condensed master

Will Bonner
"I didn't know what to expect so I left it parked up the street."
Everything seemed to be in order as they settled down into easy chairs in what
Will could see now was a small study. It was premature to relax however, until he
knew more about his surroundings. He doubted any form of surveillance but it was
prudent to remain on guard. Paul leaned forward in his seat, his posture indicating
anticipation. "Have you managed to do anything?"
"Yes, I've seen the people that I mentioned and there's been some discussion."
"Why would these people do anything for me? What do they want in return?"
"They are interested in the sources that are threatening you. The circumstances
suit their requirement. Nothing is required from you except information."
"What sort of information?"
"It's the general consensus of opinion that your antagonists are getting ready
to apply some form of blackmail."
Paul's face took on a worried look. "Blackmail?"
"Yes, it seems fairly certain."
Paul stood up and started to pace backwards and forwards in the small room.
He was obviously agitated at the prospect of additional trouble. He spoke as he
walked. "What could they want from me except money that I owe, and favours
that they could demand of me?"
"It's not you they want to get at." Paul stopped in his stride, a puzzled look on
his face. "They want your father's influence and power, and they can get at him
through you. Your brother Greg is clean, but your background gives them all the
ammunition they want."
Paul sat down, a blank look on his face. "My God, how am I going to survive
all this? “He hesitated. “But if I do, my lifestyle will completely change."
He said it with conviction, and Will believed him. "Where do we go from here
Will Brenner?"
"I have to ask you directly what they will get from you by threats and coercion.
The ball's in your court. If we can get to the source of information they need, they
can be stopped. It's up to you." He didn't hesitate. The thought of the possibility
of moving towards getting his problems resolved must be overpowering, Will was
thinking.
"What sort of information?"
"Your father keeps his private files somewhere. Not the usual office stuff. You
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