Counterfeit Lies

CHAPTER TWELVE

Mohammed entered the Koreatown restaurant through the alley entrance and spotted Kareem, who had his back turned, busy stocking the bar. Though several people were seated at tables in the dining area, the bar was empty as the lunchtime crowd was still a half hour away. Mohammed stayed near the back in the darkened hallway, waiting to be acknowledged.

Candy was at the hostess stand and saw the Lebanese man she knew Kareem so admired. She gave him a huge smile and bowed slightly before walking over to Kareem and saying quietly, “Mohammed is here.”

Kareem turned and nodded for Mohammed to come to the bar.

“I’m just about done. He’s upstairs,” said Kareem.

“Do you want me to take him up?” asked Candy.

“No, I’ll do it. Just give me a minute.”

Mohammed appeared uncomfortable in the bar but took a seat waiting for the prison convert.

“Can I get you a drink?” said Candy.

Kareem snapped his head at the offer.

Mohammed feigned surprise. “I’m shocked you would offer me alcohol.”

“I mean Coke or club soda. I know he not drink,” said Candy awkwardly, knowing the importance of the man to Kareem.

Mohammed patted her hand as if offering forgiveness, and Candy rewarded him with a smile. With that Kareem escorted Mohammed upstairs to meet with Henry Yeong.