Chapter 177: Alphas, Part 3, Nine Years Ago

Klempner

Outside, sitting in the car, key hovering over the ignition, "Of course not. I wish it was 'Of course not'."

Bech's voice is neutral. "You want me to get rid of him, sir?"

You'd love me to say yes, wouldn't you....

.... You can't stand the pasty-faced little perv either....

"It's a tempting thought, isn't it? But no, I really don't have anyone to replace him right now."

Bech frowns. "No one, sir? Baxter perhaps? He thinks for himself...."

"Yes, he does, but he's busy with what's going on in South America.... He's sending a fresh batch next week."

"Sir, you have a lot of people to call on. Surely, someone...."

"Yes, Bech, I do, but they're scattered. I need someone here." Glancing at him side-long, "I'm guessing you're not volunteering for the job."

He rubs the side of his nose. "Not my style, sir," he replies blandly.

"Didn't think so. So, we're stuck with Jenkins for now."

"He knows the rules," he says. "He won't touch them, but.... that doesn't mean