“The relationship between our companies is none of your business,” Fulkerson said, but the narrowing of the man’s eyes told Logan he’d been right.

“I don’t give a damn about the relationship. I have nothing to do with it. And just so we’re clear, I haven’t been hired for anything. I’ve been asked to help. That’s it.”

“Right. You do this job gratis, and then use that to leverage yourself into more work. I’ve seen people do that a million times. Go ahead and try, but don’t expect me to assist.”

“Fair enough.” Logan retrieved his phone.

“What are you doing?”

“Just give me a second.” He found the number he was looking for and placed the call. As soon as it was answered, he said, “Callie? It’s Logan.”

Fulkerson tensed a little at the use of Callie’s first name.

“How did the meeting go?” she asked.

“I’m actually sitting here with Joe right now.”

“Joe? He must really hate you.”

“That seems to be my take. Mind if I put you on speaker?”

“Not at all.”

Logan activated the speaker function as he set the phone on the desk. “Are you still there?”

“I’m here,” she said, her voice coming out clearly.

“Hello, Mrs. Johnson,” Fulkerson said. “I think there might be some kind of misunderstand-”

“Let me fill her in first,” Logan jumped in. “You can correct anything I get wrong. Callie, I’m calling because we have a little problem you might be able to help with. Joe here seems to think I’m angling to take future work you might otherwise send his way. Is that right, Joe?”

“Well, I’m not sure I’d put it that way,” Fulkerson stammered.

“It’s how you just put it to me. Anyway, I tried telling him I have no interest in taking work from him, but he doesn’t seem to believe me. And, because of that, he’s, well, reluctant to provide additional help.”