Politics of Blood (Gray Spear Society, #8)

by Alex Siegel

"Mr. Seferis," she said in a tight voice, "I'm struggling to be diplomatic. The problem is I'm not a nice person. Not in the least. Under normal circumstances, I would've gutted you the first time you pointed your gun at me. You're very fortunate my bodyguard didn't turn you into a Popsicle." Haley had never seen anybody move like that, much less an old woman. She wasn't human. His weak heart fluttered. Seferis' right hand was creeping towards his belt. Haley realized he was reaching for another gun. "Go ahead," Miss Pickenpaugh said. "See what happens next." The hand stopped. "Let him up," Haley said, "please. There's no need for violence." "Only if he promises to behave and keep his mouth shut." "George, will you behave? I'd like to finish this conversation." Seferis stared at the woman with the gleaming blade. "Yes, sir," he said finally. Miss Pickenpaugh stepped back. He stood up and straightened his suit clumsily. There was a bright red mark on his cheek. "Why did you come here?" he said. She smiled. "An intelligent question! I came because your President's life is in great danger." "From you?" "No. My assignment is to keep him alive." He raised his chin. "That's the job of the Secret Service." "Then it seems we're allies," she said. "Mr. Felt, Mrs. Paz, thank you for coming. I really appreciate it. Of course, you won't mention this conversation to anybody. You're dismissed."