Exposed by Alison Golden

Author:Alison Golden [Golden, Alison]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Published: 2018-07-27T22:00:00+00:00

CHAPTER NINETEEN

“THIS IS NOT possible!” the Sheikh exclaimed. The higher pitch of his voice, the faster cadence of his speech, his chin thrust forward were all signs of anger. Diana would have assumed it was aimed at them had the Sheikh not broken eye contact and looked to the side. He was recalling something. A memory had sparked his anger. And then, the next expression to grace his face was one of resignation. His eyes dulled.

“You are not as surprised as you want us to believe, Your Highness,” Diana said softly.

The Sheikh’s eyes cut back to her face. “Are you accusing me of lying?” he snapped.

“No, but I do believe you are trying to protect Firat.”

“I cannot believe my son would have me killed,” the Sheikh said slowly. He crossed his arms and leaned back – another distancing tactic, and one that said he clearly didn’t believe a word he was saying. Coupled with the avoidance of his son’s name, it was obvious to her that the Sheikh not only knew his son was trying to kill him but was expecting it.

“Has he tried to have you killed before?” Diana asked.

“Of course not!” the Sheikh exclaimed.

“Your words say one thing, but your body language is telling me something else.” She was taking a big risk. She, a woman, was challenging a Sheikh. Diana was stepping over some big, time-honored boundaries.

“You were nodding just now. The real answer to my question was ‘yes,’ wasn’t it? Your one-sided shrug indicates you have no confidence in what you’re saying. You’ve been caressing your other hand, a self-comforting gesture. That’s something people do when they don’t believe what they’re saying. Your Highness, I believe you‘re protecting your son, and unfortunately, in doing so, you’re risking the lives of your other children, your personal security detail, and the members of the public who will be in your vicinity.”

The Sheikh looked at her. “I was told you are very astute, Ms. Hunter. I can see why.”

Diana looked surprised.

The Sheikh smiled, “Canada is not the only country with an intelligence service, you know.”

“Of course, Your Highness. It’s just that I’m surprised I’m considered important enough to be brought to your attention.”

“Your background does make for very interesting reading, Ms. Hunter, currently of VPD, TFI, formerly of CSIS.” He looked at Peter, “As does yours, Major.”

Peter shifted in his seat uncomfortably. Diana acknowledged the Sheikh’s words with a small smile.

The Sheikh sat up straighter, his voice stern. “My son has tried to have me eliminated before, which is why he is closely watched. I know about your visit to my country.”

“Why haven’t you done anything?” Peter asked.

“What would you have me do? Have him executed?” the Sheikh snapped.

“Some time in prison might give him the opportunity to think about things.”

“You are correct. Unfortunately though, while I have considered this course of action, there has been insufficient physical evidence to convict him. He’s a smart boy, always has been. Given to excesses but clever enough to rein himself in just enough to be effective, at least, thus far.

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