“What?” Jess demanded, panic rising.
“An idiot, no doubt in Alexander’s pay, bailed Frederick and he's on the loose,” Leon explained.
“Huh?” Jess exclaimed. “How the hell did that happen?”
“Frederick was freed before the news was released concerning the Weidemans. The judge has been suspended due to an investigation, but Frederick has disappeared,” Leon elaborated.
“The most dangerous Weideman is loose?” Jess gasped, her hand going to her chest.
“Yes. And we believe he’s coming for you and Mitch. He wants to take Mitch out for ruining the Weideman reputation, and he’s just got a hard-on for you,” Leon stated.
“If Frederick comes for me, it’ll be a mistake,” Jess said.
“Yes, but you’re both in danger until we find him. There’s a warrant out for Frederick’s arrest because he’s skipped a court appearance.”
“Leon, he believes he’s above the law. It was clear in his eyes when he confronted me. Frederick thinks he’s superior, and that makes him unstable and hard to predict.”
“That’s why I want you and Mitch back home. It’s safer once we’ve caught Frederick, then Mitch can return to the public eye.”
“Does Mitch know yet?”
“No. Lunch is soon, and Jase will inform him then. For now, I’m taking you to your room and staying by your side. Don’t argue, Jess,” Leon ordered.
“Wasn’t planning to.” Jess sent one last look over her loch and allowed Leon to walk her back inside.
Mitch
Today was progressing well. We were figuring out who wanted to be on the donation list for the charities. Once done, they’d discuss the recipients. Mitch missed Jess terribly and wondered if she’d like to sit in on the afternoon’s session. She might have some ideas that they’d overlooked.
“I’m hitting the john,” Mitch muttered to Jase, who’d stuck at his side for the meeting. About twenty minutes ago, Leon took a call, which caused him to leave. Mitch wasn’t overly alarmed. He knew that unexpected calls would happen and interrupt the day.
“I’ll come with you; we’re not to go anywhere alone,” Jase said with a nod.
“Think I can piss by myself,” Mitch laughed, and Jase frowned.
“We’ve had an update. I can’t go into details, but I’ll explain later. Just understand nobody goes anywhere unaccompanied.”
Mitch wanted to demand an answer, but knew Jase was right. They had to act as if everything were okay. On guard but unsure why, Mitch headed to the men’s room. He entered first and glanced down as something hit him in the chest. A brightly coloured dart stuck out of his suit.
Mitch felt himself going down and registered a muffled exclamation as he guessed Jase had also been darted. Crap, had he led the Sealgair Uilebheist to them? Mitch struggled to keep his eyes open, but he was engaged in a useless battle.
Jess/Loch Ness Monster
Jess heard the alarm at the same moment as Leon, and they both straightened.
“Attack! Hunter!”Jase shouted through mind-speak.
At the same time, she could feel Mitch’s panic through the bond. Then… nothing.
Jess was moving before Leon, as she focused on Jase’s whereabouts. She could sense him fighting and headed for the stairs. She raced down them, Leon on her heels. Jess burst into the lobby and caught Diar’s gaze. His smile turned into a frown as Leon skidded to a halt. Jase was close, but where?
“What’s happened?” a guy shouted.
“Mitch’s crazy ass cousin is here,” Leon called out. “Has anyone seen Mitch or Jase?”
“They headed for the toilets,” the guest replied.
They hurried over, and Leon kicked the door open. Jase was lying on the floor, shaking his head groggily as he tried to get to his feet.
