Page 102 of Dating Goals
It’s a key card. But there’s something underneath. Two tiny silver objects no bigger than earrings. Barely visible against the white tablecloth.
“What are these?” I ask, though I already know.
“Tracking and listening devices. State of the art. Completely undetectable by standard sweeping equipment.”
“Bugs? Are you serious right now?”
Wilde’s voice is matter-of-fact, like he’s asking me to pass the mustard. “Plant one on McGregor. The other needs to find its way into Elodie’s possession. Preferably on something she’ll take everywhere. Her purse, jewelry case, cosmetics bag…anything she won’t leave behind.”
I push the devices back toward him. “This is insane. Griffin’s a nice guy. He might have questionable taste in music, but he’s just…he’s…”
“Dangerous,” Wilde cuts in, his expression hardening.
“That’s ludicrous. He’s about as dangerous as a golden retriever puppy.”
Wilde slides the bugs back to me. “Your feelings for him are clouding your judgement. But…right now, you’re our best asset.”
I laugh bitterly. “Asset?”
“Miss Gisler.” His tone sharpens. “I understand your reluctance, but Mr. McGregor could be involved in something that threatens international security.”
“Then why don’t you let me tell him? Warn him?”
“I assure you, we have compelling reasons.”
“Like what?”
“Classified.” His expression doesn’t change. “The less you know, the safer you’ll be.”
“Maybe Griffin knows something that could help.”
Wilde’s expression hardens. “Absolutely not. For all we know, McGregor could be willingly working with the target and compromise my cover as Durand.”
I shake my head vehemently. “No. Not Griffin.”
“You’ve known him, what? A few weeks?”
I scoff. “I’ve known you for all of five minutes.”
Wilde must see the doubt in my eyes. “Help us, and we can protect him…if he deserves protection.”
“And if he doesn’t?”
“Then at least you’ll know the truth.”
I stare at the listening devices for a long moment. The right thing to do is clear. I should walk away right now. Go back to my simple life in Grächen.
But what if Wilde is right? What if Griffin is in danger?
“Fine,” I say, finally pocketing the bugs. “How exactly am I supposed to get into Elodie’s room through McGregor’s suite. What if the adjoining door is locked?”
“Your keycard will open anything with a card reader. It’s been…enhanced.”
“Of course it has,” I mutter.
Wilde’s gaze shifts to something behind me.
“You have a visitor,” he says quietly, standing up.
