“You are the manager. Who is your boss? He’s the one I came to see.”
“He’s not always here.”
“Will you tell him I’ll come by again tomorrow night to discuss business?”
“What’s your name?”
“It’s too difficult for you to pronounce. I’m known as Big Mouth.”
“What tribe are you?”
“Lipan Apache.”
“You must be an important member.” His eyes were studying the jewelry.
“You like turquoise?”
“Yes. Yours is impossible to come by.”
“That is true,” Vic said with satisfaction. “I’m leaving now.”
“If I can, I’ll pass on your message.”
Vic nodded and left the back room. After he stopped at the cage to claim his winnings, he walked outside and reached for his cell phone to call Kit.
“I’m almost to the truck. Meet me at the hotel as soon as you can. I’ll call the kitchen for room service.” Kit would be in disguise as an employee working the night shift.
On the drive to town, Vic kept an eye out for anyone following him. Ruban would send someone to tail him and check out his truck at the hotel. The front desk would verify he was registered there as the sole occupant of the room.
The Hill Country Inn displayed a no-vacancy sign. The casino had brought in new business. Vic got out, locked his truck and walked inside to the front desk to make sure they knew he was back.
“May I help you?” asked the pert young brunette woman behind the counter.
“Did someone leave a message for me? Room 220.”
She went to check. “Sorry, sir.”
“Thank you.”
“Your jewelry is fantastic,” she exclaimed, studying him.
“Family heirlooms.”
“You’re a lucky man.”
His thoughts flew to Jeremy and Claire. Lady—you have no idea how lucky I am.
Vic turned away and caught the elevator to the next floor. After he’d reached his room, he phoned for room service and ordered enough food for two.
Kit would be sleeping in the second queen-size bed while they were on the case. The two other staff were sleeping in the van.
After removing the recording device, he took off his jewelry and removed the tan jacket. He peeled off his shirt, then the bulletproof vest. None of the guys liked to wear one, but it saved lives. Kit wore his firearm so they had protection.
Vic slipped on a T-shirt and pulled off his boots. In a minute Kit arrived at the door with their food. Vic stayed out of sight as he opened the door. Kit came inside and put the tray on the table. On his way out he said, “You’ve shrunk, bud, but you still look intimidating. In case anyone is watching, I’ll go back to the kitchen, then slip out and come back up in a minute.”
“I’ll leave the door unlocked.”
“You sound like an ad on TV.”