Page 55 of Deadly Avarice
“I’m closing on a house at two, but after that I should be free. Why? What do you need?”
It wasn’t exactly whatIneeded; it was what Franklin needed. “A ride and to do a little shopping.”
Momma’s grin bled into her voice. “You know I’m always up for a little shopping. I’ll call you when I finish work. See you soon.”
Momma ended the call, and I immediately went into planning mode. I also made a trip to the attic, carefully pulling down boxes. Loretta told me to take it easy. While decorating for Winter Solstice wasn’t exactly strenuous, it wasn’t lounging the couch either. Regardless, I’d take my chances. By the time Franklin got home tonight, the house would be festive and bright.
Chapter
Nineteen
Franklin
Loaded up on caffeine and with my Boone fix in place, I sucked in a deep breath and dialed Holland’s number. Sitting outside the precinct, I remained in my vehicle. I wasn’t sure what Boone’s father wanted, but I couldn’t imagine it would brighten my already shitty day.
The phone rang four times and was about to go to voicemail when Holland’s deep voice answered, “We have a problem, Detective.”
Inwardly groaning, I ran a hand over my tired eyes. “Why am I not surprised?”
“Because, unlike most humans, you have more than two brain cells to rub together.”
Ignoring the backhanded compliment, I asked, “What have you found out?”
“Very little, and that is the problem.”
Confused, I struggled to locate those two elusive brain cells Holland claimed I had and said, “I think I’m going to need more explanation.”
Holland huffed. “My name is not insignificant within warlock ranks.”
“I believe I understand that as much as I’m able, considering I’m not a warlock.”
“An acceptable answer, Detective. My inquiries should hold more sway. I am not used to being ignored or given the runaround.” Holland sounded more irritated than angry, although there was a healthy dose of anger there too.
“I take it that’s what’s currently happening?”
“It is. No one is willing to tell me anything and most don’t even have the decency to respond to my inquires. Even some of my more…disreputable sources are not willing to comment and the few who have been willing all tell me the same thing—to stop asking questions. I do not like this, Detective. I do not like this at all.”
Never in my life had I wanted to disagree with Holland more than this moment. “Do you have any other ideas?”
Silence met my question. By now, I was used to it. I’d learned that Holland often took a few moments to contemplate his answers. “Perhaps, although I am loath to pursue them. Only my son’s safety would lead me to do so.” Holland’s obvious resignation let me know he planned on doing just that.
“May I ask what those avenues might be?” I was growing concerned. “Boone would be beside himself if you became injured, or worse.”
I couldn’t tell if Holland chuckled or sighed. It might have been a combination of both. “You need not worry about physical injury. Only my pride is at risk, and according to others, I have enough of that vice to cushion whatever hit is on the horizon.”
“Ah, I believe I understand. You’re going to contact Warlock Kines.” I didn’t understand the history and honestly knew very little regarding the two warlocks’ relationship. Frenemies sounded close. Warlock Kines lived on the East Coast, the complete opposite side of the continent. Kines was younger than Holland and, from what I understood, more of a rollingstone and free spirit. He was also a gifted warlock who’d been fortunate enough to have a brownie mentor and also had a rather eclectic group of powerful and diverse friends.
“As tragic as that statement is, yes,” Holland grumbled. “I do not know if it will be of any use. The Warlock Council was not inclined to listen to Kines any more than me earlier. However, I believe this line of inquiry will be different and more fitting to Kines’s resources.” I was always amazed how Holland could turn an insult into something that sounded almost complimentary. Truly, Boone’s father had a gift.
“Have you heard anything further from Tenzen Huxley?” Holland asked.
“No and I just came from seeing Boone and he didn’t mention anything either.” He would have.
“How is my son? Is he recovering?” The worry was back.
“He’s much better.” I wasn’t sure how Holland would react, but I said, “Captain Cicely stopped by and gave Boone a healing potion.”
Holland sucked in a breath. “Witch magic. Distasteful, but in this case, useful. As much as it pains me, please convey my thanks to this witch captain of yours.”
