Cargo: A Leine Basso Thriller by D.V. Berkom Read Free Book Online Page A

again,” he’d said solemnly during one of their many shared meals. His expression had been so grave Leine didn’t press for details.
    “It is. And is this the most precious friend I had the fortune to meet many years ago in this, the beautiful city of treasures?”
    Kavi chuckled. “It is good to hear your voice, my friend. What brings you to Bangkok?”
    “I am in need of your services. Is there somewhere we can meet?”
    “Of course. Tonight?”
    “If it wouldn’t be a problem, yes.”
    “I will text you a location and meet you in one hour, if that will suffice.”
    “Perfect.”
     
    ***
     
    Kavi hadn’t changed at all in the years since she’d seen him. Apparently, most Thais knew the secret to staying young, even when they’d reached octogenarian status. Kavi was probably closer to forty than eighty, but even if he were the latter, she knew she’d see the same unlined, peaceful face.
    Kavi’s mouth split into a grin when he saw Leine, and he stood up to greet her, his eyes sparkling. Leine brought her hands up in prayer pose and bowed.
    “ Sawadi kap ,” she said, greeting him in Thai.
    Kavi returned the bow. “ Sawadi kap ,” he replied, waiting for her to take a seat across from him before joining her.
    “I took the liberty of ordering for you a Singha.” He pushed the beer toward her and had a sip of his own.
    Leine brought the bottle to her lips and let the cool liquid slide down her throat. Placing the beer on the table, she felt herself relax for the first time since the flight from LA.
    “You’re looking well,” Kavi observed as he settled back in his chair. He’d chosen the food court of an air-conditioned mall not too far from Leine’s hotel. There were several people still shopping at the exclusive stores, which suited Leine.
    Safety in numbers.
    “I heard you left.”
    Leine nodded, took another drink of her beer. “My conscience wouldn’t let me sleep. Especially after Carlos.”
    “I, too, have ended my tenure with our former employer,” Kavi said, his mouth pulling down at the corners. “There are rumors that it was your hand that ended Eric’s life.” Kavi watched her intently, his expression unreadable.
    “You can’t believe everything you hear. My understanding is that he was in the wrong neighborhood at the wrong time.” Leine shrugged. Kavi didn’t need confirmation that she had eliminated her ex-boss. He probably guessed she had. Besides, his own code of honor would demand the death of one who initiated such a betrayal.
    “Either way, it is good that such a man is dead.”
    Preliminaries out of the way, Leine pushed a photo of Kylie across the table toward him. Kavi leaned forward in his chair and glanced at the picture.
    “I’m looking for a girl who was last seen at a hostel downtown. Her family is worried something’s happened to her.”
    Kavi shook his head. “Bangkok is filled with such girls. I will need more information than that.”
    “I have a name. Victor Wang. Ring any bells for you?”
    Kavi frowned. “Chinese.”
    Leine nodded.
    “Triad, then.”
    “I suspect they are involved, yes. How deeply, I don’t know.”
    Kavi sighed. “I can check with my contacts, although I can’t promise anything.”
    “I realize that. But if anyone can tease a flower from a closed fist, it’s you.”
    Kavi gave her a wry smile. “Finding your Kylie will be like looking for a drop of water in the sea.” He paused, focusing on the photograph. “She will appeal to a specific segment of clientele—most American and European men prefer Thai women, so that will narrow it down a little. I will be the essence of discretion so that it does not raise suspicion. It could stir up a nest of vipers, otherwise.”
    “I have every confidence in your abilities, Kavi . Thank you.”
    Kavi inclined his head and toasted her with his beer. “For you, my friend, anything.”
    “How is Phan?”
    “She is quite well, thank you. She sends her best.”
    “What are you