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Carson. That smug asshole feels he’s above raising his hand. If anyone in this department fits the profile, it’s that douchebag.
Sadie seems to agree as she cuts her eyes at him, but she quickly checks herself. “If he’s not working directly with the ACPD, then yes, he could likely be in contact with the leak.”
Carson jumps in again. “Then if we find the leak, we can locate the UNSUB, right? Why aren’t we profiling the leak, Agent Bonds? Seems just as logical.”
“Our effort is best spent on discovering the identity of the UNSUB, Detective Carson. We need all focus on him and bringing Avery back alive.” She presses on before Carson can interrupt. “Which leads us to the next leg of this investigation. Deducing what we know from his previous partner.”
“Wait,” Carson says, standing. “We have this information? Since when?”
“Since now.” Quinn moves to the forefront. “There’s already a team working the angle of this suspect. Due to the leak in the department—” he eyes Carson “—this task force is on a need-to-know basis as new information develops.”
Quinn clears is throat. “The UNSUB is suspected of being involved with the serial killings that went cold two years ago in Roanoke. I have a packet for each member of the task force that elaborates on this profile and the evidence we need to uncover to determine the UNSUB’s identity.”
“Is the UNSUB still in contact with Agent Bonds?” another officer asks.
Quinn goes to answer, but Sadie intercepts the question. “Yes. We’re going to continue to use this tactic to keep communication open about Avery’s condition.”
“That’s it, people,” Quinn says. “Most of you already have your instructions. The rest proceed to the front to get your assignments. We’re going to get this sadistic perp, and we’re goin
g to save Avery. Get to work!”
The room breaks apart in a chaotic but orderly fashion, every person hustling to get back on the case. I move toward the front of the room. I’m not on the task force. I’m the furthest thing from a cop there is…but I’ll do whatever I can to help Sadie. I know Quinn and the others have her back, will do everything in their power to keep her safe during this—but they’re also working within the law to do so.
If it comes down to it, they have to make their choices according to regulations, and that could complicate their duty. My only duty is to Sadie.
She will take every risk to save her friend, and I will take every risk to make sure she walks away alive. Quinn and Carson can measure their pricks along the black and white sideline for all I care. I won’t hesitate when it comes to her.
“What the hell is he doing here?” Carson says as I approach. “We’ve got a fucking leak, but we’re just letting suspect civilians have inside access?”
Quinn directs his attention on me. “He’s providing information on The Lair.” He looks at Carson. “And he’s your new informant. He’s riding with you to bring in suspects.”
“What?” I say.
“The hell?” Carson follows up.
My chest ignites. The thought of separating from Sadie signals a huge red flag. “I’m not leaving Sadie.”
“I don’t like it. But maybe it isn’t such a bad idea,” Carson says with a slight smirk. “Keep him in custody where I can keep an eye on him. Plus, I need him to bring in his brother.” He sends me a sidelong look. “Who just suddenly up and vanished.”
“No,” Sadie cuts in. “Colton can’t be out there. For once, Carson’s right. The UNSUB is using whatever and whoever to get to me. I can’t chance Colton getting hurt.”
Quinn runs a hand through his hair and groans. “It’s the only way to cover every angle without giving up our leads.” His gaze is hard on her, and I can see the understanding in her eyes as it hits.
Her connection to all of this is already in question. The less people who know about it, the better for her. “I’ll go,” I say. “I’ll go wherever and do whatever if it helps. But I’m not being used to setup my brother.” I give Carson a menacing glare.
Carson scoffs. “Still protecting him, huh?”
“You’re a fucking idiot. You know that, right?” I step toward him, but Quinn pushes between us.
“Knock that shit off. We don’t have time for vendettas, Carson. Just work the fucking leads.” He slaps a packet against Carson’s chest. “I want the surveillance at The Lair scoured. Anyone on those top levels that doesn’t belong, that doesn’t have access, I want that footage. And I want the whereabouts of those two members you flagged logged and questioned, Colton.” He glances from me to Sadie. “Bonds said the UNSUB might’ve been at the club last night. Prove it. Get me a fucking clear image of this bastard.”
“Detective Quinn?” Carson says, drawing Quinn’s full attention. “I worked this case for a long time. I have suggestions on the profile that doesn’t match with what Agent Bonds is suggesting.”
Running a hand down his face, Quinn sighs. Then he waves his hand, prompting Carson on.
Carson straightens his back. “Agent Bonds wants to keep communication open with the UNSUB. But according to her own profile, this is feeding his narcissistic supply. It’s empowering him. We should shut down all communication with him.”
Sadie and I share a look. We know exactly what happens when the UNSUB loses contact with her, and right now—with Sadie’s friend at his mercy; as much as I want to agree with Carson and stop this sick fuck from contacting Sadie—that can’t happen.
