Page 60 of Hidden Ascent

“Then how’re you going to ask?”

“I thought I’d pay him a visit.”

“Even better. We can go to his bar tomorrow.”

“No. There’s nowe. I told you, he’s not a fan.”

Isla looked at Peter. “Are you going to back me up here?”

“You guys are handling everything very well. I’d prefer to stay out of it if I can. I’m just glad you’re both here alive and well. What you do next is up to you.”

“Come on, Jay. I won’t bring my badge. I can be there as your plus one. He doesn’t have to know I’m a fed.”

Jay’s laugh made Isla scowl. “My plus one?” he said. “Are you kidding?”

“What’s so funny?”

“Have you already forgotten the fundraiser? I thought maybe you were exaggerating about your lack of skill, but I’ve seen it with my own eyes. You are terrible undercover.”

“I’ll keep my mouth shut. And I don’t need to pretend. I can be myself. When I go home, I’m not an agent. I’m Isla Taylor.”

“Uh-huh.”

“I’ve gotta side with Jay on this one,” Peter said. “Even when you’re at ease, you don’t have the air of a civilian.”

Isla looked down at herself and held her arms out. “You’re saying I look like a federal agent in this?”

“You would wear that?”

“If that’s what it takes.”

“No. He’ll want to know why you’re there.”

“You can’t come up with a good cover story?”

“To explain you? No.”

She glared at him. “This is very unfair.”

“Isla, you can’t tag along into the lion’s den without a good reason. If you want this to work, you’re going to have to trust me.”

“Fine.”

“Really? That was easier than expected.”

“I can be reasonable. We’ll fix you up with a wire, and I can monitor you from outside.”

Jay looked at Peter, who smirked.

“What?” Isla said. “Why is this so difficult for you two?”

“I can’t wear a wire. That’s the first thing he’ll check.”

“I thought you said he’s a friend. I don’t have any friends who check me for a wire.”

“I haven’t seen him in a while, and he’s always been a cautious man. If you want me to ask him about contacts within the Red Wolves, he’s going to be suspicious.”

“Then what do you suggest?”

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