“Let’s call it a caprice then.”
“It isn’t, I assure you!”
“Fine.” I pull my hand away. “In that case, it’s a game. You’re playing some wicked game with me. It’s full of traps and dirty tricks and absurd rules that you make up as you go.”
“You couldn’t be more wrong!”
I give her a hooded look. “Here’s the thing, Camille. I don’t enjoy games, in general, but I fucking hate rigged games. I won’t play yours anymore.”
She lifts her chin and glares at me.
To make sure she doesn’t misunderstand my reply, I pull my hand away from her cheek and turn my back to her.
CHAPTER27
CAMILLE
When I woke up early the next morning, Louis was already awake. He asked if my head hurt, or if I had difficulty breathing—anything that felt off. I assured him I was perfectly fine. He nodded once and left my room.
We didn’t cross paths again until eight thirty. He was fresh, delicious-smelling, and devilishly handsome when he came to me while I was brewing coffee and informed me that he’d just transferred 100,000 euros to Joseph Wick’s account. He also added that he’d like to be there for Joseph’s revelations.
I texted Joseph that half of his requested amount had been wired, and the other half will be released after my husband and I hear his story. Louis left for the embassy. I went to my daily class, and then Rudy drove me to MINDFUCH.
It’s almost five o’clock now. I’m bored out of my mind and staring at the ceiling in my office when Joseph calls.
He sounds almost surprised. “The transfer came through. I have the one hundred grand.”
“You didn’t believe we’d wired it, or you didn’t expect to receive it so soon?”
“Both, to be frank.”
“We’ve held up our side of the deal,” I say. “Can we see you in Tuileries tonight?”
His reply comes a little delayed. “It’s too risky to meet there.”
“Why not at our apartment then?”
“That may be even riskier.”
“Outdoors?” I ask.
“Kurt may have eyes on your husband,” he points out. “If we meet outdoors, especially after dark, his men will have an easier time using a sound amplifier to listen to our conversation.”
“I doubt anyone is following Louis.”
Anyone other than his grandfather’s detectives, that is.They would’ve spotted a tail on Louis and reported it to the old duke.
When Joseph remains silent, I ask, “What do you suggest then?”
“Let’s meet in Smith & Son in about an hour.”
“The British bookshop across from the Tuileries Garden?”
“That’s the one,” he confirms. “I go there often, so it won’t look suspicious if I’m seen walking in. Besides, that shop is always full of people around six, and the level of noise will be just right.”
“For what?”
“For us to hear each other, but not for those around us to eavesdrop.”