by Cherry Laska
“Come on.” Smiling, she shook her head no. She didn’t want to move. Joe grabbed her hand and pulled her to her feet to go upstairs.
Jessica brushed her teeth and threw on her jammies before climbing into the king-size bed. She heard a soft knock at the door.
“Come in,” she said, sitting up.
“I brought you a bottle of water and wanted to see if you needed anything else,” Joe said, as he crossed the room and sat on the bed. “And I wanted to tell you how glad I am you’re here. Personally and professionally. Really glad. It’s so good to be with you again.”
“Thank you. I feel the same way, and I’m honored to be a part of this team. To be honest with you, I have missed this. I don’t always feel so important. I don’t always feel like I’m … successful. Just me, as a person.”
He knew from his sisters that this was something that happened to a lot of talented women who sacrificed their careers to stay at home with their children, but it still baffled him. “Seriously? You’ve been successful at everything you’ve put your mind to. No one should ever doubt you and that includes you.” He gave her a tight hug for a moment and slowly let go. He ran a hand through his hair. “Remember that, Jess.” He stood up. “Sleep well.”
21
WASHINGTON,
DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA
IT WAS STILL DARK WHEN the guard let Joe and Jessica through the gate at the private entrance at Dulles International. Joe parked in the lot outside the agency’s private hangar. When they boarded the Gulfstream, Jessica wasn’t surprised to see that they’d arrived first. Joe went to have a word with the pilots while she checked out the aircraft. It was outfitted with reclining leather chairs, a conference table with computers and everything needed to prep an operation. Despite the wine and only four hours of sleep, she felt exhilarated and ready to go.
Alejandro, Mark, and Marshall arrived within a couple minutes. When Alejandro saw Jessica, he challenged, “Comment allez-vous ce matin?”
Her brain kicked into gear. “Je suis bien. Il va être une belle journée,” she answered. She was glad she’d kept up her language skills through travel, reading, and conversing whenever she had the opportunity. She’d even taught the kids French and Spanish at young ages.
“Ahhh, bon! That’s very good,” he encouraged. “You’re right, by the way. It is going to be a beautiful day.”
Joe returned from the cockpit, and Mark handed him a small red bag. “The package you were expecting was delivered, boss.”
Jessica wondered what it was but didn’t think it was her place to ask. They found seats, buckled in, and were set to go. The pilots closed the door and got them underway. While they were taxiing, Jessica noticed Marshall looked white and clammy. “Are you okay?”
Joe explained, “Maus is a bit afraid of flying.”
“Oh. Marshall, I know you understand the science behind flying. Maybe just focus on that,” she offered, trying to help.
“He’ll be all right once we reach our cruising altitude.” Mark patted him on the back. “Won’t ya, buddy?”
“Focus on the science. Good idea. Thank you,” Marshall said, trying to smile though it looked more like a pained grimace.
After they leveled off, the team gathered around the conference table to review the research they’d done the day before and lock in the details of the operation plan. Joe told Marshall to start them off.
“There’re pictures and an address of the safe house on your iPads. Mark and I will have it secured with surveillance and electronics up by nineteen-thirty local time. I accessed the French security cameras but haven’t come up with anything yet. I ran financials on both suspects. Moreau was pretty heavily in debt. Zircone must have been paying for everything with cash. His alias doesn’t show anything. I haven’t found either of them to have a connection to a storage facility where they might have stashed the chemicals. I’ll keep digging.” He seemed to be doing somewhat better, but paused and turned his head away to quietly burp. Marshall took a sip of water. “Excuse me. Um, I’ll go through Moreau’s apartment tomorrow at zero-two-hundred. Other than that, I’ll be there for whatever you need.”
Joe nodded. “Alejandro, what’s your plan?”
“I rented an apartment in Zircone’s building. I’ll see if I can learn anything from the neighbors, and I’ll start my search of Zircone’s place after Marshall exits Moreau’s. I’ve also managed to secure a job at the café where things went down. I’ll get in with the staff to see if anyone noticed something they didn’t disclose to the police.”
