She's an Easy Target, page 25
part #2 of Quinton Target Series
“I can use the MAC address to find out who the phone is registered to,” he said to the group. “Give me a couple of minutes.” L. Ron clicked the keys at a frantic pace. “Got you!”
“Who’s the phone registered to?” QT said.
“Thomas Thomson.”
“That’s not exactly what we were hoping for,” Blaire said.
“It could’ve been worse,” QT said. “It could have been an untraceable burner phone.”
After several minutes passed, QT’s phone rang and he picked up and said, “Is he back on the road, Tim?”
“Yes, I’m following him. While he was in Starbucks, he had a cup of coffee with some guy. I snapped their picture on my phone.”
“What’d the guy look like?”
“Thinning hair and pitted face.”
“That’s Lucas Taylor. He’s an NSA manager. Did they leave together?”
“Only Mitchell left. The other guy is still at Starbucks. He must’ve driven his own car.”
“Which one of them used their phone while drinking their coffee?”
“Both of them. They showed each other their phone displays. They were sharing pictures or information.”
“Did you see either of them ditch a phone?”
“No, but Mitchell went to the restroom briefly before he left.”
“Which direction is Cayden Mitchell heading?”
“Back toward the JUIAF. Do you want me to arrest him?”
“No. we don’t have enough on him for any charges to stick at this point. Stay with him and let me know if he does anything out of the ordinary.”
“Why aren’t you arresting him?” Blaire said angrily. “We’ve got the two of them together accessing the ransom money.”
“I’m not questioning their guilt, but we still don’t have any firm evidence. Think about it. We’ve got Agent Parker’s photo of Lucas and Cayden having a cup of coffee together and an illegal electronic trace of a dead man’s phone, which happened to be accessing the account from the same coffee shop.”
“It’s enough to stop them for questioning,” Blaire said. “Maybe Cayden has Thomas Thomson’s phone in his car. It could implicate him in Thomson’s murder as well as provide evidence that the phone was used to access the ransom bank account.”
“L. Ron, are you able to access that iPhone’s location right now?”
“No, the GPS isn’t active.”
“Blaire, as much as it pains me to say, I think it would be a mistake to pick him up. For all we know, he’s already disposed of the phone at Starbucks.”
“We don’t know that for certain.”
“It’s just too risky. All Hell is going to break loose if the FBI arrests an NSA Analyst for kidnapping with flimsy evidence. And, it’ll alert Cayden and Lucas that we know about their involvement in the ransom.”
“OK, then what do we do?” Blaire said, obviously disappointed. “We can’t let them get away with this.”
“We go to Plan B.”
“Plan B?”
“Yes, Plan Blaire. As much as I dislike it, we need you to call Lucas and tell him you’ll go to his home tonight. Perhaps there’s evidence against Cayden or him in the safe.”
“Are you suggesting I sleep with Lucas if necessary?”
“Of course not. We’ll have you wired, and I’ll be close by to intervene when necessary. He might incriminate himself and if he does, we’ll record it.”
Blaire paused to consider what QT was asking her to do.
“If you’re not comfortable doing it, we’ll think of something else,” QT said.
“I’ll do it. I’m ready to bring this to a conclusion, one way or another.”
“L. Ron, I need you to closely monitor the bank account. If there’s any indication that anyone is trying to withdraw the money or transfer it to another account, I want you to sign on using the signatory access you set up for Blaire and transfer the money back to Benjamin Saunders.”
“It’ll be twenty-four hours minimum before the money can be moved but I’ll stay on top of it starting now in case they have a way to bypass the waiting period.”
“Would you do me another favor?”
“Sure.”
“Contact Lieutenant Mad and tell her I said it’s safe for her to come home to her room over the garage. The man who shot Dr. Bit has been found dead,” QT said. He looked at Rasputin, who sat calmly without reacting.
Chapter 53
She called Lucas from the master bedroom in her townhouse. She’d insisted with QT that he not be present while she made the call. She knew she’d have to be somewhat seductive in her conversation to give Lucas hope that he would be receiving what he desired. It was embarrassing enough for her to behave that way without having QT there to hear it.
He picked up on the first ring. “I was expecting your call,” he said.
“You’re pretty sure of yourself, aren’t you?”
