“And why do you think he needs protection?”
The man’s smile falls. “He showed you the letter he received, didn’t he?”
I nod and pull it out of the drawer. I gave it a cursory glance when Joseph first showed it to me. There was no evidence to glean from it, as I was certain Joseph created it himself.
Chip’s eyes widen. “Yes, that’s it.”
“Anything else happen?”
Chip straightens his tie. A tie that at first appears conservative, but upon a second glance, I notice it’s covered in many tiny zebras. “Nothing that I know of, but Joseph is responsible for the funding of a very popular program getting cut. I suspected he’d receive pushback on that.”
“How’s he responsible?”
He frowns. “Joseph is our Chief Audit Executive; he has the final say on many financial matters. He said he found something during his usual audit that could cause liability for the university—something about money not being funneled through the right channels. He could explain it better. But he asked for changes to be made, and when nothing changed, he ordered the funding to be cut.”
I lean back. “I’m guessing that pissed someone off.”
Chip laughs. “You have no idea. My phone was ringing off the hook for a week, parents and faculty demanding the money be reinstated, and that he be fired.”
“And you chose not to fire him?”
Chip smiled. “Not a chance. Joseph is good at his job and, aside from a few exceptions in the hockey program, he’s very well-liked by everyone here. He didn’t do anything wrong, other than make an unpopular decision.”
“I’m curious about something. There is a security company in this town. Morgan Thompson Security. Why did you reach out to a company in New York?”
Chip leans forward. “David Hawthorne is my cousin. I know him and trust him.”
I’m surprised I wasn’t told about this. But it likely isn’t pertinent to the assignment.
“Chip? I see you’ve met Cody.” Joseph is all smiles as he enters his office.
“Yes, he seems like a good guy. I’m glad someone will be keeping an eye on you.”
Interesting phrasing.Perhaps Chip is more perceptive than he looks.
Joseph shakes his head as he passes me and rounds his desk. “Chip, you’re wasting your money. No one is going to hurt me.”
Chip huffs. “Someone alreadyhasthreatened you. It’s not a chance I’m willing to take.”
Joseph flops down in his chair. “Oh yes, the letter. I’m trying to forget about that.”
Chip arches a brow. “Well then, it’s good you have Cody here to help you remember. Anyway, I have to get to a meeting. It was nice to meet you, Cody. If you need anything, just ask. My office is at the end of the hall.”
“Thank you. Good to meet you, too.”
Once Chip leaves, Joseph turns to me. There are lines around his eyes I hadn’t noticed before. Instead of the polished Ken doll from earlier, the man appears worn out.
“How does this work? I’m done for the day, and normally I’d go home. Do you come with me? Do you sit outside in your car?”
“I go home with you. If someone is threatening you, you need protection at home and at work.”
Joseph grins. “Okay, let’s go.”
“I’ll follow you in my car.”
Joseph gets up with a little extra pep in his step.
I frown. Giddy Joseph might be more annoying than regular Joseph. “Did you get good news in your last meeting? You seem happier than before.”
