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Climbing was not a feat she’d attempted before in her current attire. At least she’d opted for a pantsuit instead of the pencil skirt she’d grown fond of.
She put her phone away and grabbed the highest rung she could reach. As an experienced and well-trained agent, if she couldn’t figure out how to climb a ladder in heels, she wasn’t fit for service.
Before climbing out, she got her eyes above the hatch to check what she’d be stepping into next.
Pipes and other protrusions offered hiding places all over the roof. Too many. It was time to protect herself properly.
She scrambled the rest of the way up the ladder and ducked behind the closest pipe, pulling her gun while she was obstructed from view.
Her blackmailer’s purpose in bringing her onto the roof was unclear. They could easily have discussed business in either of the other two rooms. It would be hard to clear the roof on her own.
“Will, you are in so much trouble,” she hissed as she slunk around several obstacles to get a better view of the far side, which wasn’t visible from her current position.
It wasn’t long before she spotted a man in a hooded sweatshirt and jeans who was standing at the edge of the roof, looking across the street.
When she got close, he turned. His hands were tucked in the front pocket of the sweatshirt.
“You’re late,” he said. His face was obscured by the hood that hung low over his eyes. Judging by his build and his voice, he was probably in his late teens or early twenties. But it was hard to tell.
She raised her gun as she took several cautious steps forward. “I was on time when I got here. You’re the one who wanted me to come all the way up to the roof.”
“On time is the same as late.”
“Did you bring me all the way up here to scold me?”
“I thought you were a professional, that’s all. It’s not nice to keep people waiting.”
“My apologies. Can we stop with the delightful banter now? You were the one who sent me the text, I take it?”
“No. I’m here representing him.”
“That’s disappointing.”
“There’s no need to feel let down. He trusts me to convey his wishes appropriately. But he didn’t tell me how beautiful you were. It’s a shame.”
“Why? You don’t like beautiful women?”
“I love beautiful women. That’s why it’s a shame. You can put your gun away. It won’t do you any good. There’s no point shooting the messenger.”
He was right. Shooting him would defeat the purpose of her being here. But after finding out what he knew, having that information could change the power balance. She holstered her weapon.
He smirked. “I’m surprised you can find a place to tuck that gun in back there. Your outfit is quite flattering. Had I known you were going to make such an effort on your wardrobe, I would have chosen somewhere more…delicate.” He looked around him. “Less dirty.”
“I’ll manage just fine.”
“I bet you will. You appear very capable. I wouldn’t mind an intimate demonstration.”
“I could shoot you. Would that be intimate enough?”
He shrugged. “Can’t blame a guy for trying.”
“Listen, I’m not sure what all the chitchat is about, but I’ve got things to do tonight, so can we get on with it?”
“Just trying to relieve some tension.”
“There’s no need. Unless you’re anxious?”
“No. I’m enjoying myself. But if you’re eager to move forward, I’ll indulge your impatience.”
