He gave a thin smile. “True. Those who have power don’t want to lose it. They also want more and more, until it corrupts absolutely. The Collective, as I understand it, was created to help the greater good. And before you ask, I’m not a part of it. I was asked to join and declined.”
“Why?”
“Because I need neither more money nor more power. I choose to help with charities my daughter handpicks. My business helps the American economy by providing jobs and encouraging the development of academics and advancing technology. I want our country and its people to prosper. What need have I for a clandestine group of rich people trying to dominate industry? I’m all for shared wealth, not a monopoly.”
“Which is easy to say when you have all that wealth. Let’s be honest, Mr. Rupert. If we were playing Monopoly, you’d already own everything while most of us do our best not to land on property tax, just happy to pass Go.”
Nelson chuckled. “True. But I mean it. I want those who abuse power to pay. My grandson felt the same, which is why he’s now dead.”
“Do you know who killed him?”
“I suspect the one who calls himself Rook. Casimir Bednarek.”
“You’re well informed.”
“Of course I am. I believe in our Constitution, in democracy. But there are too many who think we need to pander to the masses and make decisions to suit the popular vote, not the right vote.”
Jane felt whiplash from the contradicting points the man was making. But she kept quiet, letting him speak. She’d review it all in her mind again later.
“Do you understand?”
“You want me to believe you’re not part of the Collective, that you want the greater good to survive, but that you will determine the rules to help them reach that end.”
He nodded. “Exactly.”
“Even if it means the death of someone as earnest and patriotic as Matthew Scott,” she added baldly.
Nelson glared at her. “Watch your tone.”
“I’m just summarizing what you’ve already said.”
“Then you’re not listening.”
“I think I’m hearing you just fine.” Jane stared back, wondering what he’d do once she left. Who he’d call. “Matthew Scott meant a great deal to those of us with aspirations to serve our country, as he did. I love what America stands for, Mr. Rupert. But sometimes I don’t agree with the politicians voting against our ideals.”
His stern glare faded. “Then you do understand. We want the same things, Agent Cannon. To make life better for everyone.”
“But at what expense?” And who defined “better?”
He nodded. “You’re so much smarter than they give you credit for.”
“Who’s they?”
“Lionel Gambol for one. Did you know that man has more secrets to bury than even I have? And I admit I’ve earned and kept my money by not being the nicest guy in the room.”
“Your point?”
“They say aim; you ask, where should I shoot? I say, here’s the objective, now make it happen. Do you see the difference?”
Jane just stared at him. “Are yourecruitingme?”
He chuckled. “Recruiting you for what, Agent Cannon? Or can I call you Jane?”
“Please.”
“Jane. Matthew spoke highly of you. I believe he was enamored. Belinda mentioned it. Said she hadn’t seen the boy that infatuated with a woman in some time. But you never used his attention to gain advantage. You do your job because that’s who you are.”
She didn’t know what to say to the odd turn in conversation.