“That depends. Are you calling to tell me you’ll be joining me tonight or you can’t make it?”
“I’ve been thinking over what you said about a promotion and how to go about getting it. I’m as qualified as any man in the NSA but apparently that isn’t enough. You were right when you said getting ahead is more about politics than merit.”
“Not that I’m complaining but I can’t help but notice your attitude has changed. In the past you’ve rejected me every time I’ve approached you.”
“Being kidnapped and tortured has changed my outlook on life. I don’t want to be an easy target any longer. I want to be in a position of power where no man would dare to cross me.”
“It’s lucky for you that you have a friend like me who has the authority to do good things for your career.”
“Don’t take this the wrong way, but you’re only one management layer above me. What makes you think you have the capability to significantly affect my career one way or the other?”
“The organizational structure isn’t always as it appears on the surface. Especially in the intelligence game. That’s what I want to talk to you about. But not on the phone.”
“You’ve piqued my interest. I’ll come tonight. I’ve already told QT I might have to review an assignment with you.”
“What did he say about it?”
“He didn’t like it. He said the meeting is a ruse for you to try to seduce me.”
“As I told you earlier today, I want to make you an offer. You can decide for yourself whether it’s worth what I’d demand in return for my generosity.”
“I’ll listen to what you have to say but I’m not making any promises in advance.”
“Can you at least tell me everything is on the table, if the offer is right.”
“... I’m willing to give a lot for the right opportunity and believe me, I’m worth a lot. I’m not an easy conquest, but when I agree to give something, I deliver.”
“I’m happy to hear you say that. I’d expect to receive as good as I give.”
“I’ve never had any complaints about my performance.”
“I bet you haven’t. I can’t wait to have you here so we can come to an agreement.”
“Be forewarned I’m going to have questions that I’ll expect to be answered. I’m not giving anything until we’re clear what you’re delivering as your half of the bargain.”
“What time will you be here?
“Eight o’clock.”
“Come alone.”
“Sorry, can’t do that. I have a police escort watching over me until my kidnapper is caught.”
“You’re safe at my house.”
“Not negotiable.”
“Fine, as long as they remain outside in their car.”
***
QT looked up when he heard Blaire coming down the stairs from the master bedroom. His eyes widened when he saw her. She was wearing a white, silky dress with a plunging neckline that went halfway to her navel. The fabric covered two-thirds of each breast. It wasn’t a design conducive to wearing a bra, so she wasn’t wearing one. The bottom portion of the dress stopped just above the knee; however, a V-shaped side slit flared all the way to her waist, revealing her shapely, right leg.
When she got to the bottom of the stairs and saw QT eyeing her, she twirled around to reveal the open back. “What do you think?” she said.
“I think you look sexy. Where are you going dressed like that?” he asked even though he knew the answer.
“Officially, I’m going to meet Lucas to discuss a work assignment.”
“Are you going out dancing afterward?” QT asked jokingly.
“No, I’m dressed to negotiate a promotion.”
“If I was negotiating with you, I’d give you anything you asked for.”
“You don’t think it’s over the top?”
“I’ll leave it to your judgement, but that outfit might give him a heart attack before your negotiations begin.”
“That would make by job easy.”
QT took a necklace out his pocket and held it up for her to see. “This will go well with your dress,” he said. “The microphone is built into the locket.”
Blaire brushed her hair with her hand to clear a space for the necklace. “Clasp it for me, please.” She said.
As he was hooking the chain he said, “Where are you going to put the safecracking device that L. Ron gave you? I’m not seeing any place to hide it on that skimpy dress.”
“I’ve got in in my purse, concealed in my compact.”
“Are you leaving now?”
“Yes, I’m supposed to be at Lucas’ house at eight.”
After latching the necklace, QT turned her by the shoulders until she was facing him. He gently stroked her bare back. “Are you ready for this?” he said.
“I’m as ready as I’m going to be,” she said.
“I’ll be parked out of sight but close enough that I can listen to you and record your conversation. Don’t hesitate to shout out, if you feel threatened at any time.”
“Don’t worry. I’ve got this. I’ll kick the little pervert’s butt if he tries to force me to do anything I don’t want to do.”
“I wish there were another way,” he said.
“We’re beyond deciding what to do. I’m ready to execute Plan B.”
