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“What do you know about him?”
“Enough to realize that fucking with him on any level means you have a death wish. I can’t believe you got involved with this.”
I looked away, wondering the same thing myself. “I wasn’t given a choice of missions or marks.”
A tension-filled few minutes settled between us.
“Fine, Jameson. I’m not going to put you in an awkward position.”
“Just hold on. Tell me what you’re thinking, but I’m not in a position to promise anything. However, if the woman I just met was targeted, then you have big problems.”
“Tell me something I don’t know. What I’ve learned is that Castillo also has interest in a pharmaceutical firm, a legit operation as far as I can tell. If I had to guess, I’d say he and Mrs. Cavanaugh entered into a business arrangement together and Willow is collateral.”
“Wow. For a mother to do that would shift her from the bitch category straight into evil,” he said after whistling.
“I wouldn’t put it past her for a second. She’s been gobbling up smaller companies for years. I’m no business expert but it’s apparent she wants a monopoly. Whatever is going on, Willow is being used as a pawn.”
He put his drink on the table, leaning forward and rubbing his jaw. “What if you find out you’re right?”
I took a deep breath, holding it in. “I haven’t gotten that far yet.”
“Well, it’s something you need to think about. It’s obvious you like her. It’s possible the truth could destroy her.”
I stared at him for a few seconds before nodding. “I’m aware, but she needs to know.”
He rubbed his eyes before answering. “Okay. Then I need a few details if you want my assistance.”
“I’ll provide as much as I can.” When I hesitated, he narrowed his eyes.
“What?” he asked.
“You do realize that the information I’m asking for could be flagged, right?”
His grin bordered on mischievous. “You don’t know me that well, but I have no issue coming up against those who believe they have the right to harbor information. That’s why I’m so damn good at my job. What I am worried about is if my search efforts are discovered by the wrong people, then nothing will stop that man from tracking her down. I know some people who can help and I do trust them…”
A part of me feared that was already in motion. I’d made a few phone calls while off the island, finding another secure location in case my instinct kept bugging the hell out of me. “But what?”
“No one knows how much control Castillo has, but it’s clear that he owns a hell of lot of influential people, including in the United States government.”
The information didn’t shock me, only affirming the need to be extremely cautious. “I get it.”
He walked closer, narrowing his eyes. “Is your intent to destroy Castillo or her mother or both?”
I lifted my glass, swirling the liquid. “I’m not certain yet.”
“Goddamn it, buddy. I knew Rangers had balls, but yours are made of fucking steel. I just hope your bravery and determination doesn’t get you killed.”
At least I’d die for a worthy cause. “One last thing. Willow isn’t to know anything about this until answers are found.”
“Understood.” He narrowed his eyes, half laughing. “Yeah, you really like her.”
As images of her face slipped into my mind, a partial smile crossed my face. “I do and that’s what scares me to death.”
“Remember what they told us doing basic training.”
When I glanced at him, I rolled my eyes seeing his grin. “That fear is only in our minds.”
“I had a feeling they taught you the same shit. Here’s to lack of fear.” He lifted his glass in a salute and I realized I could place my trust in the man. As I’d done with his father, I’d researched Jameson’s background. He was the real deal, a serious hero to his unit and to the corp. He deserved all the accolades he’d received.
