Here's chapter 10. Enjoy!
10
THE NEXT DAY
BULLS'EYE MANOR
SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA
Sanders was downstairs making breakfast. Last night had been confusing for him because he could barely remember what took place there. He looked at the coffee table. Marcia had forgot to take the gun upstairs. If this wasn't enough, Stephen came down, yawning.
"How's it goin'?" he said
"What the heck are you doing here? You're supposed to be at Langley" Dave exclaimed.
"You don't remember? Crawford busted me last night. And I saw herin a cute camisole... Damn, she's hot". Suddenly, Sullivan enters the kitchen.
"Good morning. Who is this?"
"Stephen Levine. My ex-partner" Sanders said. Brian and Stephen shook hands.
"Why are you here, son?"
"I'm here because..." as he was about to explain, Marcia came down with Levine's cell phone in her hands.
"You were actually telling the truth, Stephen. You left this in the restroom, by the way. Desmond McEnroe called and he broke the whole thing to me"
"Can somebody explain to me what happened?"
"I can. Last night, he broke into this house. I caught him and his inside contact confessed. Let's just say I have a great convincing power" Crawford said.
"Can I have a talk with you two?" Brian asked.
"Levine can be in this too. He is trustable. But after breakfast, please"
"Fine. Enjoy" he said and left. Inmediately after that, she threw a look at both men.
"Were you talking about me?"
"No. No, we weren't"
"Don't lie to me"
"Fine. Stephen was praising your looks". Levine gave Dave an angry look.
"Thanks, man... Look, can somebody make me a coffee while I'm in the shower? You know how I like it"
"Sure" Sanders said. Marcia left as both men checked her out.
"Earth to Sanders" Levine said. Dave didn't respond 'cause he was 'taken away' by his 'wife's' looks.
"Look. If I were you, I'd enjoy this to make her fall for you". Dave didn't like the comment and walked away.
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SYDNEY GRAND HOTEL
SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA
Luis of Castile had been sent to a diplomatic mission in Australia. His final meeting had been yesterday, so he was just 'chilling' in Sydney. He was used to see strange things in some of his trips, but it was all in the name of peace. He turned on the TV To watch the news as he started out the window.
"When is it going to be the day we see peace in this world?... Everyday we see sick people doing crazy things, and all of this thanks to the yankees" he said and sighed. He looked at his watch. It was around 8:00 AM. Perfect timing for a coffee, he said to himself. He grabbed his coat and left. On his way out, he runs into O'Shea (without knowing he's a terrorist)
"Good morning" Luis said.
"Hi" O'Shea replied. The Castilian took the elevator and left. He has no idea but he's soon going to be involved in the middle of the most dangerous game of his life.
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BULLS'EYE MANOR
SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA
Brian, Dave, Stephen and Marcia were gathered in the studio of the house. Today was the day one of their following and Sullivan had to have a conversation with them, and handle them some documents as well.
"Okay. Listen to me" Sullivan said. The three agents sat down.
"As you may be aware, or at least Dave and Marcia are, you are here to follow and stop a terrorist named John O'Shea. Our Intelligence data suggested he was here. O'Shea is one of the leaders of the European Liberation Army, which is behind the embassy crisis, among previous events. I won't mention now.
"Okay, so we know that. What is the job?" Marcia said as she took a sip of coffee.
"I will handle you documents now. Among them you'll find IDs, drivers, licenses, credit cards, passports, checkbooks, etc... If you want to carry your CIA IDs, carry them, but hide them well" he said and took out two large brown envelopes that contained them. Sanders and Crawford recieved them.
"How are we going to establish contact with him?" Levine asked.
"I did some research and he entered the country as Andrew Rodgers, a businessman that has an investment firm. JJ & Lindsay, Dave and Marcia will pose as a couple that have their own investment firm too and are interested in making business with him"
"And where can we find this guy?" Sanders said.
"Before you got here I followed him. He usually goes in the morning to a cafe downtown, stays there for a while and then heads to a building complex where he 'works'. After lunch, which he does every day in a different place, leaves to tour the city and returns to his hotel: THE GRAND. When he goes out at night he frequents bars where he meets with ELA associates. Are we clear?"
"Uh-huh" they replied.
"One thing: You'll be wearing this" he said giving Sanders a pin and Crawford a necklace.
"Are these wires?" she asked.
"Yes. Put them on so I can try them" Sullivan said. They did and their handler replied they were working well.
"Any questions?"
"As far as I'm concerned... no. We're ready to go" Dave said.
