Page 47 of Anger

“This is Alainen,” she said, and Ranson nodded.

“For sure. Which is why Mac and Fisher left to fetch the car. We think he’s looking to isolate you,” Ranson said.

“How does he know who I am?” Lanie wondered as the elevator doors opened and they stepped inside.

“Good question. He must have something, but I can’t think what. Nothing about Lamia has got past me. Although there’s been nothing to link you to her,” Ranson responded.

“Are you going to betray me? Are you working with him?” Lanie asked, fear seizing her gut.

“No. Not us. And I doubt anyone has betrayed you. Alainen has found you in the past, hasn’t he?” Ranson mused.

“Because I couldn’t shift,” Lanie replied.

“True. But has he found you since you could?” Ranson questioned.

“No.”

Lanie’s phone rung, and she ignored it. The doors opened into the garage, and she was surprised to see Mac and Fisher there.

“Car is compromised. We’re heading outside to be with the crowd,” Mac announced.

“I won’t expose everyone to a toxin,” Lanie said, pulling back.

“How high is the risk this madman would do that?” Mac demanded with a glance at Lanie.

“High,” she replied tersely.

Her phone rang again, and Lanie growled. “Hello?” she said, answering.

“Hello, Lamia,” Alainen drawled.

“Sorry, you’ve the wrong number,” Lanie stated and hung up. The blood drained from her face, and her hands shook.

“Lanie?” Mac asked.

“Alainen. He has my phone number,” Lanie whispered.

Ranson shot a glance at Fisher. “We’re getting Miss Cross to a public location. She’ll be safer there. Keep your mask on, and go ahead and check the route is clear.”

“Will do, boss,” Fisher said as Lanie’s mobile rang again.

Mac cupped her face. “Play it cool and unconcerned.”

“Okay.” Lanie answered the call a second time. “Hello?”

“Don’t you dare hang up on me!” Alainen snapped.

“Who is this?” Lanie demanded.

“Do not play dumb!” Alainen snarled.

“Look, I’ve no idea who the hell you are or what you want. Either identify yourself or stop wasting my time!” Lanie retorted in return. “You have five seconds.”

“Lamia…”

“At least get my name right… wait. Lamia? That’s what that crazy idiot called me when he tried to kill me! Are you working with him? Do you know where he is?” Lanie babbled.

“Shut up!” Alainen roared.

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