It seemed commonplace for them to see guards on their floor, none of them even looking their way. They entered their rooms, locked the doors and stayed put.
In the master suite on sixteen, there was an attached conference table for business meetings or dinners. Quinn, River, and Finn planted listening devices, recording devices, and several other things that could prove useful for the extraction, or extinction of Gustav.
“Just waiting on the guest of honor,” said U-Jin. “I think he’s coming in now. He’s got his bodyguard with him.”
“We’re ready,” said Quinn.
It seemed everyone was aware of Gustav’s arrival as the other board members emerged from their rooms, heading to his suite. Quinn nodded as they walked toward him, opening the door for them to enter. As he did, Gustav stepped off the elevator with his bodyguard.
“I’ll take over the door,” he said to Quinn.
“Suit yourself.”
Quinn stepped inside the room, knowing that Matt and Kev would take care of the lone man outside the door. He heard shuffling as he closed the door, then a loud thud.
“What was that?” asked Gustav looking at him.
“Nothing, sir. Can I take your bags to the bedroom?”
“Please.” He turned to the others and took his seat at the head of the table.
“Why are we here, Gustav? This was a much longer trip for most of us,” said a dark-skinned man.
“Matteo, you should be grateful. This city will offer wonderful distractions for all of us.”
“Uh, sir, about that,” said another man.
“What is it, Vince?”
“I haven’t been able to secure the entertainment. It didn’t seem to matter who I called or who I approached, the answer was the same. No one is available because of all the things happening with Mardi Gras.”
“Mardi Gras? That’s not for another few weeks. No matter. We’ll wander out for dinner tonight and I’m sure you can all use your charms, and money, to attract what we need.”
“Where is Reginald?” asked another member.
As if on cue, there was a light knock at the door. Quinn opened the door, allowing Reginald to enter. What Gustav and the others didn’t know, was that there were men already hidden in the bedroom, ready to surprise the group.
“Ah, here is our resident genius,” smiled Gustav. “I’ve been very excited to see what you have for us, Reginald. I’m sure it will be wonderful and your sister will continue to live another day.”
“I have nothing for you,” he said confidently. Gustav’s smile faded and he stared at the man. “The system won’t work. It can’t. I’ve tried everything and we cannot break through the new securities that were put in place. It’s technology beyond anyone’s understanding.”
“Someone must understand it! They invented it,” he sneered. “Who? Who is responsible for this technology?”
“I am,” said Quinn smiling at the group.
“Me too,” said River coming out of the bedroom.
“And me,” said Finn.
They stared at the identical faces in awe, then heard another voice they all recognized all too well.
“Don’t forget me,” said the colonel. “After all, for a dead man I’m damn good at what I do.”
“You,” whispered Gustav.
“This can’t be true. You said he was dead!” said one of the men.
“Shut up!” yelled Gustav.
