Page 95 of Dirty

I eventually reached the top of the steps and then met his gaze. “We haven’t met. I’m Adam.”

He nodded. “Pleasure to meet you, Mr. Downey. I’ve heard good things about you. I’m Mr. Bale’s confidant and assistant, Downes.”

“Downes?”

He gave a nod. “That is correct, Sir.”

“Pleasure to meet you.”

“Likewise,” he said. “Follow me, Sir? Mr. Bale will be down in a moment.”

“Sure.”

I followed him into the home, and along the corridor toward the rear of the house. His size and swagger led me to believe he was the security guard Mr. Bale had mentioned inheriting along with the home.

He stopped just short of a large room that was decorated with rich leather and velour furniture. The back wall was solid glass, and gave an unobstructed view of the ocean. I walked toward the glass and stared out at the waves as they came toward the shore.

“Beautiful, isn’t it?” he asked.

“It sure is.”

“What can I get you to drink?” he asked.

“I’m fine, thank you.”

“I’ll bring you a water. Have a seat, Mr. Downey.”

I sat down in a chair that faced the windows. As I admired the size and structure of the room, Mr. Bale walked in.

He stopped directly in front of me. “Is it as painful as it looks?”

I shook my head. “Not bad at all, really.”

“Sorry for your misfortune,” he said. “I hope they’re captured.”

I felt if I told the complete truth, he’d lose faith in me. So, I told a modified version of the truth, linking my injuries to being mugged by street thugs outside a restaurant.

“I’m sure they’ll get what they deserve,” I said.

“Let’s hope so.”

“I’m sorry about my absence. I was unconscious for almost three days.”

“The project came along smartly while you were away. Have you seen it yet?”

“I haven’t.”

I’d scheduled the painter, the cabinets, and the finish carpenter prior to being abducted, and hoped they’d made as much progress as I asked them too.

He motioned toward the kitchen. “Are you up to it?”

I pushed myself up. “Lead the way.”

When I entered the room, I was stunned. I tried to hide my excitement, but doubted I did a good job.

The cabinets were white, and no differently than the cabinets we had installed in the kitchen in Oceanside, they brightened up the space. The 6” custom crown molding seemed massive when I looked at a sample, but seeing it installed was proof that my instincts were correct.

“Crown molding looks great,” I said.