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To anyone else, it would be considered a novelty item. An inexpensive trinket.
To me, it’s more.
The woman and child figurine was given to me by my mother. It’s the only weakness I allow inside these walls.
“I’m not sure what you expect from me, Niss.” I move away from the door, no longer willing to antagonize her when she holds a fragile treasure in her shaking hands. “I actually came to you this morning with information. The FBI has made mistakes regarding my father’s arrest. Mistakes that those women will pay for.”
“Is that another threat?” She slams the figurine down on the shelf and storms toward the exit. “Because I’m goddamn sick of your threats, Cole.”
“It’s no threat.” I hold her gaze, staring deep into the tumultuous sea of her eyes, hoping to tempt her into staying. “It’s a peace offering. I’m happy to tell you everything I know. Maybe over di
She snatches at the door handle. “Sell the story to some other sucker. I’m not that gullible.”
“Wait. What makes you think you’ve got me perfectly pegged?”
“Let’s call it months of meticulous investigation.” She draws out the words like a queen talking to a servant. It’s fucking brilliant.
“There are two sides to every story.”
“Right.” She swings open the door. “And you’re the poor defenseless drug lord who deserves a break?”
“Maybe. You won’t know unless you give me the chance to plead my case.” I shrug. “Who knows if some random fact might hold the key to capturing my father all over again?”
She glowers. “I’m not taking the bait.”
“That’s a shame.” I flash a smirk even though I’m disappointed our encounter is coming to an end. I didn’t expect this meeting to be as long, or as spicy. It’s above and beyond my expectations, and I’ll miss the theatrics once she’s gone. “But the offer still stands. Feel free to contact me whenever you’re ready to work on leaving this animosity behind us. I assume the Bureau has my cell number on file.”
She chokes out a breathy laugh and gives a roll of those beautiful emerald eyes before she makes for the hall. “Goodbye, Cole.”