Page 45 of Stone Coast

“Do you have any memory of being mugged?”

"No."

"Do you have any memory prior to being mugged?”

“No.”

"Have you ever taken something that didn't belong to you?”

"Not that I recall.” He’d asked the question before, just in a different way. It was a tactic to wear you down and check for inconsistencies.

"Have you spoken to anyone else about your employment with the CIA?”

"Yes.”

"Who?”

"Tyson Wild. In my defense, he was the one who told me about my association with the Company.”

Jared studied the screen as I answered. “Anyone else?”

“No.”

"Do you have any recollection of classified information or operations?”

“No.”

"Have you been contacted by any foreign operatives?”

“No.”

“Are you currently working with any foreign operatives or hostile entities?"

I chuckled. “No.”

“Just answer the question.” He repeated it.

I got the impression that Jared wasn’t a lot of fun at parties.

“No,” I said.

“Do you have any recollection of your training or missions with the CIA?”

“No.”

The questions went on like that for about an hour. Jared asked the same questions, phrased in different ways, multiple times. I answered consistently throughout the interview. There wasn't any other way to answer.

Finally, the interview wrapped up. Jared removed the sensors and monitoring equipment. I was free of the machine.

Jared exchanged a look with Ross. They needed to discuss the results. Jared kept his cards close to his chest. I couldn't read his expression one way or the other. He was one of those unemotional, nerdy guys who just cared about the data. He didn't have good interpersonal skills. That much was clear from his interview.

Ross said, "Would you excuse us for a moment while we discuss the results?"

"Sure," I said. "When I get back, I’m gonna ask you for a favor.”

"Anything," Ross said. “Just name it.”

A slight smirk tugged my lips.