Chapter 281: Let's Get this Over With
Chapter 281: Let's Get this Over With
"Sir…are you serious? You are really going to hand yourself into the United States. What if their intentions are not what they seem?" David asked, clearly worried.
Michael sighed, looking tired but resolute. "I don't see any other way, David. If I go with them willingly, maybe I can find out more about what they want. Plus, if the world knows I'm being taken, the CIA will have to be careful with their actions."
David shook his head. "It's a huge risk, Mr. Reyes. They could detain you indefinitely, or worse."
"I know the risks, David," Michael replied. "But we can't keep fighting them in the shadows. This might be our best chance to bring everything to light. I don't want a scandal. It has a negative effect on every business…I'm too big to fail."
David looked troubled but nodded. "Alright, sir. I'll make the necessary arrangements. But, what are we to do with these gentlemen? They looked beaten."
"Well, I'm sure these gentlemen and lady can fix themselves before we depart," Michael said, glancing at the CIA agents. "They'll want to look professional when we meet their extraction team."
Agent 1 and Agent 2 exchanged wary glances but nodded. They straightened up, attempting to regain some composure.
David made the arrangements swiftly. Within an hour, Michael, David, and the agents were ready to leave. A
But before leaving, Michael had to meet with his team, specifically Juliet, Bridget, and Antoneitte.
"What? You are going to the United States? All this sudden?" Juliet was the first to react, her eyes wide with shock.
Michael nodded, understanding their concerns. "I know it seems sudden, but I really have to go. Don't worry, I won't stay there long. I just have to speak with these discreet individuals about business. They like to be discreet. I will bring my security team along to ensure my safety."
"Who the hell is that businessman anyways?" Bridget aggressively said, stepping forward. "That's not how a proper business deal is conducted. This whole thing smells fishy."
Michael raised a hand to calm her. "Bridget, I understand your concern. But this is something that needs to be done. I can't give you all the details right now, but trust me, it's necessary."
Antoinette looked worried but resigned. "If you say so, Michael. Just promise us you'll be careful."
"I promise," Michael said, giving them a reassuring smile. "I'll stay in touch and keep you updated."
Juliet sighed, clearly still uneasy. "Alright, Michael. But remember, we're here if you need anything."
Michael nodded. "Thank you, Juliet. I'll be back before you know it."
With the arrangements made and his team informed, Michael, David, and the CIA agents prepared themselves to head toward the extraction point.
The vehicle that the CIA had rented for their operation was a black van. Michael didn't want to ride in it, so he called his company driver to bring his own transportation, a Toyota Alphard.
As the Alphard pulled up, Michael turned to the agents. "We'll take my vehicle. It's more comfortable, and it'll attract less attention."
Agent 1 reluctantly nodded. "Fine. As long as we get to the extraction point without any issues."
David and his security team ensured that the agents were securely seated in the Alphard. Michael took a deep breath and glanced at David. "Let's get this over with."
The drive to the extraction point was tense and silent. Michael's mind raced with possibilities and the potential consequences of his decision. He knew the risks but was determined to find out what the CIA wanted and to put an end to the cat-and-mouse game they had been playing.
When they arrived at the extraction point, a private airstrip, Michael noticed a cargo aircraft. Several men in suits stood near the aircraft, clearly part of the extraction team.
Michael exited the Alphard, followed by David and the CIA agents. The extraction team approached them, and the leader, a stern-looking man in his fifties, stepped forward.
"So what happened to the subtle extraction of the package?" he said.
"The plan didn't go accordingly," replied Agent 1. "But what's important is the package has voluntarily agreed to come with us."
The man glanced at Michael, then back at the agent. He sighed, clearly displeased but resigned to the situation. "Alright. Let's get moving. Mr. Reyes, your security team can board the plane as well."
Michael nodded, appreciating the inclusion of his team. They moved toward the aircraft, which turned out to be a C-130 Hercules.
David and Michael's security team kept a close eye on the CIA agents as they boarded the C-130. The interior of the military transport plane was functional and sparse, with seats lining the walls and cargo space in the center.
Michael settled into his seat, and the CIA personnel strapped himself in. David sat beside him, ever vigilant. The CIA agents took their positions, ensuring everything was secure before takeoff.
As the plane's engines roared to life and it began to taxi down the runway, Michael took a deep breath, preparing himself for whatever lay ahead in the United States. He knew this was a gamble, but it was one he was willing to take to protect his interests and uncover the truth.
However—he couldn't help but ask. "Where are we going specifically?"
The agent looked at Michael with a serious expression. "We're taking you to a black site."
Michael frowned. "What's a black site?"
The agent explained, "A black site is an off-the-record facility used for covert operations and interrogations. It's highly secure and out of the public eye. No one knows it exists, and it's where sensitive matters are handled."
Michael's concern deepened. "Will the President be there?"
The agent nodded. "Yes, Mr. Reyes. The President will be there. This is a matter of national security."
"Alright, let's get this over with."
The flight continued in tense silence. Michael glanced around the C-130, taking in the stark, utilitarian environment. He knew that once they arrived at the black site, there would be no turning back.
As they neared their destination, the plane began its descent. The agent turned to Michael. "We'll be landing shortly. Once we disembark, you'll be taken to a secure area where you can meet with the officials in charge, including the President."
Michael nodded, bracing himself for what was to come. The plane touched down smoothly, and the ramp lowered. The extraction team quickly moved into position, ensuring the area was secure.
"Sir…" David called.
"Yes…" Michael removed his straps and followed David.