“Assuming we have anything to report, how will we contact you?”

“I’ll give you my personal cell number. Use a public phone and identify yourself as echo five.”

He took the number but said nothing.

“We wouldn’t be here if we didn’t think we could trust you,” Cantrell said. “I hope that trust goes both ways.”

***

After Cantrell and Lansing left the room, Stone sat down. “That was some news. I’m glad to hear they at least tried to get you back from Nicaragua. I’m not taking the credit, but I put a lot of pressure on Director Kallstrom. I met with him in person half a dozen times. He never mentioned the Montez payoff.”

Nathan still felt stunned. Montez paid off? By the CIA?

“Nathan, I would’ve told you.”

“I know. And I’ve been wanting to tell you I’m sorry about that phone call last year. The things I said. I didn’t mean it. I know you did everything you could.”

“Already forgotten.”

Nathan leaned his head back. “I’m not sure where we stand. Seems we’re on our own as far as their joint operation is concerned. At least we don’t have to worry about anyone undermining us.”

“So they say,” Harv said under his breath.

“I strongly recommend you keep Cantrell informed of everything you’re doing,” said Nathan’s father. “You could get caught in a friendly fire situation.”

Nathan didn’t respond.

“I’ve arranged with Lansing to secure both of your homes. Several FBI agents will be assigned to watch them until this situation is resolved.”

“Thank you, Stone,” Harvey said. “My family’s already secure. General Hawthorne has them in a safe house back east.”

“I’m glad to hear that.”

“If Hawthorne was given an order to stop actively supporting us, it came from the of the navy, which probably means the secretary of defense gave the order. There’s no telling how far up this Montez business goes.”

“That’s quite a development. I know both of those men well. You want me to make contact?”

As chairman of the Senate Committee on Domestic Terrorism, his father had unfettered 24-7 access to ranking members of the intelligence community.

“We’re on our own unless you’re willing to help.”

“Of course I’ll help,” said Stone.

“I don’t want you to jeopardize your Senate seat over this.”

“Nonsense. I have the president’s ear. If I have to, I’ll go straight to him.”

“Are you sure that’s a good idea?”

“Four armed mercenaries just tried to kill my son and the special agent in charge of Sacramento’s field office. Yes, I’m sure.”

“Montez has proven to be a resourceful man. He discovered where I live, not an easy trick. I don’t want him going after you and Mom.”