Page 56 of High Treason
Ali fought against him. “He made a fool’s mistake.”
Monica could step in, but this was Kord’s battle.
“Let me get to the truth,” Kord said. “No need for another killing.”
“Ali, stand down,” Prince Omar said. “Kord has a solid argument.”
Ali relaxed and Kord released him, then proceeded to cuff Malik. “Prince Omar, I need to take this man to the FBI office for questioning. With three murders, this is not an issue of diplomatic immunity.”
“I waive immunity,” Malik said.
“You can’t. Not up to you.” Kord had the authority to apprehend him, but having the prince’s approval would ease the tension.
“Prince Omar—” Malik’s voice was firm—“I welcome the questioning. The killer must be found, but I’m innocent of being part of a conspiracy or having any knowledge of the murders.”
A flash of regret crossed the prince’s face. “It’s hard for me to saykillerandMalikin the same breath. But do we ever really know those whom we trust?”
Yasmine’s actions had hurt him.
“Omar. I’m your friend,” Kord said. “I’m going to find who has committed these crimes. I don’t care who’s responsible.”
“This is disappointing, and I’m angry. I was aware of his interest in Yasmine, but to bring disgrace on her is unforgivable.”
“I’d like to leave now. Whether Malik’s guilty or innocent, we’ll find out.”
“All right. I’m coming with you. If he confesses to these crimes, I want to hear it.”
“What if an assassin is waiting outside the gates?” Kord said.
“You know I will not cower to fear.”
Monica took a deep breath and prayed for respectful words. “Prince Omar, I’m a novice with your culture, but I’m learning. Yasmine is a child. I beg you to remember her naiveté.”
Lines creased his face. “Yes, she is young, but she’s been versed in our ways. Her actions are inexcusable. Thank you. Your concern is appreciated. Will you remain with my sisters while I’m away?”
Was Prince Omar asking her to probe for information? No need.If Fatima or Yasmine knew anything, she’d find out. “Of course. Is there anything else?”
“No. Two of my men will guard the home—Karim and Fares. You’re free to go.”
She hid a smile.
“Monica, I’ll text you with updates of Malik’s and my conversation before you arrived,” Kord said. “And will you tell us why you and the princesses were up so late?”
Such formality. “I hesitate to mention this with the cultural variances between our countries. But I heard Yasmine leave tonight. Saw her and Malik in the garden area. I followed and questioned them.”
The heavy sound of Prince Omar’s sigh echoed around the room.
FOUR THIRTY THURSDAY MORNING,and Monica saw little hope for sleep. She sat with the two sisters in the common area sipping fresh coffee. Monica must prove her sincerity to Fatima and Yasmine and search for the truth. If they knew anything about the betrayal in this house, it would not surface easily, and certainly not to a woman outside their culture. Their differences demanded an assurance Monica was on their side. Being straightforward was the best approach.
“I want to be your friend,” Monica said. “What I’m about to say cannot be told to your mother. She has enough concerns. On the surface, my job is an assistant to Kord. In truth, I’ve been assigned to help him protect this family and use every means to find who’s responsible for the tragedies. You two are in as much danger as Prince Omar. The text sent to your brother’s phone proved it. The killer has an agenda, and he has no thoughts of mercy. A conspiracy of this size means more are working against your family. They will kill again unless they’re stopped.”
“I have a question.” Fatima arched her back like an irritated cat. “Are you an FBI agent too?”
“Does it really matter?”
“You are the one who said ‘truth has no competitor.’”
Touché. “I’ve received similar training.”
