Chapter 35: Kidnapper's call

"But Kevin....."

Peter tried to stop Kevin.

"No. It was a good idea Peter , but as you can see it's not working out. We'll simply find 'em ourselves."

Kevin said, getting to his feet.  He took a roll of bills from his pocket and peeled off a couple hundred dollars, extending it across the table to Max.

"For your cabs fare and for your time, Mr. Max . I'm sorry we dragged you all the way out here for nothing."

Kevin said coldly.

But Max didn't extend his hands to receive it. When Max didn't take the bill Kevin took his hand back.

"Maybe your time's worth more than I figured. Here, and no hard feelings, huh?"

Kevin said as he added a few more bills to the first but Max still didn't reach for it . Instead he pushed back his chair and stood up.

"You don't owe me anything, Kevin. As for my time, I don't know what my time's worth but I don't think just anyone can buy it. Let's call it an even-up trade for the coffee."