“Great,” Joe said. “And there’s a new development with the mosque. We received additional information from the Paris office. A station agent has been undercover there for a while. They just sent us a file with the agent’s pic and a summary of what little he knows about Zircone. He’ll make contact with you to answer any questions, validate your cover story, and make any introductions he can to help. You’re going to be busy, buddy.”
“I’m ready. I won’t let you down,”Alejandro answered sincerely.
“We know you won’t. Jessica, what did you come up with for the mosque and the C-FC plant?”
“Muslim dress will make it easy to hide my appearance to attend morning prayers tomorrow. My first choice with C-FC is to slip in at night and take a look, but their security may be prohibitive. It depends on the physical recon. The less attractive option is to arrange for a tour as a visiting professor. I can talk with their execs, but that limits my access to whatever they decide to show me.”
“That’s problematic. I don’t want you to be seen by any C-FC employees,” Joe said. “The French are being even more uncooperative than usual and refusing us any access to Moreau, which makes me think that they’re protecting someone. It’s possible the government or a powerful individual may be involved somehow. We discovered the President of C-FC, Jacque Lefèvre, is throwing a party at his house tomorrow. A good number of those execs, officials, and powerful people will be there. You and I will put on a show for the Lefèvres at dinner tonight to get an invitation to that party where we can gain access to the execs and Lefèvre’s home office.”
“I could wear a disguise at C-FC.”
Joe was considering the options when Marshall perked up in excitement. “I’ve got a way to let you see and hear everything without risking your cover. I’ve … um … been able to increase the recording and broadcast capabilities of a button camera with a wide angle, high-resolution lens and a more powerful microphone. You could be linked to whoever goes in.”
“If we can’t go in at night, I like connecting you to Mark with Marshall’s electronic surveillance,” Joe said. “Mark, be prepared to be the visiting professor. Did any of your contacts have anything?”
“Nothing yet. I’ve got some calls out, but I think I’ll have more luck with some personal visits.” He cracked his knuckles.
Joe motioned with his head toward the rear of the plane where the luggage was stored. “As usual, everyone’s bags have been packed with all the clothes, accessories, ID’s, and credit cards we’ll need.” He wrapped it up with a quick rundown of the logistics and the overall planned timeline. Things could change and they usually did. The key was to always plan, plan contingencies, and be ready to throw it all out the window and adapt to whatever happens.
Considering the Washington-Paris time difference of six hours and the flight time of a little over six hours, their ETA was just after five in the evening. They’d use the time they had in the air to study their files, go through and check the gear that’d been packed for them, and grab a little rest while they could. Paris wasn’t a hot zone or anything close to one, but they still needed to be sharp when they hit the ground. Jessica laughed inwardly, thinking of having to survive a five-star hotel, shopping, a party, and gourmet food. Of course, bad guys operated in nice places too. There was potential for danger anywhere in the world.
About an hour before their arrival, Jessica found several pieces of Louis Vuitton luggage tagged w
ith her cover name. She looked through the contents and admired the improvements in the tech. There were so many nice clothes. There was way more than she’d ever need. She changed into an expensive black jumpsuit, adorable shoes, and a sleek silver belt. She returned to her seat and continued perusing the files.
She watched Joe as he walked past her. He had changed into jeans, a button-down shirt and a jacket. She’d always liked that look. He took a seat next to Mark and began discussing something. She didn’t give their conversation a second thought until Mark looked over at her in a way that made her uneasy. She’d have to find out the deal from Joe later. She leaned back her seat and closed her eyes.
22
PARIS, FRANCE
THE PLANE TOUCHED DOWN AND taxied to a private hangar on the far side of the airfield away from the commercial terminal. A customs representative expedited the team’s processing and without delay they were ready to roll.
“Situational awareness people. Be alert and be careful,” Joe cautioned. He took the keys to one of the three cars that the agency had waiting for them in the parking lot. After a quick check to verify weapons and special electronics gear they’d requested were in the spare tire compartment, he and Jessica loaded their luggage in the trunk.
