Forged in Steele by Susan Sleeman

Author:Susan Sleeman [Sleeman, Susan]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Edge of Your Seat Books, Inc

12

Still in his vehicle, Jared stared open-mouthed as Bristol described her conversation with the woman named Amelia Gasper. The woman’s story was shocking, but the fact that Bristol had gotten her to open up? Just as surprising.

“And you think she’s legit?” Jared asked.

“Yes.”

“Let’s make sure she really is who she says she is.” Jared quickly texted Piper to do a deep dive on the woman.

“Have you ever heard of the Marshall Islands?” she asked.

He nodded and finished his text. “I came to learn about the Marshallese people on a human trafficking investigation. We have a large community of Marshallese in Salem. I’d heard many of the adult workers have moved here, not only because there are no jobs, but due to climate change. Apparently, the warming, rising tides are causing the islands to sink, and they could even disappear.”

“That’s sad.” Bristol clasped her hands on her skirt. “I could tell Amelia was homesick for her country.”

“Which means she could be vulnerable.” Jared’s stomach knotted. “I’d hate to prey on that, but do you think if you spent more time alone with her that you can turn her to our side?”

“If I keep remembering that we’re helping her, then I think there’s a chance I can do it.” Bristol took a long breath. “One problem though. Holloway placed security cameras in the house and is watching the women. I don’t know when we could talk to her again. If we can’t arrange something soon, we’ll have to move on. Luna can’t wait.”

“Then let’s pressure Holloway to come through for us.” Jared got out his prepaid phone assigned to his undercover identity and dialed Holloway’s office. His assistant put Jared through.

“Mr. Holloway.” Jared made sure he came across as cheerful. “Sorry to trouble you. I know we just left, but I wondered if there was any additional information you might need to speed up our application.”

“It would be highly irregular to short-cut things,” Holloway said.

But he didn’t say impossible so Jared went for the kill. “My wife was so encouraged by our meeting that I had such hope. Unfortunately, she started wondering if you’ll accept us as clients and how long it might take and her good mood disappeared. I want to give her everything her heart desires and can’t stand to fail. Perhaps if we pay a finder’s fee for a timely resolution to our issue you could expedite our case.”

“You’re very eager, Mr. Young.” An accusing tone had crept into Holloway’s voice.

“That’s a kind way of putting it. More often I’m called pushy.” Jared chuckled. “I’m used to succeeding at whatever I put my mind to. To be honest, this has thrown me for a loop.”

“Let me see what I can do for you,” Holloway said. “But you have to understand that I need to do my due diligence. We can’t place a child with just anyone.”

“Of course not.” Jared didn’t have to work hard to sound outraged at the prospect as he was sick to his stomach after hearing about the women at Holloway’s house.

Download

Copyright Disclaimer:
This site does not store any files on its server. We only index and link to content provided by other sites. Please contact the content providers to delete copyright contents if any and email us, we'll remove relevant links or contents immediately.