Code Name: Crescent: A Matt Preston Novel by Shadinger Paul

Author:Shadinger, Paul [Shadinger, Paul]
Language: eng
Format: azw3
Published: 2017-01-30T05:00:00+00:00

Chapter 11

MOUSE

Mouse’s real name is Steve Fox, but other than Sakol and me, I don’t think anyone else knows that. The reason Mr. Fox is called Mouse is his size. I’m around 6’3” and I must be at least a foot taller than he is. Other than his size, there are two outstanding things about Mouse. The first is the way he dresses. The man is a walking advertisement for GQ. The other is his knowledge of what’s happening in not only Western Washington, but around the world. The man knows secrets that I find almost frightening. In addition, he seems to know everybody. I figured if anybody knew anything about Bud Cox, Mouse would.

When Sakol and I visited Mouse at what I refer to as his place of business, I swore I would never go back. It was without a doubt one of the most frightening places I have ever been. Considering where I’ve been and what I’ve done, that’s a strong statement. I guess the lesson learned here is: never say never.

I parked a few doors down and carefully locked my car. The street in front of his building and the stairs leading down to his den were exactly as filthy as I remembered them. The light at the bottom of the stairs was just as feeble as I remembered from my last visit. The place did not invite unwanted visitors by its appearance.

I’d seen Sakol reach out and turn a doorknob somewhere. I fumbled around until I located it and opened the door. The room was still dark but I thought the stench was worse than last time. This time I knew where I was going and I was able to navigate the dimness. When I touched the door at the end of the room, a massive black man stepped out of the shadows. His voice was a rumble. “What do you want?”

“I’d like to see Mouse,” I announced, trying not to show any fear.

“Do you have an appointment?” the rumbly voice asked.

“No, but—”

The man interrupted me, “Does he know you?”

“Yes, I’ve been here before. And we have mutual friends.”

“Just a minute. Stay here.” The door opened a fraction and the gigantic man slipped through into the next room. What I found strange was he had not even asked my name. The door hadn’t closed completely when it opened up again. The immense man opened the door wide and invited me in.

The overblown elegance of the room stunned me, just as it had on my first visit. Everything about the room whispered luxury. I saw the fire burning brightly in the fireplace and Mouse sitting behind his massive desk. When he saw me, he jumped up and literally ran towards me. He extended his hand and as we shook, he held my hand in both of his and exclaimed, “Matt! What a treat to have you come and visit. I never thought you’d come back here again.” I couldn’t help myself, I had to laugh. Mouse smiled and continued, “I can’t believe I’m seeing you so soon.

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