Blake read between the lines. “And you don’t know if that’s where the problem originates.”

Mendez’s expression tightened. “Our dearly departed head of security couldn’t seem to find a problem anywhere, despite my knowledge otherwise.”

“So I’m starting from scratch with a national chain of employees as suspects.” Blake whistled. “That’s a big project.”

“I thought you were the best at what you do?” Mendez challenged.

“I am,” Blake assured him, “which is exactly why I’m committed to a high-paying client in Europe next week. There’s no way I can take this on for you right now. When I get back—”

“I need this handled now,” Mendez snapped, his anger palpable. He didn’t expect to be turned down, and that was the idea. Blake wanted Mendez chasing him, desperate to hire him.

Blake slid lazily down further into his chair, draping an arm on the back. “Which is why I’m not your man.”

Mendez’s eyes hardened, his expression all sharp lines and tension. He steepled his fingers together, fixing Blake in a stare meant to intimidate. He was pissed. It was all Blake could do not to smile.

“I was told you were eager to earn our business,” Mendez ground out tightly.

“I have been,” Blake assured him, “but while your organization had me jumping through hoops to prove I’m worthy, the guy in Europe was writing me a check.”

“So it’s all about money to you?”

Blake arched a brow. “What else is there?”

“Power.”

“Money is power in my book.”

Mendez’s jaw clenched and unclenched before he abruptly grabbed a piece of paper, scribbled a number on it, and flipped it around for Blake to see it. “Is that enough power for you?”

Lazily, Blake pushed off the back of the chair and leaned forward to study the six-figure number. “It’s a start.”

Mendez’s eyes glinted like black ice. “How much will it take?”

“Add another 100k to that number and California is my new European vacation.”

“If you let me down—”

“I won’t.”

Mendez considered Blake a moment. “Half the money now and half on the resolution of my problem, which I expect to include body bags.”

Blake held up his hands. “I’ll identify your problems. Disposal is on you.”

“That’s a hefty price you demanded for limited services.”

“I’m guessing it’s small compared to how much you’re losing in stolen product.”

A muscle flexed and contracted in Mendez’s jaw. “How do you want this played? I can introduce you as head of security so you have full access to the staff.”

“That works only if you understand up front that I’ll play the bad guy ripping you off. It’s the only way I can find out who’s willing to join me.”

“Understood.”