Page 17 of Samson

“I don’t follow.”

“From the pieces I’ve been able to put together, he’s more of a free agent. He contracts to the government. And probably works with the private sector as well. I’d guess that’s where his money comes from.”

“What does he do?”

“That’s where things get fuzzy. There’s a lot of talk. Most of it has to be made up.”

“Like what?”

“The word ‘superhuman’ has been bandied about.”

She choked on a laugh. “You have got to be kidding me. Superhuman? That’s painful. No wonder he’s so full of himself.”

“He may not be a superhero, but he didn’t get where he is by being mediocre. I have it on very good authority that it’s not far from the truth. The details of his exploits often become exaggerated, but why would the government send him on a case on his own if he wasn’t as capable as an entire team?”

“Good authority, huh?”

“I’m serious. I heard he took down a whole gang of drug dealers with only a spoon. A wooden one.”

“If that’s true then they were probably all high at the time.”

Luca shook his head. “Maybe, but no matter where the line between fact and fiction lies, this guy is as close to an urban legend as you’ll get.”

“Then I guess I’d better make sure I don’t do anything illegal around him.”

“You and every criminal in this town. Once he gets you in his sights, you’re finished. Whatever you do, don’t draw his attention.”

“Too late.”

“Yeah, but the difference with you is you have no intention of falling for him. Which is good because I’d hate to have to punch him in the face. And I’d be obliged to defend your honor if he tried anything.”

She nudged his elbow. “Aw, that’s sweet.”

“Yeah, but he’d pummel me. So it’s better if you steer clear of him.”

“I’m sure we could find some chink in his armor to exploit if the need arose.”

“I don’t know. From what I hear, that man has no weaknesses whatsoever.”

“Oh, come on,” Delilah scoffed. “Everyone does. Even urban legends have weaknesses. What about women? If someone really wanted to take advantage of him, surely they could find a woman to do it.”

“You game to give it a go?”

“Don’t be disgusting.”

“You don’t think you could do it?”

“Of course I could, but I wouldn’t lower myself.”

“Then we have nothing to worry about.”

“I hope so.” Delilah was suddenly worried.

“Do you know something I don’t? You said you left all your trouble in California.”

“I didn’t mean me.”

“Hey, like you, I’ve paid for my mistakes. You think I’m still into that stuff from when we were kids?”

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