Page 96 of One Eye Open (The BlackWater)

“Sixteen girls were found in the back of a lorry this weekend by Kent Police.” She replied.

“You think it links back to him?” Brandon asked.

“I think it’s a pretty good guess.”

Brandon sighed. “I want you on this Maddie. On the Omega Project.”

“I’m not stepping away. Not from this.” She stated.

Brandon looked to Cole who glanced between them both.

“Work it out between you. I’m not getting involved with this.” He stated.

“Fine. Maddie you’ve got two weeks.”

“What?” Maddie snapped.

“Two weeks on your case and then your back with me.”

“I’m not just coming back on board like that. I’m a department lead.” She stated.

“I know that and you won’t be a Junior Agent. You can work beside me.”

“What?” Maddie said frowning. Brandon never had anyone beside him. He was famous for it. Famous for leading alone.

“You’ve got the skills, you’ll be my SIC. I’m sure that will more than make up for the job change.”

“For fucksake.” Maddie muttered. He was bribing her she thought, making her SIC so she couldn’t refuse. “Fine. Whatever. So are we heading back today then?”

“Yeah, but we’ll have to stay at least until lunch.” Cole said.

“Urgh.” Maddie said before she could stop herself and both Cole and Brandon burst out laughing at her reaction.

“From what I could hear Cole was keeping you more than entertained here.” Brandon stated with a smirk.

Maddie rolled her eyes. “Cole is not the issue.” She said.

“Just the rest of us?” Brandon teased.

“Nah, you’re alright too.” Maddie said and he laughed.

“Come on let’s get to breakfast and get this day over with.” Cole said standing up and holding his hand for Maddie to take.

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