Page 54 of Canyon of Deceit

FIFTY-THREE

With the burner phone in his hand, Rurik paced the room, raising my doubts if he’d follow through with calling Falin.

“If you aren’t sure about this, I’m leaving.” I kept my voice low, soothing. All the while observing him.

“I’m afraid. No reason to deny it.” He studied the phone.

“I’m right here supporting you.”

One of the agents had installed an app on Rurik’s phone to monitor his calls and texts. I’d hear the conversation, and if Rurik dragged out the call, the agents had a good chance of locating Falin—but he had the same technology, and he’d have his eyes trained on the clock.

Rurik pressed in a number, and a man responded. I moved to hear the conversation.

“Why are you calling? It’s dangerous.”

“I want to arrange Alina’s release.”

“Why? Who’s with you?”

“A friend, a Texas Ranger, Blane Gardner—”

“I’m acquainted with him.”

“He’s willing to negotiate Alina’s release, and I can supply more money. I’ve also arranged a private plane to fly you out of the country.”

“Where did you get the plane?”

“A connection in St. Petersburg.”

“Of course. My sister’s money buys all you need. Why the Ranger? I’d rather talk to Therese Palmer.”

“I sold my soul.”

Falin chuckled. “Meaning what?”

“Giving up names and whereabouts of cartel members.”

I only wish Rurik had that info.

“You’re right. You sold your soul, and the cartel will dig out your heart and serve it to the buzzards at their next barbecue.”

“Alina means everything to me, and I want her home. Blane requests a meeting with you, a public place but somewhere quiet. You name the location.”

“And he brings backup to arrest me? I’m not a fool.”

“Hold on while I step outside the room.” Rurik opened and shut the door but stayed within his office. “Jurg, I’ve done my part and will follow through on our plans. Gardner knows nothing about other things, only that you abducted Alina for money.”

“You expect me to believe that? How have you explained Daria?”

“Told the FBI we had an argument, and she left. A woman’s burned body was found in her car. Only time stands between confirming the remains are Daria’s.”

“She’s gone, Rurik. Nothing will bring her back.”

“I’d like to give her a proper burial.” Rurik drew in a breath. “Please, I’m under investigation for her and Alina’s murders.”

“I listen to the news.” Falin swore. “About time they made an arrest.”

“Look, you will be out of the country before the police file charges against me. I want Alina returned, and I have the money.”

“Unless you’re arrested, you and Alina will be on a flight to Russia.”

“Right.”

“A private plane and an extra three mil?... And the police suspect you killed Daria and Alina. I find that ironic, don’t you? First, I need to validate a few things, then give you a time and location to meet up with Gardner.”

“All right. Anything else you want me to do?”

“Go back on your word or set me up, and Alina is dead. We have a deal, and I expect you to keep your end.”

“I understand.”

What had Rurik agreed to do?

The call ended, and the agents indicated they had located the cell phone—a restaurant in the downtown area.

The origination of the call did little good.

Security cams might show Falin at the restaurant, except the video failed to show any signs of his men, Alina, or where he’d gone after leaving there.

Rurik handed an agent the burner. “I must be told if a call or text comes through.”

I waited until the agent left the room. “What have you agreed to do?”

“To keep him informed. Nothing new.”

I offered my best serious look. “Double-cross me, and you double-cross the US government.”

“And if Jurg learns I’ve set a trap, I lose my daughter, my reason for living.”

My core reaction slammed against my worst suspicions. Rurik had committed to helping the ROC pull off more crimes. But in what capacity?