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“No offensespecific that —”

“This is about thecolony ships, isn’t it?”

“It’s early to say what this is ‘about,’ ” Fred said, and then, grudgingly, “but that’s certainly one possibility”

“The OPA’s doing it, then Only you didn’t know about it”

“I’, just at the moment”

“Then neither a her arms

“Hey, hey, hey,” Holden said “Coht?”

“Not without terms,” Monica said

Fred’s jaent tight “We just saved your life”

“Thanks for that,” Monica said “I’ation All of it Exclusive intervieith both of you I’ll give you everything I have about the colony ships and my abduction Even the parts I didn’t tell Holden And fair warning before I go public with any of this”

“Wait a minute,” Holden said “There were parts you didn’t tell me?”

“Final approval before anything sees air,” Fred said

“Not a chance,” Monica said “And you need me”

“Final approval exclusively for issues of security and safety,” Fred said “And teeks lead time”

Monica’s eyes were bright and hungry Holden had traveled with her for weeks going out to the Ring the first time, and he felt like he knew her The ruthlessness in her expression was surprising Fred only seemed a