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“Good. Because I have one more assignment for you.”
Patrick arched a brow. “Does it involve killing anyone?”
A hint of a smile. “Nothing like that. But it is a delicate task, one I don’t envy you for having to do. Still, it’s time for it to be done. And you’re the right person for the job.”
There was no need to ask what job Casey was referring to.
“You want me to tell Amanda about her uncle.”
A nod. “She’s our client. She’s got to be brought up to speed—somewhat.”
“How much do you want me to tell her?”
“I’m not sure.” Casey raked her fingers through her hair. “Suggestions, team?”
“Stick to the basics,” Marc responded. “Tell her that Fenton is a person of interest. Say that his business dealings are in question, and that he might have associates who aren’t on the up-and-up. Say that any one of those associates might have knowledge of what happened to Paul. Explain to her that we need to obtain the facts, and that we’re in the process of doing just that. And emphasize to her that she can’t, under any circumstances, alert Fenton to our suspicions—not yet.”
“I agree, but make it more personal,” Claire amended. “Patrick, tie everything you say to Justin. Tell Amanda that she’s holding her tongue to protect Justin. That her uncle might be shady, but that he has no idea where Paul is. That, if he did, he’d produce him because, no matter what, Justin’s well-being is what’s most important to him. Trust me, Patrick. Take that approach when you break the news to her. It’s the only way Amanda will be able to rationally accept what you’re saying. Otherwise, emotion will take over and she’ll run off to confront her uncle and to demand answers—which is the last thing we want.”
“I agree,” Casey said. “Marc’s procedure, Claire’s technique. Combine the two and you’ve got your strategy.” A sigh. “I’m sorry to dump this on you, Patrick. But you’re with Amanda the most, and she’s come to respect and rely upon you for her safety.”
“I’ll do it,” Patrick agreed. “But don’t you think it would be easier coming from Marc? He’s kind of her knight in shining armor.”
“No.” Casey gave an adamant shake of her head. “Marc is definitely Amanda’s rock. But you’re her father figure. You’ve got a gentler touch and children of your own. Those are the qualifications that Amanda needs right now.”
“Casey’s right.” Marc spoke with total objectivity. “My connection is with that poor baby. And, yeah, I know Amanda counts on me. But soothing and comforting aren’t my strengths, nor is walking the emotional line Claire just described. You’ll handle that a lot better than I would.” A corner of Marc’s mouth lifted. “And I’ll handle the illegal missions a lot better than you would.”
“No arguments there,” Patrick said drily. “I’ll take care of it. I’ll head back to Sloane Kettering and relieve Roger right after I contact my buddy at the U.S. Marshals office.”
“Excellent.” Casey glanced around the table. “Questions?”
Silence, accompanied by four shakes of the head.
“Good. Then let’s move.”
CHAPTER TWENTY-FOUR
It was late when the FI van arrived in the Hamptons.
Ryan was driving. He dropped Claire off at Amanda’s apartment. Then, he and Marc continued on. Hero was stretched out on the backseat of the van.
It was going to be a busy night on Shinnecock Bay.
First, they hit the Hampton Bays side of the bay, where Morano’s trailer was stationed. Both Marc and Ryan were dressed in black to blend in with the night. They left the van a short distance away. Hero stayed inside, his acute bloodhound instincts telling him this was a time to be quiet and still. Ryan took Gecko. Marc took his waist pack of tools. They headed for the trailer.
“Wait.” Like last time, Marc extended his arm to block Ryan’s progress. “Get down.” He took his own advice, squatting low to the ground.
“What now?” Ryan demanded, following suit. “Is someone
torching the trailer?”
“Nope. Watching it.”
Ryan’s eyes widened. “Where?”
“There.” Marc jerked his thumb toward a spot across the way.
It took Ryan a few minutes to make out the black SUV tucked away in the sandy alcove. The damned thing was nearly invisible.
