Claire stood in the corner of the buzzing room, arms wrapped around her middle as she tried to stay out of the way. Agents moved about at a relentless pace, breaking off into groups, consulting maps, checking weapons. Everyone had a job to do, and they were going about it with grim-faced determination. “Dr. Fleming.” She glanced over to see Agent Valdez gesturing her forward. He hadn’t left his station in the middle of the kitchen, a location she’d come to think of as Command Central. Apparently, she wasn’t the only one who felt that way—a steady stream of people had been milling around the agent, orbiting him as if he were the sun in this particular solar system. The group made way for her as she approached. Would he let her come along on the operation? She felt a small thrill in the pit of her stomach at the thought. It would be dangerous, she knew, but also necessary if they were to get Emily back safely.
