I nod again. "Understood, sir."
"Take some time to consider if you need more leave. Or perhaps..." Blackwood's voice softens as if he wants to sound concerned. "you'd prefer reassignment to a different case entirely."
My spine stiffens. This isn't concern. It’s a test.
"I appreciate your consideration, sir, but that won't be necessary." I meet his gaze steadily. "I'm perfectly capable of handling the Vitale investigation."
"Are you certain? After your attack?—"
"The attack has only strengthened my resolve." That’s the truth. "I'm more determined than ever to see this through."
Something shifts behind his eyes but I can’t quite read it. "Good. That's what I hoped you'd say." He straightens some papers on his desk. "You're one of our best, Ricci. I'd hate to see this case transferred elsewhere after all your hard work."
I keep my expression neutral, deciding to test the waters. "Thank you, sir. I wonder, has your agent at Vitale's dock come up with anything useful yet?"
Blackwood's eyes narrow slightly. "How do you know about that operation, Agent Ricci?"
My heart skips a beat, but I maintain my composure. "You mentioned it to me, sir.”
Did I imagine the flash of suspicion in his eyes? He studies me for a moment too long before his features relax.
"Ah, yes." He nods slowly. "Memory isn't what it used to be with all these operations running simultaneously."
I offer a sympathetic smile. "I understand completely."
"To answer your question, no. Nothing substantial yet." Blackwood leans back in his chair. "Our man is still establishing his position. Undercover work is a long game, as you know. Especially with someone as cautious as Vitale."
"Of course." I nod, wondering if there ever was another agent or if this is just Blackwood covering his tracks. "These things take time."
"Indeed they do." He taps his pen against the desk. "Which is why I need you focused on your investigations, not chasing tangents."
I can't let Blackwood see that I'm suspicious. I need to play this carefully.
"I understand the need for compartmentalization," I say, "but I'm wondering if I could speak with your undercover agent. Maybe there's something he's observed that didn't seem important to report but could connect to my financial investigation."
Blackwood's expression hardens. "That would be extremely risky, Agent Ricci. We can't compromise his position."
"Of course," I nod, backing off immediately. "Just thought I'd ask."
I start to rise from my chair, but Blackwood's face suddenly shifts. "Actually, perhaps there is an opportunity."
I settle back into my seat, trying not to appear too eager. "Sir?"
"Michael Mullins is the agent's name. Good man. Young, but eager. I've sent him out on several in-and-out assignments. Never been made. Very effective."
I don't know why, but I wonder if my attack was one of those in-and-out assignments.
Blackwood checks his watch. "He should be at Vitale's private warehouse on the north dock right now. Security's minimal on weekends."
My pulse quickens. "Is it safe to approach him there?"
"Vitale and his people will be at the Winter Festival today, like they are every year." His expression turns annoyed. "La Corona makes quite the show of community involvement. Keeps up appearances."
Last year it’s where Rocco Monti was abducted.
"If you're careful, this could be an ideal time," Blackwood continues.
I wonder why he changed his mind. "What exactly is Mullins looking for at the warehouse?" I ask, keeping my tone casual.