Chapter 54
Blaire drove a rental car to Lucas’ house. Her BMW was still at the impound lot. The smell of stale smoke circulated in the air. The previous driver must’ve been a smoker. She closed all the vents and turned off the fan. As much as she hated rentals, she wasn’t anxious to get her luxury car back. In fact, there was no way she’d ever drive it again. She knew she’d always be aware of the scent of death lingering from the dead body that had been in the trunk. The BMW would forever remind her of that night of horror she’d spent locked in a storage unit.
The police car with two officers in it drove ahead of her. They stopped in front of Lucas’ house, got out of their cruiser, and surveyed the area while Blaire walked up the sidewalk. Once they saw Lucas let her in the front door, they returned to their vehicle. QT hung back and parked before going around the last corner. He was still within range of the transmitter in Blaire’s necklace, but wasn’t visible from Lucas’ house.
When Lucas saw her, wearing the white dress, his eyes darted back and forth from her barely covered breasts to the slit up her dress that highlighted her naked leg.
After a few moments, he regained his senses and said, “Come in and sit down.” His eyes uncontrollably wandered again as he said, “I like the dress.”
“QT and I were supposed to attend a party tonight at one of his FBI friend’s home. We might still go, depending on how long this meeting takes.” Blaire surprised herself by how easily she lied when she wasn’t connected to a polygraph.
“What we’ll be discussing tonight is extremely sensitive. Before we get started, I’ll need to frisk you to make sure you’re not wired.”
“That’s not going to happen,” Blaire said. “Do you really think I could hide a wire under this dress.”
“Point taken. You can’t blame a guy for trying,” he said with a smarmy smile.
She walked over to the couch and sat down. “Is here OK?” she said. She crossed her legs and the dress slid four inches above her knees.
“Wherever you’re comfortable,” he said, ogling her legs. “Can I get you a mixed drink or glass of wine?”
“No thanks.”
“I’m going to have a Scotch,” he said. He went to the bar, poured his drink, and took a swig before he walked back to the couch and sat next to her, a little too close for her comfort.
She moved away from him and said, “Why did you ask me to come here tonight?”
“I told you why on the phone. I want to make you an offer. You said you want more power, didn’t you? Isn’t that why you came dressed like that — to show me what you’re willing to give me in exchange for more power?”
“Is that what you think?” she said without denying what he’d implied.
“Let me put my cards on the table, so we can stop dancing around the obvious.” he said as he reached out and touched her arm.
She withdrew her arm from his touch and said, “I came here to find out if you really have a serious proposal for me or it’s the same old story of you lusting after me and me rejecting your unwanted advances.”
“Very well, let’s get straight to it. Have you heard of the Global Information Agency, GIA for short?”
She laughed and said, “I’ve heard about a fictitious organization called that. You aren’t going to try to convince me such an organization really exists, are you?”
Lucas’ face and ears turned red. Blaire didn’t know if it was his Scotch or his anger surfacing as a reaction to her comment. “It does exist,” he said emphatically.
“I’ve never met a single person who works for the GIA. They don’t have any office buildings or other tangible assets that would confirm their existence.”
“They’re a secret organization. That’s the whole point. And, whether you know it or not, you have met members of the GIA.”
“Who?”
“Special Agent John Warren is one and I’m another.”
“You’re with the GIA?” she said incredulous.
“How else could I make an offer on their behalf?”
“You’re asking me to take a giant leap of faith to believe that claim without any proof.”
“I need another drink,” he said and went to his bar to pour one. Are you sure I can’t get you something?”
“I’m good for now.”
When he came back to the couch and sat down, he didn’t invade her space this time. He looked her in the eyes, which was highly unusual for him, and said, “There are high-level operatives in the legit intelligence agencies, with names recognizable by you, who are also secretly GIA. Also, there are high profile billionaires who’d you’d be surprised to learn are members.”
“Have you already had discussions with one of the GIA leaders about recruiting me?”
“Yes, I have, and they left it to my discretion whether to approach you to make an offer.”
“Assuming for the sake of argument, the GIA does exist, why would I want to be a foot soldier in the GIA? The pawns always get sacrificed to protect those of higher rank.”
