Chapter 68
Alan returned home from the camping trip to find his safe wide open. The police were sympathetic but not very helpful. Happens all the time, they said. Not many clues to go on, and we don’t want to raise your hopes. They advised him to call the insurance company, make his claim, and follow recommendations to increase his security level.
Groosjean had other cards to play. He called his patron immediately, closing the door so his wife and kids could not hear.
“I got robbed over the weekend.”
“We are sorry to hear that.”
“What can you do about it?”
“Give me a list of identifiable jewelry and other items that can be traced. We will make inquiries on who might be trying to sell them and trace the thief in that fashion.”
“The police and insurance company are conducting their own investigation, but I don’t have high hopes.”
“If they find anything our contacts will inform us. But I think you will find our methods more effective. Stay calm, we will be in touch.”
***
The next call Alan received was not so pleasant.
“Alan Groosjean?”
“Yes.”
“Are you missing something?”
“What are you talking about?”
“I’m looking at a nice haul of cash and jewels from your safe.”
“You stupid bastards. I’m protected. Do you understand what that means?”
“It means the media would be very interested to know about payments you have received from your patron. And the information you have leaked to him. Do you know what official misconduct means?”
“Don’t threaten me!”
“We don’t have to. I can just feed the information to the media and watch you get eaten alive. Do you really think your patron will step in to save you?”
“He’s looking for you right now.”
“Yes, but he won’t find us. We are not some drug-addled burglar clumsily giving items to a fence for you to trace.”
“What do you want?”
“To increase your income. You have accepted payments from your patron in exchange for privileged information. We would like you to share that information with us as well.”
“That’s a fine tap-dancing act you’re asking me to perform. What if he finds out?”
“Why should he? We, like him, have no desire to reveal our sources. Just share the information with us and double your secret income.”
“I’ll think about it.”
“Of course. Consider your situation very carefully. We will be in touch.”