"Fine. In the car you'll find a box that contains two earpieces. Put them on 'cause that's the way we'll stay comunicated. Good luck, kids" he said. Dave and Marcia went outside to the car, and she had a flashback of the car bomb.
"Crawford, you're shaking. What's going on?"
"I don't know if Stephen told you, but we were attacked with a car bomb in England"
"No, he didn't. But we'll be fine. I promise" he said, comforting her. He opened her door, put on the earpieces and drove off.
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UNITED STATES EMBASSY
SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA
Press and police were outside the embassy, waiting for something to happen. It had been almost a day since Max & Co. took the place and everybody inside it hostage, and he wasn't going to negotiate anything with anyone until he saw his purpose achieved. Max heard one of the officers through a cell phone.
"Listen, we don't have to do this. Let the hostages go and we'll cut a deal for you" the officer said. Max didn't know, but most of the embassy situations in Europe had been finished by the use of force.
"I won't do any kind of deal until I get what I want" Max replied and hung up. Inmediately after that, he aimed his gun at Ambassador Robson.
"You're gonna call your President and tell him that I want him to make a public statement saying that the United States won't interfere in other countries anymore. One wrong word and you're dead. Understood?"
"I won't do it" Robson said, defiant.
"This country doesn't negotiate with terrorists" a staffer added.
"Really?" Max replied. He aimed his gun at Peter (the staffer) and shot him.
"Keep saying no and everyone here will die. Do it!!!!!" he yelled back. Robson grabbed the phone and called the White House.
"This is Ambassador Robson for President Stevenson" he said. The secretary tells him to hold.
"What is it, Bill?"
"Listen to me carefully. I want you to draft a speech in which you say the U.S. will stay out of other countries' issues and broadcast it... or else they'll kill everyone in here" he said. Max took the phone away from him.
"You have 40 minutes or blood will be spilled" he said and hung up. Everybody was scared of Max. He looked at the sky with his gun aimed at Robson. After this, nothing mattered.
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THE COFFEE POT
SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA
It only took Marcia and Dave 10 minutes to get to the coffee shop located in downtown Sydney. They were now watching it from inside their car to check if there was any suspicious movement. Suddenly, they heard a sound on their ears.
"Dave, Marcia. Can you hear me?" Sullivan said.
"Loud and clear, chief" she replied
"Have you figured out a strategy?"
"Yes, Brian, We're outside the coffee shop. Marcia will go in pretending to buy coffee. In the meantime she'll try to spot him. If she does, she'll let me know"
"Okay. Do your thing, Marcy"Sullivan said. Marcia (as Lindsay Scofield) entered the coffee shop under the eye of her co-workers. Inside there was a lot of people, including John O'Shea and Luis of Castile. She approaches the clerk.
"Hi. I'd like an espresso and a large capuccino to go. Just let me know when they're done" she said kindly.
"Sure. What's your name?"
"Lindsay Scofield"
"Okay, Ms Scofield. I'll let you know so you can pick them up" the clerk said. Lindsay/Marcia headed to a table while Sullivan watched from the manor.
"You know how he looks like. Do you see him?"
"Not yet" she said, pretending to use a hands-free cell phone. She sat on the table and grabbed a newspaper.
"Lower the newspaper so we can see" Stephen said. Without a word, she did.
"10 O'clock shadow" she said once she saw O'Shea nearby. Brian cross-referenced it and confirmed the identity.
"Marcy, it's him. Keep an eye out"
"Will do" she said and kept on reading.
"Ms Scofield! Your order is ready!" the clerk yelled. She left the newspaper and headed to the registrer. On the way there, she runs into Luis of Castile and he spills coffee in her clothes.
"Whoa!!!" she screamed.
"I'm so sorry. Let me help you"
"It's alright. I'm fine"
"No. I insist. Let me at least get you some clothes. I'm Luis, by the way"
"Lindsay. And don't worry. I'll take this to the dry cleaner's" she replied. The Castlian gave her a look.
"Are you sure you're okay? You seen worried"
"He's suspecting, Crawford. Take care of it" Sullivan said.
"I told you I'm fine. Just get me out so I can grab a cab"
"Sure" Luis replied. They walked out and once the spanish was off guard and with his back turned to Marcia, she knocked him out with a punch. Sanders pulled over in front of her.
"Help me get him in the back" she said. Sanders grabbed his arms and got him in the car.
"What do we do now?"
"Bring him in to the manor and I'll question him. He's probably working with the ELA" Sullivan said. The two agents quickly sped off in the north direction.
