The Collector

He was searching for something other than Western trash on the radio when Luka’s cell phone rang. Checking the caller ID, he saw that it was Popov calling yet again. He had half a notion not to answer, but knew that would only lead to big trouble.

  “Da,” he answered.

  “Where are you now, Luka?” Popov asked.

  Luka thought back to the last road sign he’d seen then referred to the map. “Almost to the border of Pennsylvania. It seems like I’ve been in this country forever!”

  “It’s a state, not a country. We have another change in plans and you’re going to have to work fast. I want you to head back toward the airport in Pittsburgh. It’s not far from where you are now.”

  “What is this Pittsburgh? Why am I going there, Yuri?”

  “To pick somebody up.”

  “Who, Yuri? I thought you said it was just me going to make the pick up.” Luka whined. He now wished he hadn’t answered the phone.

  “Don’t give me any shit, Luka! I want you to pick up Mick at the airport. He will meet you near the security gate once you get there.”

  Mick! he thought. Not the killer! Oh shit, now what was going to happen?

  “Why is Mick going with me?” Luka asked, the unmistakable tone of fear in his voice. But of course he already knew the answer. Mick was to eliminate somebody. It was what Mick did. Luka felt his blood pressure drop. Was this some kind of set-up?

  “Relax, Luka. I have just found out that Mr. Gordon Parks is indeed a private investigator named Swansea and that he’s been snooping around Wayneston looking for the girls. We have a pretty good idea where he will begin his search and somebody has to be there to deal with him. Now do you get the picture?”

  “I thought that was what the Hank man was for. Why have you chosen Mick instead?”

  “Because I didn’t think I could get a hold of Mick in time. But I was able to pin him down after all. Now quit asking questions and do as you’re told, okay?”

  “Yes, Yuri, of course. How will I know what this Mick looks like? I’ve heard of him but never met the man.”

  “He’ll find you, don’t worry. Just hang around in the security area until he locates you. And don’t screw this up, Luka. You need to pick up Mick and make up for lost time. Understood?”

  “I will be there.”

  Popov disconnected. Luka started looking for the first exit where he could turn around at, wishing he had never returned to this wretched country.

  He didn’t trust either Popov or Mick the Brit any further than he could throw them.