Page 57 of Claim Me
My interruption was to crowd his space, my anger significant enough I had my hand wrapped around his scrawny throat before I knew what I was doing.
The pressure was severe and almost instantly his eyes were close to bulging. He clawed at my arm as I lifted him onto his toes. With his face reddening, he was starting to remind me of the vermin he was.
“I don’t think it’s in your best interest to refuse to provide your assistance, Detective. I mean, you do have a family you cherish.”
He sputtered, spittle oozing from the crusted corners of his mouth. I added more pressure and a huge part of me wanted to snap his neck. Unfortunately, that wouldn’t have the outcome I was intending. With a quick snap of my hand, I released my hold, shaking my head as if he’d been a very bad boy.
He coughed a few times then wiped the back of his hand across his mouth.
“Are you… Are you threatening me, Mr. Dmitriyev?”
“Not at all. The longer you get to know me, the more you’ll see I never need to. And in case you’re thinking of having me arrested, I would caution you to reconsider since I do have some juicyincriminating information left by my friend. And I assure you that there will be a trickledown effect.”
That should drive the old Russian Pakhan off his perch.
I backed away, smiling as I did. “One last thing. Make certain Popov knows that Ms. Valentine is completely off limits. I’m certain you’re demonstrative enough to describe what I did to your… associate. Imagine what I could do if given the time.” I turned to head out, noticing a box of cigars.
When was the last time I’d indulged in one? Too long. I headed toward the humidor, knowing his gaze followed. “Cuban. Utter perfection.” After selecting one, I stood, pulling the long cigar under my nose and inhaling. “Incredible. By the way. I’ll expect the person responsible for the Valentine family murders will be brought to justice. One way or another.”
“I’ll do my best.”
“Of course you will, because that’s your job.” I took one more look at the family and smiled. “Enjoy your day off, Detective, because things are about to get dicey.”
CHAPTER 17
Kazimir
I fingered the cigar even as I pulled into the parking lot of Marengo. There was no doubt I’d placed a gauntlet in the sand. As I found a space, I checked my watch. I’d done a quick tour of the port system. I’d seen several men with weapons, not bothering to secure them out of sight as a stranger passed by. They also didn’t attempt to stop me.
That was a clear indication the port was locked down by the Popov Bratva.
A cruise ship remained docked and I had to wonder how many illegal drugs and weapons were brought in by soldiers disguised as passengers.
After parking, I scanned the rearview and both side mirrors before stepping out. Over an hour had passed, which meant Vladimir should have been made aware of my offer. I laughed from the thought as I slipped the keys into my jacket pocket.
It wasn’t an offer at all, but an ultimatum, and no matter how the detective spun the narrative, the Pakhan would get the point.
I wasn’t playing games.
My visit to the resort wasn’t meant to draw attention, merely allowing me a better understanding of the layout and how I wanted to handle the meeting. There was no doubt the Russian would take the bait. However, speaking with the manager was a good idea. He or she needed to be made aware there could be a Russian invasion and what to do if there was.
What had my uncle advised me on my twelfth birthday? Ah, yes, how could I forget his sentiment since I’d been forced to recite it in fluent Russian before being allowed at my own party.
“Te, kto u vlasti, nikogda ne upustyat vozmozhnosti postroit’ korolevstvo.”
Those in power will never miss the opportunity to build a kingdom.
I’d never realized how profound it was.
I moved through the front doors, instantly realizing the access to the casino floor was too easy. Anyone could walk in. That would need to change. I also didn’t catch sight of any floor supervisors, unless they were intentionally trying to blend in with the crowd. I was pleased to see that even in the middle of a Wednesday afternoon, the crowd was substantial. Not nearly enough to repay the expensive renovation, but a good start.
Plus, the entire resort was beautiful, elegant yet casual. Unlike several of the Dmitriyev casinos, there was no dress code, most men and women in shorts or jeans given the warm day.
As I walked through, constantly scanning the terrain, it was easy to see Charlie had run a tight ship. I had no idea whether or not a single reporter had learned the news of his murder, but if the employees knew, I’d be surprised.
I headed to one of the bars, immediately greeted by the bartender.
“What can I get you?” She had a lovely smile, eager to please.
