Chapter 26
Sam concentrated on the feel of Audra’s hand in his, keeping his emotions in check—mostly—while they talked to her boss. They’d gotten past the highest hurdle, convincing her they’d done what they had for the greater good. His anxiety level was lower now that he knew she wouldn’t call the cavalry to hunt them down and throw them in jail.
“Have you uncovered anything on Theo?” Audra asked. “About why he did it? Because all we have is speculation.”
Sam focused on Dee, waiting to see if she’d tell them the truth. They knew she knew about the large deposits to Theo’s bank account.
“No. I uncovered some large financial transactions—the same ones you found, most likely—but I haven’t made any inquiries with his colleagues. I wanted more proof before I started asking questions. I didn’t want it to get back to him and chase him underground.”
“No need to worry about that now,” Sam said.
“I suppose not, no. Audra, do you know who he might talk to?”
“No. Like I told Sam, Theo and I didn’t have a personal relationship. We met to pass along information. That was it. I knew the basics about him that I would know about any co-worker.”
“That doesn’t give us much to go on. I didn’t hire him. He was here when I took over. I’ll reach out to my predecessor. See what he can tell me. And I’d like to tell you to stay here, out of sight, but I doubt you’ll listen to me.” Dee pinned Audra with a look.
“Probably not,” she admitted. “I’m happy we can trust you, but there’s too much riding on this for me to sit idle.”
“So, what’s your plan?”
Sam met Audra’s gaze when she glanced his way. They hadn’t talked about what their next steps were.
“I think we need to go back to Las Vegas,” Audra said.
Sam’s stomach sank. He didn’t like the idea, but she was right; all the answers were there. His mouth flattened, and he nodded. “We need to find out why Donny paid Theo, if the other Callahan brother is involved and to what extent, and what other secrets Theo may have sold.”
Dee let out a soft groan. “This could be a nightmare. He’s been with you for the last couple of years, but there have been other ops before this one. Plus, his clearance level gives him access to most everything.”
“We’ll find out what we can.”
The older woman’s gaze bounced between them again before they landed on Sam. “I don’t like that you’re involved. Don’t make me regret not doing anything about it.”
“No, ma’am.”
“Make sure your friends are aware of that as well.”
Sam clenched his teeth, this time to hold back the words that wanted to come out. He didn’t like being threatened. Instead, he nodded once, then stood, pulling Audra to her feet. “We’ll be in touch.” He headed for the door.
“Ridley.” Dee’s voice stopped them. “I don’t think I need to tell you what would happen to your career if news of Theo’s betrayal leaks out before our solicitors can develop a damage control plan?”
Sam turned, stepping between the two women at the woman’s blatant threat.
“Sam, it’s okay.” Audra laid a hand in the middle of his back.
He tempered the urge to really lay into Dee. But he couldn’t stay completely silent. “I might not have the same direct political sway you do, but I have some powerful friends. It would be wise for you to remember that.” He held the older woman’s gaze with a long look, then stepped toward the door. “Come on, Aud. We’re done here.”
They reached the door, but Audra caught the doorjamb, glancing back.
“Oh, Dee? Las Vegas PD wants to question me about Theo’s death.”
Dee balled her fists and gave a short nod. “I’ll take care of it.”