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LANGLEY, VIRGINIA
CIA HEADQUATERS
Benson was in his office in the middle of a videoconference with the President and the the secretaries of State and Defense. After consulting with his most trustable advisors, President Stevenson was ready to comunicate his decision to Benson & Co. If this strategy doesn't work then this whole thing goes to hell. Stevenson asked for their silence and the conference began.
"Gentlemen, I made a choice and I wanted to let you know about it"
"What is it?" Benson asked.
"We have come up with a very risky strategy: I'll agree to their demands and I'll proceed with the statement. This will lure the terrorists into the liberation of the hostages. Once that's done we'll wait a few days and we'll take it back"
"Sir, are you aware that this 'strategy' as you call it will not only destroy your presidency, but this country's credibility?" Secretary of State Allen Davenport said.
"It's much better than watch the blood of American citizens spilled... IN OUR SOIL!!!" Stevenson asked.
"Sir, but you know this act will cause a major diplomatic disaster with Europe, and you know that"
"For God's sake, I'm the President of the United States of America. You'll do what I want!!!"
"But, sir. We have absolutely nothing to win and everything to lose" Benson said.
"Sorry, Anthony. I made up my mind" Stevenson replied. He retired from the conference. Benson and the secretaries looked at each other, thinking the President had lost his mind. From outside, Desmond McEnroe overheard the entire conversation and decided to warn the guys at Australia.
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BULLS'EYE MANOR
SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA
Sullivan brought the Castilian to one of the guest rooms while Levine and Sanders were watching. Crawford was upstairs changing her clothes. The two men watched the spanish while Sullivan did a background check on him. Brian's face revealed the huge mistake the american agents had done.
"Marcia Alexandra Crawford. Bring that slutty white ass of yours down here right now!!!!!!" Sullivan yelled at the top of his lungs. She came down as fast as she could wearing jeans and a buttoned-down red shirt.
"Don't insult me, Brian. What the heck do you want?"
"Do you have any idea of what you and Sanders just did?"
"No. I'm waiting"
"The guy we have in here is a spanish diplomat named Luis of Castile!!"
"Whoa! Whoa! You told me to 'take care of it' and I did. I'm not a damn mind reader!" she striked back,
"Great. Add problems with the spanish goverment to our post-op list"
"Are you angry at me?!" she screamed. Sullivan got up and accidentaly slapped her.
"Marcy, are you okay?" Sanders asked.
"Yeah. Just bring me some ice and tell Brian to get out. I'll interrogate Luis... GET OUT, BRIAN!!" she yelled. The three men left and Marcia took out smelling salts from a drawer and put them under the Castilian's nose. She stood by his side as he coughed and woke up.
"Relax. You're in no harm" she told him.
"You... you're the girl from the cafe" he said, partially conscious.
"Yes, Mr. Of Castile. I am, but I'm not"
"How do you know my name? Who are you? What's all of this?"
"That's the thing: I kinda lied to you. My name's not Lindsay Scofield. My name's Marcia Crawford and I work for the CIA"
"CIA. What's all of this?"
"Calm down. I don't bite. What happens is that I'm in an undercover assignment trying to hunt a terrorist. I thought you were suspecting of me and I wouldn't let you expose me, so I apologize for any inconvenience caused" she said, remembering what Sullivan said to her in the begining.
"You americans are paranoid. That's why the world is screwed. Let me go" he told her. But before he could get to the door, Marcia stopped him.
"Wait. Listen to what I have to say first: Your country and the rest of the world may think the United States are a bunch of killers that don't mind about anything but themselves. But let me tell you something: Not all of us are alike. There's good americans too. That fight for an ideal. For a better world. The fact that I work for the CIA doesn't make me a bad american. So don't judge us all because of our goverment... You can go if you want now"
"Wait. Marcia, right?"ยด
"Uh-huh"
"I'm not misjudging you because you work for your goverment. I know there are some americans that are just like you. That fight for an ideal: to stop terrorism in the world. Sorry if I insulted you"
"No. That's okay. But... we're gonna need your help"
"What for?"
"We know your country has been attacked by the European Liberation Army, so you must know something about them"
"Yes. How does that involve me?"
"I, uh... Sorry. We need you on board in this. Isn't that what we all look for? Please, I'm begging you as someone who's been a victim of the ELA" she pleaded.
"Victim? How can a CIA agent be a victim?"
"I've been close to being killed by the ELA. Not once. Not twice. Three times. The first was a car bomb. The second was a car crash. And the third I was held captive and tortured by them. All this mixed with death threats. Check it up if you don't believe me. Please" she pleaded again. When Luis saw a tear falling down her cheek he discovered that Marcia was actually telling the truth.
