Page 4 of High Treason
Kord bored his gaze into his boss’s face. “My allegiance has always been to the FBI and the United States. No one knows better than I do that the US is being held partially responsible.”
Monica studied him. How did his priorities fit into his friendship with the prince?
“You’ve stated Prince Omar is like a brother,” SAC Thomas said. “I’m concerned about your loyalty to him versus the United States. What if you learn info that’s contrary to the FBI mission and the good of the American people?”
“I resent the implications. But for the record, I’d report the findings to you immediately.”
“Thank you.” SAC Thomas turned to Jeff. “What would you like to add?”
Jeff paced the small room. He looked like a scruffy-faced kid, but he had a mind like a roomful of computers. “Forming a protection task force is the best course of action to keep the prince and his guests safe while maintaining diplomatic relationships between the US and Saudi Arabia. The US needs them on our side, especially in view of the hostile forces in Iran.”
“Has Prince Omar provided names for us to investigate?” she said.
Agent Davidson gavestoica new line in the dictionary. “If Prince Omar had a suspect, we’d all know about it.”
Monica sorted through her intel and experiences in the Middle East. “Wouldn’t he want to change his plans, possibly have another male family member oversee the care and well-being of his mother while the prince handles business transactions from Saudi Arabia?”
“He has a genuine concern for his mother,” Kord said. “And a desire for his country to grow economically. He’s chosen a face-to-face with oil and gas executives.”
“That’s commendable. But what about the danger to himself and all those in his company?”
“I’ve talked to the prince at great length about the danger of his staying. He claims running back home only postpones the reasons for his trip. And it doesn’t solve Zain’s murder. If you think about it, that’s why you’re here: to help oversee his protection.”
If Agent Davidson’s words were intended to sting, he’d better brush up on his tactics. She held back a retort. Did he want to discuss the implications of losing Saudi Arabia as an ally?
Monica wished she had the agent’s résumé and could speak to his expertise. “How long has the trip been public?”
“Two and a half months,” Agent Davidson said.
“Time to put an assassination attempt into action. Just as Prince Omar flew to the US, so can his enemies. We know it was a security leak from somewhere, whether the plot is based here or abroad.”
“Operative Alden, you’re not as close to the situation as I am.”
MONICA HAD ANGERED AGENT DAVIDSONwith her perspective. Not a good idea when they would be working together. While SAC Thomas voiced a concern about Kord’s relationship to the prince, Monica viewed the connection as a plus. If the two men were like brothers, then Kord had gained the prince’s trust. She’d worked enough in the Middle East to understand trust held the most weight.
“Agent Davidson, it’s not my intention to undermine your skills or your relationship with Prince Omar. Today has been filled with tragedy. I’m trying to compile information while looking at the current threat.”
“Bringing you into a task force wastes time when the case is fresh,” Davidson said.
“I’m a fast learner.” She poured pleasantries into her words with the realization he had already decided her help wasn’t an asset.
Jeff stepped in. “Unfortunately, the prince’s agenda strays far from his mother’s health. My guess is his interests also include thepurchase of another race car to add to his fifty-million-dollar hobby. Or acquiring another string of hotels. Benevolence tours have never fallen into his behavior patterns in the past.”
“Take another look at the man,” Agent Davidson said. “I’ve found him honorable in his personal and professional dealings. Right now he’s grieving the loss of a good friend, and so am I. While I’m positioned to help protect Prince Omar, I’d rather be working on finding who murdered Zain.”
Silence hung in the air like a bomb waiting to explode. Monica waited for the varying personalities to simmer.
“We all want the same thing,” SAC Thomas said. “Flying by the seat of our pants is not our preferred mode of operation. But until we have facts, all we can do is investigate and query informants. We have no idea who’s behind the plot, but we’re moving on it. Other agents are exploring any local leads, but you, Operative Alden and Agent Davidson, are assigned to the security detail. Kord will work as an assistant to the prince’s media secretary, Malik al-Kazaz, for US communications. Operative Alden, you’ll pose as Kord’s assistant. You now have credentials to show you’re FBI. Only Prince Omar knows your CIA status. Besides protection, you can be keeping an eye out for any internal leaks.”
“I don’t need a partner.” Kord’s words rumbled low.
Ego had roots in her new partner’s attitude. She’d have felt the same way. Almost a slap in the face that he wasn’t doing his job. She’d been there.
“We’re all sweating this. Are you on board with Operative Alden, or do you want to be replaced?”
Second time the question had been posed to him.
Kord swung to Monica as though he were sizing up her potential as his partner.
