Page 80 of Hidden Ascent

“That would be unfortunate, but I can’t let it dictate the course of my life.”

“Oh no? I heard you skipped town because of it.”

“Only to give things time to cool down. I needed to clear my head and reprioritize. Then, I saw an opportunity.”

“And what makes you think working with me will clear up your misunderstanding with Shoemaker?”

“If he knows I’m your guy, he won’t touch me.”

“My guy?”

Jay smiled. “I’m tired of working with people like Shoemaker. I want a real challenge. I want to work with someone who takes big risks with big payoffs.”

“You think I do that?”

“I know you do. I know firsthand. I’ve got a woman locked up back at the hospital who would like nothing more than to slit your throat. And I’m assuming Simmo already told you why.”

“He says this was all his idea.”

“We worked together on it.”

Sharpe smiled. “We both know that’s a lie. Simmo can barely tie his own shoelaces. I only keep him around because he does what he’s told without asking questions. But I’m willing to play things your way for now, if that’s what you want. It’s rather charitable of you to offer him a hand up.”

“It has nothing to do with kindness.”

“Charity never does. Now, tell me how you came across this woman. Sounds like a very lucky break.”

“She was looking for help. Couldn’t trust the feds, so she came asking for assistance on the dark side of the street.”

“And you were happy to take a job with a federal agent?”

“A job’s a job, right?”

“That’s not all, though, is it?”

“What do you mean?”

“Simmo told me she’s easy on the eyes. I looked her up. He’s right.”

“I don’t know what difference that makes, but yeah, she’s not bad to look at.”

“That couldn’t have hurt the appeal to help.”

“Are you concerned I’m emotionally involved?”

“No. I want to understand your motives.”

“She’s not really my type. I’m more interested in my paycheck. That’s why I’m here. And it wasn’t long into her story that I made my own plans.”

“She doesn’t pay well enough for your loyalty?”

“Her pockets aren’t as deep as yours. I go where the money is.”

“If you’re willing to betray her for an extra few dollars, how do I know you won’t do the same to me?”

“I’m a man of my word. I never gave her my word. I just said I’d help her if I could. And I did, to a point. I helped her get into the Red Wolves’ hideout.”

Sharpe smiled broadly. His straight white teeth gleamed in the low light. “I don’t believe you.”

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