�Denby, this is getting really old.� Diane was pacing now. She had more on her mind than needing more information about Don, and Harry was intrigued.

�It�s all I have to live for, Diane. I know I can�t expect another kiss from you. This is the best I can do under the circumstances.� Denby knew that he would wear her down if he continued the delay. Like teasing a cat with a string. He had absolutely nothing to lose, and he was willing to risk her wrath in order to find out what was making her so upset. His eyes darted to her belt. No weapon. That was the one good thing about the secure ward. He was fairly certain she wasn�t going to be putting any bullets in his brain today.

Diane was touching her forehead nervously as she paced.

�Diane, I have another offer for you, one that you will no doubt find more palatable.�

Almost in desperation, Diane blurted out, �What?� before she could stop herself. Damn. She slammed her fist on the rolling table, nearly toppling it. She lunged to keep it from flying into Denby, and barely reached it in time to prevent the water pitcher from drenching him. She felt like a total klutz. Round one, Denby.

The corners of his mouth curled ever so slightly. Diane�s eyes flashed with fury, but she composed herself quickly.

�What�s your offer, Denby?� Diane sneered. Harry raised his eyebrows and managed to look contrite.

�An exchange, like before.� Harry watched Diane�s reaction closely. She scratched her forehead, rolled her eyes, bit her lip and made a fist, but she was listening.

�Go on.� She wouldn�t meet his eyes.

�You tell me what bee is in your bonnet, and I�ll share my little story.�

Diane couldn�t believe Denby could be so smug with all his limbs strapped down. The beeping of the heart monitor was menacingly regular. She was stunned that he was the one in control of the situation. She thought he�d make a marvelous serial killer, so adept was he at manipulation.

�Fine. What do you want to know?�

�Simply this. Why do you suddenly care so much about where Don is? Certainly not for his welfare. Something else is on the line. I want you to tell me what it is.�

Diane studied her shoes for a minute.