Beyond the Checkpoint by Addison M. Conley

Author:Addison M. Conley [Conley, Addison M.]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Cold Run Valley Publishing, LLC
Published: 2019-10-29T23:00:00+00:00

Chapter 25

November 2010 – NSA Headquarters, Fort Meade, Maryland

Thomas Blair wanted to see Admiral Kent immediately after Major Stewart’s report came in but had to wait for a couple of hours. Now he sat stoically in front of his old friend and boss, pretending to appear unfazed by their argument. In all their years of working together, they had never had such sharp differences.

“Fortunately for us, the Brigade does not take Ms. Clairmont seriously. We have to act,” Kent said.

Thomas Blair wanted to stretch his neck and pop his knuckles and even scream but remained calm as always. “With all due respect, I have to disagree. Ms. Clairmont is not trained, and CIA wants to send in a replacement for Mr. Galvarino.”

“We’re running out of time and will lose the momentum if we wait.”

Blair uncrossed his legs and leaned forward. He wet his lips and could feel his facial muscles twitching and his heart racing. “That will piss CIA off.”

“Let it,” the Admiral growled.

“Sir, inserting her into a trip to monitor and bait Captain Dalton is too risky.”

“Her risk increased the very moment CIA recruited her to gather info for Dan Galvarino and kept their operation from us for months! We have no more time Thomas! There are no other options!” Kent lowered his voice. “I’m sorry, but Dalton will be suspicious of any last-minute replacements. We will have enough trouble inserting new security guards. We have to do this.”

Blair rubbed his eyes. “She’s only an analyst that provides imagery and other geospatial products. We should come up with some excuse and insist NGA pull her out.”

“If we send her home now, we lose our insight. We need her!”

He knew Kent far too well. This operation would be pushed through no matter what. “At least, explain the full extent of the operation and the risks involved. Give her the courtesy to accept or decline the job.” Blair faced the window and silently prayed for the best.

Kent tapped his fingers on the mug as steam rose from the hot coffee. “Why are you so engrossed in the career of a young analyst? If I didn’t know better, I’d say you’re fond of Ms. Clairmont.”

“I’m fond of her work.” Blair leaned back in the chair, straightened his tie, and brushed his pant leg. The smell of strong coffee waving in the air and Kent’s gunmetal stare caused his stomach to flip.

“You’re nervous, Thomas. I’ve never seen you like this.” Kent narrowed his eyes.

Blair swallowed, and wet his lips. “The stakes are high.”

Kent kept watching him while rubbing his finger on his lower lip. After several long seconds, Kent said, “I’m authorizing the sting operation, period! No further discussions. You’ll supervise from the ground. I believe we can have you in the air within four hours.” Blair’s jaw dropped, and Kent chuckled. “Didn’t expect that, huh?” Kent rocked in his chair and put his hands behind his head.

Blair nodded.

“Double check with my secretary that your clothing measurements and shoe size are still accurate in the computer.

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