Page 46 of Bold Encounter
"And if they refuse that guidance?"
"Then they might find themselves facing unnecessary obstacles," Jason said, his tone still conversational."The industry has ways of teaching difficult artists about the value of cooperation."The direct threat was delivered with a crooked smile.
"That sounds like intimidation, Mr.Thornton."
Jason held up his hands in mock innocence."Not at all, detective.I'm simply describing how the business works.Artists who alienate important people often find their opportunities limited.It's unfortunate, but it's reality."
Abe felt his professional restraint slipping."Let me be clear.If Ms.Dumas experiences any further harassment, interference with her career, or threats to her safety, I'll be looking directly at you."
"I appreciate your dedication to protecting the citizens of New Orleans," Jason said, then stood up."But I hope you're also investigating other possibilities.Genevieve has made enemies over the years.You might look to former husbands, rival artists, or disgruntled business associates.Any of them might want to damage her reputation."
"I'll keep that in mind," Abe said, moving toward the door."Thank you for your time."
"Of course."Jason walked around his desk, following Abe out."I hope this situation resolves quickly.It would be terrible ifgood peoplegot caught in situations beyond their control."
The threat was unmistakable, and Jason's satisfied expression made it clear he wanted Abe to understand exactly what he was saying.
Stepping into the hallway, Jason extended his hand again."Detective, I hope we can work together to ensure Genevieve's safety.After all, we both want what's best for her."
Abe didn't take the offered hand."What's best for her is for certain people to leave her alone."
Jason's smile widened."I'm sure everything will work out as it should."
*****
The hallway outside Jason's office felt like a different world.Gone was the opulent atmosphere of wealth and power, replaced by the more utilitarian feel of a converted warehouse.Abe walked toward the elevator, processing what had just occurred.
Jason had implied that he had been the one sabotaging Genevieve's career, without directly admitting it.Worse, with hisgood peoplecomment, he'd made it clear that his harassment would continue and might expand to include Abe himself.The man was dangerous, connected, and completely convinced of his own righteousness.
Abe reached for the elevator call button.He pressed it and waited, eager to get out of Jason's lair and back to work building a case that would put the asshole behind bars.
The elevator doors opened, but before Abe could step inside, a large man in a security uniform appeared from a side corridor.
"Sorry, detective," the man said in a gravelly voice."Elevator's out of order.Maintenance issues.You'll need to take the stairs."
Abe glanced into the elevator car, which appeared to be functioning normally.The man was built like a linebacker, with scarred knuckles and eyes that had seen violence.This wasn't building security.Clearly, he was Jason's muscle.
"The elevator seems fine," Abe said.
"Trust me, it's not safe," the man insisted, moving to block Abe's access to the car."The stairwell's just down this way.It is much safer."
Abe instinctively moved his hand closer to his weapon, even though the man wasn't technically threatening him.Not yet.Still, every instinct screameddanger.
"Lead the way," Abe said, deciding to see where this was going.
The stairwell was dimly lit, with concrete steps leading down to the lower floors.The man proceeded to follow Abe down.As they reached the landing between the third and second floors, he suddenly stopped.
"You know, detective," he said, "Mr.Thornton mentioned you've been asking a lot of questions lately."
"It's my job to ask questions."
"Sure, but sometimes asking the wrong questions can get a person into trouble."The man stepped closer, his bulk filling the narrow stairwell."Mr.Thornton hopes you understand that."
Abe tensed, recognizing the setup."Are you threatening a police officer?"
"Me?Nah, man.I'm just trying to help you understand the situation."The man gestured toward the stairs."These old buildings can be dangerous, you know, with the bad lighting and uneven steps.It's easy for someone to have an accident."
Before Abe could respond, the man shoved him hard in the chest.Caught off guard, Abe stumbled backward, and his foot slipped on the edge of a step.
