Eastern borders close in Lebatu after more than fifty civilians were killed near the capital, Tritus. Nheshal’s regime has taken control of the populace in that sector. The elected government has fled the city and set up offices in Kapotsu.

Would the media ever report the complete truth in the crises waging across the globe? Harry flipped to several other news broadcasts, but all replicated the same information. Nheshal had killed thousands of civilians and beheaded the government leaders.

A man poked his head inside the room. “Mr. Benson?”

“Yes?” Harry pried his attention from the telly. A dark-eyed doctor stood in the doorway wearing theatre blues.

“I’m Dr. Hadid. I’d like a word with you and your mother.”

Harry checked his father to make sure he hadn’t been disturbed. Dad’s eyes remained closed, and he appeared to be resting comfortably. Harry pushed himself out of the chair and followed the doctor into the corridor, where his mother stood waiting. Dr. Hadid must have stopped her on her way to the cafeteria.

“I was just telling your mother that Mr. Benson’s situation is critical. We will continue to monitor for clots and are keeping an eye on the swelling. He isn’t where we’d like at this point for a man of his age and physical condition. The next few days will be touch and go on his road to recovery.”

A chill rippled over Harry as he absorbed the information. His father wasn’t out of the woods. Mum glanced up at him with misty eyes before she lifted her chin, her specs glinting under the fluorescents. He slipped his arm around her shoulders.

“I’m going back to sit with your father,” his mother said.

Harry nodded, his mind circling the issue like an untested cage fighter searching for an exit.

He rubbed his jaw. How could he take this assignment and leave Mum when his father was in such a precarious condition?

“Please excuse me, Dr. Hadid,” Harry said.

“Of course. If you need anything, the nurse can reach me.”

“Thank you.”

Harry exited the hospital and found a quiet spot on the grounds. Digging out his mobile, he pressed Nigel’s number. Surely, once he explained the situation, his boss could delay this mission or insert another agent in his stead.

“What can I do for you, Benson?” Nigel’s voice came through the line.

“My father just had emergency surgery and is in critical condition. I am requesting emergency leave. My mother needs backup, and I don’t have anyone to tend my son. Is it possible to postpone my assignment or replace me altogether until we get this situation sorted?”

Silence for the space of two heartbeats.