"It's okay. I believe you. And I'll help you. Now let's go outside, so you can calm down. And let's get some ice for that ice for that cheek" Luis said. He led her out to the yard, under the looks of the three men that thought the Castilian had said or done something to hurt Marcia.
"What do you think just happened there?" Sanders asked Levine.
"I don't know. Only God and the two of them know" he replied as he felt jealousy seeing Marcia and the diplomat outside.
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WHITE HOUSE PRESS ROOM
WASHINGTON D.C.
President Stevenson had called on a special conference without letting them into the real strategy. If a member of the press actually "read between the lines" of his plan, he or she would publish it and that would be unstoppable because if the strategy got to Max's hands and if he caught Stevenson in a lie, he would start killing the hostages. He, accompanied by three staffers, approached the podium as all the attention turned to him.
"Ladies and gentlemen of the press. I would like to make a brief statement regarding the embassy hostage situation in Sydney: 'In light of these recent events, I have made a choice. I know many americans wouldn't think that I'm doing the wrong but... I'm going to comply to the terrorists' demands. So I would like to announce that the United States will not interfere with the issues of other countries. It's time to start a new era where our country wants to re-establish better diplomatic relation, so that this world becomes a better place' Thank you very much" Stevenson said and was quickly escorted out by the Secret Service as one of the staffers tried to control the press, that was asking questions and claiming for answers as to why this sudden decision.
"Ladies and gentlemen. There won't be no questions. You heard the President" he said to the wild bunch of reporters. Outside the press room, Stevenson realized in that moment that he had done something highly stupid that would cost him the Presidency, the country's credibility and some human lives in between.
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UNITED STATES EMBASSY
SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA
"Your president is a very weak man" Max said as he looked at the TV. They were showing a recorded tape of the statement. He had a smile on his face with his gun aimed at Robson, he turned to him. Robson was keeping his hand up.
"You got what you wanted. You're gonna let us go, right?" he asked.
"Not yet, Mr Ambassador. I just need one more thing and THEN I'll let you go. Enough talking" Max replied and fixated his view back to the window. Police, press and onlookers were all waiting for Max and the hostages to come out. But that wasn't going to happen anytime soon... unless Max was able to use President Stevenson for one last time so he could plan his escape.
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BULLS'EYE MANOR
SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA
"Either your president is really stupid or he's up to something" Luis said as he and Crawford were in the living room looking at the tape statement.
"I'll take the second option" Marcia said while pouring some glasses of alcohol.
"You want something?" she asked.
"I'd like a beer" he replied, As Marcia was taking out a bottle of beer and a vodka shot, Sullivan comes in.
"You saw this?" Sullivan asked them.
"Yes, Mr Sullivan" the Castilian said.
"Either your president is stupid or he's up to something because I don't understand this. I'm not an intelligence officer"
"Where's Stephen? Have you seen him?"
"He said he went out with Sanders. They didn't say why or where"
"Ok... Marcia, I need to speak with you. In private, please"
"Sure. I'll be right back" she said and followed Brian to the dining room.
"What's going on?" she said coldly, not forgetting the slap she had recieved from him earlier.
"First of all, I'd like to apologize for what happened earlier. I was hysterical and I didn't mean to do it. Will you forgive me?"
"Sure. It doesn't hurt now. It was the moment that bothered me, and I have to admit I behaved like a bitch too" she replied.
"Is this all we have to talk about?"
"No. It's something about the job we have to talk about. There's nothing more to do for today. Marcia, since you're the boss here I have to put you up to speed. I, uh... I spoke to the boys earlier. They went to spy on our guy. Tomorrow Stephen will establish contact with O'Shea, and that's the start of our op. Everything has to go perfect or else this thing will go to hell. There will be someone else doing all the survelliance job. Are you okay with that?"
"What about Luis?"
"I'll take him to a shooting range tomorrow. I want him to learn how to shoot a gun so he can help us. You OK?"
"Yeah. I'll go to rest now" she said and opened the door. Luis was watching TV. He knew Marcia was there because she yawned.
"What was that all about?"
"Tomorrow the real fun begins. Cheers" she said and finished the vodka. A minute later she fell asleep, her head in the Castilian's lap as he caressed her blonde hair. In that moment, Luis told himself he was falling in love with her.
TO BE CONTINUED....
As always, the music guide_
* "When the stars go blue" by Bono & The Corrs. Song playing inside the coffee shop.
