Going Under

Maria cocked her head to the side, like an eagle deciding what soft bit to tear out first.

Instead, she said, “Fine. So be it. If you die, it’s not because I didn’t warn you.”

Then, she left.

It took me a moment and a very deep breath to steady myself, but I’d managed to survive, now I just had to keep doing that with people infinitely less nice than Maria.

Back in the trailer, I found Badger and MJ talking about surveillance and tracking equipment while Maria stood passing judgment on each option. Meanwhile, Carter approached me.

“Where are David and Katja?” I asked.

“Katja was pretty torn up about your big reveal, so David’s trying to calm her down. Apparently, you told him several days ago and he didn’t think it was enough of a concern to spill your secret.”

“Uh, yeah. Sorry that I kept it from the rest of you, but I didn’t want it to change anything. I hoped that it wouldn’t change anything and I’d still just be Special Agent Alexandra Douglas.”

“Eh, we all keep stuff to ourselves from time to time, so I’ll forgive you. I just hope Katja does, because it sounds like we’ll need her for what’s to come.”

“Do you think that I should talk to her?” I asked.

“Not yet. Let David work on Katja. You’ve got lots to do, starting with texting this Constantino guy and setting up a date tonight.”

“Isn’t it a bit late?”

Carter laughed, “I know you said you were out of the game for a while, but nine at night means that the clubs are barely opening their doors.”

So, I texted the number on Constantino’s card, “I need a drink. Do you know anywhere that serves alcohol?”

His response was suspiciously fast, considering that MJ said he always kept his phone off, “Those are pretty rare in these parts, but I do know of one place we can try.”

“Great, I’m in San Jose, headed down the tourist corridor. Where should I go?”

“Meet me at the Walmart off Highway One.”

“Romantic.”

“I’m just getting started.”

I turned to Carter and said, “It’s a go. I’m supposed to meet him at the Walmart off Highway One.”

“Great. Now, I’m supposed to inject you with the radioisotope and chemical trackers, plus a birth control implant, and a couple shots to boost your immune system while you’re undercover.”

“Oh, no, uh-uh. Not happening,” I said, backing away from him, nearly afraid enough to go for my gun, which I suddenly realized I’d have to give up before going undercover.

“Seriously, ma’am? It’s just some shots. The Corp gave us so many I thought I’d signed up to be a pin cushion.”

“Absolutely, without a doubt, no.”

He let out a breath, “Well, you’re taking a big risk, an unnecessary risk. But, I’m not going to force them on you."

“Thanks, Carter. Just, don’t mention this part to Maria. She’ll just call me a coward, again, and probably have you sit on me while she shoots them into my ass.”

Carter chuffed, “Yeah, I bet she would, too. Still, be careful, Agent Douglas.”

“I’ll try, Corporal Carter, I’ll try.”