Page 29 of No More Lies

“Three canisters could indicate a seriously large target,” Dex said.

“Yes. Or it could be a coordinated attack on multiple targets.”

“Then let’s get going on it, darling.” Mackie winked at Kelly. Donnie saw Dex scowl and grinned.

“The rest of you make sure you’re up to date on this shit. I don’t want to lose any of you trying to secure it. And start thinking about targets. Someone that has gone to this much trouble to bring sarin to the US is going to want to make a big statement. A concert, a ball game. Mass people.”

“We pulling Steve back for this?” Donnie asked.

Everyone looked at Dex. Donnie wondered how much Dex knew about whatever was going on with Steve.

“No. Just the five of us. Those of you that have not yet cleared physical and psych, get it done today.”

The boys split up. Donnie glanced at Mackie, who turned as if sensing him.

“Hey, Kelly, I’ll be right back. Need a whizz.”

“Too much information Mackie.” She waved him off.

He smiled, walking away, and Donnie followed him.

“What is it?” Donnie asked as soon as the washroom door closed.

“Look, I don’t want to land anyone in shit here, but have you spoken to Steve recently?”

“Yes. Did he ask you to run the phone?”

“This morning, but Dex called before I had a chance to. I can’t risk doing it here as he doesn't want to get on Sam or Dex’s radar.”

“Yeah, I know. He wants to keep them out of it.”

“You probably know more than me, I didn’t ask questions. I just shot him a text to say I’d get to it as soon as I can.”

“He thinks Diane is hiding something.”

Mackie raised his eyebrows.

“Not an affair,” Donnie added quickly.

“Well, whatever it is, sarin trumps it.”

“You’re right. We have a potential terrorist sarin attack happening. If we get caught diverting our attention, we’re going to get roasted.” Donnie scrubbed a hand over his face.

“I know. But he’s our brother and he’s asked for help. You’re pretty good with computers, though. If you can get to my place, my laptop is there, it has the software loaded. I can tell you what to do.”

Donnie nodded. “Sounds like a plan. I’ll find a way to get there.”

***

STEVE HAD JUST PUT Megan to bed when his cellphone rang. Donnie.

“Hey bud. I just left Mackie's. That favor you asked for is in progress.”

“Mackie asked you to do it?” Steve asked, not hiding his surprise.

“Yes. And don’t be pissed. I told him we spoke, and he is too tied up right now.”

“Fuck. The op?”