No One Lives Forever by Jordan Dane Read Free Book Online Page A

On the surface, Jasmine's story had major holes in logic. It should have been a simple equation. Number one, the kidnappers would want a ransom. Number two, the local law should have been hot after the bad guys. And number three, Charboneau's lawyer should have earned his high-priced retainer by arranging for the funds to be wired. Yet according to Jasmine, only the ransom had been demanded by the kidnappers, nothing more. Something didn't add up.
    Or did it?
    "Unless someone doesn't want him to make it out of Brazil alive. It might be pretty convenient to get rid of him and blame it on the local cottage industry of corporate executive kidnapping." He threw his theory out for consideration, then turned his gaze toward Jasmine. "Why was Charboneau in Brazil?"
    A flicker crossed Jasmine's eyes. He knew in an instant that whatever response she contemplated would be a fraction of the truth.
    "Once or twice a year, he travels there. He generously funds a genetics research facility. He is a benevolent man." She'd answered his question, yet he knew she held something back.
    He wasn't surprised that Raven didn't buy Jasmine's act.
    "Let me take a stab at translating this for you, Christian," Raven offered. "She says Charboneau's involved with a charitable venture in South America. I see an opportunity to launder funds in a foreign country . . . and no doubt tax benefits for his corporation to boot. But I bet that's not all. Hell, I wish I got this much spin out of my washing machine. Ever think about a career in politics?"
    "I am only his bodyguard," Jasmine replied, pretending to be insulted. "I cannot respond to such an inference." If the situation were not so grave, he might have seen the humor in her indignation—an assassin who draws the line at associating with known tax evaders. Strange world!
    "Yeah, right." Raven crossed her arms and tilted her head, her facial expression mocking the woman's reply. "With that song and dance, you should take your act on the road. In fact, I insist."
    "Why Brazil?" Christian asked. "Genetics research is conducted in the United States too."
    "Maybe Charboneau doesn't like all the pesky laws we have in the good old U.S. of A.," Raven speculated.
    Jasmine ignored her insinuation, but not without a steely glare. "The rain forests and marshlands of the nearby Pantanal serve as a virtually untapped resource for new medicines . . . which is an offshoot of the research of Nicky's facility. I have heard him speak of this often."
    "Yeah. He sounds like a real humanitarian," Raven interjected. "Maybe the local natives got restless. They found out what he was doing and are asking for a million dollars in retribution. And who's to say, once the ransom is paid, Charboneau won't be killed anyway, to stop his plundering of their natural resources?"
    Christian had to admit Raven's points made sense.
    "My only concern is for Nicky," Jasmine said. "I cannot sit back and do nothing. I need to know your answer, Christian." Before he responded, she added, "But know this, if you turn me down, I will find a way to fly back there on my own. I will not leave him to those jackals."
    "Very commendable sentiments, but I need time to think. I won't be pressured." He had a lot to consider. And how much would he trust Jasmine's version of the truth? He didn't have many ways to verify it, especially without jeopardizing a rescue attempt.
    "Time?" Pulling back, she gripped the armrest of the chair. "If only I had it to give."
    "From where I'm sitting, you've got no choice. I have to contact the American consulate and call the State Department."
    Jasmine narrowed her eyes and clenched her jaw, knowing he intended to check out her story. She had to know he wouldn't take it at face value. He had a million reasons to make sure this wasn't a scam concocted by her and Daddy dearest. To her credit, Jasmine kept her mouth shut.
    "Plus, I have to speak to Fiona about the money . . . and other things," he continued. "Meet me here at