Page 20 of Rush

“One day, we’ll talk about all the evil we’ve stopped. One day, we’ll rid ourselves of it all. But not today. Today, we find out how to stop that man and bring all our children home.”

A few moments later, Grigoryan disappeared from his balcony, and the team stood disappointed.

“It’s nearly dinner time,” said Caroline. “Why don’t we have our meal here with all the crowds. It should be safe. Then we can head back to the hotel.”

“Safety in numbers,” said Sniff.

They were relegated to an outdoor café because of the dogs, but the food was good, and the service was pleasant. When Beast began to growl in a low, rumbling tone, Sniff stiffened, looking around.

Their waiter set a tray of Turkish delight, dates, baklava, pide, and kunefe in front of them. They all frowned.

“I’m sorry,” said Moose, “we didn’t order this. What is it?”

“The very best of our desserts, sir. Delicious Turkish delight, honey-coated dates, baklava…”

“No. I’m sorry. I know what it is, but we didn’t order it,” Moose clarified.

“The man over there ordered it for you,” he said, turning and leaving them.

Grigoryan. He stood and strolled toward the table, the dogs growling. The hair on the back of their necks stood, and the man only smiled at them.

“The dogs have the temperament of their owners,” he said. “I know who you are and why you are here. It is a waste of your time. Go home. This is none of your business.”

“A man trying to destroy countries is our business,” said Noah.

“Americans,” he laughed. “You’re such bleeding hearts. Always trying to save the world when the world doesn’t even appreciate you. This is none of your business. Go home, or you will find that the beautiful woman in your group is suddenly lost.”

Rush shoved his chair back, standing over the man, thereby giving himself away.

“Ah, the giant American that my men thought they killed. I knew you wouldn’t die so easily. I look forward to meeting you again soon,” he said, tipping his hat. “It’s a beautiful night. You should go for a stroll before returning to your hotel.”

They watched as he walked back across the street, disappearing with several men inside the building once again.

“Damn,” muttered Rush. “I can’t believe I did that.”

“He provoked you, hoping to anger you enough to confirm what he already knew. We need to get Caroline home,” said Trak.

“No! I have to stay and help at the zoo.”

“Caroline, the zoo will be just fine, and they’ll understand,” said Sniff. “We’ll explain it the best we can. For now, he’s right. Let’s get back to the hotel and find a way to get you out of here tomorrow.”

Despite feeling defeated, the walk back to the hotel was pleasant and even somewhat romantic for Rush and Caroline. They were able to walk as a couple, although surrounded by the dogs and their friends and family.

Moose was already hungry again, ordering more food from room service. Caroline sat on the floor, playing with the dogs, when the room service arrived. The man wheeled the cart in and waited for the signature. As Moose reached for the lid of the tray, Caroline stood and called out.

“Stop!” His hand hovered above the dome, and he backed away.

“What the hell? What’s wrong? I’ll share, Caroline,” he said, frowning at the young woman.

“No. That’s not it. Listen.” The dogs were growling so loudly they couldn’t hear anything. “Quiet, Beast. Hush, Monster.”

“What the fuck is that?” asked Rush.

“I think it’s cobras.”

“Say again?” frowned Nathan.

“Cobras. I-I made a joke about cobras being in my car when I was trying to get Rush away from the zoo. He killed the men who were waiting for us, but there must have been someone nearby that heard my comment.”

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