Page 30 of Rise of the King (Checkmate 5)

Storytime? I’m kinda tired of working blind, so maybe it’s time we got to know each other.

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From: AcesAndEights

Subject: No

Also, no.

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From: KingOnD8

Subject: Pussy

Why won’t you show your face? What are you scared of? Are you ugly, or recognizable? Which is reason enough to stay hidden for two years? You think I don’t watch the locker? You never show your face while I’m watching.

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From: AcesAndEights

Subject: Mind your own business

You’re stupider than I gave you credit for if you think I don’t have surveillance on that locker. I’m not coming out just because you asked me to. I have my reasons; I have my motivations, and I have my own plans.

For now, your goal and mine match: we’re both smoking out the same rat, so we may as well collaborate. But don’t worry; the second you’re no longer useful to me…

Narrowing my eyes at what he leaves unsaid, I stare at my screen as something niggles the back of my mind. Something is off about Ace, something slightly… different.

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From: KingOnD8

Subject: I’m gonna sleep at the lockers from now until I see you

Can’t say I can let this curiosity go.

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From: AcesAndEights

Subject: I’ll bail and find a new soldier.

Never forget that you need me more than I need you. You’re running blind without me, Bishop. I can find muscle everywhere I look, so don’t start thinking you’re more important than you are.

I was emailing to let you know I’m still here. Your brother is getting antsy, but they’re trying to keep him under wraps. The update is that there is no update.

Twiddle your thumbs for a few more days; I’m working this as fast as I can.

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From: KingOnD8

Subject: Why do they call you Ace?

Tell me?

I’m lonely and need a pal.

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