The Romanov Ransom (Fargo Adventures 9)

Felix took a step forward. “You can’t mean send an American?”

Sam, hoping to cut through the tension in the room, said, “I’d be glad to help in any way I can.”

“No,” Felix replied. “It’s as Nika said. Tatiana is our concern. Not the Americans’.”

“You’re right,” Viktor said, his breathing more shallow. “Except that the Fargos are . . . in a unique position to help . . . without raising suspicion. They did it once . . . Not too out of the realm of their nature to do so again . . . without exposing anyone on the inside.” He looked at Sam, trying to keep his eyes open. “I have no idea if this key is important . . .”

“We’re hoping to find out,” Sam said. “Even if we don’t, we’ll make them believe it’s important.”

Viktor nodded. “Thank you.” He closed his eyes a moment. “I think whatever they’ve given me . . . for the pain . . . is starting to work . . .”

“We’ll let you rest,” Sam said.

“Felix . . .” It took some effort for Viktor to open his eyes. “Help the Fargos . . .”

“Yes, sir.”

When it was clear he could

n’t fight the pain medication anymore, they left, Felix following Sam down the hall.

Remi stood when they walked into the lobby. “How is he?” she asked Sam.

“Fine. Sleeping now.”

“Thank goodness.”

Felix looked around for Nika. “Where is she?”

Remi nodded toward the doors. “She went for a walk. I’m sure she’ll be back soon. She was very upset.”

About two minutes later, Nika walked in the lobby doors. “Well?” she asked Felix. “What did he say?”

“He’s asking that the Fargos help.”

“Is that wise? We’re wasting time as it is. Tatiana could be hurt.”

Felix glanced down the hall toward Viktor’s room, then back at Nika. “It’s what he ordered.”

She crossed her arms. “Is there some grand plan?”

“I have none,” he said.

She turned her gaze to Sam. “And you?”

“To start? Call to let him know we have this key. And that we’ll exchange it for Tatiana.”

Nika opened her mouth to speak but then clamped it shut. Instead, she started pacing.

“Call,” Felix said.

Sam took out Tatiana’s phone, found Rolfe’s number, and called.

It went to voice mail. Sam waited for the recording, then said, “Sam Fargo. Call if you want the key. In exchange for Tatiana, unhurt.”

He disconnected.

Remi exchanged glances with him, her expression worried. “I hope she’s okay.”