The Adventures of a Problem Solver Iv: The Pinnacle

By Richard V. Martin

The Adventures of a Problem Solver is a series of books involving an unusual private investigator as well as his even more unusual associates and clients. Refusing to give in to his fathers demands to run the family business, Garett Kannis circled the globe to right wrongs. He found time to add a trophy wife and two overachieving children to the family tree. If you are looking for fast-paced action, this series will provide it.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Xlibris US
• Release date: Aug 24, 2016
• ISBN: 9781524536688

Richard V. Martin

Richard V. Martin, better known to his friends as Dick, was born in Pennsylvania and grew up in southern California. He attended Valley Community College and received a designation in public relations from UCLA. His working years included sports and feature writing for the Burbank Daily Review as a story coordinator for Warner Brothers Television Division and a variety of public relations positions for Lockheed-Martin before retiring as public relations director from the company’s facility in Marietta, Georgia. He now resides in a cabin on a river in Ellijay, Georgia.

Book preview

CHAPTER 1

It was a Friday afternoon and Garrett was at his desk not making much of a dent reducing the inbox paperwork that looked like the leaning tower of Piza. Then the intercom buzzed. It was one of his receptionists.

Sorry to bother you Mister Kannis, I have a problem with a visitor. He refuses to talk with anyone else. He demands to see you. All he will give me is his first name, Bill.

Garrett looked at the pile of paper. Just what he needed a break from monotony.

Send him in.

Bill was a short, stocky man, probably in his 50’s. He had a ragged beard and wore sunglasses. He placed his briefcase on the floor and sat down.

Sorry about causing the ruckus out there. I have a hard time accepting no.

He was a slow talker as if every word was important or he didn’t want Garrett to miss anything.

"Well, Bill, we have procedures here and expect our visitors to respond.

One of them is to have a full name. You seem to be missing one."

You don’t need a last name for my case.

You may not have a case here unless you care to explain.

I need to hire you, personally, Mister Kannis. My problem is significant.

Garrett didn’t give up on his point. We have several highly qualified investigators here. They are assigned by the areas of their expertise.

That will be unacceptable. I will compensate you well. You must be the head investigator. I want the number of people involved very limited. There is to be no paperwork.

Garrett was ready to drop anything involving this guy.

I don’t have your name, you don’t want a trail of paperwork and your next statement will probably be you are going to pay in cash. That makes it sound like your problem isn’t something we accept.

I assure you this is all legal, Mister Kannis.

Bill got up and closed the office door and took off his sunglasses.

"I am in the government’s witness protection program. I accepted it by agreeing to testify against… my business associates. At that time I had a son, 18 years old and a daughter 17. They were upset because of my business activities. They requested to be sent to a different location than me and to have different names. They did not want me to know either.

I have no idea where they are. I need to know where they are and that they are doing well and are not being harassed by my past business associates. They have long memories."

Bill opened the briefcase and pulled out a stack of money and placed it in front of Garrett.

Have I hired you? Remember, I don’t like being told no.

What was your name before you entered witness protection?

That won’t do you any good now. I don’t even have any pictures of them. Just look for two college students. The girl was Brook, very good voice, sang in high school plays. She was big into photography. The boy, Justin, was completely dedicated to skiing. He worked in a ski store while in high school and was very interested in not only skiing, but in the business. I am sure they will still be involved in those things. They have always depended on one another, they will be together. She didn’t have a nickname, but called her brother, Jus.

He headed for the door.

Mister Kannis, for my own safety, it will impossible for you to reach me. I will call you once a week for an update.

Garrett sat there with the money in front of him. He had a client with no last name, looking for two offspring that could be anywhere in the country. His mind ran through his staff as he picked up the intercom.

Sandy, what is Preston doing?

He is working on the Sanderson fraud case right now.

How about Bree?

She is finishing up research for Morgan.

Ask if they can spare a few minutes to see me.

