The Promise: An Elvis Cole and Joe Pike Novel

by Robert Crais

  I grabbed the food from the kitchen, and took it outside. Hess came out behind me.

  “It’s the SAC.”

  “Please stop calling me that.”

  Joe stood, and offered his hand.

  “Hello, Janet. You did well there, in the parking lot.”

  I dropped the lamb on the grill, and heard a nice sizzle.

  “She loves parking lots.”

  Hess turned red and squirmed, but like that day at Safety Plus, she held her ground.

  The corner of Pike’s mouth twitched. A small twitch, barely noticeable. He looked at Hess.

  “Hope to see you again.”

  Pike went inside, and out the front door.

  Hess stared after him.

  “Where’s he going?”

  “He’s leaving. He figures you came to see me, and now we’re alone.”

  She flushed again. Darker.

  “I came to apologize.”

  “So apologize. This oughta be something.”

  “Have you been drinking?”

  “Yes. Do you like lamb?”

  I arched my eyebrows at her, waiting.

  Hess studied me for a moment, and nodded.

  “Sure.”

  “Good. Where’s the apology? I don’t have all night.”

  “Can I have a beer first?”

  I pointed inside with my elbow.

  “Fridge. Help yourself.”

  Hess went inside, and helped herself.

  65

  Jon Stone

  Dear Ms. Breslyn,

  I hope this note finds you well, and offers a measure of peace. An associate informs me the person behind the Abuja attack has been identified as one Sambisa Yemi, a known member of an Islamist terrorist group in northern Nigeria. Witnesses were present when Mr. Yemi personally fixed the weapon package to a young woman named Asama Musa, and instructed others to transport Ms. Musa to the targeted café. For her part, I should tell you Ms. Musa was also a victim. She was stolen from her family by Mr. Yemi, and kept as his slave and hostage for apprx four years. My associate tells me Mr. Yemi admitted his role at least twice during private conversations, and, when interrogated, gave a complete confession.

  I have forwarded this information to the appropriate authorities. The wheels of justice will turn, but without Mr. Yemi. He was shot to death last evening near the village of Yana. His death was likely the result of tribal conflict, but we may never know. As yet, no person or group has taken credit.

  When I return from abroad, I hope you’ll allow me to pay my respects. I would love to hear more about Jacob.

  Your friend,

  J. Stone

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