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“What is the connection?” Typhon asked.
“The grandfather is De Rossi’s uncle.”
“You said Max sought their protection. From whom?” I pressed.
“Various people.”
“You?” I pushed.
“Not necessarily.”
“I’ll ask another way,” said Typhon. “Do you know where the grandfather and grandson are?”
The don nodded again. “Somewhere safe.”
This information reinforced our theory that Max had abducted Penelope, or at least arranged for it to happen.
“Has the kidnapper made contact?” the don asked.
“Yes. I’m waiting for instructions,” I responded.
“Offer an exchange.”
I pulled out my mobile and sent the message.
Seconds later, I received a response. You fucking sonuvabitch.
“It’s him.” I told them what the message said. “Should I respond?” I asked Typhon.
“She dies. They die,” the don answered for him.
I sent those words exactly.
The man Scaglione had told to find Maximo reappeared moments later and set a folded piece of paper on the table in front of his boss. He opened it, then slid it across the table.
“You will find Maximo here.”
I knew better than to ask if we were truly offering an exchange. It had been bait, and now Max was on the hook.
“Thank you, Don Scaglione,” I said, standing when he and Typhon did.
“I must admit I looked forward to us working together, Ripa. However, I will honor my word.”
“I appreciate it, sir.”
After Typhon and the don embraced, we returned to the lift where the man who’d given his boss the note stood waiting.
“You drive,” said Typhon when we approached the waiting SUV.
“Who did you contact?” I asked when I saw him send a message on his mobile.
Typhon scrubbed his face. “The bloody cavalry.” He groaned and looked out the window. “As hard as it is for me to admit, Nemesis and her crew are the best there is.”
I glanced over at him.
“You tell her I said so, and I’ll put a bullet in your brain.”
“Are you saying they’re better than Unit 23?”