As they drove off the airfield, Joe handed Jessica a small red velvet box. “These are for you.”
She opened the box and found a pair of exquisite earrings with black diamonds set in white gold and gunmetal. “They’re gorgeous. I’ll hate having to give them back when this is all over.”
“You won’t have to.”
“What? Since when does the government let you keep cover items?”
“They’re from me. After yesterday’s briefing, I called my friend and had him make these for you and deliver them to the plane. He’s an interesting guy. All his pieces are one of a kind. He considers them art, not jewelry. I also consider them personal safety items.”
“Huh?”
“There’s a tracking device in them. Insurance for me to living up to my promise. I also wanted to show you how much I appreciate you agreeing to join my team. Plus, I thought it’d be nice for you to have something to commemorate your first CIA operation.”
Jessica’s initial reaction was to protest that she couldn’t accept such an expensive gift, but instead, because they were from Joe and all the thoughtfulness he’d put into her gift, she said, “Thank you. I’ll cherish them.”
He smiled, not taking his eyes off the road. She pulled down the visor and used the passenger’s mirror to put the earrings in. She reached out and squeezed Joe’s hand. He squeezed back.
Thirty minutes later, they entered a wealthy neighborhood situated around a golf course. “That’s Lefèvre’s house on the right,” Joe said. “His home office is the corner room on the second floor.”
“That maple tree is right outside his window. Maybe Marshall has a camera and mic we can position there. We might get lucky.”
“Definitely, but even if we don’t get a visual on his computer or safe, we shouldn’t have a problem. I asked Marshall to send you a file on the latest tools and toys of the trade. They have improved just a little while you’ve been on your sabbatical.”
“I’m sure,” Jessica said, geeking out. “I can’t wait to read it.”
“Ha. You’re such a Gadget Girl. Let’s head to C-FC’s facilities. We need to check into the hotel pretty soon to change and make our dinner reservations.”
The twenty-minute drive to Chevalier-Fort Chemicals in an industrialized district located west of Paris gave them time to talk.
“So, what were you saying to Mark about me?”
“What do you mean?”
“Before we landed. You were talking to Mark about me.”
“What makes you think that?” Joe asked, trying to look innocent.
She looked at him in the dimming light as they got further into the tunnel that went under the Siene. She thought, He’s avoiding answering the question. “Don’t make me hurt you,” she said just above a whisper. She was joking, but her tone had been chilling.
“Damn, Smoke, that creeped me out. You can be a scary chick when you want to be.”
“Uh-huh. Tell me.”
“Look, I just told him to make sure he had your six, especially at the mosque. Don’t think I doubt you’re ready, because that is in no way the case. I made you a promise to keep you safe, and I intend on doing everything I can to keep it. It’s not a big deal. We all need to have each other’s back.”
“Okay. I appreciate it.” She let it go at that.
They exited the tunnel, emerging from the Seine and into an area dominated by large metal warehouses and brick office buildings. C-FC’s sprawling compound appeared to be well secured. Signs warning of massive electric currents hanging from the tall chain-link fence topped with barbed wire were a good indication the chemical company had taken extreme security measures. Joe stopped the car under a tree a good distance away, and they watched. Guard dogs and armed security were patrolling the grounds. Joe pointed at the numerous cameras positioned to cover every inch of the perimeter.
“Satellite and internet recon are great, but there is nothing like actually seeing a target.”
Jessica sighed. “I was really wanting to go in tonight. Twenty years ago, I would have said no problem, but all things considered, visiting professor might be a wiser decision.”
She texted Mark to let him know he’d be going to C-FC. Joe started the car and pointed it east toward their hotel.
23
JESSICA WAS GLAD THEY DIDN’T hit traffic. She needed time to get ready for dinner. She felt looking good took a little more work nowadays. Like many middle-aged women, she yearned to have her younger skin and body, but only if she could keep her wisdom and experience. They stopped in front of Hotel Plaza Athénée. The valet opened her door.