“You wouldn’t be at the lowest rank. It would be to the GIA’s advantage to use their influence to promote you at a rapid pace within the NSA while at the same time giving you a secret position of authority within the GIA.”
“How do I know you aren’t making this all up?”
“You have to understand; the GIA depends on total secrecy. I’m taking a big risk being this open with you. Once I take the next step to extend you an offer, there’s no turning back. The GIA doesn’t keep loose ends untied. Either you’re in or you’re out.”
“That doesn’t sound like I’ll have the option to say no to your offer. Not if out means what I think it means.”
“You could look at it that way.”
“What if I don’t like the offer once you make it?
“You’ll have to trust that if your answer is no, I’ll communicate back to the GIA that I decided you weren’t a viable candidate for recruitment instead of telling them I made the offer and you turned it down.”
“That’s putting a lot of faith in you, especially considering you get nothing from me if I turn down your proposal.”
“I’ll take that chance.”
“Before we take that next step, I need some answers from you about a related matter.”
“Go ahead and ask me anything.”
“I know that Cayden Smith was the one who kidnapped me and subsequently attacked me twice. Did you order him to do it?”
A shocked look came across his face. “If Cayden’s guilty of kidnapping and torture, he acted without my approval or the GIA’s knowledge.”
“There’s no if about it, he’s guilty. He kidnapped me, tortured me, and extorted two million dollars from my father.”
“Does the FBI have evidence to arrest him for those crimes?”
“Not yet, but they will soon. Tell me the truth about your involvement. There’s no way for me to ever trust you without you coming clean on this.”
“I understand your reluctance.”
“Then level with me. I know you were with Cayden earlier today at the same time the ransom money was transferred to his offshore account. How do you explain that if you weren’t in cahoots with him?”
“Sometimes things aren’t as they appear.”
“And, sometimes they’re exactly as they appear.”
Lucas paused while he considered how to respond. “I’ll tell you what I know, but I’ll deny I ever said it if you tell the FBI.”
“I’ll keep it between us,” she said. It was another lie that came easily to her.
Chapter 55
Lucas stared at Blaire’s half naked breasts. It was as though he was using the stimulation to remind himself of the prize awaiting him once he convinced her to accept his offer.
Blaire lifted her arms and stretched, pushing her chest out as she did so. “You were about to tell me what you know about my kidnapping.”
“Who’s the phone registered to?” QT said.
“Thomas Thomson.”
“That’s not exactly what we were hoping for,” Blaire said.
“It could’ve been worse,” QT said. “It could have been an untraceable burner phone.”
After several minutes passed, QT’s phone rang and he picked up and said, “Is he back on the road, Tim?”
“Yes, I’m following him. While he was in Starbucks, he had a cup of coffee with some guy. I snapped their picture on my phone.”
“What’d the guy look like?”
“Thinning hair and pitted face.”
“That’s Lucas Taylor. He’s an NSA manager. Did they leave together?”
“Only Mitchell left. The other guy is still at Starbucks. He must’ve driven his own car.”
“Which one of them used their phone while drinking their coffee?”
“Both of them. They showed each other their phone displays. They were sharing pictures or information.”
“Did you see either of them ditch a phone?”
“No, but Mitchell went to the restroom briefly before he left.”
“Which direction is Cayden Mitchell heading?”
“Back toward the JUIAF. Do you want me to arrest him?”
“No. we don’t have enough on him for any charges to stick at this point. Stay with him and let me know if he does anything out of the ordinary.”
“Why aren’t you arresting him?” Blaire said angrily. “We’ve got the two of them together accessing the ransom money.”
“I’m not questioning their guilt, but we still don’t have any firm evidence. Think about it. We’ve got Agent Parker’s photo of Lucas and Cayden having a cup of coffee together and an illegal electronic trace of a dead man’s phone, which happened to be accessing the account from the same coffee shop.”
“It’s enough to stop them for questioning,” Blaire said. “Maybe Cayden has Thomas Thomson’s phone in his car. It could implicate him in Thomson’s murder as well as provide evidence that the phone was used to access the ransom bank account.”
“L. Ron, are you able to access that iPhone’s location right now?”
“No, the GPS isn’t active.”
“Blaire, as much as it pains me to say, I think it would be a mistake to pick him up. For all we know, he’s already disposed of the phone at Starbucks.”
