Ali, let me tell you something. Were not actually holding you here. Thats the thing. Youre not under arrest. We couldnt arrest you if we wanted to, you know that. Weve got that leg iron on you for your own safety. These halls out here are crawling with violent criminals. Sometimes they get loose. Believe me, youre safer in this room. But if you want to leave, youre free to go at any time.

Nassar seemed about to speak. He hesitated, maybe expecting a trick.

The cop raised a meaty hand. Now let me tell you why leaving is a bad idea, he said. Youve been involved in something. Its something bad. You know that and I know that, so theres no sense pretending. People tell me you blew up the White House. I dont know if I believe that.

I didnt do it, Nassar said.

The cop pointed at him. Right. Thats what I believe. I believe you didnt do it. But it seems like maybe you know the people who did do it. And if I were those people right now, you know what Id be looking to do? Clean up loose ends. A guy like you walks out that door, how long do you really think youre going to live? Twelve hours, if youre lucky? Personally, I doubt youll make it that long.

Nassar stared at him.

Your friends from the Iranian mission? the cop said. He shook his head. I dont think theyre coming back for you. They lost four men today trying to get you to the airport. Youre a liability for them. Youre an embarrassment. If they do come back, I think its to put a bullet right here.

The cop tapped Nassar on the forehead.

Nassar shook his head. They werent involved. They have no reason to kill me.

Yeah. Thats what you told the guy from the FBI. The cop referred to some notes on a clipboard. You told him you were working for an agency of the U.S. government, something called Red Box. You dont think the Iranian government would kill you if they knew you were working for the Americans? Come on, I think youre a little smarter than that.

Nassars eyes briefly widened.

The cop nodded. Yep. Youre smart enough. You see it. You dont have too many friends left, Ali.

Luke thought back to that moment in the car. Cops were all around them. I work for you, Nassar said. Then he did say Red Box. Luke barely remembered it. He had jumped out of a helicopter. He had crashed the car. He had shot two men in the head only seconds before. He was as shaken up as anyone. At that moment, he almost couldnt process what Nassar was telling him.

Now, as he watched, Nassar and the cop stared at each other for a long moment.