Gray Area (24 page)

Lou Diamond had simply disappeared.

He hit the television switch, surfing.  Restless.

He stopped as a news broadcast began at the top of the hour.  “The
remarkable evidence presented by the Los Angeles Police Department on the
Berenson & Marelli murders has prompted a full congressional investigation
into the allegations brought forth against Arc-Link Industries and an inner
rogue network operating within the Department of Defense, which appear to be
contrary to American interests.  The President has denounced these
entities, swearing further investigation and promising that, ‘traitors within
our midst, helping the enemy, will always be hunted down and brought to
justice.’  The President refers to the Arc-Link incident as a thing no
less serious than September 11.  The claims that at least four murders can
be linked to a secret ‘hit team’ within the Arc-Link conglomerate appear to be
fully substantiated by the now famous Diamond File.  The file was so named
for the investigating police officer, Lou Diamond, who brought the
documentation to light.”

Burke couldn’t help but laugh.  Mainly in admiration. 
“Diamond, you son of a bitch.”

“It is an ominous footnote, however, that Lou Diamond is still missing
and presumed dead—yet another alleged victim of the Arc-Link assassination
squad that had been uncovered by Diamond and other investigating
officers.  Some sources have put forth the theory that Diamond is still
alive and merely waiting until all elements of Arc-Link have been brought into
custody to come out of hiding.  If this is true, wherever you are
Inspector Diamond, this network’s hearts go out to you.”

Burke smiled again, then glanced at a postcard in his hand.  He’d
received it just this morning and he couldn’t help but laugh as he studied the
front of the card once again.

It was a picture of a little boy with a sombrero, holding a puppy and a
kitty in either hand.  He flipped the card over and read the message, for
the tenth time that morning.

“I am disguised as a burro.  May need a job when I get back … but
for now, taking that vacation.  Indefinitely.”

Burke laughed again.

“Son of a bitch.”