Page 116 of The Rogue

A wave of nausea hits me. It makes it hard to swallow the lump in my throat.

“He’s in custody now. And he’s talkin’.”

“Talking?”

“That’s the good news. He and Eddie were facing severe punishment from the organization, so they took a load of cash and inventory but had one final stop to make before disappearing.”

“Me.”

“Eddie still wants you dead.”

“Why?”

“He’s been heavily criticized for leaving you alive that day. And paid for it with a demotion—according to his partner. Got tired of being treated like a rookie and went rogue. That's what got him in trouble.”

I shiver and take a sip of coffee.

“We’re close, Tess. Real close. Once we get Eddie, you’re free to go.”

It doesn’t seem real. “What about the others?”

“You won’t be in danger anymore. You didn’t see anyone else. They’ll be our problem, not yours.”

“We’re supposed to believe some coward from that night that no one else will be looking to finish the job?”

“No offense, but you’re not their priority. They’re not taking a risk if you can’t identify any of them.”

I release a heavy breath. “In the meantime, I just sit here when there may or may not be someone looking for me? Eddie could be halfway across the country by now.”

“Tess, this guy’s no small-time criminal. And before he goes, he’s looking to prove it. If he finds you, you’re as good as gone.”

“I know what he’s capable of. I’ve got a bullet hole to prove it, Frank,” I shout. “I asked you for a judge. I said I'd cooperate, but you haven’t even given me a timeframe. A guarantee. Nothing. This is my life, my freedom. All you care about is getting your guy. Not how your incompetence is affectingme.”

And who you're keeping me from.

He lowers his hands, gesturing for me to calm down. “You are entitled to a hearing. I’ve set it up with Judge Larry for later this afternoon. My partner Agent Andrews and I will be there.”

I scoff. “So what, it’s me against two FBI agents? Is there even a point?”

“It’ll be someone outside the agency telling you that these things take time when done right.” His voice is so calm I want to stab his throat.

I fold my arms as he continues. “Then we bring you back here until he’s caught. He's got limited resources now that he's solo. If Eddie’s lurking around, we’ll find him. Soon.”

Back here.

I blink back tears. “I’m tired of hiding.”

“You’ve come this far, Tess. Just hang on. We're almost there.”

I shake my head. “I’ve lost him,” I whisper.

“Who?”

Sniffling, I drop onto the couch, ready to be left alone. “I’ll see you this afternoon.”

Frank glances at his watch and nods. “I’ll pick you up at two.”

“Why are we in a courtroom?” I whisper to Frank. “I thought this could be in his office…a little less…official.”

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