Page 81 of Her Dom's Secret Past

Quickly filling my old boss in on what had happened, I said, “Reinstate me, effective immediately.”

“Fuck, John, you know I can’t do that.”

“Fuck you can’t! I’ve worked in Australia before. You’ve pulled plenty of strings to get me out here. Please do it, do it now. You and I both know what Riley is capable of and that’s my woman he’s got his slimy hands on. I want full authorization and I want it now.”

“I’ll ring you back.”

His voice was curt, short and to the point. I knew I had to cool my heels, but it wasn’t easy. One of the officers may have overheard me because he examined me speculatively.

“You know who did this, don’t you?”

I shrugged.

“Who the hell are you?”

“Better you never know.” I turned away and walked over to Charlie. He was looking rather pale. He grabbed my arm.

“John, what’s happening? Is she … who has her?”

“I’m going to get her back, Charlie, with or without permission.”

“What can I do to help?”

I pulled out my car keys. “My car’s across the road. Can you move it to the salon’s parking?”

It would be safer there than in the no-standing zone where I’d left it. I’d need it once I learned more, and I didn’t want it towed.

“Yes, what else?”

“Have you ever seen the car that was tailing her?”

“No. She said it was a dark sedan, that’s all.”

“Fuck!”

“She’s going to be okay, isn’t she?”

I was about to answer when at least a dozen more cops walked in. Two of these were senior guys. One nodded in my direction and went over to the other police and spoke quietly. Glances were thrown in my direction, and my phone rang.

“Okay, I’ve done it. You’ve got clearance to use deadly force if necessary, but, John try not to let it come to that. Although with Riley, I doubt you’ll have much choice, he’ll be pissed big time that you killed his brother. The Director rang through to the police commissioner, who’s a personal friend there, and he knows exactly what’s going on. I’ve pulled that many fucking strings for this.

“Do not fuck this up, or your head will be on the block. You’ll fucking wish you were dead. And that’s not to mention what it will do to Australian and UK relations.”

I was about to answer when he continued, “You are not in charge—understand? You can offer suggestions, but you must follow the orders of whoever is in charge. Tell me you understand, John, and will comply, or you’re off.”

I had a surge of anger, but I knew my boss. He’d have me arrested in a split second if I didn’t agree to his terms.

“I understand. I’ll play good.”

“Make sure you do. Someone should be there soon to give you a weapon.”

“Thanks, I owe you big time for this.”

His voice actually softened as he said, “Call it payment for all the years of service. But behave.”

I glanced over at the two senior guys. One held a briefcase. He came over to me—an inspector, and handed it over.

“I’m Inspector Paul Clemson. I’ve been asked to give this to you. I’ve also been informed you will fully cooperate. You will give us all you know and we’ll return the favor.”