Page 38 of Stone Coast

“It doesn't instill trust,” I said. “How am I supposed to trust you if you don't trust me?”

"Fair enough. I can assure you, I will earn your trust. You were one of my best officers. Your absence has left a gaping hole in our organization." He paused. "Why don't you get some rest. You’ve been through a lot today. In the morning, we’ll do a debrief. I can arrange a safe place for you to stay the night.”

"I’m comfortable where I am," I said.

Ross glanced back at Tyson.

"You don't like him, do you?"

"No. I don't. But I suspect you're safe with him for the evening.”

"Why don’t you like him?"

"I told you, he's an unknown variable at this point. He hasn’t worked directly with the agency in years. He did contract work for Cobra Company. He may still, for all I know. He could be working for anybody.”

“Cobra Company?”

Ross flashed a reassuring smile. “We can discuss all of this tomorrow.”

He said goodbye and walked down the dock to join the others. He climbed into the SUV, and they disappeared into the night.

I regrouped with Tyson. "Do you know Ross?”

Tyson shook his head. “No. But I know his kind.”

"He knows you.”

"He did his research.”

"He doesn't like you.”

"Not everybody has good taste.”

I laughed. "Want to tell me about Cobra Company?”

19

Tyson was hesitant to talk about it. "It's the kind of place that you call when you need intel or operations that require discretion."

"So, illegal.”

"Illegal is a strong word. Let's just say they operate without the usual constraints."

"Constraints are usually put in place for a reason," I said.

“We can debate the merits of off-the-books clandestine agencies another time. I don't work directly for Cobra Company anymore."

"You still have connections to them, yes?"

Tyson nodded.

"Why did you leave?”

"That's a long story."

"We've got all night," I said with a smile.

"You need to get some sleep. And I need coffee."