The New Year of 2002 starts off with a literal bang, when Mark Vincent is called to WBIS headquarters and learns the Washington Bureau of Intelligence and Security has been disbanded. He's not happy with the situation, but he's ready to make his own way in the intelligence waters of DC. However, when Trevor Wallace, known as The Boss, requests he accept the CIA's offer of a job, Mark reluctantly agrees. He isn't surprised to find working for the CIA is exactly what he expected, with the Company not allowing him to do his job. Mark lets his resentment be known as he's partnered with one officer after another, with no success. As a result, he's determined to leave the CIA, in spite of his promise to the man whose opinion he valued so highly.<br><br>Quinton Mann is viewed as royalty in the intelligence community. He had a run-in with Mark Vincent a few years before, while Vincent was still senior special agent for the WBIS, and Quinn had developed a healthy respect for him. Now, however, it's his turn to partner with the man considered by the alphabet agencies to be a sociopath.<br><br>Quinn can see what the problem is, and he's aware Vincent might not remain CIA for long. Now, the year is drawing to a close. Will a drink on Christmas Eve change things for both men?

No One Should Be Alone

“Two words, my friend,” DB said. “Bull. Shit.”


“Seriously, he’s not. If Holmes would just let us do our job…Never mind. I’m sure you didn’t come here to hear my tale of woe regarding our esteemed DCI. So tell me. What have you planned for tomorrow?”


“I’ll probably order some Chinese and watch a movie.” He shrugged.


“You won’t be able to see your family?”


“No. Holmes turned down my request for a few days off.”


“I’m sorry about that.” I knew his family lived on the West Coast, and he’d need the time to get there and back. “Would you like to come to Great Falls? I wasn’t joking earlier about inviting you to Christmas dinner. Mother’s always enjoyed your company, and she’ll have no objection to you joining us.”


“Appreciate it, Quinn,” he said gruffly. “She’s a real lady. And you’re a real friend.”


“Don’t get maudlin, David. Now—”


“Oh, shit. I’ve got to get her a gift.”


Chapter 11