Heather Fleming

Three hours later, after the crime scene had been processed, and the paperwork had been doled out, and after Kelley had been taken to the hospital, Tobias was back in his hotel room, packing up the last of his belongings.

When his cell phone rang he answered it immediately. “Lucien?” he asked, hoping it would be his friend on the other end.

“No, it’s me,” Irons said.

“Oh.” Tobias put his phone on speaker and put it down so that his hands were free to keep packing. “I’m about to head out. Did you need something?”

“I wanted to tell you that Kelley’s awake and is going to be fine,” Irons told him.

“Good.” Tobias waited a moment to see if Irons had anything else to say. “Is that all?” he asked, when no more information was forthcoming.

“You’re working with Lucien Keene on your next case?” Irons asked.

“Yes.”

“I’ve read Lucien’s file. I know all the anniversaries this month marks for him, and I know how he tends to get every October.”

Tobias felt a spark of anger on Abdiel’s behalf. “Lucien’s not stupid,” he said hotly, “and he’s not reckless when other peoples’ lives are on the line.”

“I’m not criticizing him,” Irons said quickly. “I’m just letting you know . . . if you need damage control, it would be best to call the OCU in sooner rather than later.”

“I’ll keep that in mind,” Tobias said. “If there’s nothing else?”

“That’s all,” Irons said.

“Until next time, then,” Tobias said.

“Until next time,” Irons agreed.

Tobias ended the call then speed dialed Lucien’s number. Once again, his call went directly to voicemail.
“This is Abdiel. Leave me a message or leave me alone.”
“It’s Tobias again,” he said after the beep. “I’ve given you more than enough time to get back to me, and I’m on my way to Garville now. I imagine I’ll be seeing you soon.” He killed the connection and pocketed his phone, then picked up his bag and started toward the door, ready for his next job.

To find out what Abdiel’s up to in Maine, and what happens once Tobias arrives, check out Grotesque Game.