In Code Blood, Two by S.W. Frank

Author:S.W. Frank [Frank, S.W.]
Language: eng
Format: mobi
Published: 2022-01-14T00:00:00+00:00

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The thumps quickened at Fatima’s breast from salient memories.

“Mrs. Sasani… Mrs. Sasani.”

She opened her eyes.

“Mrs. Sasani?”

“Yes?” she said. The vivid images were dissolved by the presence of Jadu.

“You may come in, now.”

She entered a space occupied by dangerous men. Her painted toes crushed the carpet as she traipsed by stone-faced guards. Two brothers —both old, but one wore age better sat cross-legged on the floor opposite Azmir. Their modest attire clashed with their haughty airs. Their gaze followed Fatima whose femininity their lot sought to hide with material.

Fatima halted. “Salaam.”

“Salaam,” Hasem, Mahmoud’s younger brother said. His wrinkles were gentle creases unlike his elder sibling’s whose lines resembled carvings.

Mahmoud took longer to utter a greeting. “Salaam,” he whispered. “Elahe Sasani.”

Bastard!

“Accept our apologies for the wait.” Hasem stroked his salt and pepper beard. “Tell me, how is Cyrus? I’ve heard he resembles Azmir more each day.”

“He’s well,” Fatima answered, ignoring the barb. “And how are your children?”

Hasem scoffed. “They are lazy and live luxuriously off me. That is why I have decided my nephew Hafez will inherit my holdings.”

Surprised by the news, Fatima filed the information away for future use.

“And how are you?” Hasem continued with the small talk.

“I’m well, and your wife?”

“She is well, thank you.”

Mahmoud interjected. “Azmir has shared his outrage that you were not immediately permitted in. But, I wanted to have a private word with him prior to speaking with the both of you.”

Fatima bristled at Mahmoud’s gumption. “As long as your private word did not include any business in which I have a vested interest.”

“You speak your mind as usual.” His hand tapped a knee. “I suppose you also know nothing about the killings of Hafez’ brother-in-law or employee.”

“Only what is on the news.” Fatima scoffed. “This is the private word you sought to have in my absence?”

He studied her. “Apparently, there is trouble among my relatives and some Saudi’s, but it is odd that Hafez’ son-in-law was also murdered within days of Vishal. Sometimes, things are not always what they seem.” He sighed. “In any event, we will uncover the truth.”

“Now can we discuss business?” she asked.

Mahmoud gazed at Fatima with a cloaked expression. “Family is more important than business.”

“I agree. But, your family affairs is not ours,” she said. “We need more time.”

“Hm, we cannot grant it.”

“You can, but you refuse to.”

“Careful,” he said.

Steel poked her thigh. The solid temptress reminded her of its presence. Kill him now and end this. But, if I do Azmir is exposed. Wait —be patient. Soon, I will be free to live the life I desire.

“We expect the money on the date given,” Mahmoud said.

“For an expedited delivery we have to increase our fee to thirty-five percent,” Azmir said. He rose and stood at Fatima’s side. Fine strings of gray kissed his temple, but did not reach his crown. His massive build shielded his formidable partner.

Mahmoud picked imaginary lint from his tunic. “Hm, that is a hefty sum.”

Azmir’s nostrils flared. “What we offer is a bargain. If it is

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