Page 9 of Anger

I almost snorted. Talk about don’t hold back. But Ranson’s eyes were keen on her, and she knew he was searching for a clue or weakness.

“Ranson. I’ve always liked your honestly and bluntness. But do not overstep. If there was a hidden lover, I’d tell you,” Lanie answered.

“I’ll join McIntyre and see what we can dig up,” Ranson said and left.

Lanie leaned back. Today was going to be a nightmare.

???

Lanie stared at Simon Clare after he sauntered into her office. He differed from the worried young man he’d been yesterday. There was almost a cockiness to him. Lanie hadn’t expected to see him, but she’d had a cancellation, and Laura had squeezed him in.

Simon sat down and offered a smarmy grin. “I’m so pleased to see you again, Miss Cross, or can I call you Lanie?”

“Miss Cross is fine, Mr Clare,” Lanie replied.

Simon’s behaviour was almost too familiar, and she didn’t like it.

“I best crack on. We’ve only got ten minutes,” Simon said and began asking questions.

Lanie answered by rote. They were the same ones she was asked repeatedly.

With two minutes to go, Simon sent Lanie a grin. “That will be great for my report, Miss Cross. Can I get a photo?”

“Sure.”

Simon took a quick snap and looked at her.

“People say monsters exist,” he declared.

Lanie frowned. What on earth?

“I beg your pardon?”

“There are rumours that creatures exist. What would you know about them?” Simon questioned. He leaned forward and held her eyes. “I’ve even been informed you are one of them.”

“Are you on drugs?” Lanie asked for the second time, keeping her expression calm.

“What?”

“This interview just went off the rails. I’m confused what we’re discussing,” Lanie stated.

“Have you heard of a Lamia?”

Lanie hit the button under the desk. Ranson and security would be alerted, as would Laura.

She clucked her tongue. “Isn’t that the woman with a snake tail and snakes in her hair?”

Simon looked annoyed. “No. That’s Medusa. A Lamia is a normal woman on top, but her bottom half is a snake.”

“Sorry, I see no difference. I’m not up to scratch on mythology. Are you asking me to join a game? I’m afraid I do not play games. I’m a little busy,” Lanie said calmly.

“What about the name Irideesa?”

Lanie barely stopped herself from stiffening. “That sounds Greek or Arab. It’s not a something I’m familiar with. Is it a person or a company?”

“Don’t take me for a fool. I know you are the monster called Irideesa, who is a Lamia,” Simon snapped.

“We’re done. I’m far too busy to deal with the rants of a delusional man. Your time is up anyway,” Lanie stated.

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