Page 1 of Larapinta

Prologue

Sydney - May

‘I think I’ve found a couple we can trust.’ The man turned from the floor to ceiling window of the luxury apartment overlooking Sydney Harbour. Two catamarans were sailing towards the marina and their sails billowed in the already strong wind. The sky was a brilliant blue and there were white caps on the harbour. Tourists were out and about already and even at nine a.m. all the tables at Circular Quay were occupied.

His companion crossed the room and stood beside him. ‘Think isn’t good enough, Darley.’

‘I’m aware of that. I know how much is at stake. That’s why I said “think”. When I’m absolutely certain of them, I’ll start talking money. They’ve had a lot of experience around the world, and my contact in Germany gave them a glowing reference. Ten successful jobs and not a finger of suspicion pointed at them, Johann said.’

‘And what does Johann get for recommending them?’

‘Fifty grand?’

‘I’m not made of money.’ His voice was cold.

‘But you will be if they deliver.’

‘Tell me about them.’

‘They’ve been field operatives for Johann’s agency for three years. Early thirties. They pose as a wealthy married couple. He reckons they’re the best around, and you couldn’t do better.’

‘He doesn’t have my name, I hope?’

‘No, you are simply “my employer” in our communications.’

‘Good. Make sure it stays that way. I don’t trust anyone. Not even you.’

‘I am aware of that. I won’t let you down. Has she agreed to the trek yet?’ Darley ran a hand over his face and looked away.

‘No. My patience is wearing thin.’

‘She’s been looking at the lower and middle end of the market. I’ve hacked into her email account and also have a tap on her phone. Plus, I have someone following her.’

‘Why the hell would she do that? She always goes for the top end of everything.’

Darley shrugged. ‘Maybe she likes keeping you guessing. She thinks you’re going with her, doesn’t she?’

‘Yes. It was my suggestion.’

‘If she books the lower end one, our operatives can join as backpackers, not connected with each other. If she goes with the expensive “glamping option”, they’ll go in as the married couple.’

‘As long as she doesn’t know she’s being watched.’

‘She doesn’t. I can guarantee you of that.’

‘Good. She’ll go for the glamping option; don’t worry about that. Better cover for the couple, if you do end up hiring them.’

‘Yes, I agree. The next trek is scheduled for the beginning of June. “Mr and Mrs Smith” are scoping the trail as soon as I advise which trek. What do you think?’

‘Jesus! Are they for real? Smith! Who do they think they are? Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt?’

‘They could be. She’s a bloody stunner. Looks like a model, not a killer.’

‘All right. I’ll leave it in your hands, Darley. All I want is an outcome as soon as possible. Before she bleeds me of any more money. I trust you to make the right choice.’ The man’s smile sent a shiver down Darley’s back. ‘I am almost tempted to go on the trek myself to make sure the bitch is dead.’

Chapter 1

The McLaren Mango Farm - May