Moreno’s voice moved closer. They were right outside the door now. Dave made sure to look busy in case they wandered in. He didn’t want them thinking he’d overheard anything.
“Martin could come in handy to us if my sources are correct. Next week is quite important and I’ll need people to help distribute the large inventory I’m expecting.”
“And you trust him to do this for you?”
“No, but I’ll start him off with something small and test the waters. If he comes through then I will perhaps let him in on some bigger items.”
“But if he hangs around then I’ll never get Katie.” Barone sounded angry.
“Don’t worry, my friend. Part of my plan is to expand my territories. Martin already has businesses set up in the north. Having him move my merchandise there will relieve some of the local pressure, then he will be out of your way.”
“That doesn’t mean Katie’ll suddenly wish to be with me. She’s shown no interest yet. But I want her, Salazar. I want her very much.”
“Yes, and you will get her. Once Martin is gone, Katie will no longer be able to stay in her fancy hotel suite. She is used to the nice amenities by now and won’t wish to return to her filthy hovel. This is when you make your move and offer her a nicer place to stay. You understand?”
Dave could almost hear the smile as Barone answered, “Yes, I’m seeing your point.”
There was a pause then Barone continued, “But what if Martin decides to take her with him up north?”
“She still owes me. She can’t go anywhere without paying off her debt and you know I always collect on my debts.”
“I heard her debt may have already been paid in full.”
Dave’s ears perked up at this. Did Barone know Moreno had killed Eddie? He kept as still as possible hoping for some incriminating information.
Moreno chuckled. “She doesn’t need to know this. She’s worth a lot to me, and has a potential for even more. But first I must finish my deal with Smith. He would like some fringe benefits too.”
“Not my Katie,” Barone protested.
“No, you have nothing to worry about. Smith doesn’t want vanilla. He would like something a bit more exotic.”
Dave listened but silence filled the air.
“He’s interested inher?” Barone questioned. Dave wanted to see who they were looking at but couldn’t risk moving near the door. “I didn’t think she was the type.”
“She isn’t. But I have ways to motivate my employees.”
Barone joined in with Moreno’s laughter and the sound drifted closer. Dave swung the chair around so his back was to the door and flipped the volume up higher. When Moreno appeared in the doorway he turned quickly and smiled an apology.
He reached up and pulled the earbuds from his ears, the loud music coming from them. “Oh, sorry, Mr. Moreno. I didn’t hear you come in. I was checking the liquor order for next week.”
He motioned to the headphones and grinned. “You know I don’t listen while I’m bartending, right? Just for mundane tasks like this. I hope that’s all right.”
Moreno smiled and waved him off. “There is no problem, Dave. I am happy with your work. But now I am in need of my office. Are you finished in here?”
Dave rose and nodded. “Sure, do you want me to leave this here for you to look at? I need your signature before I call in the order.”
Moreno took the clip board, scanned it, scribbled his signature then gave it back. “It looks good. I trust you to order what we need.”
Dave left as Moreno settled into the chair he’d vacated and moved toward the bar. He looked around to see who was out serving on the floor. Tina, Marietta, and Katie were the only waitresses right now. His gut clenched as he recalled the conversation between the two men. They’d said Smith wanted someone as part of the deal. It wasn’t Katie and they’d said the person wasn’tthe type. Marietta was most definitelythe type. She loved the extra money she earned from entertaining Moreno’s business friends and was happy with any ‘tasks’ he had for her.
Dread flooded his veins, leaving him chilled. That left only Tina.
* * * *
“Good morning.” Chris greeted cheerfully.
Meg groaned, her dream interrupted. In it she and Chris had been passionately rolling around on the sand, the waves tickling their overheated skin as they caressed every inch of the other.
