Operation Power Play. Justine Davis

really official, and he was already walking a fine line.

      “He was terminated.”

      “Why?”

      “I’m afraid I can’t give you details. The investigation isn’t completed yet.”

      Investigation? “Are you saying there was malfeasance involved?”

      “I truly cannot discuss it. This is being kept completely in-house. For PR reasons, for the county. You understand, I’m sure.”

      Oily. The man sounded oily. Trying to establish a rapport as if they were colleagues. He told himself that not liking a man’s attitude wasn’t reason enough to be suspicious. But stonewalling was.

      “What is he being accused of that he’s been terminated rather than put on leave until your ‘investigation’ is finished?”

      “I can’t discuss that either. I assure you, it’s no business of the sheriff’s office. Unless you suspect him of something?”

      He sounded almost hopeful. I’d sooner suspect you, Brett thought. “No. I told you, he’s a friend.”

      He considered, as he ended the call, bringing up the permit situation despite Sloan’s assurance it wasn’t necessary. But something stopped him. He wasn’t sure what it was.

      The only thing he was sure of was that his gut was now screaming that something else was going on here.