Page 68 of Undercover Savior

“Let’s take a look at the UK’s biggest enemies. Not just ours, but the rest of the world’s,” said Con.

“Russia and China,” Fallon responded. “And in China’s case, they see the US as the biggest threat. Not that they’re alone in that opinion.”

“But collectively, Russia and China are neck and neck,” said David.

“So the next step is to dig deeper into who Tower-Meridian would most likely partner with,” said Con.

“Both,” I responded.

Con and Fallon nodded.

“Right,” she muttered.

“Well, Happy Christmas, one and all,” said Tag, pushing back his chair. “And before you apologize, my guess is you didn’t want to do this today any more than the rest of us did,” he said to me.

“I did not. However, I personally don’t believe we have the luxury of burying our heads in the sand any longer.”

Everyone in the room murmured their agreement.

“Before we break for the afternoon, can we talk about tomorrow?” Con asked. “Given the security risks inherent with a large gathering, I propose those of us here presently celebrate together.”

I looked to David, who appeared to be surveying the room and noticing, that like I had, everyone seemed to be in agreement.

“I’d not ask to take you away from your families,” I said.

“The reality is, Sullivan, that everyone here is in a great deal of danger. I’d suggest we all consider that spending time with anyone outside of our small group puts those we come in contact with in peril,” said Con.

“Understood.”

I walked over to the window and looked out at the loch while David spoke with the other men.

“I’m proud of you,” said Fallon, coming to stand beside me. “I hope you don’t mind my saying so.”

“Not at all. It’s an honor.”

“You and I have much to discuss, but it can wait a couple more days.”

“Such as?”

She leaned closer. “What I found in both Glenshadow’s and Blackmoor’s libraries and what I believe might be in the ones here. Also, Clive Edwards. We’ve been keeping tabs on him while, at the same time, taking a deeper look at his financials of the last few months.”

My stomach clenched. “Oh God,” I groaned.

“I’m sorry, Sullivan.”

“Don’t be. Whatever my uncle has gotten himself involved in is his doing. Not yours or mine.”

“I agree. I’ll add that finding out one’s relative might be linked to the very man you’re investigating as part of the job where he serves as your superior can be disconcerting.”

“Thinking he had something to do with someone trying to kill me is far worse.”

She put her hand on my arm. “I’m glad we’ll be spending part of Christmas together.”

“As am I.” We embraced when Con asked if she was ready to leave.

I hung back when David walked them out, as did Gus.

“How are you holding up?” he asked.

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