Page 74 of Near Miss

“Yes, sir,” Korolev said.

“I’ve heard good things about you. Prove to me I have not been misinformed.”

Korolev told the Greek everything except about the failed mission the night before, as it had no bearing on the question that had been asked.

At the mention of Stone Barrington, the already uncomfortable atmosphere turned tense.

When Korolev finished, the Greek focused his attention back to the Bean Counter. “How long have you suspected Barrington’s involvement?”

“His involvement is limited to being an acquaintance of a woman Trench was interested in.”

“How long?”

“A few days.”

“And you didn’t think it was important to tell me immediately?”

“I wanted to determine his role, if any, in what—”

“Stop.” Gromyko closed his eyes and took a couple of deep breaths, then pushed himself to his feet. Teeth clenched, he said, “Barrington is responsible for the deaths of at least the last two heads of this family, and dozens of our men. If he even breaths in the direction of one of our people, I should be told. Or do you not think that’s the case?”

“I didn’t want to give you—”

“I don’t care what you wanted. WhatIwant is Barrington’s head on a pike, mounted to the door in front of his law firm.”

He walked up to the Bean Counter, until their faces were only inches apart. “Are you even aware that Barrington is already involved in an even bigger problem for us? Or was your head too far up your ass hiding this from me to notice?”

The Bean Counter’s brow furrowed, unsure what the Greek was talking about.

“Why do you think we’re meeting here in this dump?” the Greek said. “Because your buddy Stone Barrington hasconvinced the FBI to arrest me. There are agents scouring the town looking for me right now. Were you aware of that?”

“I, uh... no.”

“Of course, you weren’t. By not telling me until now, you have put me at a disadvantage. I do not like being at a disadvantage.”

He turned back to the table and swept his plate onto the floor, then with his back to everyone said, “I want Barrington dead. Now.”

Chapter 37

Joan buzzed Stone. “Lance on one.”

Stone picked up the phone. “Why do you bother being announced?”

“Sometimes it’s convenient.”

“What can I do for you?”

“I want to meet Carly Riggs.”

“Why?”

“She sounds interesting.”

“Sheisinteresting. That’s why you can’t meet her.”

“Don’t be that way, Stone.”

“You’re recruiting, and she’s not currently available.”

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