Don Leo

[NIKOLAI'S POV]

"The heat is on, Nikolai," Anton's voice crackled over the line. "These secret police bastards are invading our clubs and bars and hotels."

"The crates," I massaged my shoulder where Hazel stabbed me. "Let them search all they want. They won't find the crates there."

Anton was grumbling badly. "I don't like this, Nikolai. You're playing with fire. Tell me what you're planning."

"Tell Vladimir and Kwame to catch the next available flight to Manhattan," I instructed. "And also, double the guards at the safe house."

Anton grumbled loudly. "I hope you know what you're doing, Nikolai. We don't mess with the secret police and the military. Those guys are poison."

"Goodnight, Anton," I replied curtly and hung up.

I drowned my whiskey and leaned back on the sofa. Hazel was sleeping on the bed like a harmless little child.

At least she could sleep. Sleep was the only luxury that I couldn't afford.

The whispers of the ghosts of my victims underneath my bed wouldn't let me. Th