“That was a tough assignment,” Maria agreed. “Not my first choice for you, but the terror cell was the one to watch and there’re not many who know that group like you do. I spent several years—on and off—overseas. It either breaks you or you grow a tough exterior.”
“I agree.”
“Did it break you?”
“No, it didn’t.” Caroline sipped her water.
“The assignment is based here, in the DMV.”
Though confused, Caroline perked up.
“Several months ago, a group of high-level government employees created a network enabling terrorists from the Haqazzii cell to enter the country.”
“Ohgod,” she whispered.
“You’ll be working with an elite group to bring them down.”
She stared at her division chief. “Okay.”
“Unfortunately, I don’t have details. The situation is on lockdown because the higher ups want to keep a tight lid on the situation. The person running the group can brief you.”
Excitement pounded through her. She didn’t have to leave the country, and she was going to be doing something incredibly important… and potentially dangerous.
“I need your car key.”
“I’m sorry,” Caroline said. “For my vehicle?”
“Yes. You’re being driven to their location, so I’ve arranged for someone to drive your car to your home.”
“I’ll have to get it for you.”
Maria stood. “I’ll escort you downstairs for the handoff.”
Maria walked around her desk. “Caroline, you were one of the best handlers we’ve had. You’ve been hand-selected for this position because of your commitment to the Agency. You’re smart, you’re a hard worker, and you’re an expert on the Haqazzii terror cell. Though you’ll be on US soil, the mission is just as dangerous as if you were in Karakistan. Good luck.”
Maria shook her hand.
At her cubicle, Caroline packed up, then handed Maria her car key fob. She had more questions than answers, but she was eager to find out everything about this group and their current challenge.
In the elevator, Caroline reached for the lobby button, but Maria swiped her own photo ID card and pressed an unmarked black button.
“Basement,” Maria said.
The doors opened into an underground parking garage.
Caroline had no idea this existed because she’d always parked in the large lot surrounding the building. A black SUV waited at the curb. The driver’s side door opened and Addison exited.
Caroline did a double take.
“Good to see you, Chief Konya.” Addison shook her hand.
“We miss you, Addison.”
Addison smiled. “Thank you.”
“I’m guessing your new assignment is working out.”
“It’s great.” She smiled at Caroline. “Are you ready?”