* "Always in my Head" by Psapp. Song on the Scofield's car
10
THE NEXT DAY
BULLS'EYE MANOR
SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA
Sanders was downstairs making breakfast. Last night had been confusing for him because he could barely remember what took place there. He looked at the coffee table. Marcia had forgot to take the gun upstairs. If this wasn't enough, Stephen came down, yawning.
"How's it goin'?" he said
"What the heck are you doing here? You're supposed to be at Langley" Dave exclaimed.
"You don't remember? Crawford busted me last night. And I saw herin a cute camisole... Damn, she's hot". Suddenly, Sullivan enters the kitchen.
"Good morning. Who is this?"
"Stephen Levine. My ex-partner" Sanders said. Brian and Stephen shook hands.
"Why are you here, son?"
"I'm here because..." as he was about to explain, Marcia came down with Levine's cell phone in her hands.
"You were actually telling the truth, Stephen. You left this in the restroom, by the way. Desmond McEnroe called and he broke the whole thing to me"
"Can somebody explain to me what happened?"
"I can. Last night, he broke into this house. I caught him and his inside contact confessed. Let's just say I have a great convincing power" Crawford said.
"Can I have a talk with you two?" Brian asked.
"Levine can be in this too. He is trustable. But after breakfast, please"
"Fine. Enjoy" he said and left. Inmediately after that, she threw a look at both men.
"Were you talking about me?"
"No. No, we weren't"
"Don't lie to me"
"Fine. Stephen was praising your looks". Levine gave Dave an angry look.
"Thanks, man... Look, can somebody make me a coffee while I'm in the shower? You know how I like it"
"Sure" Sanders said. Marcia left as both men checked her out.
"Earth to Sanders" Levine said. Dave didn't respond 'cause he was 'taken away' by his 'wife's' looks.
"Look. If I were you, I'd enjoy this to make her fall for you". Dave didn't like the comment and walked away.
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SYDNEY GRAND HOTEL
SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA
Luis of Castile had been sent to a diplomatic mission in Australia. His final meeting had been yesterday, so he was just 'chilling' in Sydney. He was used to see strange things in some of his trips, but it was all in the name of peace. He turned on the TV To watch the news as he started out the window.
"When is it going to be the day we see peace in this world?... Everyday we see sick people doing crazy things, and all of this thanks to the yankees" he said and sighed. He looked at his watch. It was around 8:00 AM. Perfect timing for a coffee, he said to himself. He grabbed his coat and left. On his way out, he runs into O'Shea (without knowing he's a terrorist)
"Good morning" Luis said.
"Hi" O'Shea replied. The Castilian took the elevator and left. He has no idea but he's soon going to be involved in the middle of the most dangerous game of his life.
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BULLS'EYE MANOR
SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA
Brian, Dave, Stephen and Marcia were gathered in the studio of the house. Today was the day one of their following and Sullivan had to have a conversation with them, and handle them some documents as well.
"Okay. Listen to me" Sullivan said. The three agents sat down.
"As you may be aware, or at least Dave and Marcia are, you are here to follow and stop a terrorist named John O'Shea. Our Intelligence data suggested he was here. O'Shea is one of the leaders of the European Liberation Army, which is behind the embassy crisis, among previous events. I won't mention now.
"Okay, so we know that. What is the job?" Marcia said as she took a sip of coffee.
"I will handle you documents now. Among them you'll find IDs, drivers, licenses, credit cards, passports, checkbooks, etc... If you want to carry your CIA IDs, carry them, but hide them well" he said and took out two large brown envelopes that contained them. Sanders and Crawford recieved them.
"How are we going to establish contact with him?" Levine asked.
"I did some research and he entered the country as Andrew Rodgers, a businessman that has an investment firm. JJ & Lindsay, Dave and Marcia will pose as a couple that have their own investment firm too and are interested in making business with him"
"And where can we find this guy?" Sanders said.
"Before you got here I followed him. He usually goes in the morning to a cafe downtown, stays there for a while and then heads to a building complex where he 'works'. After lunch, which he does every day in a different place, leaves to tour the city and returns to his hotel: THE GRAND. When he goes out at night he frequents bars where he meets with ELA associates. Are we clear?"
"Uh-huh" they replied.
"One thing: You'll be wearing this" he said giving Sanders a pin and Crawford a necklace.
"Are these wires?" she asked.
"Yes. Put them on so I can try them" Sullivan said. They did and their handler replied they were working well.
"Any questions?"
"As far as I'm concerned... no. We're ready to go" Dave said.
