Dual Assassins by Edward Vogler Read Free Book Online

with him.” Palmer paused for a moment and continued, “Many citizens are also scurrying around and securing all kinds of staple food items, then they seem to be migrating farther south.”
    Jim frowned, “What’s causing that action?”
    “I don’t know for sure, but it’s not normal. There are always issues with the folks across the border, but this is different. Most Koreans in the south are very happy not to be under Japanese rule any longer. They have welcomed the Western Allies since their liberation. I’ve heard the North may cross the border, but I don’t think that will ever happen. I feel safe here. Is that why you’re here?”
    “They want me here when Secretary Henderson arrives.”
    “We do have good communications equipment and other supplies here, so whatever you need, Jim, just ask.”
    “Thanks. I’ll need the names of the local leaders and their locations. I’ll start tomorrow.”
    There was a knock at the door, then in walked the Korean driver all smiles, wearing a white shirt and white pants. He stood in front of the two chairs.
    “Jim, this is Yeong-suk,” said Palmer, “but we all know him as Denny. He works with us here and is very reliable.” Rich turned to Denny and said, “This is Jim Wilson.”
    Jim stood up preparing to shake Denny’s hand, but Denny just bowed slightly then stood erect and remained silent.
    Palmer said, “Denny has worked here at the embassy for over two years…longer than I’ve been here.” Palmer looked at Denny. “I want you to stay with Jim. He will need your help. Make sure he gets everything he asks for and don’t let him out of your sight.”
    “Hokay Richard, full authorization, sir?” asked Denny who looked at Jim and smiled.
    Oh great, How could he get anything done with this guy at his side all day?
    Jim thanked Palmer and was escorted to an office where Bill Nickerson was sitting behind a desk, wearing an open collar white shirt.
    Denny quickly disappeared and Jim knocked on the open door frame. Bill looked up and inquired, “Wilson?”
    “Yes.”
    Nickerson rose from his desk and walked to the door, slamming it shut.
    Jim said, “I understand Secretary Henderson will be here soon, and I—“
    “Look Wilson,” said Nickerson, as they both stood in the middle of the floor. With a flat look and narrowed eyes he continued, “I don’t need your help, I don’t want your help. This is DS responsibility, not the CIA. Do you understand me?”
    Jim’s mouth fell open. A sudden coldness hit his core. “I don’t want to get in your way, Bill; I’m only here to help.”
    Bill rolled his eyes and waved his hand in dismissal and said, “You got my message…Stay away from me and stay away from Henderson…PERIOD.”
    “But—”
    “You’re through here, Wilson. You can leave now…goodbye.”
    Jim exited the room feeling perplexed and searched for Denny.
    What a reception he was getting at this place--damn!

Chapter Thirteen
    When Jim entered his room, Denny followed close behind and began to assist Jim in unpacking. Jim felt uncomfortable with Denny going through some of his things and filling up the drawers with his clothes, but apparently that was the custom. It was obvious to Jim that Denny was instructed to check out Jim’s equipment. The only equipment Jim had with him was a 9mm pistol which was common for embassy personnel.
    * * *
    The following day, Jim and Denny buttoned up their jackets and headed out into a strong wind with the temperature hovering near 40. Jim felt the wind cut through his jacket and he was chilled. The rainy season was soon approaching. This morning dark clouds formed on the horizon.
    Jim knew that Denny was a friend of the U.S., but when he looked at him, he reminded him of his torture by the Japanese. Jim and Denny entered the elevator and the door slammed shut, then the elevator whirred to the first floor. When they reached the parking lot, a guard handed Jim a set of keys and pointed to a black embassy