Page 4 of Tell Me All Your Lies

It began with whisperings that someone was trying to combine various mafia organizations across the country. Then, on a different case, I stumbled across confirmation that it was true.

The case I was working involved one of my top targets—the Kingpin of Charlotte. I’m convinced that the Kingpin of Charlotte is connected to the Marlin. That’s why I’m eager to tell him that I’ll work with the agency to capture both of them. The Kingpin of Charlotte is the Marlin’s primary connection to rare diamonds, and the Marlin uses these diamonds in trade to navigate the legal system undetected.

I’ve been tracking the Kingpin for over a year now, and he always manages to outsmart me. It’s incredibly frustrating knowing that he’s one step ahead. That’s why, this time, I have a plan, one that took weeks to devise, knowing this call from Dodger was coming.

I plan to infiltrate the Carolinas mafia and pretend to be one of its own. I haven’t attempted this yet because of the risk involved and the need for financial backing to do it right. By partnering with the agency on this, I’ll be provided with the money needed to make it happen. My success rate as a contractor for them is nearly perfect.

Logging into the video call,I’m a few minutes early to ensure I’m on ahead of Dodger. He’s always been punctual.

As expected, it’s eleven a.m. on the dot, and he’s joining the call.

“Collins, thanks for joining me,” he starts.

“Of course.”

It’s all formalities from my former friend.

“I’ll get right to it—we need to hire you for an upcoming case. It’ll be a new contract specific to this case only.”

Meaning I can request whatever support and resources I’ll need.

“The Marlin.”

Dodger clears his throat and nods in confirmation.

“We need you to catch the Marlin. We have no idea who it is, and the illegal trade wars are off the charts. It’s time to step in.”

Interesting. They still have no known facts about any characteristics that would help identify the Marlin, similar to my situation with the Kingpin.

“I have a few leads regarding the Kingpin of Charlotte.”

“The one who has ties to all of the Carolinas?”

“Yes.”

“Very good.”

There’s an awkward pause.

“I know that’s a tough one for you,” he finishes.

Oh. My troubles capturing the Kingpin have spread through the grapevine.

“I have a plan. It’s detailed and expensive and will require resources from the agency. I know I can capture them.”

“Very good. I have one condition.”

“What’s that?”

“We’re bringing on a partner for you to work with.”

I twitch my lips, shocked.

“Excuse me? Dodger…”

I give him a tight smile to try and regroup internally without showing my disdain for the idea of working directly with a partner.

“Director, you know I work alone on my contracts.”

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