Page 9 of Dirty Dylan: Dirty Dusters

“I’m a biker first and foremost.” I’m also a sniper.

“Are you saying your number is higher?”

His tone is mocking, but I don’t rise to it. Maybe one day this asshole will find out exactly how high my number is just before he adds to it by one.

“I’m saying never judge a book and never underestimate. We both know you’re guilty of doing both where I’m concerned. So aside from you believing she has more notches on her weaponry belt than I do, what else does Molly do?”

“She’s studying law.”

“Ah, a noble career choice. Good for her.”

“Speaking of which, this IRS business.”

“Yes, Jessie’s already broached the subject with me. And I’ve now got an idea of how best to proceed.

“And that is?”

I know exactly what I’m going to say. He’s just given me the perfect excuse and saved me from having to use a flimsy one of my own.

“Ask Molly.”

I put the phone down and smile to myself.

He rings back less than a minute later. I guess he doesn’t fully appreciate my recommendation.

“Jaine. That wasn’t at all helpful.”

I roll my eyes even though he can’t see me. He was never going to let me walk away that easily. “Listen, Eoin. I’m sure Irish can handle the IRS matter, and I’m sure Molly can assist. Iwasactually being serious.”

“Paddy has no experience in dealing with the IRS, and given Molly has lived in Dublin her whole life, she won’t have any relevant experience either.”

I take on board what he’s saying, and he does have a valid point, but there’s another reason I don’t want to get embroiled in this potential investigation.

“From what I hear, the current Da Duster doesn’t want me getting involved.”

“Jessie really does have a big mouth,” he mutters under his breath.

“She’s my business partner, Eoin. We talk. You forget JAL holds the controlling interest in the company that’s currently heading the Dusters’ accountancy function.”

“I understand all of that. For the record, Da has backed down. He’s now happy for you to assist.”

“He’s now happy for me to assist. Does he think he’s doing me a goddamn favor?”

“I’m sure it will be extremely lucrative.”

“You’re making it sound like I’m desperate for money, and we both know that’s not the case.”

“Unfortunately, he’s not your biggest fan.”

“Because of what happened, or should I say didn’t happen, in Manhattan?

“Yes.”

It’s my turn to pause. So, I’ve well and truly pissed off Fergal O’Connell over this standing-up matter. I naively thought it would be forgotten over time, but it seems time is only exacerbating his and, no doubt, Roisin’s bitterness towards me.

“Then, unfortunately, I do feel it’s best for all parties concerned that you find someone else. I don’t need to be antagonizing your da. The IRS may also insist on a face-to-face. I won’t be able to do that. I’m not local. I won’t be returning to New York for some considerable time as you know.”

“I’m sure we can cross that bridge if we come to it. The Dusters need access to your expertise. I’m personally asking for your help. Are you going to provide it or not?”

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