The Chiang Mai Chronicle: A Declan Power Mystery (23 page)

They all congregated around Declan’s hospital bed. Oum clasped his hand promising to never let go. Peter Morgan refilled their glasses with whiskey.

“Screw the doctors Power. You deserve a stiff shot or three,” he said his voice filled with elation and a dash of relief. “And Oum, I talked with my wife. She said you were a source of inspiration for her and my daughter.”

Oum tried to hide her surprise. “We made it through together,” she fibbed. “I guess we knew Declan and you would find a way.”

“Enough of the past,” Declan squawked. “We’ve got a story to run with boss! This will really put us on the map.”

Morgan shook his head sadly. “No Power. We’ve been muffled. Thailand is now under military rule and the press is being suppressed.”

Declan thought for a moment. “Aha! I’m sure they wouldn’t mind if the Lan Na Ripper was exposed to be a northern elite hottie. If only I hadn’t left my mobile phone up in Bee’s condo.”

“You must be talking about this Power,” said a voice from out in the hall.

They all looked to the entrance. Phitak Pantrem walked into the hospital room and gave Declan his phone. “Quite some photos if I do say so myself.”

A relieved look came over Declan’s face. He introduced his friend to Oum and Morgan. “Without this guy I’m a goner.”

“Hell, I thought you were a goner when you did the header from the balcony.”

“Nah, nothing to it, just a big belly flop.”

Morgan whistled. “The Lan Na Ripper Undressed! How’s that for a headline,” Peter Morgan exclaimed looking down at Declan’s phone. “You may well be right Power. I can sell this scandal to the generals.”

Declan clapped his hands. “Aha, back in business boss. And you Phitak?”

Pantrem raised an eyebrow. “No, I’m out of business, out of the shadows though and straight into the light.”

Declan shook his head and gave him a good natured shot in the ribs. “Don’t worry Bangkok Man; it’s just as dirty out here. You’ll fit right in.”