The man appeared about forty-five. His eyes were red and veiny, not necessarily bloodshot. His hair was slicked back. He looked like he had just stepped out of the shower. Luke guessed he had worked here so long, he could drink all night and do the job in his sleep. He probably knew by sight every single person who ever came in or out of this place. And he knew that Luke and Ed didnt belong.

Ali Nassar, Luke said.

The man picked up his telephone. Mr. Nassar. The penthouse suite. Who may I say is calling?

Without saying a word, Ed slid over the counter and pressed the handle on the receiver, severing the mans connection. Ed was big and strong like a lion, but when he moved, he was fluid and graceful, like a gazelle.

You may not say anyone is calling, Luke said. He showed the doorman his badge. Ed did the same. Federal agents. We need to ask Mr. Nassar a few questions.

Im afraid that wont be possible at this moment. Mr. Nassar doesnt accept callers before 8a.m.

Then why did you pick up the telephone? Newsam said.

Luke glanced at Ed. That was a snappy answer. Ed didnt seem like the debate team type, but he might have done well.

Youve been watching the news? Luke said. Im sure youve heard about the radioactive waste thats gone missing? We have reason to believe Mr. Nassar may know something about that.

The man stared straight ahead. Luke smiled. He had just poisoned Nassars well. This doorman was a hub of communication. By tomorrow, every single person in the building was going to know the government had come to question Nassar about his terrorist activities.

Im sorry, sir, the man began.

You dont have to be sorry, Luke said. All you have to do is grant us access to the penthouse level. If you dont, I will arrest you right now for obstruction of justice, and I will lead you away from here in handcuffs. Im sure you dont want that, and I dont want to do it. So give us the key or the code or whatever it is, and then go on about your business. Also, know that if you tamper with the elevator once we are inside it, not only will I arrest you for obstruction, I will arrest you as an accessory after the fact to four murders, and the theft of hazardous materials. The judge will set bail at ten million dollars, and you will languish on Rikers Island awaiting trial for the next twelve months. Does that sound appealing to you… Luke glanced at the mans nameplate.

John?

*

Were you really going to arrest that man? Ed said.