“We don’t know that for certain.”
“It’s just too risky. All Hell is going to break loose if the FBI arrests an NSA Analyst for kidnapping with flimsy evidence. And, it’ll alert Cayden and Lucas that we know about their involvement in the ransom.”
“OK, then what do we do?” Blaire said, obviously disappointed. “We can’t let them get away with this.”
“We go to Plan B.”
“Plan B?”
“Yes, Plan Blaire. As much as I dislike it, we need you to call Lucas and tell him you’ll go to his home tonight. Perhaps there’s evidence against Cayden or him in the safe.”
“Are you suggesting I sleep with Lucas if necessary?”
“Of course not. We’ll have you wired, and I’ll be close by to intervene when necessary. He might incriminate himself and if he does, we’ll record it.”
Blaire paused to consider what QT was asking her to do.
“If you’re not comfortable doing it, we’ll think of something else,” QT said.
“I’ll do it. I’m ready to bring this to a conclusion, one way or another.”
“L. Ron, I need you to closely monitor the bank account. If there’s any indication that anyone is trying to withdraw the money or transfer it to another account, I want you to sign on using the signatory access you set up for Blaire and transfer the money back to Benjamin Saunders.”
“It’ll be twenty-four hours minimum before the money can be moved but I’ll stay on top of it starting now in case they have a way to bypass the waiting period.”
“Would you do me another favor?”
“Sure.”
“Contact Lieutenant Mad and tell her I said it’s safe for her to come home to her room over the garage. The man who shot Dr. Bit has been found dead,” QT said. He looked at Rasputin, who sat calmly without reacting.
Chapter 53
She called Lucas from the master bedroom in her townhouse. She’d insisted with QT that he not be present while she made the call. She knew she’d have to be somewhat seductive in her conversation to give Lucas hope that he would be receiving what he desired. It was embarrassing enough for her to behave that way without having QT there to hear it.
He picked up on the first ring. “I was expecting your call,” he said.
“You’re pretty sure of yourself, aren’t you?”
“That depends. Are you calling to tell me you’ll be joining me tonight or you can’t make it?”
“I’ve been thinking over what you said about a promotion and how to go about getting it. I’m as qualified as any man in the NSA but apparently that isn’t enough. You were right when you said getting ahead is more about politics than merit.”
“Not that I’m complaining but I can’t help but notice your attitude has changed. In the past you’ve rejected me every time I’ve approached you.”
“Being kidnapped and tortured has changed my outlook on life. I don’t want to be an easy target any longer. I want to be in a position of power where no man would dare to cross me.”
“It’s lucky for you that you have a friend like me who has the authority to do good things for your career.”
“Don’t take this the wrong way, but you’re only one management layer above me. What makes you think you have the capability to significantly affect my career one way or the other?”
“The organizational structure isn’t always as it appears on the surface. Especially in the intelligence game. That’s what I want to talk to you about. But not on the phone.”
“You’ve piqued my interest. I’ll come tonight. I’ve already told QT I might have to review an assignment with you.”
“What did he say about it?”
“He didn’t like it. He said the meeting is a ruse for you to try to seduce me.”
“As I told you earlier today, I want to make you an offer. You can decide for yourself whether it’s worth what I’d demand in return for my generosity.”
“I’ll listen to what you have to say but I’m not making any promises in advance.”
“Can you at least tell me everything is on the table, if the offer is right.”
“... I’m willing to give a lot for the right opportunity and believe me, I’m worth a lot. I’m not an easy conquest, but when I agree to give something, I deliver.”
“I’m happy to hear you say that. I’d expect to receive as good as I give.”
“I’ve never had any complaints about my performance.”
“I bet you haven’t. I can’t wait to have you here so we can come to an agreement.”
“Be forewarned I’m going to have questions that I’ll expect to be answered. I’m not giving anything until we’re clear what you’re delivering as your half of the bargain.”
“What time will you be here?
“Eight o’clock.”
“Come alone.”
“Sorry, can’t do that. I have a police escort watching over me until my kidnapper is caught.”
“You’re safe at my house.”
“Not negotiable.”
“Fine, as long as they remain outside in their car.”