"Fine. In the car you'll find a box that contains two earpieces. Put them on 'cause that's the way we'll stay comunicated. Good luck, kids" he said. Dave and Marcia went outside to the car, and she had a flashback of the car bomb.
"Crawford, you're shaking. What's going on?"
"I don't know if Stephen told you, but we were attacked with a car bomb in England"
"No, he didn't. But we'll be fine. I promise" he said, comforting her. He opened her door, put on the earpieces and drove off.
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UNITED STATES EMBASSY
SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA
Press and police were outside the embassy, waiting for something to happen. It had been almost a day since Max & Co. took the place and everybody inside it hostage, and he wasn't going to negotiate anything with anyone until he saw his purpose achieved. Max heard one of the officers through a cell phone.
"Listen, we don't have to do this. Let the hostages go and we'll cut a deal for you" the officer said. Max didn't know, but most of the embassy situations in Europe had been finished by the use of force.
"I won't do any kind of deal until I get what I want" Max replied and hung up. Inmediately after that, he aimed his gun at Ambassador Robson.
"You're gonna call your President and tell him that I want him to make a public statement saying that the United States won't interfere in other countries anymore. One wrong word and you're dead. Understood?"
"I won't do it" Robson said, defiant.
"This country doesn't negotiate with terrorists" a staffer added.
"Really?" Max replied. He aimed his gun at Peter (the staffer) and shot him.
"Keep saying no and everyone here will die. Do it!!!!!" he yelled back. Robson grabbed the phone and called the White House.
"This is Ambassador Robson for President Stevenson" he said. The secretary tells him to hold.
"What is it, Bill?"
"Listen to me carefully. I want you to draft a speech in which you say the U.S. will stay out of other countries' issues and broadcast it... or else they'll kill everyone in here" he said. Max took the phone away from him.
"You have 40 minutes or blood will be spilled" he said and hung up. Everybody was scared of Max. He looked at the sky with his gun aimed at Robson. After this, nothing mattered.
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THE COFFEE POT
SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA
It only took Marcia and Dave 10 minutes to get to the coffee shop located in downtown Sydney. They were now watching it from inside their car to check if there was any suspicious movement. Suddenly, they heard a sound on their ears.
"Dave, Marcia. Can you hear me?" Sullivan said.
"Loud and clear, chief" she replied
"Have you figured out a strategy?"
"Yes, Brian, We're outside the coffee shop. Marcia will go in pretending to buy coffee. In the meantime she'll try to spot him. If she does, she'll let me know"
"Okay. Do your thing, Marcy"Sullivan said. Marcia (as Lindsay Scofield) entered the coffee shop under the eye of her co-workers. Inside there was a lot of people, including John O'Shea and Luis of Castile. She approaches the clerk.
"Hi. I'd like an espresso and a large capuccino to go. Just let me know when they're done" she said kindly.
"Sure. What's your name?"
"Lindsay Scofield"
"Okay, Ms Scofield. I'll let you know so you can pick them up" the clerk said. Lindsay/Marcia headed to a table while Sullivan watched from the manor.
"You know how he looks like. Do you see him?"
"Not yet" she said, pretending to use a hands-free cell phone. She sat on the table and grabbed a newspaper.
"Lower the newspaper so we can see" Stephen said. Without a word, she did.
"10 O'clock shadow" she said once she saw O'Shea nearby. Brian cross-referenced it and confirmed the identity.
"Marcy, it's him. Keep an eye out"
"Will do" she said and kept on reading.
"Ms Scofield! Your order is ready!" the clerk yelled. She left the newspaper and headed to the registrer. On the way there, she runs into Luis of Castile and he spills coffee in her clothes.
"Whoa!!!" she screamed.
"I'm so sorry. Let me help you"
"It's alright. I'm fine"
"No. I insist. Let me at least get you some clothes. I'm Luis, by the way"
"Lindsay. And don't worry. I'll take this to the dry cleaner's" she replied. The Castlian gave her a look.
"Are you sure you're okay? You seen worried"
"He's suspecting, Crawford. Take care of it" Sullivan said.
"I told you I'm fine. Just get me out so I can grab a cab"
"Sure" Luis replied. They walked out and once the spanish was off guard and with his back turned to Marcia, she knocked him out with a punch. Sanders pulled over in front of her.
"Help me get him in the back" she said. Sanders grabbed his arms and got him in the car.
"What do we do now?"
"Bring him in to the manor and I'll question him. He's probably working with the ELA" Sullivan said. The two agents quickly sped off in the north direction.
