Chapter 44

Once he’d shed his outerwear, he went into Derek’s office to download them onto the computer. Derek joined him, saying after he’d looked at them, “If looks could kill.”

“Yeah. Like I said, scary.”

“I want you to do something tomorrow when you’re out with Paige.”

Joe looked up at him in question.

“Do you know how to use a knife?”

Joe was pretty certain he knew why Derek had asked and said, “Shit, are you serious?”

“Yes. Leon is not a happy man. He might not try anything, but I want you to be prepared just in case.”

“I used to carry one, for the first year or so after I hit the streets. A guy I met showed me what to do if I was attacked. Never used it but I was ready.” Joe smiled sourly. “I was better at running and hiding if I thought someone was after me.”

“Smart man.”

“Why a knife and not a gun?”

“First off, you’re not licensed to carry. Secondly, have you ever shot one?”

“Well…no.”