“What do you think, darling?” Joe asked.
“It’s wonderful,”Jessica said, accepting the valet’s hand. “Merci beaucoup.”
She had been to quite a few beautiful, luxurious hotels over the years, and the Hotel Plaza Athénée ranked in her top five. The ornate architecture was admirably complemented with red awnings and window flower boxes filled with red flowers that worked together to create a feel of both luxury and comfort. Joe came to her side of the car and put his arm around her. He felt rock-solid, and Jessica reminded herself of her pledge to work out more. Joe kept his arm around her as they rode the elevator to one of the top floors.
“I asked the concierge to have a snack waiting for us,” he said. The valet opened the door to their suite. It was spacious and decorated in lavish French style. A well-laid platter of fruit, nuts, and cheeses with a baguette, water, and several bottles of Châteauneuf-du-Pape awaited them.
“All my favorites. You’re so thoughtful.”
She gave Joe a hug. The valet watched out of the corner of his eye as he put the bags by the closet. Joe kissed the base of Jessica’s neck and slowly worked his way up. Cover or no cover, she liked it. He leaned his forehead against hers for a second then let go. He turned to tip the valet and saw him to the door. Jessica grabbed a bottle of water and checked out the suite. She returned to the main room where Joe was sitting at the desk.
“The staff watch everything, and you never know who is on whose payroll.” He cleared his throat and teased, “This is going to be fun. Kissing your neck … I was enjoying that.”
She drank a big gulp and confessed, “You aren’t the only one.” She laughed and added, “Remember, I haven’t been romanced in a long time. It felt nice.”
“So, you admit it’s your fault,” he flirted jokingly.
She thought, Okay, I’ll play. She gave him a sexy look and used a sultry voice, “Yes … totally my fault. You’re too sexy to resist.” Joe’s mouth dropped open. They both froze.
Jessica laughed nervously. “You’re right. This is fun.” She checked the time. “I need to get ready.”
Joe told her he had to ma
ke a call so she could shower first. Before she left the room, he got a mischievous look and teased in a singsong voice, “You think I’m sexy. You think I’m sexy.”
She felt her stomach do a flip and was surprised by the intensity of the moment and her reaction. In an attempt to disperse the tension, she said, “Oh, RO-me-o, doesn’t everyone think you’re sexy?” Playing with the pronunciation with his name was one of the ways the Grey Winds team had always busted on Joe. She shoved a piece of cheese in her mouth and headed to the shower.
The hot, steamy shower was going to be awesome. Although she might want to make that a cold shower to wake herself up and snap herself back to her senses. She settled on a little of both and came out feeling refreshed, sharp, and still totally confused by what she was feeling. She did her hair and makeup quickly to clear the bathroom for Joe.
Jessica opened one of her suitcases and smiled. She really had to give credit to the person who was in charge of choosing what to pack for her. She slipped into a revealing black dress and designer shoes with a high heel and sexy straps.
Joe emerged from the bathroom in black slacks and a tailored white shirt with French cuffs. She picked up his suit coat from the bed while he finished putting in a pair of gunmetal cufflinks.
“Do those have a GPS chip in them?” She held the coat for Joe.
He thanked her and slipped into it gracefully. “No.”
“Hmm. Well, we’ll have to do something about that. You look very handsome.”
“I clean up all right,” he said with a smile. “And you look—”
“Don’t say it,” Jessica said, hoping the form fitting dress was flattering.
He laughed.“There are a lot of adjectives that come to mind. Let’s just say perfect. Our target loves hot women. Besides, nothing could be more revealing than the dress you wore during the tango competition.” His reference to that part of the Argentina mission they’d been sent on together made her smile.
She grabbed her purse and they left the suite. On the elevator ride down, it hit her. Jessica mischievously matched Joe’s singsong voice from earlier, “You think I’m hot. You think I’m hot.”