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LANGLEY, VIRGINIA
CIA HEADQUATERS
Benson was in his office in the middle of a videoconference with the President and the the secretaries of State and Defense. After consulting with his most trustable advisors, President Stevenson was ready to comunicate his decision to Benson & Co. If this strategy doesn't work then this whole thing goes to hell. Stevenson asked for their silence and the conference began.
"Gentlemen, I made a choice and I wanted to let you know about it"
"What is it?" Benson asked.
"We have come up with a very risky strategy: I'll agree to their demands and I'll proceed with the statement. This will lure the terrorists into the liberation of the hostages. Once that's done we'll wait a few days and we'll take it back"
"Sir, are you aware that this 'strategy' as you call it will not only destroy your presidency, but this country's credibility?" Secretary of State Allen Davenport said.
"It's much better than watch the blood of American citizens spilled... IN OUR SOIL!!!" Stevenson asked.
"Sir, but you know this act will cause a major diplomatic disaster with Europe, and you know that"
"For God's sake, I'm the President of the United States of America. You'll do what I want!!!"
"But, sir. We have absolutely nothing to win and everything to lose" Benson said.
"Sorry, Anthony. I made up my mind" Stevenson replied. He retired from the conference. Benson and the secretaries looked at each other, thinking the President had lost his mind. From outside, Desmond McEnroe overheard the entire conversation and decided to warn the guys at Australia.
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BULLS'EYE MANOR
SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA
Sullivan brought the Castilian to one of the guest rooms while Levine and Sanders were watching. Crawford was upstairs changing her clothes. The two men watched the spanish while Sullivan did a background check on him. Brian's face revealed the huge mistake the american agents had done.
"Marcia Alexandra Crawford. Bring that slutty white ass of yours down here right now!!!!!!" Sullivan yelled at the top of his lungs. She came down as fast as she could wearing jeans and a buttoned-down red shirt.
"Don't insult me, Brian. What the heck do you want?"
"Do you have any idea of what you and Sanders just did?"
"No. I'm waiting"
"The guy we have in here is a spanish diplomat named Luis of Castile!!"
"Whoa! Whoa! You told me to 'take care of it' and I did. I'm not a damn mind reader!" she striked back,
"Great. Add problems with the spanish goverment to our post-op list"
"Are you angry at me?!" she screamed. Sullivan got up and accidentaly slapped her.
"Marcy, are you okay?" Sanders asked.
"Yeah. Just bring me some ice and tell Brian to get out. I'll interrogate Luis... GET OUT, BRIAN!!" she yelled. The three men left and Marcia took out smelling salts from a drawer and put them under the Castilian's nose. She stood by his side as he coughed and woke up.
"Relax. You're in no harm" she told him.
"You... you're the girl from the cafe" he said, partially conscious.
"Yes, Mr. Of Castile. I am, but I'm not"
"How do you know my name? Who are you? What's all of this?"
"That's the thing: I kinda lied to you. My name's not Lindsay Scofield. My name's Marcia Crawford and I work for the CIA"
"CIA. What's all of this?"
"Calm down. I don't bite. What happens is that I'm in an undercover assignment trying to hunt a terrorist. I thought you were suspecting of me and I wouldn't let you expose me, so I apologize for any inconvenience caused" she said, remembering what Sullivan said to her in the begining.
"You americans are paranoid. That's why the world is screwed. Let me go" he told her. But before he could get to the door, Marcia stopped him.
"Wait. Listen to what I have to say first: Your country and the rest of the world may think the United States are a bunch of killers that don't mind about anything but themselves. But let me tell you something: Not all of us are alike. There's good americans too. That fight for an ideal. For a better world. The fact that I work for the CIA doesn't make me a bad american. So don't judge us all because of our goverment... You can go if you want now"
"Wait. Marcia, right?"ยด
"Uh-huh"
"I'm not misjudging you because you work for your goverment. I know there are some americans that are just like you. That fight for an ideal: to stop terrorism in the world. Sorry if I insulted you"
"No. That's okay. But... we're gonna need your help"
"What for?"
"We know your country has been attacked by the European Liberation Army, so you must know something about them"
"Yes. How does that involve me?"
"I, uh... Sorry. We need you on board in this. Isn't that what we all look for? Please, I'm begging you as someone who's been a victim of the ELA" she pleaded.
"Victim? How can a CIA agent be a victim?"
"I've been close to being killed by the ELA. Not once. Not twice. Three times. The first was a car bomb. The second was a car crash. And the third I was held captive and tortured by them. All this mixed with death threats. Check it up if you don't believe me. Please" she pleaded again. When Luis saw a tear falling down her cheek he discovered that Marcia was actually telling the truth.
