"Roberts, Nora - A Matter of Choice" - читать интересную книгу автора (Roberts Nora)

and money on her hands. Smuggling for kicks, he mused. A change of pace
from shopping and parties and jet-setting.

"The Bureau's closing in," Dodson stated. "The next few weeks could
bring the whole mess down around her ears. It might be dangerous for
her." Slade controlled the snort of derision. "Even the shield of
ignorance isn't going to protect her once things come to a head if her
shop's involved. I've tried to convince her to come to New York for a
visit, but..." His voice trailed off. Amused exasperation moved over his
face. "Jessica's stubborn. Claims she's too busy. She tells me I should
come visit her." With a shake of his head, Dodson let out what passed
for a sigh. "I considered it, but my presence at this point could
jeopardize the investigation. However, I feel Jessica needs protection.
Discreet protection. Someone trained to deal with the situation, who can
stay close to her without causing speculation." A smile touched his
eyes. "Someone who could assist the investigation from the inside."

Slade frowned. He liked the conversation less and less. Taking his time,
he stubbed out his cigarette. "And how do you expect me to do that?"

Dodson smiled fully. He liked the irritation in Slade's voice as much as
the directness. "Jessica will do what I want--to a point." Leaning back
in the overstuffed leather chair, he relaxed again. "She's been
complaining lately about the mess her library's in, about not having
enough time to sort through and catalog. I'm going to call her, tell her
I'm sending the son of an old friend of mine and her father's. That's
true, by the way," he added. "Tom and Larry knew each other some years
back. Your cover's simple enough. You're a writer who needs a quiet
refuge for a few weeks, and in turn, you'll sort out her library."

Slade's eyes had darkened during Dodson's casual rundown.
"Jurisdiction--" he began.

"Some paperwork," Dodson interrupted easily. "It can be taken care of.
After all, it's the boys from the Bureau who'll make the collar when
it's time."

"I'm supposed to play librarian and baby sitter." Slade gave a snort of
disgust. "Look, Commissioner, I'm that close to wrapping up the
Bitronelli murder." He brought his thumb and forefinger together. "If--"

"You'd better be," Dodson interrupted again, but with a hint of steel in
his voice. "The press is having a great time making the NYPD look like
fools on that one. And if you're so close," he added before Slade could
toss back a furious retort, "you should be able to leave for Connecticut
in a couple of days. The Bureau is interested in having a cop on the
inside. A cop who knows how to keep his eyes and ears open. They've
checked you out and agree with my choice."

"Terrific," Slade muttered. Standing, he prowled the room. "I'm