Page 36 of Code Name: Typhon
I had a decrepit old SUV that I kept in my building’s underground car park. It worked most of the time. I just prayed it would now. I’d not be able to let a car this late, and hiring a car service would cost a bloody fortune.
“Stupid thing!” I shouted at my vehicle when the engine turned over a couple of times but didn’t start. What a night this turned out to be. I had to get to Alfriston, though. It didn’t matter what it cost.
I raced up the stairs rather than wait for the lift and asked the doorman to arrange a ride, saying it was an emergency and a lengthy distance, but I would make it worth the driver’s time if they’d agree.
After telling me it would be ten minutes before one arrived, I hurried back upstairs to grab a bag in case I needed to stay over. When I returned, the doorman was outside, speaking with Leviticus.
“What’s this about?” I snapped after pulling the door open and stalking in their direction.
“I asked Freddie if he’d be so kind as to deliver these to you,” Levi said, holding up a bouquet of flowers.
“Thanks ever so much, but now isn’t a good time. I’m leaving town,” I said without taking them.
“I’m sorry for earlier,” he leaned closer and said. “There are things about me, about the work I do, that I am unable to talk about. Starting a relationship with lies of omission seemed…wrong.”
I folded my arms when he held the bouquet closer. “No need to apologize. It was a walk home, not a bloody marriage proposal,” I said, looking beyond him, then at my watch. My ride should be here by now.
When I turned to ask the doorman, who I now knew was named Freddie, I saw him on his mobile, shaking his head.
“I’m sorry, Miss Fox, but the first I hired said he couldn’t make it, after all. I’ve been ringing every service and haven’t had any luck.”
“You made it clear I’d pay a premium, did you not?”
“Yes, miss, but Alfriston is a great distance?—”
“Why do you need to go to Alfriston?” Leviticus asked.
“It’s none of your concern,” I spouted, angry about my vehicle not starting and about being unable to hire a car far more than at the man attempting to give me flowers. “Sorry. Not your fault. I just really need to work out how I’m going to get to…”
I pulled my mobile out when it pinged with a message from Niven. “To, um, Royal Sussex General Hospital.”
“I’ll take you,” he motioned to a car parked in the loading zone.
“No. Thanks, but, no.”
“Miss, I’m having no luck,” Freddie said again.
“I cannot. I appreciate the offer so much, but I don’t even know you.”
He reached into a pocket and pulled out a billfold. When he opened it, I saw a badge and an ID card. I glanced behind me to make sure Freddie wasn’t close by.
“You’re with SIS?” I leaned forward and whispered.
“I am, and I can assure you, you are safer with me than any car service. In fact, I wouldn’t have allowed it.”
I raised a brow. “You wouldn’t have allowed it?”
He put his hand on my upper arm. “I would’ve strongly advised against it.”
I looked at Freddie once more, but he was still shaking his head.
The phone I held in my hand vibrated again.
They’re taking her into surgery, read Niven’s message.
On my way, I responded.
Thanks, luv. Worried frantic.