Almost immediately Preston Cross walked into Garrett’s office. Preston was well dressed and offered an impressive posture. He looked like a cookie cutter federal agent, the only thing missing was the standard ear piece. His eyes skirted the room and rested on the stack of money on the desk. Without a smile, a characteristic he was known not to possess, Preston sat down and pulled out a pen and pad. A few seconds later a pretty young girl with a wide smile on her face rushed in. Bree West served as a research assistant for Garrett as an intern and was immediately hired following graduation. Her big blue eyes also focused on the money.

Oh, goodie, it must be bonus time.

Garrett didn’t react to her comment. Above all her many talents, he was used to Bree’s frivolousness wise cracks that would quickly leave her mouth.

I have chosen you two to help me with one of the most unusual, and challenging cases this office has ever taken. Preston, I know you are working a case, I just need a little help because of your contacts.

He went over his discussion with Bill. Preston took copious notes while Bree just smiled and listened.

So, this is the bottom line. Only the three of us will be involved. It is not to be discussed with anyone else and all reports to me should be verbal.

Bree couldn’t resist a quip. Dinosaur communications.

It was a response to an office joke. Garrett didn’t like emails or downloads.

He was comfortable in face to face reports and old-fashioned paper communications.

This time there is an obvious reason. We are dealing in a very sensitive area, one that could get us or people who are being protected by the government, in trouble.

She turned to Preston. No smoke signals, Preston.

"How long have you been working for me, Bree?

Not counting the internship, all most a year.

What are the odds of you making it a year? Preston, Bill tried to hide his New York accent, find out any large case in that area that he might have testified against anyone and received protection. The children were 17 and 18 at the time, so it had to happen in the last couple of years. If you use your federal contacts, be careful not to give them any hints why we are interested. We need to find Bill’s full name.

He looked at Bree and returned her smile.

I can’t wait for my mission impossible, Garrett.

"Bree, if I didn’t think you could handle this, someone else would be sitting in that chair. I need you to take the little pieces of information we have on his children and chart out a profile on where, logically they might be. Justin had shown interest in all factors of skiing. Brook’s love was singing in her high school plays and photography. She called her brother.

Jus. Bill feels they will always be together."

The information is over-whelming, Garrett.

I forgot a couple of items, they both have brown eyes and may have changed their first names. Bree, I’ll expect a full report from you in a couple of hours.

Garrett winked at Preston. It was the first time Garrett had seen him smile.

Two hours later Bree stuck her head in his office.

Based on the limited information I have, my bet is they are in Colorado, possibly somewhere near Steamboat Springs.

I was kidding, Bree.

I wasn’t. Have a good weekend, Garrett.

On Monday morning he walked into his office to find Preston and Bree.

Did I call a meeting?

Preston answered. No, sir, we did. I have three pictures for you to look at. One of them may be Bill.

Garrett looked at the pictures and picked one out.

He has changed his appearance. There are a number of features that are similar, and a few different. Probably not unusual for someone in the protection program. But that sure resembles Bill.

That is Benjamin Rizzo. He was convicted for being a mid level Mafia boss. He turned states evidence and testified against two upper level bosses.

That means it is illegal money I’ve accepted.

It’s a matter of semantics, Garrett. He had a lot of investments in real estate, the money may have come from illegal activities, but was invested legally. The Government could let him keep some of it.

Bree left the room as Garrett and Preston went over Rizzo. She returned in half an hour.

I have hit all the social sites and collected a lot of additional information on Brook and Justin Rizzo. Steamboat Springs still makes sense to me.

Garrett wasn’t convinced. That’s seems like a long shot on limited information. What did you use to target Steamboat Springs?

Skiing, Justin’s part-time job, his want to be in the business and Brook’s, theater arts and photography interests. There is a college there that has all those classes. Smart kids would look at that kind of environment.

But, if all that stuff is on the internet, anyone could guess where they would go. Wouldn’t they go somewhere not so obvious?

Bree displayed a look of disappointment. Maybe they aren’t as concerned about Bill’s worries. At 18 years old, that’s how young people think.

He looked at her like a young Marianna, no sense arguing, besides she was right more than wrong.

Did you find any pictures?

