Chapter 48

When the board meeting broke for lunch, Stone and Dino took over Ben's office and initiated a conference call with Monica, Teddy, and Viv.

"So, where are we?" Stone asked.

"Simon's all lined up," Viv said, then played them a recording of Rudy's call with the art dealer.

"Billy, how are things on your end?"

"Petry's vehicle is still at the Four Seasons. I hacked into the hotel's CCTV system to see if he sneaked out, but he hasn't left his room since arriving last night. I've got eyes on the garage where the cube truck is. No sign of Sticks or his buddy yet. Simon, on the other hand, has been very busy. A couple hours ago he drove out to Palmdale. That's in the Mojave Desert, about an hour from downtown."

"What was he doing out there?"

"Whatever it was, it didn't take him long. He stopped at a strip mall parking lot for a minute, then turned around and headed back here."

"And where is he now?"

"Driving around the Valley. I think he's killing time."

"More like he's afraid Petry found out about the fakes and is staying on the move, so he won't be found," Dino said.

"Viv, anything from your people at the party?" Stone asked.

"No sign of trouble yet. I've added a team who will be stationed around the surrounding area."

After they covered a few more items, Stone said, "I think that's it. See everyone in a few hours." He hung up and called the studio's transportation department.

"This is Stone Barrington."

"Good afternoon, Mr. Barrington. The car and driver you requested should be outside the admin building now."

"That's what I wanted to know. Thank you." He disconnected the call.

Dino jumped to his feet. "I guess that's my cue."

"You could act a little heartbroken about missing the end of the board meeting."

Dino put a hand on his chest. "It's with a heavy heart that I must miss more mind-numbing hours of talking. Is that better?"

"Don't count on getting a part in any of Peter's movies."

"You just don't recognize true talent."

"Keep telling yourself that."

Dino gave him an exaggerated bow, then left for a trip to the LAPD headquarters downtown, where he had an appointment to meet with the top brass of L.A.'s police and fire departments.

Winston Petry was having a wonderful day. He'd slept in until ten, had room service brunch at eleven, and an in-room massage at noon.

After he finished the latter, he called Sticks.

"Afternoon, Mr. Petry."

"How are you today, Sticks?"

"I'm feeling pretty damn good. And yourself?"

"Same. I'm counting on you to make sure I stay that way."

"Guaranteed. Have you decided when you want me to start the show?"

"We'll play that by ear. I want to make sure the intended recipient of my message is paying attention."

"Works for me."

"Promise me you'll make sure the paintings are displayed in a way that he won't miss what they are."

"Don't sweat it. I got it covered."

"If this goes off without a hitch, I'll find more work for you."

"No if about it."

Petry smiled. It truly was a wonderful day.

Two and a half hours later, Teddy, as Billy Barnett, was on the phone with Stacy discussing party preparations when he spotted Sticks and Benji on the street, walking toward the parking garage.

"Sorry, Stacy. I need to run."

"When are you coming back? There are a few things I want you to check out before the guests arrive."

"Not sure yet, but I trust your judgment."

"Don't blame me if you don't like something."

"Have I ever blamed you for anything?"

"No, but there's always a first time."

"Bye-bye, Stacy."

When Sticks and Benji disappeared inside the garage, Teddy opened the tracker app. The dot representing the box began moving, and soon after the truck exited onto the street. He started his car and followed from several car lengths back.

At Laurel Canyon Boulevard, the truck turned and headed up the Valley side of the Hollywood Hills.

Teddy called Viv. "Looks like Sticks is on the way to my place."

"I'll alert the troops."

"Observe but do not engage."

"I'll remind them."

A few streets from Teddy's house, an incognito Strategic Services team in a Jeep Wrangler fell in behind Teddy. When the truck turned onto the street prior to Teddy's, he let the Jeep follow them and he continued toward home.

He did have a party to get ready for, after all.