Page 283 of Vicious Temptation

He gives me nothing in return, so I continue.

“Agent Elena Duvall has gone rogue. She has repeatedly violated protocol, withheld operational information, and disclosed classified intelligence to a potential target.”

The last two words nearly stick in my throat, but I force them out.

No one says a word.

“She’s no longer acting in the organization’s best interests. This stopped being about the mission a long time ago. It’s personal now.” I glance around the table. “Her actions have compromised operational security, jeopardized Helios, and put innocent civilians at risk.”

The five of them exchange measured glances before the man at the head of the table gestures toward the empty chair opposite him.

“Have a seat, Agent Braga.”

I remain standing. “With all due respect, sir, I’d rather not waste time.”

His attention lingers on me for another second before he nods. “Very well. Continue.”

I tell them everything relevant to Elena’s conduct, starting with her growing fixation on Remi. I leave out anything that could further expose Remi, then explain Elena’s decision to hand over classified intelligence. No one interrupts or gives any hint of what they’re thinking as they take notes.

When I finish, the man at the head of the table folds his hands in front of him.

“You’re alleging that Agent Duvall knowingly violated operational protocols.”

“Yes, sir.”

“She disclosed classified information to a civilian.”

“Yes.”

“And you believe her judgment is compromised.”

“I do.”

He nods. “Very well.”

For one brief second, I think they understand why I came here, then his next question changes everything.

“Can the civilian identify the organization?”

I grip the backrest of the empty chair beside me.

“Yes.”

“Can she identify personnel?”

“She knows my identity and Agent Duvall’s.”

“Has she shared that information with anyone else?”

The question puts me on alert.

“No.”

He waits a beat before asking, “You’re certain?”

“Yes.”

The woman beside him taps the tablet in front of her, bringing something up on the screen.