A few on friend’s Facebook sites, not very good.

Take them to Wilcox in imaging and see if he can improve them.

Bree left and Garrett hesitated before asking Preston his thoughts.

Normally I wouldn’t send a researcher out on a case. But Bree is in the same age bracket as the kids. What would you think of me taking her on this one?

I wish I was available, this is a challenging one. There will be times she will be a distraction, but she is a very sharp young lady. I don’t like someone tagging along with me, but in this case you are probably right.

Preston left. When Bree returned with the pictures, she turned to leave.

It is all we have to go on, so we can gamble on a trip to Steamboat Springs and do some low key reconnaissance.

Bree’s mouth was open, but no words came out.

Finally, she questioned his remark. We? I’m going on a case?

That’s what I have decided.

She showed her youth by hugging him. When are we leaving?

Not until next week, I have a number of things to work on. This week you need to do further research on the three and give me some information on Steamboat Springs. Remember, share it with no one.

Later in the week he received an intercom buzz.

Mister Kannis, that Bill client is calling.

Hello Bill, I didn’t expect to hear from you so soon.

Just my nature. I am very concerned about the kid’s safety.

He didn’t want Bill to know he knew his real name. How sure are you they want to hear from you?

They have had enough time to think about it. By now they realize their mistake. They need me in their life.

We have a long shot in mind. I will be making a trip next week.

Where are you going?

Steamboat Springs, Colorado.

Good detective work. That is a perfect place for them.

As I said, it is a long shot. I hope to have something for you the next time you call.

CHAPTER 2

Looking like father and daughter tourists, Garrett and Bree arrived at Denver International Airport and picked up the rental car.

"Bree, before we head for Steamboat Springs, I need to make a couple of token visits in Denver. I want to let the Professional Private Investigators of Colorado and the Office of Private Investigator Licensure that we are in town on a case.’

‘‘Does that mean you have to get a license to operate here?"

Actually, it is not mandatory to have a license in Colorado, it is voluntary. But, I do have a license in most states. I just want to touch base with them as a courtesy, I won’t provide any information."

This is a tough case isn’t it Garrett? We can’t use any government agency for help. We can’t use any internet social site and we don’t even have a hint of a their names.

That is why I took the case, the challenge of it. I don’t want to put any pressure on you, Bree, but you are the only one who can help.

I’m ready, coach.

It was a perfect spring day for the three hour drive. Normally, Garrett would be listening to classical music. But this time he was enjoying his young tour guide, she sounded like a Colorado native on the drive. It was obvious she had done her homework, pointing out historical sites, type of trees and flowers and anything about the state.

This is beautiful, I’ve only been in two states, Maryland and Georgia.

Garrett slowed down. You didn’t pick Colorado just to add another state did you?

Of course not, if I had, we would be in California.

He stopped twice to let the excited youngster take pictures. He needed her to get serious when they arrived in Steamboat Springs.

Garrett let Bree roam around town after they registered at the hotel. Dinner would serve as a meeting to outline their following day activities.

Bree, I want you to spend the day at the college. There are times in this business when you have to have to be someone you aren’t.

Lies, Garrett?

Just little white ones. You are looking at the college to enter as a freshman.

It’s a two year college, I can say I want to get into the food business like your wife. They have a very good program.

Great. First you need to go to the library and find the yearbooks for the last couple of years. Look for any brother-sister combinations. Check any theater material and photography for Brook, and ski interests for Justin. Talk to people without even a hint of what you are looking for.

What are you going to do, Garrett?

I am going to visit every ski shop. I feel sure Justin will be involved in one of them. I’ll visit the Chamber of Commerce to checkout any plays or actives that might have Brook’s involvement.

Garrett dropped Bree off at the college and headed to the Chamber of Commerce office. He spent some time collecting brochures that might give him some hints. He sat down to go through them before he approached the director of the Chamber. His cell rang.

Garrett, come to the school library, I have them.

As he drove to the college he couldn’t believe that the hardest case he had been faced with, was solved by a researcher in less than an hour. Bree was sitting at a table when he arrived.

