Page 39 of Near Miss

The woman nodded. “I am.”

“Me, too,” Hogan said.

“You need to keep the driver busy for at least ten minutes,” Bozo said to Candy. “Not a second less.”

“I remember.”

“Do you also remember what to do after?”

“I find a seat at the bar and keep an eye on the attorney and his friends. When they’re leaving, I let you know.”

“Perfect. Okay, let’s get this show on the road. Make it look good.”

Fred knew something was up the moment he saw the man and woman heading down the sidewalk. They appeared to be arguing, but it was more of an act than the real thing.

Fred donned his wireless earbuds, and as instructed, called the number Stone had passed on to him.

“This is Fred Flicker. To whom am I speaking?”

“Janet Hutto, Strategic Services.”

“Ms. Hutto, can you see me from your position?”

“We can.”

“And the couple walking toward me?”

“We see them. They look like they’re acting.”

“That is my assessment as well.”

When the couple was almost to the Bentley, the man slappedthe woman, pushed her to the ground, and ran off. She cried out, then called for help.

“She’s baiting you,” Hutto said.

“Perhaps I should find out why.”

“Would you like me and my partner to back you up?”

“Don’t. That might scare her off. I can handle myself.”

“If you’re sure.”

“I am.”

Fred slipped his phone into his pocket, leaving it on, then climbed out and jogged to the woman.

“Madam, are you okay?”

“Far from it. I was just assaulted.”

“I saw. Can you stand?”

“I think so.”

Fred helped her to her feet.

“Would you like me to call the police?”

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