Chapter 7 - THE RECOVERED DRIVE
The lead operative extracted the black flash drive hidden inside Emily's leather bag, inspecting it under a tactical flashlight.
"Drive secured, Mr. Sterling. The target is uninjured but immobilized," the operative reported over his headset.
"Hand her over to the Connecticut State Police and bring the drive directly to the estate," Jonathan replied from his study.
Twenty minutes later, the security SUV pulled up to the front entrance of Sterling Manor under the pouring rain.
The lead operative walked into the wood-paneled hallway, handing the encrypted drive to Jonathan in a plastic bag.
Jonathan inspected the drive, walking over to the fireplace where a hot fire burned bright beneath the mantle.
Without a second thought, he dropped the flash drive into the center of the roaring flames, watching it melt into slag.
"No one compromises my family or my company," Jonathan stated quietly, watching the plastic burn away.
Maria stood near the kitchen doorway, holding a tray of warm coffee, looking at her employer with quiet respect.
"Is the danger gone, Mr. Sterling?" Maria asked gently, setting the tray down on the coffee table.
May you like
"For tonight, yes," Jonathan answered softly. "But Emily was working for someone far more dangerous."
***
