Page 42 of The Collector
“Magnus Larsen was a valuable asset in more ways than one,” said Morosov. “A messy scandal involving his private life would have led to his removal as CEO of DanskOil. Volodya was never going to allow that to happen. He’d invested too much money in him.”
“How much are we talking about?”
“Several million a year in so-called consulting fees, payable to his account at TverBank, none of which he declares to the Danish tax authorities. He also has a house in Rublyovka, the billionaires’ suburb west of Moscow. For all intents and purposes, Magnus Larsen is a Russian oligarch now.”
“A Russian oligarch with a Danish passport and impeccable Danish manners.”
“A Russian emissary in everything but name,” added Morosov. “But why is Magnus Larsen of any interest to you, Allon?”
“Because he paid a Copenhagen rare book dealer to steal a painting. And for the life of me, I can’t figure out why.”
“Perhaps you should ask him.”
“I intend to, Sergei.”
Morosov stoodon the veranda of his dacha, his arm raised in farewell, as the SUV rolled through the camp’s open gate and started back toward Rosh Pina. Only Ingrid, in the backseat next to Gabriel, returned the gesture, which brought a broad smile to the Russian’s face.
“Who is that man?”
“I’m afraid I can’t answer that question. Suffice it to say, he was very helpful.”
“How so?”
“Peter Nielsen’s client was the CEO of Denmark’s largest oil-and-gas company.”
“Magnus Larsen?”
Gabriel nodded. “And it gets better, I’m afraid.”
“I’m not sure that’s possible.”
“Magnus has been a Russian asset for twenty years. And if my friend is to be believed, there’s a dead girl in his past.”
“Did Magnus kill her?”
“He didn’t have to. The Russians did it for him.”
“Was the girl Russian, too?”
“Danish, actually. It happened about ten years ago. My source wasn’t able to tell me her name.”
“It shouldn’t be hard to figure out who she was. I’ll have a look at the missing persons database.”
“How about some dinner first? I know a place not far from here.” Gabriel exchanged a look with Mikhail. “The view is extraordinary, and the food and ambience are very authentic. I think you’ll find it interesting.”
“More interesting than a secret detention center in the middle of nowhere?”
“Oh, yes,” said Gabriel, reaching for his phone. “Much.”
23
Tiberias
The voice at the other end of the cellular connection sounded strong and clear and resolute.
“When should Gilah and I expect you?”
“Twenty minutes or so.”
