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“That’s why they want what’s in those caves,” said Eric. “They want the gold and gemstones for an overthrow of the government.”

“Not just that,” said the president. “They’re planning a war on their neighbors.”

“And we’re just going to let that happen?” asked Luke. “We’re going to allow another shit storm to occur in Cambodia and Vietnam?”

“No. No, now, I didn’t say that. All I’m saying is that’s what the money from those caves will be used for. America is not for or against it. We are going to remain neutral on this one.”

“I see,” nodded Luke. “I see it all now. So, if Americans are caught behind the lines, blame will fall to you and your administration. Well, don’t worry, Mr. President. We won’t be caught, and we won’t let them know that Americans were anywhere near their country.”

“I’m glad we understand one another.” The four men stared at one another in disbelief and then back at the screen. “If, theoretically, you were to get the children out, you can’t leave them in Cambodia. It’s my understanding that they would only be taken again. I do wish you good luck in whatever it is you’re not doing.”

Luke just smirked at him, shaking his head.

“Oh, and tell everyone happy holidays for me.” The screen went dark, and Luke looked at the others on his leadership team.

“Am I the only one sick about that call?” he growled.

“Nope. That was a little bothersome, for sure. Maybe it’s time we start distancing ourselves from Uncle Sam. Maybe we only take the things we want with or without the Oval Office’s permission,” said Eric.

“I think we need to meet. All of us. After this is done. In the meantime, see if we can find a place for them to take those damn kids once we’re out. Let Hiro know, and he can help from that end,” said Luke, standing.

“Where are you going?” asked Hex.

“I think I need to have a conversation with my grandmother. She and the president often have their own little fireside chats. I’m wondering what she’s told him.”

“Grandma? Grandma, where are you?” he called out as he entered the Sugar Lodge.

“I’m right here. Stop your yellin’!”

“I’m not yelling,” said Luke, gritting his teeth. His father, Ghost, and Nine were standing beside his grandmother.

“What’s wrong?” asked Ghost.

“I’m not sure. Grandma, when was the last time you spoke to the president?” he asked. Ghost looked at Irene and Nine, shaking his head, knowing that something was wrong. Gaspar stared at his mother.

“Mama, answer Luke, please.”

“You boys are exhausting sometimes. I speak on a regular basis with the president as a sort of counsel for him. We talk about food, children, sometimes politics.”

“Grandma.”

“What do you want to know, Luke?” she said, taking a seat.

“Did you tell the president that our team was headed to Cambodia?” Gaspar jerked his head toward his mother.

“Tell me you didn’t expose these men, Mama,” he said.

“I did not. I did not tell him any such thing. He brought up the subject of strange things happening in their country. He said children were disappearing at an alarming rate, and it was thought there would be a government overthrow soon. I told him someone should go in and get them children out.”

“Jesus, Mama!” said Gaspar, pushing his hands through his hair. “Don’t you understand how this works? Everything is subtle. Everything is below the surface. He plants a thought in your head. You plant a thought in his head. You cannot have these conversations with the president and not expect that he won’t use us. Use the men and women on this team.”

“Alright. Alright, I understand. Did I put the boys in any danger?”

“No. I don’t think you did, Grandma, but you did make the president believe he shouldn’t use us as often.”

“Well, now, that’s just crazy. I never said that,” she huffed.

“I didn’t say it was you. Like Dad said, it’s a thought or idea that gets planted in his head. How did the two of you become friends anyway?” asked Luke.

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