***
QT looked up when he heard Blaire coming down the stairs from the master bedroom. His eyes widened when he saw her. She was wearing a white, silky dress with a plunging neckline that went halfway to her navel. The fabric covered two-thirds of each breast. It wasn’t a design conducive to wearing a bra, so she wasn’t wearing one. The bottom portion of the dress stopped just above the knee; however, a V-shaped side slit flared all the way to her waist, revealing her shapely, right leg.
When she got to the bottom of the stairs and saw QT eyeing her, she twirled around to reveal the open back. “What do you think?” she said.
“I think you look sexy. Where are you going dressed like that?” he asked even though he knew the answer.
“Officially, I’m going to meet Lucas to discuss a work assignment.”
“Are you going out dancing afterward?” QT asked jokingly.
“No, I’m dressed to negotiate a promotion.”
“If I was negotiating with you, I’d give you anything you asked for.”
“You don’t think it’s over the top?”
“I’ll leave it to your judgement, but that outfit might give him a heart attack before your negotiations begin.”
“That would make by job easy.”
QT took a necklace out his pocket and held it up for her to see. “This will go well with your dress,” he said. “The microphone is built into the locket.”
Blaire brushed her hair with her hand to clear a space for the necklace. “Clasp it for me, please.” She said.
As he was hooking the chain he said, “Where are you going to put the safecracking device that L. Ron gave you? I’m not seeing any place to hide it on that skimpy dress.”
“I’ve got in in my purse, concealed in my compact.”
“Are you leaving now?”
“Yes, I’m supposed to be at Lucas’ house at eight.”
After latching the necklace, QT turned her by the shoulders until she was facing him. He gently stroked her bare back. “Are you ready for this?” he said.
“I’m as ready as I’m going to be,” she said.
“I’ll be parked out of sight but close enough that I can listen to you and record your conversation. Don’t hesitate to shout out, if you feel threatened at any time.”
“Don’t worry. I’ve got this. I’ll kick the little pervert’s butt if he tries to force me to do anything I don’t want to do.”
“I wish there were another way,” he said.
“We’re beyond deciding what to do. I’m ready to execute Plan B.”
Chapter 54
Blaire drove a rental car to Lucas’ house. Her BMW was still at the impound lot. The smell of stale smoke circulated in the air. The previous driver must’ve been a smoker. She closed all the vents and turned off the fan. As much as she hated rentals, she wasn’t anxious to get her luxury car back. In fact, there was no way she’d ever drive it again. She knew she’d always be aware of the scent of death lingering from the dead body that had been in the trunk. The BMW would forever remind her of that night of horror she’d spent locked in a storage unit.
The police car with two officers in it drove ahead of her. They stopped in front of Lucas’ house, got out of their cruiser, and surveyed the area while Blaire walked up the sidewalk. Once they saw Lucas let her in the front door, they returned to their vehicle. QT hung back and parked before going around the last corner. He was still within range of the transmitter in Blaire’s necklace, but wasn’t visible from Lucas’ house.
When Lucas saw her, wearing the white dress, his eyes darted back and forth from her barely covered breasts to the slit up her dress that highlighted her naked leg.
After a few moments, he regained his senses and said, “Come in and sit down.” His eyes uncontrollably wandered again as he said, “I like the dress.”
“QT and I were supposed to attend a party tonight at one of his FBI friend’s home. We might still go, depending on how long this meeting takes.” Blaire surprised herself by how easily she lied when she wasn’t connected to a polygraph.
“What we’ll be discussing tonight is extremely sensitive. Before we get started, I’ll need to frisk you to make sure you’re not wired.”
“That’s not going to happen,” Blaire said. “Do you really think I could hide a wire under this dress.”
“Point taken. You can’t blame a guy for trying,” he said with a smarmy smile.
She walked over to the couch and sat down. “Is here OK?” she said. She crossed her legs and the dress slid four inches above her knees.
“Wherever you’re comfortable,” he said, ogling her legs. “Can I get you a mixed drink or glass of wine?”
“No thanks.”
“I’m going to have a Scotch,” he said. He went to the bar, poured his drink, and took a swig before he walked back to the couch and sat next to her, a little too close for her comfort.
She moved away from him and said, “Why did you ask me to come here tonight?”
“I told you why on the phone. I want to make you an offer. You said you want more power, didn’t you? Isn’t that why you came dressed like that — to show me what you’re willing to give me in exchange for more power?”
