Identity Read Free Page A

couldn't care less what it said. He had to be patient.  How long was it going to take for the Italian police to notify him of “Sarah” death?
    A new e-mail arrived. He saw that the sender was Mrs. Green so he opened it.  As expected, it was the list of new release dates and the book singing.  He saw that all the book signings were going to be at the Snyder bookstores. His manager had followed his directions.  He only wanted to work with similar major bookstores.  He loathed those little bookstores that Sarah loved.  They were a pain in the ass. He couldn't care less if they went out of business.  He reviewed the new releases first.  There were 10 novels scheduled for November (2 were Christmas stories), 1 political book, 3 children books (excellent for Christmas presents), 1 economic book and a Christmas cookbook.  The December list contained 5 self-help fitness books.  The rereleases were the familiar children books just in time for gift giving.  As CEO, he knew such trivial matters wouldn’t bother him. 
    Shortly after 10 a.m., Mrs. Green peaked in through the closed door to let him know there was an international call from Italy on Line 2. 
    Rodney took a deep breath and picked up the handset.
    "Rodney Williams here."
    “Signore Williams Investigatore Valentini in Roma.”
    “Is something wrong?”
    “Si. The signora was in an automobile accidente.”
    Rodney interrupted him trying to feign concern.  “Is she okay?”
    “Signore Williams, I am saddened that she did not survive the crash.’’
    Rodney remained silent and waited.
    “Signore Williams are you there?”
    “Yes, I’m sorry, I…don’t understand. Are you sure it’s my wife?”
    “Si, signore. She rented the car last night using her credit card and passport.”
    Again, Rodney paused before responding.  “I’m coming to Rome.”
    “Si, signore. We will want you to come and identify the body.”
    “I’ll call you when I get there.”
    “Ciao signore. I will see you soon.”
    Rodney hung up the handset.  He smiled, and then he put on his sad face, rubbing his eyes to bring on the effect of tears.  He waited a few moments before getting up and opening his office door to talk to Mrs. Green.
    Mrs. Green looked up from her computer as Rodney opened the door.  She could see from the look on his face that something was terribly wrong.  She waited for her boss to say something.
    “That as the Italian Police Department.  It seems that my wife has been in a deadly automobile accident.”  He waited for her reaction.
    "Mr. Williams how terrible," she spoke in a trembling voice.
    Rodney enjoyed watching Mrs. Green's reaction to the news. Her hands were shaking as tears welled up in her eyes.
    "Oh, Mr. Williams.  What do you want me to do?” Mrs. Green asked trying to compose herself and act in more professional manner.
    “Please book an evening flight to Rome. I’ll pick up the tickets at the airport.  Call me at home with the information.”
    “Are you okay?”
    “I’m going home.  Call me on my cell with the flight info.”  He turned his back and waited at the elevator door after pushing the down arrow button.  When the elevator arrived, he stepped in and pushed the “Garage” button.  Again, he smiled. By the time he reached the garage, the office grapevine would be fast at work. 
    He could always count on Mrs. Green’s efficiency.  The company limousine arrived just after 6:00 p.m. to take him to the International Terminal for his 9:00 p.m. flight to Rome.
    CHAPTER THREE
     
    As the emergency vehicle drove up to the hospital, the flashing lights and siren were turned off. Sheriff Johnson's vehicle pulled directly behind it. When the vehicle stopped, the paramedics quickly exited the vehicle and removed the gurney to the waiting nurses and attendants who rushed to the vehicle.  They ignored the cold wind enveloping their bodies. Everyone knew from the dispatches that this was a life and death situation for the