London Bridges: A Novel by James Patterson Read Free Book Online Page A

#11
    Marked change in affect today. Very energetic, euphoric, and almost overwhelmingly charismatic (possibility of sociopathic disorder). Questioned the need for further sessions, and stated, “I feel terrific.” When questioned about issues with his wife, stated: “Things couldn't be better. She adores me, you know.”
    Discussed an episode of risky behavior this past week involving driving his car very fast, and intentionally leading police on a high-speed chase. Alluded to participating in sexual behavior with another partner, possibly a prostitute, and spoke of “rough sex.” Manner of relating today was flirtatious, almost openly seductive. He is convinced that I “want” him.
    INTERVIEW #14
    Missed last appointment: no call. Apologetic today, but later became angry and restless. Stated that he felt the need to “reward himself.” Discussed increase in libido again, mentioned calling several high-priced escort services to engage in sexual activity, and discussed desire to engage in sadomasochistic behavior.
    Said that he is probably “in love” with me. No affect when he revealed this to me. None whatsoever. I must say, I am a little speechless. Colonel Shafer seems to be attending these sessions almost solely for the purpose of seducing me. And unfortunately, it's working.

Alex Cross 10 - London Bridges

Chapter 23
    After reading Dr. Cassady's notes, I have to admit, I was a little speechless, too. More than a little, actually. The strange case notes began to side with Shafer after the sixteenth visit; they no longer contained any of his personal feelings that must have led to the affair.
    Then Dr. Cassady stopped making notes on the sessions altogether. How incredibly odd, not to mention unprofessional. I assumed that their affair had begun by then. If I needed any more proof of what a clever and highly disturbed psychopath Shafer was, I had it in Dr. Cassady's notes.
    Late that night I got a call to head down to the crisis room again. I was told that the Wolf would be calling momentarily. This had to be something. The countdown had to start.
    When the call came through, he began in a low-key manner. “Thank you for getting together again on my behalf. I'll try not to disappoint you, or waste anyone's valuable time. Directors Burns, Bowen, Weir, do you have anything you'd like to say before I begin?”
    “You told us to listen,” said Burns. “We're listening.”
    There was a burst of laughter from the Wolf. “I like you, Burns. I suspect you'll be a worthy adversary. By the way, is a Mr. Mahoney there in the room?”
    The head of the Hostage Rescue Team and a friend of mine glanced at Ron Burns, who nodded to him to speak.
    Ned Mahoney sat hunched forward in his chair, and he was giving the Wolf the finger. “Yes, I'm right here. I'm listening.” He still had his middle finger extended. “What can I do for you?”
    “You can leave now, Mr. Mahoney. I'm afraid that you won't be needed. You're too unstable for my tastes. Too dangerous. And, yes, I'm quite serious.”
    Burns motioned for Mahoney to go.
    “There will be no need for the FBI's Hostage Rescue Team,” said the Wolf. "If it comes to that, all is lost, I assure you. I hope you're beginning to understand how my mind works. I don't want HRT mobilized, and I don't want any further investigation. Call off the dogs.
    “Are you all listening? No one is to try to find out who I am—or who we are. Do you really understand? Please respond if you do.”
    Everyone in the room called out, “Yes.” They understood. Once again, it seemed that the Wolf was trying to make us feel like children, or maybe he just enjoyed humiliating the FBI, CIA, and Homeland Security.
    “Anyone who didn't respond just then, please leave the room,” said the Wolf. "No, no, sit back down. I'm just having fun at your expense. I'm what you might call a 'creative type.' But I am serious about Mr. Mahoney, and about there being no formal investigation. I'm deadly serious