Page 95 of The Boss

Davit nodded, turning his full attention in my direction. It was obvious he had business on his mind.

“Forgive the intrusion, Dimitrios, but I wanted to provide my personal condolences for the loss of your brother. I realize bringing liquor to this meeting might seem inappropriate, but I couldn’t think of what else might be allowed.” He didn’t seem at all like I’d heard Pops describe.

However, that didn’t mean I could trust him. “Thank you, Davit. This is very kind of you.” I took it from his extended hand, gently placing it on the desk.

“Boss Nomikos. Havros. Christos. Please know my father is thinking of your family and extends his apologies for not being able to come himself. He is currently very ill. We do understand your loss as we lost my brother only months ago.”

“I’m sorry to hear that. I hadn’t heard,” my father said. “I’ll give him a call.”

“He’ll certainly appreciate hearing from you.” Davit smiled. “My brother had been ill for quite a while and it wasn’t a part of our business. I wondered if I could have a moment with you in private.”

He had to realize the people standing in this room with me were all trustworthy. But I could tell by the look in his eyes he had something specific and important to say.

“Let’s leave them alone, gentlemen,” Pops said, a clear indication they should follow his lead.

Davit moved to the back doors, peering out on our property. That allowed Havros to express his unhappiness by way of his gestures.

I waved him off. Free information was always worthwhile, no matter how the details were procured. Somehow, I had a feeling the afternoon was about to become more interesting.

The others were still in the process of leaving, which included his men as well when I offered him a drink.

“I would enjoy whatever you’re having,” he said as he turned back to face me.

“Gin and tonic it is.”

He smiled. “Very American.”

“The country does offer some incredible flavors.”

“Yes, I’ve heard. I’ve always wanted to go, but my father’s illness has kept me from doing so. We can’t always do what we want.”

I prepared the drinks as I tried to read between the lines. “How is business in your world?”

“As to be expected. Ups and downs.”

After stirring the drinks and adding lime, I walked toward him. “Yes, the way of our world.”

“The way of everyone’s world these days. It seems a preferred method of challenging our opponents is simply to hire someone to kill them. Problem solved.”

“Are you suggesting Leandro’s death was accidental in that the assassination was meant for me?”

“That’s exactly what I’m suggesting. You must know your reputation is quite formidable. I wouldn’t put it past several world leaders to mandate your death. It would make their lives easier.”

I thought about Davit’s claim and smiled. How many threats had been sent to me over the years? Enough that most I didn’t take seriously. “How did you come by this information?”

“Just as you have informants, so do I. They hear things that I suspect you aren’t privy to.”

“Did these provide any names or details?”

“Only that the Stalker was hired to perform the assassination.” He waited to see if the news shocked me.

At least I knew a portion of what he was telling me was fact. Maybe to disarm him, I laughed. “Yes, I’ve heard of him. If he exists. Now that his original prey wasn’t killed, what are his plans?”

“I assure you that he exists and the Stalker never misses. The fact he did is a black mark I believe the man won’t overcome. In my experience, the easiest way someone can get close to their target is with assistance from someone the target trusts. If I were you, I’d be very careful who you confide in. I wish I could provide you with more, but given your reputation, I’m certain you’ll know what to do with what little I’ve told you.”

“If that’s the case, perhaps he’ll need protection for the real enemies.” It was entirely possible that goading him would provide additional answers.

“I doubt he’d appreciate working with anyone. Much as you would not.”

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