now.” She eyed him closely. Then she walked around the bar, opened the cash

register, counted out two fifties, ten twenties, ten tens, and the rest fives

and ones. She wrapped a rubber band around the cash and tossed it to him.

 

He slipped it inside his pocket. “Thanks.” “You’re welcome. But that’s a

one-off. From now on payday is Friday.” “Understood.” “And even though you’re

not officially on the payroll, we’ll be taking out something for FICA and income

taxes. I’m not getting screwed by the IRS.” “What does that leave me, then?”

“Enough. Unless you want to fill out the paperwork? Full name, Social Security

number, all that.” “No, I don’t want to do that.” “Fine. Just so you know, I’ve

never paid an employee under the table. I’m not a fan.” “So why me?” She leaned

against the bar. “You looked like somebody who needed a break.” “I appreciate

that. So how’s Karl?” “I’m sure he’ll be fine. And remember, he’s your boss.”

“Never forgot it. See you tomorrow. Boss.” Rogers rose and left.

 

It was nearly three in the morning.

 

It was time for him to go to work.

 

Chapter 22

 

ROGERS PARKED THE van well off the grounds of Fort Monroe and finished the trek

on foot. This early in the morning, he was the only one out and about.

 

The salt air hit him from the channel, and far out in the water he could see the