Look at these yearbooks, Garrett. Myles Spencer, majoring in ski management, Mandy Spencer, sings in school plays and in local cafes. She joined the photography club. This has to be them.

Great work, Bree. Let’s go to the registrar’s office.

They told a clerk they would like to talk with Myles and Mandy Spencer.

The woman just stared at them and excused herself and disappeared into an office. Almost immediately, two large security men appeared and the registrar walked out of his office.

Why do you wish to see the Spencer’s?

Garrett had an uneasy feeling. I am a private investigator who has been hired to talk to them. He took out his business card and handed it to him.

So you are the ones who have been following them.

We have not followed them and have never even seen them.

You were reported to be watching them.

When?

Three days ago.

We just arrived yesterday afternoon. The airline and hotel can verify that.

The registrar handed Garrett’s business card to one of the security men.

His eyes widen as did a smile. I am very familiar with Mister Garrett’s reputation, I have no doubt about his truthfulness.

Come into my office.

We are a small college in a small town. Everyone knows what everyone else is doing. Myles Spencer told a couple of his friends he thought someone was following he and his sister. We alerted the local police and assigned a security man to keep an eye on them.

I can’t divulge our case or who hired us, but we have conducted a professional search for them. All I can tell you there is a relative who asked us to talk to them. He is concerned about their safety.

Well, your approach to us was straight forward Mister Kannis. Our security people seem to know your reputation. At this point there is nothing I can do for you.

Garrett and Bree were surprised at the statement and looked confused.

Over the weekend they packed up everything and left.

When Garrett recovered from the initial shock, thoughts began speeding through his brain. He couldn’t mention their previous names and definitely could not explain any of the background.

It is apparent our client had concerns over Myles and Mandy, that is why we were hired. This proves his concern. We need to find them before someone else does. Can we gather his friends and see if anyone has an idea where they might have gone.

I hate to get the school involved.

I believe you are already involved.

The registrar called a couple of other school officials and they agreed to have an announcement made in all classes. It simply said, anyone who knows Myles and Mandy Spencer, please report to the gymnasium after your class.

The crowd started off slowly, but as each class ended the crowd grew. There were about 30 people in the gym when Garrett and Bree had a moment together.

What are you going to do, Garrett?

I’m going to change the time elements. Maybe it will bring something out of their friends. You watch their faces and see if there is someone who looks anxious to talk but doesn’t.

He moved close to the group.

My name is Garrett Kannis. I am a private investigator. Most of you are aware that Myles and Mandy were concerned that someone might be following them. They left town. A relative has hired us to find them. If any of you know where they have gone we desperately need your help.

A couple of voices rang out.

Won’t they call that relative and tell him?

What if they left because of you?

Half the group walked out.

Bree whispered in Garrett’s ear. He nodded to her.

My name is Bree West. There is a family quarrel involved. Myles and Mandy wanted to follow their own paths, the family wanted them in their business. We are not looking for them to change anything or take them back, our only goal is to find who is following them and why. It definitely isn’t the family. We need your assistance. If any of you can help, please meet with us individually, or if you want anonymity, I’ll pass out our business cards with cell numbers on them. Please, they were your friends."

She collected cards from Garrett and passed out hers and his to the remaining students. They waited a few minutes, but no one approached them.

I hope I didn’t step on your toes, Garrett. I thought someone in their age bracket would work. I guess it didn’t.

Wrong, Bree. It was brilliant. My bet is you get more calls than I do.

Garrett hit it on the nose. Bree had four calls before they got away from the college. There was nothing concrete from any of them, a couple of small details and mostly guess work as to their destination. But, the next one was different.

Hello, Bree. My name is Gordon and I am having dinner alone tonight at Pedro’s. I hate eating alone, I was wondering if you would join me.

Thanks for the offer Gordon, but I will be working on the case tonight.

Well, I think I can help you with that.

So, I should tell my boss this is a business meeting?

For you it will be business, for me it will be the pleasure of sitting across the table from that beautiful face.

What time?

Garrett parked outside the little Mexican restaurant.

