Chapters (61)
“Until we have verified information to the contrary, we will assume the attack on Agent Hildebrandt last night was a retaliatory action against the team we sent to exfiltrate our undercover operative in Iran.”
Carlton Grace frowned. “But, Fulton, that would be entirely new, something they’ve never attempted before. Also, who would possibly even know the names of the agents involved? As far as I can see, there’s simply no other obvious connection between Olivia’s mission to Iran and the attack on her last night, no obvious cause and effect.” He nodded to Savich. “I agree with Agent Savich. It has to be the flash drive.”
Lodner smacked his fist on the conference table. “How the devil did anyone know the names of the agents involved in the exfiltration?”
Mr. Grace said simply, “They bought the names from someone who knew.”
“I refuse to believe that, Carlton. No more about this; it is highly classified and absolutely none of the FBI’s business.”
Savich thought he could work with Carlton Grace, but Fulton Lodner wouldn’t give him the time of day, unless by a direct order. He was too angry at being forced to hand over the reins to the FBI, resentful at even having to waste his time here at the Hoover Building, the FBI bastion. Savich was considering how to ask Lodner about the obvious conclusion that there was a mole in the CIA, when Olivia said clearly, “Mr. Lodner, what about Mike Kingman? He’s the team member, Agent Savich, who retrieved the flash drive and saved my life. He and the flash drive are both missing. Have you learned anything about Mike, Mr. Lodner?”
Lodner drew a deep breath, sent her a death stare. “The whereabouts of a CIA operative is hardly a conversation to be held here, Agent Hildebrandt.”
Olivia was past caring about her future with the CIA. She looked at Mr. Grace, then at Mr. Lodner. “Maybe the FBI can help find Mike, sir. And the flash drive.”
Lodner looked ready to burst into flame.
Grace jumped into the breach. “Olivia, you look tired, you need to rest. We should continue this later. We’ll take you back to the safe house.”
Lodner nodded. “Yes, Agent Hildebrandt, we’ll protect you. Agent Savich, you may call me if you have further questions. I will give you what information I am allowed to share.”
Before she could say anything, Grace stood, looked down at her. “Are you ready, Olivia?”