Chapter Fifteen
Without any prompting that Donovan could see, Ari moved to the elevator. It was a clear signal the meeting had been terminated, but Donovan remained where he was. He noticed Phoebe hadn’t moved either. She was still sitting down, and he wondered if she was too shaken by Alexi’s last comment to stand up, or if she just didn’t realize Ari had indicated it was time for them to leave.
“Ari will show you out.”
Alexi’s voice suddenly cut through the silence.
“You may be finished, but I’d like to speak with you in person, just the two of us,” Donovan declared. “I can assure you I have no sinister intentions.”
Donovan waited for the response.
Silent seconds ticked by.
“Very well, Donovan. You have me curious,” Alexi exclaimed. “Ari, take Miss Beaumont to the room off the foyer and make sure she’s comfortable,”
Though she didn’t speak, Donovan could see the trepidation in her eyes.
“It’s okay, Phoebe,” he said softly, stepping over to her. “Come on, I’ll walk you to the elevator.”
“Are you sure about this?”
“I’m sure.”
“Please don’t take too long.”
As she stepped in, Ari followed, and Donovan waited until the doors had closed, then ambled over to the couch and poured himself some tea.
“Aren’t you concerned? They could be poisoned,” Alexi said as he entered the room.
“You’re not a man who would cut off his nose to spite his face,” Donovan replied. “You need me.”
“True, at least for the moment. Now tell me, what is it you wish to discuss?”
“I’ll get right to the point. Why are you so determined to get your hands on this portrait? Do you have a buyer willing to pay a fortune for it, or is it for your own collection? And there’s something else. The last time our paths crossed you tried to steal a painting then as well. It was bulky and difficult to carry. Why did you grab it when there were other items you could have slipped into your pockets, or at least carried more easily? Do you have a passion for historical works of art?”
“Passion!” Alexi replied. “Passion is what drives us. It doesn’t matter if it’s a passion for cars, women, perhaps even exotic perfumes, or a sport. The greater a person’s passion the more interesting they are—at least they are to me—and the more likely they are to succeed. I have two passions and they walk hand-in-hand. Money and power. The more money I accumulate, the more power I can generate. The more power I have, the more money I can accrue.”
“What does money and power have to do with the portrait?”
“The portrait is greatly desired by a friend, and I have promised to acquire it. I know you’re a wealthy man, Donovan, very wealthy, but when I deliver it, I will be paid…how do you say it here in England…A King’s Ransom.”
“So this is just about money.”
“Just about money? You see? I would never say such a thing. You mock money when you should glorify it. Countries fall because of money, just as humble men can rise to great heights. Like me. I grew up in a family with nothing and look at me now. All because making money is my passion. It comes before anything.”
“That just means you’re corrupt.”
“Call me what you will. It makes no difference. I have answered your questions. Now it’s my turn.”
“Really? You’re interested in me?”
“I’m interested to know why a man like you— a wheeler dealer as the Americans say—a man who has achieved so much, is working for United States Law Enforcement—and off the record. You’re a civilian, yet you put yourself in these perilous situations.”
“I enjoy it.”
“That’s it?” Alexi exclaimed. “You enjoy it?”
“It can be very satisfying—and exciting at times. Like, right now, for example.”
“Ah, yes, meeting men like me,” Alexi shot back with a grin. “We are a special breed. What about Phoebe? Why does she put herself at risk?”
“That’s much easier to answer. She’s an adrenalin junkie.”
“Ah. So she’s a risk taker.”
“Aren’t you and I the same? Risk takers? We just jump off cliffs for different reasons.”
“Donovan, I’ve enjoyed this chat but it doesn’t change anything.”
“It wasn’t meant to, and thank you for being so forthright.”
“I hope you don’t give me a reason to hurt you or Phoebe. You’re unique, both of you. Fencing with you has been entertaining, but I won’t hesitate to do what I must to get what I want. You will deliver the portrait to me.”
“I’ll do my best.”
“Your best means nothing. It will be delivered or it won’t. One last thing before you leave. Poncho! Come here!”
Though a slight chill rippled through him Donovan was intrigued, then surprised when a black German Shepherd trotted into the room.
“Ah, there you are,” Alexi exclaimed. “I rarely introduce Poncho to my enemies, but I no longer see you that way. You are an adversary—a worthy opponent—and you have won my respect. Poncho, say hello to Donovan.”
But as the dog walked towards him Donovan stood perfectly still.
“You needn’t fear him. He’ll be your friend unless I tell him otherwise, but he’ll be offended if you don’t shake hands.”
As Alexi spoke, Poncho stopped, sat down and raised his paw.
“I’d be delighted to shake hands with you, Poncho,” Donovan said, bending down and gently taking it in hand.
“You can see yourself out. I’ll tell Ari to bring Phoebe into the foyer. Goodbye, Donovan. Come along, Poncho.”
“Goodbye, Alexi.”
Walking to the elevator and stepping inside, Donovan didn’t know what to make of what had just transpired, but if Alexi thought they were now just opponents he was wrong.
He’d threatened Phoebe.
Alexi had been his enemy and was now, more than ever.