Page 21 of Ethan's Command

Ethan grunted. “Not a surprise really. The Yakuza are brutal but smart. I have no idea what an organization like that would want with Liam.”

The door opened and Brooklyn ushered the two men and their dogs in. “Thanks for helping out, Rusty.” She offered him a tight smile, the stress of the situation written on her face.

“Not a problem.” Rusty glanced over at Liam as the boy entered the room. “Hey, buddy. You must be Liam. I’ve heard a lot about you. I hear you and I are going to be playing some video games tonight. I hope you’re prepared to have your butt handed to you.”

Liam cackled. “You wish!” He immediately went down on his knees and petted Mojo who had taken up a position next to him. Liam turned to the other dog. “Who’s this?”

“Soda,” Rusty supplied. Liam ruffled Soda’s ears.

“Before you get too excited, did you finish your homework?” Brooklyn asked.

“Yes,” Liam said as he stood up, “I finished everything. Mr. Iona said I could glue everything down tomorrow when I take my project to the gym. And remember you said I could play video games after school tomorrow with Keoni and Nakoa.”

Brooklyn frowned. “We’ll see, okay, buddy?”

It was Liam’s turn to frown. “You said?—”

“What about Ren?” Brooklyn asked cutting him off. “Is he still out of school?”

Liam nodded. “I haven’t seen him since Monday.”

“Have you called him and asked him if there’s anything he needs?”

“Yeah, but he hasn’t responded.” Liam shrugged. “I guess he’s really sick.”

“Guess so,” Brooklyn agreed.

Ethan watched the exchange and thought it was better if they left on a good note. “So Liam? You ready to kick this old guy’s butt?” He pointed to Rusty.

Liam’s grin was back. “Absolutely.”

Brooklyn grabbed her purse off the table by the door. “If we’re not back in time, I want you in bed by nine.” Liam rolled his eyes, but she continued, “There are snacks in the kitchen. Have fun.”

“We will,” Rusty said as Liam handed him a remote and they sat down on the sofa, the dogs at their feet. They climbed in the truck and Ethan asked, “Where to first?”

“Let’s talk to Keoni first. He’s just two streets over. He lives with his aunt and uncle.”

“What happened to his folks?” Ethan asked.

“I have no idea. Whatever it is, it must be bad because no one ever mentions it. Keoni never talks about it, nor does anyone else.”

The drive took two minutes. After they rang the bell, the front door opened to reveal a beautiful woman with a warm smile. “Brooklyn!” the woman said immediately coming forward to hug her. “I am so sorry about what happened.” She stepped back. “Please come in.”

“Thanks, Leilani.” Brooklyn toed off her shoes and entered. “This is Ethan.” She gestured behind her.

Ethan finished taking off his boots and offered a hand to Leilani. “Nice to meet you, ma’am.”

Leilani laughed. “No need to call me ma’am. It makes me feel old. Come sit down.” She gestured toward the living area.

The house was bigger than Brooklyn’s and appeared to be professionally decorated. As they entered the living area, Ethan took note of the backyard pool, visible through the sliding patio doors. The paintings on the walls were originals and the rugunder his feet was plush. This, along with the Mercedes in the driveway, told the tale. The Kobayashi family had money.

“I’ve just made some tea, Brooklyn. Would you like a cup?”

“Please. Leilani, I can’t thank you enough for speaking with us.”

Leilani gestured toward Ethan with the teapot, but he shook his head and she set the pot down after pouring herself a cup.

“It’s not a problem. You know you’re welcome any time, but I will say I was surprised you still wanted to talk. I heard the police caught the boys who were behind these awful events.”

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