“Is that what you think?” she said without denying what he’d implied.
“Let me put my cards on the table, so we can stop dancing around the obvious.” he said as he reached out and touched her arm.
She withdrew her arm from his touch and said, “I came here to find out if you really have a serious proposal for me or it’s the same old story of you lusting after me and me rejecting your unwanted advances.”
“Very well, let’s get straight to it. Have you heard of the Global Information Agency, GIA for short?”
She laughed and said, “I’ve heard about a fictitious organization called that. You aren’t going to try to convince me such an organization really exists, are you?”
Lucas’ face and ears turned red. Blaire didn’t know if it was his Scotch or his anger surfacing as a reaction to her comment. “It does exist,” he said emphatically.
“I’ve never met a single person who works for the GIA. They don’t have any office buildings or other tangible assets that would confirm their existence.”
“They’re a secret organization. That’s the whole point. And, whether you know it or not, you have met members of the GIA.”
“Who?”
“Special Agent John Warren is one and I’m another.”
“You’re with the GIA?” she said incredulous.
“How else could I make an offer on their behalf?”
“You’re asking me to take a giant leap of faith to believe that claim without any proof.”
“I need another drink,” he said and went to his bar to pour one. Are you sure I can’t get you something?”
“I’m good for now.”
When he came back to the couch and sat down, he didn’t invade her space this time. He looked her in the eyes, which was highly unusual for him, and said, “There are high-level operatives in the legit intelligence agencies, with names recognizable by you, who are also secretly GIA. Also, there are high profile billionaires who’d you’d be surprised to learn are members.”
“Have you already had discussions with one of the GIA leaders about recruiting me?”
“Yes, I have, and they left it to my discretion whether to approach you to make an offer.”
“Assuming for the sake of argument, the GIA does exist, why would I want to be a foot soldier in the GIA? The pawns always get sacrificed to protect those of higher rank.”
“You wouldn’t be at the lowest rank. It would be to the GIA’s advantage to use their influence to promote you at a rapid pace within the NSA while at the same time giving you a secret position of authority within the GIA.”
“How do I know you aren’t making this all up?”
“You have to understand; the GIA depends on total secrecy. I’m taking a big risk being this open with you. Once I take the next step to extend you an offer, there’s no turning back. The GIA doesn’t keep loose ends untied. Either you’re in or you’re out.”
“That doesn’t sound like I’ll have the option to say no to your offer. Not if out means what I think it means.”
“You could look at it that way.”
“What if I don’t like the offer once you make it?
“You’ll have to trust that if your answer is no, I’ll communicate back to the GIA that I decided you weren’t a viable candidate for recruitment instead of telling them I made the offer and you turned it down.”
“That’s putting a lot of faith in you, especially considering you get nothing from me if I turn down your proposal.”
“I’ll take that chance.”
“Before we take that next step, I need some answers from you about a related matter.”
“Go ahead and ask me anything.”
“I know that Cayden Smith was the one who kidnapped me and subsequently attacked me twice. Did you order him to do it?”
A shocked look came across his face. “If Cayden’s guilty of kidnapping and torture, he acted without my approval or the GIA’s knowledge.”
“There’s no if about it, he’s guilty. He kidnapped me, tortured me, and extorted two million dollars from my father.”
“Does the FBI have evidence to arrest him for those crimes?”
“Not yet, but they will soon. Tell me the truth about your involvement. There’s no way for me to ever trust you without you coming clean on this.”
“I understand your reluctance.”
“Then level with me. I know you were with Cayden earlier today at the same time the ransom money was transferred to his offshore account. How do you explain that if you weren’t in cahoots with him?”
“Sometimes things aren’t as they appear.”
“And, sometimes they’re exactly as they appear.”
Lucas paused while he considered how to respond. “I’ll tell you what I know, but I’ll deny I ever said it if you tell the FBI.”
“I’ll keep it between us,” she said. It was another lie that came easily to her.
Chapter 55
Lucas stared at Blaire’s half naked breasts. It was as though he was using the stimulation to remind himself of the prize awaiting him once he convinced her to accept his offer.
Blaire lifted her arms and stretched, pushing her chest out as she did so. “You were about to tell me what you know about my kidnapping.”
