Page 30 of Fearless

Serena focused on what Kingsley had revealed. The photo had been taken within the last few days. Serena had attended Callie’s birthday party, so this photograph would have been after that. The imposter had been in Francine very recently, after she had left. He or she might still be there, for all she knew.

“As much as I would dislike it, I will order her or any of your loved ones to be eliminated unless you give me what I want.”

“And what is it you want?”

He was silent for a moment and then surprised her by saying, “Offer me something. Just a token to see how serious you’re taking me.”

“How can I offer you something if I don’t know what you want?”

“Let’s not play games, Serena. You work for one of the most secretive black ops organizations in the world. You know secrets most of the world will never know.”

Yes, she did, and she already knew what she would offer. Testing him, she said, “At least tell me one thing.”

Kingsley gave her a look that was both condescending and disappointed. He sighed and shook his head. “Oh, Serena, more games?”

“Humor me,” she said tightly.

“Very well.”

“Are you Lazarus?”

His eyes went wide, and delight spread across his face. She was almost sure he wasn’t Lazarus, but she had wanted to see his reaction. His response was an interesting mix of humor and pride, as if she had paid him a compliment. The information she’d been able to gather on Lazarus was minimal. She had linked him to a series of mysterious deaths throughout the world. She also believed that Lazarus was a title, as opposed to a real name.

“No, I’m not Lazarus, but thank you for considering I might be.”

And based upon Kingsley’s expression, that title was one to be coveted. How much power did Lazarus hold within the organization? That was something she hoped to learn.

All humor gone, Kingsley said “Now, back to the matter at hand. What will you give me?”

Her jaw clenched, she gave him the words that felt awful as they came out of her mouth. “I’ll give you the identity of one of our confidential informants.”

Outing one of OZ’s CIs would not only put that person at risk, but it would also jeopardize any ongoing missions. This would be a huge gift that Kingsley should be thrilled to have. Judging by the narrowing of his eyes and the pursing of his lips, he wasn’t impressed.

“I have to say I’m disappointed. That’s a very small offer.”

“You asked for a token.”

“Oh, my dear, you have no real idea what we want from you, do you? A small token shouldn’t be a crumb. It’s a significant investment to show me how much I can trust you.”

“Then tell me what you will accept.”

“I want you to download all of Option Zero’s files to our system and grant me access.”

“You’re out of your mind.” Even though she wasn’t totally surprised at the demand, she felt almost faint at such a gargantuan ask.

“Not at all. I have an agenda, and your flimsy offering isn’t what I’m after. I don’t want a crumb. I want the entire menu.”

She had thought she would have more time. Had thought she could prolong her time here to gather more intel. Kingsley wasn’t wasting any time, though.

Her eyes went to the image of her precious niece in the frilly dress. Callie had been so excited when she’d unwrapped the gift. She looked like an angel. At that moment, peace washed through Serena. This might well be her last few hours on earth, but if it meant saving Callie and her other loved ones, she knew it would be well worth the cost.

“Very well.”

His eyes glinted. “Including the identities of all of OZ’s CIs.”

“Three CIs.”

“Ten.”