"It's okay. I believe you. And I'll help you. Now let's go outside, so you can calm down. And let's get some ice for that ice for that cheek" Luis said. He led her out to the yard, under the looks of the three men that thought the Castilian had said or done something to hurt Marcia.
"What do you think just happened there?" Sanders asked Levine.
"I don't know. Only God and the two of them know" he replied as he felt jealousy seeing Marcia and the diplomat outside.
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WHITE HOUSE PRESS ROOM
WASHINGTON D.C.
President Stevenson had called on a special conference without letting them into the real strategy. If a member of the press actually "read between the lines" of his plan, he or she would publish it and that would be unstoppable because if the strategy got to Max's hands and if he caught Stevenson in a lie, he would start killing the hostages. He, accompanied by three staffers, approached the podium as all the attention turned to him.
"Ladies and gentlemen of the press. I would like to make a brief statement regarding the embassy hostage situation in Sydney: 'In light of these recent events, I have made a choice. I know many americans wouldn't think that I'm doing the wrong but... I'm going to comply to the terrorists' demands. So I would like to announce that the United States will not interfere with the issues of other countries. It's time to start a new era where our country wants to re-establish better diplomatic relation, so that this world becomes a better place' Thank you very much" Stevenson said and was quickly escorted out by the Secret Service as one of the staffers tried to control the press, that was asking questions and claiming for answers as to why this sudden decision.
"Ladies and gentlemen. There won't be no questions. You heard the President" he said to the wild bunch of reporters. Outside the press room, Stevenson realized in that moment that he had done something highly stupid that would cost him the Presidency, the country's credibility and some human lives in between.
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UNITED STATES EMBASSY
SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA
"Your president is a very weak man" Max said as he looked at the TV. They were showing a recorded tape of the statement. He had a smile on his face with his gun aimed at Robson, he turned to him. Robson was keeping his hand up.
"You got what you wanted. You're gonna let us go, right?" he asked.
"Not yet, Mr Ambassador. I just need one more thing and THEN I'll let you go. Enough talking" Max replied and fixated his view back to the window. Police, press and onlookers were all waiting for Max and the hostages to come out. But that wasn't going to happen anytime soon... unless Max was able to use President Stevenson for one last time so he could plan his escape.
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BULLS'EYE MANOR
SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA
"Either your president is really stupid or he's up to something" Luis said as he and Crawford were in the living room looking at the tape statement.
"I'll take the second option" Marcia said while pouring some glasses of alcohol.
"You want something?" she asked.
"I'd like a beer" he replied, As Marcia was taking out a bottle of beer and a vodka shot, Sullivan comes in.
"You saw this?" Sullivan asked them.
"Yes, Mr Sullivan" the Castilian said.
"Either your president is stupid or he's up to something because I don't understand this. I'm not an intelligence officer"
"Where's Stephen? Have you seen him?"
"He said he went out with Sanders. They didn't say why or where"
"Ok... Marcia, I need to speak with you. In private, please"
"Sure. I'll be right back" she said and followed Brian to the dining room.
"What's going on?" she said coldly, not forgetting the slap she had recieved from him earlier.
"First of all, I'd like to apologize for what happened earlier. I was hysterical and I didn't mean to do it. Will you forgive me?"
"Sure. It doesn't hurt now. It was the moment that bothered me, and I have to admit I behaved like a bitch too" she replied.
"Is this all we have to talk about?"
"No. It's something about the job we have to talk about. There's nothing more to do for today. Marcia, since you're the boss here I have to put you up to speed. I, uh... I spoke to the boys earlier. They went to spy on our guy. Tomorrow Stephen will establish contact with O'Shea, and that's the start of our op. Everything has to go perfect or else this thing will go to hell. There will be someone else doing all the survelliance job. Are you okay with that?"
"What about Luis?"
"I'll take him to a shooting range tomorrow. I want him to learn how to shoot a gun so he can help us. You OK?"
"Yeah. I'll go to rest now" she said and opened the door. Luis was watching TV. He knew Marcia was there because she yawned.
"What was that all about?"
"Tomorrow the real fun begins. Cheers" she said and finished the vodka. A minute later she fell asleep, her head in the Castilian's lap as he caressed her blonde hair. In that moment, Luis told himself he was falling in love with her.
TO BE CONTINUED....
As always, the music guide_
* "When the stars go blue" by Bono & The Corrs. Song playing inside the coffee shop.
* "Always in my Head" by Psapp. Song on the Scofield's car
posted by Nicodrina at 12:04 PM
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