agents lived at the desert compound. Its use extended beyond work alone. Fully clothed, Riordan dove into the pool and disappeared. Seconds later, he appeared under the canopy and swam inside, his movements light, nearly still on the water. Shading her eyes against the September sun, Natalie watched him re-emerge and head toward her. He wanted to show her he had control of the situation. She had news for him. Springing out of the water, he plopped onto the edge of the pool, flinging water on her Italian leather heels. With his feet dangling in the water, he held up his dripping hand to help her sit.
