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“I called the ones I work with, Ben.” Huisman’s head shook like he was frustrated. “I have to work with them to get the foundation’s research in the best position it can be in. I know it’s distasteful, but that’s how the world works. I have to deal with governments if I want to get critical research done, research that will help humanity.”
“I see through you,” Ben declared. “I know exactly who you are. You cannot fool me but please, let’s keep the charade going. What are you doing here, Manny? What’s the con this time?”
Huisman sighed. “Con? I thought I was a murderer. Or a terrorist. I believe that is what you told your bosses at CSIS. You need to figure out which type of criminal I am and stick with it.”
“I think you’re all of the above,” Ben said with grim surety. “So what’s the play this time? Are you trying to cut Oakley out so you can take over the group?”
“What group?” Huisman seemed at a loss.
“I’m talking about the group behind Disrupt Australia.” Ben stood mere feet away from Huisman, creating a real threat that he could attack.
Taggart moved closer, as though getting ready to step in if he had to.
Huisman’s head shook. “I’ve partnered with them on a couple of projects. They’re doing interesting work when it comes to dealing with problems. They’ve made some innovations that I find helpful. As we move into the future, it’s important to find new solutions. I don’t know how I would take over. I’m not even on the board.”
“God, you’re a good actor.” Ben turned to Taggart. “Did you read the reports I sent you on the group?”
“I did.” Taggart seemed to be choosing his words carefully.
Ben’s face fell. “But you don’t believe me.”
“I think we need more evidence,” Taggart allowed.
Ben huffed. “I should have known you wouldn’t believe me. I guess Huisman owns enough American politicians that it doesn’t matter what the truth is. Are you going to listen to him now?”
Ben was being unreasonable. Even Dare knew they should listen to the man. “I think we should.”
Even lies would give them something. If they could catch the doctor in a lie, that would be evidence.
“Yes, I’m going to listen to what he has to say, Ben.” Taggart had a grim expression on his face as though he knew what kind of trouble his words would bring. “I think you should go back to your room or you can go to the safe house. I’ll try to make sure you’re in on the briefing I intend to give your bosses.”
“You’ll tell them I’m crazy,” Ben said with a shake of his head. “I thought you might be different. Do you know how tired I am of trying to warn the world about him? Maybe I should let him show you exactly who he is. Maybe I should let the snake bite you and then you’ll believe me.” He turned Dare’s way. “Watch your back. It’s obvious Manny’s already working with these people. They’ll give you up if he wants them to.”
Could Ian Taggart be Huisman’s pawn? Somehow he couldn’t see it. Did he trust these people? He had instincts, and they were flaring up now.
“You could come with me,” Ben offered. “This whole op is blown. We won’t get anything out of it. Come with me and I’ll make sure you’re safe.”
And there was his answer. Ben was offering him everything he should want. Safety with his own government.
He wasn’t going to do it. He was going to stay with Tasha. He was going to make his bet.
“I can’t.” He squeezed Tasha’s hand. “I have to see this through to the end.”
He couldn’t leave her now. It would have to wait. That heartache… It wasn’t for today.
She leaned against him as though deeply relieved.
Ben nodded as though he should have known he would be alone. “Then you’ve made your choice. Good luck with them, Dare. I think I’ll go home. It’s easy to see I’m not needed here.”
“Or you could go back to the safe house and wait for me,” Taggart said in a way that let everyone know that was the correct path.
Ben shot the man the bird and walked out.
“All right, I’m going to need to know how you and our Canadian friend are connected.” Taggart locked the door behind Ben and then made his way to the sofa.
“It’s a long story, and I’m afraid I don’t come out smelling like a rose.” Huisman looked weary as he sank down in the chair across from Taggart. “Am I able to speak freely around Mr. Nash’s bodyguard?”
“He’s a friend of the family,” Taggart explained. “Tasha, Dare, take a seat. Nathan, I suspect you should keep an eye on the door.”
Nate nodded and moved into place.
Dare sat down, gently pulling Tasha beside him. “Where is your security, Dr. Huisman?”
