This was definitely not what Marlon wanted to hear first thing in the morning. It meant a big shift of attitude – he’d have to start work on ramping up plan “A”.

“Fuck it!”

Plan “A” – even Marlon dreaded going all the way back there.

“So… she couldn’t even keep him down on the farm for one night!”

“It seems not.”

“So much for the power of women over men!”

Marlon scoffed –

“Not even one stinking night!”

Marlon was always simmering with anger – he wore it like a badge of honour – like an entitlement. But now there was another feeling in the mix – a deeper feeling that he hadn’t experienced for some time, but one he really enjoyed – the empowering moment of vindication. Yes, great man – you are right again!

Marlon…

You are the man.

“Where are you now?”

“Down in the Sea Lounge.”

“Wait for me.”

Marlon hung up and slumped back on the bed.

What now? If they had to go back to plan “A” then they had to go back to plan “A”. It was an ugly prospect but… it didn’t necessarily mean Max had to be eliminated immediately. There were still a few other alternatives. They could still take Singh’s suggestion – just take the easy way out and have Max arrested.

Whatever he is up to he’d be hard pressed doing it in a shared cell!

It was an amusing thought but… it isn’t that easy.

The Committee wanted more from Marlon than that – they wanted absolute finality. The Chairman had been perfectly clear – “obviated” was his word for it, but obviously, they wanted Max dead.

Marlon sighed deeply – any way he looked at it, it was going to get messy from here on.

But so what…

This is what you are paid for!

And, let’s face it… this may well be the final fee in the book!