“He hasn’t got an awkward bone in his body.”
“Farah always called you the Shy Man.”
I laugh. “Your wife doesn’t know me very well, then.”
“Or maybe she does.”
“Are you okay?” I frown. “Do you need anything?”
“Peace, my friend. You are always so ready to help.”
“You’re my friend, yes?”
“I am. And that is why I am ringing you.”
“What is it?”
“I heard you are going back.”
Unease stirs. “Where did you hear that?”
“Around and about. Is it true?”
I blink at the caution in his voice. “Yes, but it’s not common knowledge.”
“Psah. I am as silent as the grave, yes?”
“Yes.”
“But as your friend, I would beg you not to go.”
I shift the phone to my other ear and straighten my tie and smooth the lapels down on my black suit. “Why?”
“I have heard rumours about the village where you are going.”
A chill feathers down my spine. “Rumours?”
“That it is not safe for Westerners.”
I frown. “Jez’s contact says it’s fine.”
“You are using Farzad, yes?”
“Yes.”
“Ah, he is the brother of my sister’s husband. They were always a bad lot. Farzad is arrogant and reckless. Do not trust his word.”
When I look in the mirror, I can see the frown on my face. “So, it’s just rumours, then? Nothing that’s been proved?”
“You know the country, my friend. Rumours are all you will get until it is too late to avoid the truth.” The words settle and seem to echo into a too-long silence. Then he sighs. “I would wish that you not go, Reuben.”
I bite my lip. I don’t discount his word. I would never do that because his instincts are what saved all our lives many times. But it’s too late and I can’t back out now and leave Jez alone.
“It’s all arranged,” I say steadily.
His sigh has a weary resignation to it.
“Then take care, my friend. You would leave behind a hole in this world.”
