“She drove personnel carriers and tanks for six years inthe British Army, and since her discharge has been driving tour buses throughout the U.K.”
“She sounds more than qualified, but I would hate to ruin her vacation.”
“Not a vacation,” Helene said.
“She’s been accepted into the NYU film program,” Fred said. “Starts next semester. We suggested that she come out early so she can get used to living in the city before she dives into uni. She’s staying with us until she moves into the dorms.”
“In that case, I’d be happy to try her out,” Stone said. “You might also want to mention her to Peter. I’m sure he could line up an internship at Centurion Pictures, if she’s interested.”
Peter was Stone’s son and an Oscar-winning film director working out of the studio run by Dino’s son, Ben Bacchetti.
“I’ve already talked to him,” Fred said. “She’ll be spending her summer break there.”
Stone’s next stop was theautomotive division of Strategic Services. They had been the ones who had armored his Bentley, and it was where he’d had his car towed to last night.
“That must have been some accident,” Reginald Winters said. He was the head of the department.
“Let’s say I have no interest in doing it again,” Stone said. “What’s the prognosis?”
“Not great, I’m afraid.”
“ ‘Not great’ as in it’ll be a while before it’s repaired?”
“More. It’s time to find a new vehicle.”
As much as Stone had been hoping that wouldn’t be thecase, deep down he’d expected the news. Still, it was hard to believe a sedan that had protected him through gun fights and high-speed chases had finally met its match in the form of a garbage truck and a delivery van.
“I do have some good news,” Reginald said. “I’ve located a new Flying Spur in tourmaline green, like yours, with a similar amenities package. It was destined for D.C., but my contact at Bentley tells me the person who reserved it backed out. I’ve had him put a hold on it, which will be good for another two hours.”
“I’ll take it,” Stone said. “How long until it can be here?”
“It was taken off a boat in Maryland on Monday and has already cleared customs. I can have it on a truck first thing tomorrow morning, and it should be at our garage by lunch. Mr. Freeman said you would likely want us to armor it like your previous vehicle.”
“Mr. Freeman would be correct. How long will that take?”
“To do the job properly, two weeks. We can loan you a vehicle from our fleet, if that’s amenable.”
“Very much so.”
“I have a Range Rover or a BMW 760i sedan. Both armored.”
“The Range Rover would be perfect.”
“Very good. It should be ready in two hours.”
“Can you have it delivered to my home?”
“Of course.”
Stone’s phone vibrated. He checked the screen and saw that Dino was calling. “Do you mind if I take this?”
“Not at all,” Reginald said, then stood. “I’ll go get my team started on prepping your loaner.”
He left the office and Stone answered the call. “Hi, Dino.”
“Where are you?” Dino asked.
“At Strategic Services’ transportation garage.”
