Javi returned the call a few minutes later.
"Couldn't trace the number, but I found some info on the woman in the picture," he revealed in a strained voice. That's meant to be Valerie's aunt, according to her family. The worst part is that she passed away ten years ago.
Raven scowled. "Then why does her picture keep showing up everywhere?"
"That is the crucial question. Orphaned was Valerie. She was raised by her aunt, who passed away ten years ago for an unspecified reason.
"Unknown?" Dante said it again. "That's suspicious as hell."
"Oh, it gets better," said Javi. "She used to work for the FBI."
Dante and Raven looked at each other. "Well," Raven replied, "that explains why Valerie might be a target."
"Think Valerie knew?" Dante inquired.
"Doesn't seem like it," Javi answered. "She never mentioned anything like that to me."
Dante let out a breath. "We must ascertain what her aunt was engaged in prior to her passing. That might be the component we're lacking.
"I'll do my best to investigate, but in the meantime, you both need to protect your asses. You can't spend too much time in one spot. Are there any injuries I should be aware of?
"No," Raven said right away.
"Yes," Dante replied simultaneously.
Quiet. Then, weirdly composed, Javi murmured, "Raven. "Whatever happened to you?"
"Just a minor scrat—"
"Wounded by bullets. It has been reopened. Most likely several times. Dante interrupted, sounding far too proud of himself.
Raven gave him a glare that might have caused steel to melt.
Javi took a deep breath. And then he got into a heated tirade about safety, health, and how Raven was a stubborn fool who needed to look after herself. In order for him to be the one searching for Valerie, he even attempted to persuade her to trade places with him.
Naturally, Raven declined.
Finally, Javi hung up, obviously angry.
Raven sighed in exhaustion. "Goodbye, friend. You didn't need to tell anyone."
Dante grinned. "It wasn't necessary. desired to.
"You are unbearable. I despise you.
"Yeah, yeah." Dante elongated. "Wanna get some ice cream?"
Raven gave him a scowl. Then a little, hesitant smile flickered over her lips. "You are such a child."
"And yet, you're still coming with me."
Raven sighed. "All right. However, I'm choosing the flavors."
Dante smiled. "Deal."