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Chase paused. “Nothing has come up. I’ve searched for weeks. But the FRU has tons more resources to find people.”
Burnett arched an eyebrow. “We do. Unfortunately, when looking for the real scum of the earth, it’s not those resources that usually turn something up. It’s who you know, other scumbags, who are willing to talk.”
“So I should go through my scumbag list?” Chase asked with a touch of sarcasm, but then he had an idea and immediately adjusted his attitude. “I see your point.”
Burnett nodded. “Oh, I heard from the FRU again. They are expecting you to work full-time. Have you actually finished your primary education?”
“A year ago,” Chase said.
“And college?” Burnett asked.
“I took one semester and I might go back on my own later, but I’m eager to start my career with the FRU.”
Burnett closed the file. “Working under me and living here, there will be rules.”
Chase didn’t care much for rules. “I’m sure we can compromise.”
Burnett’s eyes grew just a bit brighter. “I don’t compromise. You’ll either follow them, or you’ll find yourself living somewhere else.”
Chase’s gut tightened. “What are the rules?” If Burnett said he couldn’t be near Della, all bets were off.
Burnett’s phone dinged with an incoming text. He pulled his cell out, read the message, and frowned.
Not that Chase expected it to be good news at this hour.
Burnett stood and tucked the file under his arm. Then he pointed to the envelope on the sofa.
“That’s your contract, and it covers their rules. We’ll go over mine later. I have to go.” He tapped the file he held. “I’ll keep this.”
“What’s wrong?” Chase asked. “Can I help you with something?”
“No.” The adamant way the man gave that one-word response worked its way into Chase’s suspicions.
“Is it about Della?” Chase stood up.
“I said I didn’t need help.” He started out.
“Wait, you can’t—”
Burnett swung around. “Yes, I can! You said you wanted to earn my respect. So start earning it by listening. I’m taking care of this.”
Chase met Burnett’s stern glare. “Is Della in danger? Tell me she’s not in any danger and I’ll do as you ask.”
“She’s not in danger.” He left.
Chase dropped in the chair and ran his hands through his hair. Then he grabbed his phone and sent Della a text.
Are you okay? What’s up?
No answer dinged back. Was she still pissed?
Everything inside him screamed for him to find Della, but damn it, he sensed this was his first test from Burnett. Inhaling, he recalled the honesty in the camp leader’s voice when he assured him she wasn’t in any danger.
Could he trust him?
What if he was wrong?
Chapter Seven
