Chapter 26

“Signor Howland,” Mark heard a man say in heavily accented English, “I am Signor Leone Nazario of the Italian AISI. Signorina Gardner will vouch for me. Perhaps she has already?”

Mark heard the questioning tone of the man’s voice and his hands tightened even more on his gun as he watched for Paul’s reaction.

“Identification, please,” Paul replied tightly. “Reach for it with two fingers and keep your other hand in sight.” There was a brief pause then Paul said, “Hand it to me slowly then back away, hands out to your sides.”

“You are well trained,” the man said, apparently doing as Paul had ordered.

Paul studied the identification, keeping a close eye on the man as he did. “It seems to be in order, however…” He handed them back then took out his phone, giving it to Mark. “Press 01.”