GARTH DIDN’T KNOW WHAT TO DO about his boss. Brewster was doing his thing on stage, making big promises in exchange for votes. Judging from the noise inside, the crowd clearly supported him. Another good speech that helped to build momentum, according to the plan. A plan that depended on Garth coming through.
His blue-striped iPhone chirped. The number had a 613 area code. Ottawa. Code name: Aspen. Another key part of Garth’s plan.
The voice was hoarse. “It’s me.”
“And?”
“I know why the big shipment didn’t arrive.”
Garth waited.
“It was intercepted by a navy patrol.”
“I thought you said the ship would be protected?”
“It was a total fluke.”
There had been too many flukes, Garth thought. “How do you know?”
“I’ve just seen the damned report.”
“I’ve arranged for two more shipments from the same source. They should be leaving tomorrow. I don’t want them touched.”
“This better be worth it.”
Garth repeated his orders. “I don’t want them touched. You make sure that no one messes with them. Got it?”
“I’m not some little shit you can spit on. I’ve been doing this for thirty years. You promised me my country. You better deliver. I’ve been waiting a long time for this.”
Garth did need him. He was a high-ranking military officer who had arranged the shipment’s free passage from Boston. Garth backed off. “You’re right. You’re right. We’re getting close to the big finish here, and this is the time when I need you more than ever. Your country is counting on you.”
He heard a faint sigh. “I’ll need details of the ships and the routes.”
“I’ll have them sent directly to you shortly. Remember, this has to work. If we fail, we’re both screwed. No country and no future. For you or for me.”