That got my attention.

I said, “Look who’s talking. The guy I have in custody. But I’m honored you know my name.”

The man kept calm. “Don’t wash out here like you did in San Diego with the SEALs. Just walk away from the whole thing. You’ll thank me later.”

“I’ll thank you right now. I’ll even let you go when you tell me where my cousin is. I’m impressed you know about my military record. You must have some decent connections.”

The man wasn’t falling for any of my banter and gave nothing away, but Couch Potato Man was looking increasingly scared and was now shivering uncontrollably.

I stood up and stretched. “Think I might be ready for a nap.” I turned toward the shack. That was all Couch Potato Man needed to break.

I took one step and he shouted, “Wait, wait. Get us inside and I’ll tell you what you need to know.”

Chapter 31

Chapter 31

The freezing wind had hurt my exposed face so I knew it had done a number on these three thugs. By the time Couch Potato Man made his plea, I was concerned about leaving the trio out there much longer. I was tempted to take him up on his offer and drag him back inside before he talked, but I knew it could be a ploy. These guys had already proven to be shifty and more cunning than me. Now I had to turn ruthless just to get answers. I needed to hear what he had to say, and I needed to hear it outside. Now.

I looked at Natty and finally said, “Carry the woman inside and cover her with a blanket on the couch.”

For a change, Natty did exactly what I asked. He even lifted the woman off the ground completely, instead of dragging her. I had to trust him and not take my eyes off the other two as he secured her inside.

The guy tied to Couch Potato Man gave me a hard stare and said, “You’re making a mistake. It’s not too late to just walk away.”

“If that was true, you wouldn’t be trying so hard to convince me. You know we’re about to blow whatever you’re up to and the couch potato here is gonna tell me all about it unless he wants to freeze into a statue.”

The guy looked at Couch Potato Man and said, “Don’t say a goddamn word, Becker.”

Becker, one more piece of information to file away. But I liked the name Couch Potato Man better. It was more descriptive.

I leaned down and used my knife to cut the cord around the men’s legs. When Natty popped his head out, I motioned for him to bring the other man inside as well. It had the right psychological effect on Couch Potato Man.