don’t think we should let them know we’re coming. We can always get in touch once we reach Medellin.”
Zack nodded. “I agree. The less people that know, the better.”
Alvara sighed. “Okay, then let’s go make some flight arrangements.”
* * * *
Conrad Jackson leaned back in his leather chair and inhaled the heady aroma of the brandy in his glass. He’d spent the day in his laboratory going over his research notes, and he’d needed the alcohol as a way to unwind. He glared at his phone lying on the desk when it began to ring. After two more sips he picked up the offending instrument and flipped it open.
“Dr. Jackson here.”
“Hey, Doc, it’s Tommy Martin.”
Conrad frowned. “It’s who?”
A loud sigh came through the phone’s speakers. “It’s Tommy Martin, Dr. Jackson. Remember you’ve had me watching that Medina fellow here in Texas.”
“Ah, yes. What can I do for you, Mr. Martin? I don’t suppose you have good news for me.”
“Not sure if it’s good or not, Doc, but I thought you ought to know your boy is about to take a trip.”
“A trip to where?” Conrad took another sip of the brandy and relished the burn as it slid down his throat.
“He and another guy just reserved seats on United to Miami.”
“So, they’re taking a vacation.”
“If it’s a vacation, it’s a doozy. They’ve got a connecting flight from Miami to Cartagena. That’s in South America, you know.”
“I’m very versed in geography, Mr. Martin. You said he’s traveling with a friend. You didn’t happen to get the friend’s name, did you?”
“The name on the other ticket was Zack Wind River.”
Conrad felt chills run down his back. After all these years, he just might find out what happened to his prize research specimen. He’d always known Medina had something to do with her disappearance, but he’d never really suspected PFC Wind River. So, he’d arranged to have Medina watched closely for the past eight years. It looked like all that money was finally going to pay off.
“You want me to follow him or something?” asked Tommy.
“No, thank you, Mr. Martin. I don’t believe your services will be needed any longer. Look for a substantial bonus in your next financial transaction.” Conrad hung up the phone and grinned. He raised his glass and pretended to toast. “To patience. Those who have it can always be assured of getting what they want in life.” Feeling his spirits soar, he put down his glass and picked up his phone. “I’m going to make sure we know exactly what you’re up to, Mr. Medina. Soon, all your secrets will belong to me.”
* * * *
Zack looked up at the imposing figure standing in the doorway and felt his coyote stir. He sensed danger and wanted out. The man was tall, with broad shoulders and nearly black hair with only a trace of silver showing. He studied Zack for a moment and then turned his attention to Alvara and smiled.
“Es bueno verte, Jorge,” said Alvara.
The stranger nodded. “It’s good to see you as well, cousin. Who is this Americano you’ve brought to my home?”
“This is my good friend, Zack Wind River. He can be trusted. He’s here to see Aurelia.” The man turned to Zack and raised his brows. “Zack,” Alvara said. “This is a distant cousin of mine, Jorge Medina.”
Zack nodded. “It’s a pleasure to meet you, sir.”
Jorge scowled at Alvara. “You told us no one was to know the joven was here.”
“Things have changed, cousin. It’s an emergency, and he must speak with her.”
“No, I cannot—”
A woman appeared behind Jorge. “You must let him in, marido. Mi madre insists she must speak with him.”
Jorge looked at her incredulous, then sighed and turned to Zack. “This is my wife, Ana. Apparently my mother-in-law wishes to talk with you before I send you on your way.” He stepped back and motioned for Zack and Alvara to come in. “Please, come into my home and be welcome.”
Zack followed