JAMES
Mr. Smythe, the bank manager, met us in his office hours before the bank officially opened.
“You have to understand, James, that this is an impossible amount. The bank does not have that kind of collateral lying about.”
“Of course, Mr. Smythe. I know how it works. But this is a matter of life and death!” For fuck’s sake! Why can’t he arrange the rest with the other banks? I held onto my sanity by a thread.
“Have you spoken to the police? Who is blackmailing you? We have a special unit…”
“Charles, please.” Father held up his hand. “We can’t get the police involved. My daughter-in-law has been taken. Whoever this person is, will not hesitate to hurt her.”
“The FBI…”
“He will kill her!” I slammed my hand on his desk, leaning forward, getting into his personal space. He had to understand that this was serious.
Mr. Smythe leaned back in his chair to run a hand through his thinning hair. “But why in cash? It’s such a huge amount. Surely, they can’t expect…”
