“They put her through hell.”
“They did, and she’ll need a good PTSD counselor. So will you. Our team doctor can give you some local referrals.”
“I’d appreciate that.”
“I’ll have him send the names to your uncle.”
She needs therapy because of me. She almost died because of me.
As if he could read my mind, Rogers said, “Winchester, you know it’s not your fault.” Pain flashed across his eyes before empathy replaced it.He’s been in my shoes.He understands what it’s like to feel helpless when someone needs him.
“I led them to her.”
“Did you do it intentionally?”
Anger felt better than guilt.
“Fuck you, of course not.”
“Then how is it your fault?”
Needing to talk to someone I could be open with, I shared my guilt and fear, finishing with, “I should’ve been more careful from the start.”
“Winchester, you did everything you could, including violating your oath, to protect her.”
I groaned at the reminder. I’d have to hand in my resignation after closing the case.
“Gibson and I will probably get fired.” Maybe arrested.
“Or be given a medal. Colonel Shepherd will make sure you come out smelling like roses when he files his report.”
“It’s our report I’m worried about.”
He shrugged and said, “What’re a few broken rules when you’ve caught corrupt CIA officers and shut down a shadow op company working on the wrong side of the law?”
That was an understatement. Kane and Gable were low-key domestic terrorists hiding behind the guise of international operations.
“I hope the Director of the CIA agrees.” I still didn’t know if the buck stopped with Kane and Gable.
“Even if she doesn’t, she won’t take action while you’re laid up in a hospital bed, so take advantage of the government benefits while you can.”
I nodded, grateful I had great health benefits and weeks of personal time off to extend my medical leave after the doctor cleared me for light duty.
Rogers glanced at his phone. “Your uncle is on his way back, and I have to run.” He shook my hand. “Take care of yourself.”
“Thanks again, Rogers. I’m a phone call away if you need anything.”
“Appreciate it.”
“How can I reach you?”
“Have Sharpe reach out to Smith.”
“Right, Sharpe has a Shepherd Security contact.” So did Ryan, but I didn’t.
“Yeah, turns out they crossed paths when Sharpe did contract work with the Chicago PD. They speak the same language,and both ask for forgiveness rather than seek permission.” He laughed. “If you know what I mean.”
I did.
