Page 48 of Hidden Ascent

“And what is that supposed to look like?”

“Save her life.”

“How?”

Jay took a turn around the room, considering their options. The most important thing they had to do right now was stop Isla from going anywhere with Baker.

“Do you know any local police captains?”

“I do.”

“Then I’ll need you to make a call.”

* * *

Isla thought for a brief moment when she reached the front door that she might get away. Then, she was tackled.

It created a flurry of activity as bodyguards charged into protective action for whoever it was they were looking after.

Isla struggled to breathe as the guard’s heavy bulk pressed her into the ground while he handcuffed her.

“Ladies and gentlemen,” Baker shouted to the crowd. “We apologize for the disruption. The threat to your safety has been resolved. We have the suspect in custody. Please enjoy your evening.”

As the guard pulled Isla to her feet, she saw the ambassador she’d met earlier. He looked confused, but she surprised herself by smiling at him apologetically. He quickly pivoted and disappeared into the crowd.

Another guard joined them, and each took one of her arms, walking her to the sidewalk where Baker now stood, waiting for his car.

“Why are you doing this?” she said. “Why kill so many innocent people?”

“You tell me. We’re going to find out who’s behind this. You’re going to pay for your treachery.”

She looked up at one of the guards. “Is this performance for them?” she said to Baker. “You’re pathetic.”

“No.” He got in her face. “You’re the one who’s pathetic. Killing your team. You disgust me. I’m going to personally see to it that you’re punished for your crimes.”

She disregarded his lies. “My team didn’t deserve what they got. They had no chance. No warning. You’re a barbarian.”

“You should have thought of that before you set them up.”

Baker’s car arrived, and the guards shoved her forward, but she resisted.

“Please. Someone help me. I was set up.” She yelled to the onlookers. Most of them took a step back as she looked around the group. It was useless. There was no one to rescue her from this and no way she could rescue herself. She was as good as dead. Baker wouldn’t wait this time. He’d kill her and dispose of her as soon as he could.

A heavy hand shoved her head down, bowing her into the back of the car until a voice called out.

“Hang on.”

She pushed back when the weight lifted from her head and turned to see Whitlock rushing down the steps.

He didn’t look at her but addressed Baker. “I’ve called for a police escort.”

“That’s not necessary. I have my car right here.”

“I’d hate for anything to happen.”

“It’s under control. I can handle Agent Taylor.”

“Still. I have a duty of care. I can’t let you take responsibility for her from here. You may have saved my life in there, so I want to help in any way I can. I have a friend down at the local PD. They’re on their way.”

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