Do not go out any door, but the one I can see, Bree. If anything goes on you don’t like, just hit the speed dial on your cell, I’ll be there in a flash.

Do I look alright? I wasn’t prepared to have a date on this trip.

Bree, You look fine. From that call,you have him already.

She was directed to Gordon’s table and he stood up with a bouquet of flowers as she approached. He was a tall, good-looking guy with a giant smile on his face. She returned it, he was much better than she expected.

You certainly know how to treat a woman, Gordon.

When a fantasy dream appears, it is worth showing my appreciation.

They had a drink and chatted like two young people. Finally they ordered.

He had a parting comment for the waiter.

Look, if the chef is busy, tell him to take his time. I am in no hurry.

Bree would not fight the idea of a long dinner with this hunk.

That’s okay for you, Gordon, my boss is expecting some information out of this lovely dinner.

I just didn’t want the chef to be overworked. I’m taking culinary courses and would like to be a chef one day.

Well, if you don’t have something solid to tell me I will be probably be working as a waitress.

Bree, I would eat every meal where you were working.

She decided to join in the teasing. A chef? Well, I want you to know Mister Kannis’ wife is one of the best chef’s in America. Play your cards right, I might just drop your name with her. She has an intern program.

Okay, before Myles left, he asked me about the area I grew up in. He said they had been looking for a small town, but now they needed to get lost in a bigger town. He asked me about my hometown.

Well, Gordon, why don’t you tell me about your youth.

It was two hours later when the pair exited the restaurant. Garrett watched as Bree, holding the flowers, kissed him on the cheek.

Gordon, I’m in the dog house with my boss. I forgot to bring the pictures of Myles and Mandy. Do you have any?

They were pretty much camera shy, but I know a girl in the photography club who might have some. I’ll bring them in the morning. I relish the opportunity to see that beautiful face again.

This time she planted a kiss on his lips, then bounced to Garrett’s car.

That was the best blind date I’ve ever had.

I am glad you enjoyed it, did you get anything beside the kisses?

I was giving, not receiving. Wait until you see the one he gets in the morning if he gets us recent photos of Myles and Mandy. You are not going to believe where we have to go next.

Where are we going?

She started laughing and had a hard time getting it out.

Santa Barbara, . . . California.

He had a hard time not laughing.

Another state for you.

CHAPTER 3

When they arrived at the hotel, there was a man waiting for them. The serious look on the man’s face and his attire quickly flashed a signal to Garrett he was a government type.

Mister Kannis, I would like a few minutes of your time. My name is Sid Watson, I am the regional director for the U.S. Marshall’s Department.

Of course, Mister Watson. This is my assistant, Bree West.

Several years ago, Mister Kannis, I attended a conference where you spoke. I found we have something in common. At that time you said you never believed in co incidents. I don’t either. That’s why I wonder how you showed up in Steamboat Springs at the same time I appeared.

Is it possible we both enjoy the same scenery?

Come on Kannis, Let’s not waste time playing games. Is it possible that your client might have something in common with my clients?

Let’s compare notes without using names. What do you want to know?

First and foremost, I don’t remember anyone being able to track down someone under my supervision. How did you do it?

Before Garrett could answer, Bree interrupted the seriousness of the situation by giggling. Both men looked at her as she grabbed Garrett’s arm.

Please, Garrett, may I answer his question.

Garrett nodded as her reaction was infectious and both men were laughing and had no idea why.

It was… elementary, my dear Watson.

From that point on the meeting adapted into a relaxed more friendly exchange. First names began being used. Bree explained how she had used her research techniques to target Steamboat Springs, Garrett explained how he had become involved. Watson detailed why he was on the scene.

I had the annual meeting scheduled with my clients for today. I received a strange call from them on Sunday. I was told they would not be available for the meeting. Then I was asked what would happen if they were to leave the program. They gave me no reason for the discussion. I told them if there was a threat to them they would be on their own. I asked them not to do anything until I could come here and talk to them.

"Sid, since they have left Steamboat Springs, isn’t that a violation of their