Page 78 of Zero Hour

The Secretary hesitated. “Can we mobilize in time?”

“Yes, ma’am,” Carmichael said. “We have CTD teams on standby.”

Blackthorn Security would be there too. Pat would made sure of that.

The Secretary surveyed the room. “We reconvene tomorrow at 1600 hours. I want a finalized tactical plan in place. Carmichael, you’ll coordinate with CTD. Mercer, you’ll handle intelligence. Commander Burke, your team will be embedded at the arena. Copy everyone here on operational logistics.”

They all nodded.

She stood. “Then let’s get these bastards.”

CHAPTER 29

Jasmine paced the length of Patrick’s office, her hands clenched into tight fists. Her pulse hammered in her ears, her stomach twisted in knots.Where was Ryan now? What were they doing to him?

He was just a kid. He didn’t deserve any of this.

Had the agents from the FBI made any progress tracking the vehicle? She was desperate for news.

A knock at the door startled her. She turned as Anna stepped inside, carrying a steaming cup of tea.

“I thought you might need this,” Anna said softly, holding it out.

“Thank you,” Jasmine murmured, wrapping her hands around the warm mug.

Anna smiled. “We haven’t been properly introduced. I’m Anna, Logistics Manager here at Blackthorn Security.”

Jasmine forced a weak smile. “Jasmine. Former hostage, current terrified mother.”

Anna sat beside her. “I can’t imagine what you’re going through, but if it’s any consolation, these guys are the best. My husband, Cole, he’s one of Pat’s operatives. If anyone can bring Ryan back, it’s them.”

“I hope so,” she whispered, gripping the cup like her life depended on it.

“Let me know if you need anything else.” Anna turned to leave.

“Do you have kids?” Jasmine asked. Suddenly, she didn’t want to be alone with her thoughts.

“One. A little boy, he’s almost two now.” Anna’s smile softened.

Jasmine inhaled shakily. She could barely focus, but forcing herself into conversation was better than letting the panic win. “Have you worked here long?”

“Almost three years. Pat poached me from a field office in Venezuela where I was handling logistics and sent me into the field as an undercover operator. That’s where I met Cole.”

Jasmine frowned. “I don’t think I’ve met him.”

“He’s away on assignment.”

Jasmine hesitated. “How do you cope? Knowing your husband is constantly in danger?”

Anna gave her a knowing look. “You get used to it. At first, I didn’t think I could handle it, but a life without him was worse than a life spent worrying about him.”

Jasmine exhaled. “I guess you can’t choose who you fall in love with.”

For some reason, her mind flashed back to Patrick.

Anna gestured to the door. “I’d better get back to work. Sounds like the meeting’s wrapping up.”

“It was good meeting you, Anna.”

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