Page 13 of Canyon of Deceit
Rurik stared at his folded hands. “Since then, he’s been declared one of Russia’s most wanted men. But what shocked me was I recognized the voice of the man speaking.”
“Who?” I said.
“I’m hesitant to give his name... But it is Jurg Falin. He said they were using a network of people to learn if Baranov was in the US or en route here. They have a plan to take him and his family out. Jurg has either declared allegiance to the ROC—Russian organized crime—or he’s simply a patriot who craves accolades from our homeland. Jurg has never indicated discontent with the US or stated anything radical to cause me concern. I slipped into the shadows and made my way back inside to the party. I struggled with what I’d heard and if I should act. The US has been good to me, and many of its citizens are friends. Our governments often don’t see eye to eye, and my friends share varying opinions. But I didn’t want to be responsible for innocent people’s deaths.”
“Do you believe Baranov is innocent?”
Rurik stiffened. “How would I know? He had access to government and top military secrets, which makes his charges of treason valid. But his wife and son have not broken any laws to deserve death.”
“You and Jurg must be friends.”
“Yes, since we were boys in Russia. Close as brothers.”
“Sometimes people surprise and shock us,” I said. “Did he indicate who he was talking to?”
“No.”
“Is Jurg Falin the kidnapper who called you?”
“That is ridiculous. I would have recognized his voice.” Rurik lifted his chin. “If I had a name, I’d give it to you.”
“I’m sure you would. Continue.” I leaned in.
“Once we arrived home and the babysitter had left—”
“Who is the babysitter?”
“One of my students from the university.”
“I’d like her name for a background check.”
Rurik pulled a small notebook from his jacket and wrote a name and phone number. He ripped the page and handed me the paper.
“Thanks. Go on.”
“I relayed to Daria about what I’d heard from Jurg. I wanted to contact the FBI, but she panicked. She feared for my life and asked me to wait until the next day after I finished my classes at the university. She’d then go with me to ensure our family would receive US protection. She was extremely upset and insisted I not leave her or Alina that night. Neither did she want me to call the FBI for fear our phone might be monitored.”
I held up my finger to get his attention. “Why would your phone be bugged?”
“I have no idea, except Jurg has been to our home on several occasions. In my opinion, Daria made a valid argument, not that I’d ever participated in Russian or American affairs. One more day wouldn’t matter, so I agreed.” Rurik’s gaze darted behind him at the restaurant gradually filling with customers.
“Do you recognize anyone?” I said.
“No. Just observing. If I’d followed my instincts the night I heard Jurg’s conversation, none of this would have happened. I blame myself...”
“Sir, we must assume your overhearing an assassination plot and the following day your wife and daughter are missing are linked. Have you spoken to Jurg Falin?”
Rurik glanced at his fists. “He isn’t responding to calls or texts.”
“Is this normal for him?”
“If he’s busy.”
I turned to Therese. “Any more questions?”
“Not right now.” She swiped beneath her eyes.
I handed Rurik my business card. “Call me day or night. I need to talk to my boss and Therese before making a decision.”
