“Who else have you been talking to?” he asked.

“Those records are public, Julian.”

“Public isn’t the same as yours to read.”

“You don’t understand what’s on the other side of this,” he said.

“Then tell me the number.” I kept my voice even.

“Say it out loud, and I’ll help you find a way through.”

He stepped back.

The whole thing shut off in him, quick as a burner.