Page 68 of No More Lies
Steve sighed and kissed her forehead.
“We’re not sure yet. As Dex mentioned, Volkov is involved in something pretty deadly.”
“I guessed it was bad if Onyx is involved.”
“It’s sarin. It’s a—”
“Chemical weapon,” she said and sat back up. Looking into his eyes, she said, “I’ve read about sarin. Hell, you see it in movies. It can kill thousands.” Despite her best effort to stay calm she could hear the slight panic in her voice.
“Yes. It’s one of the deadliest substances in the world, and he transported it here.”
“Why? Does he hate America that much?”
“We think he is the middleman. Delivering to a buyer who plans to set it off.”
“So why are they are not evacuating the area?”
“Because it would cause panic. Imagine all those people getting in their cars and jamming the highways. The person who has it may also panic and release it and kill even more people. Whoever bought it likely has a specific target. We find that, we can stop the attack, or at the very least contain it.”
“You, the team... could be there when it’s released?” Now she was even more worried.
“It’s a possibility. But we will be protected. If you don't touch it, ingest it, or breathe it, it's fine. We will stop this, Angel. It’s not the first time we’ve dealt with a situation like this.”
Diane knew he dealt with dangerous situations but hearing him explain details definitely made it all the more real. She understood a little now why he was reluctant to share information with her. It was scary as hell to think of Steve or any of Onyx being so close to this.
“So how does this connect to him kidnapping them?”
“Our team has been tasked with securing the sarin, but we have been unable to locate it yet. However, we do know the target is going to be close by. Maybe he knows where and when. He will want to get out of the country with Anya before that shit gets released. It’s possible either he thinks he doesn't have time to wait for the hearing or can't risk it not going his way. Especially, as you said yourself, the case isn't strong.”
She stared at Steve, unsure what to say. This was like a Mission: Impossible movie, not real life. If only she had told Steve sooner, they could have had more time and been able to arrest Volkov.
“I’m sorry, Steve. I should have come to you sooner.”
He placed a hand on her cheek. “This isn't your fault. None of it is. You did not know what he was up to.”
“No, but he was following Megan. She was in so much danger.” She bit her lip to stop the tears that threatened.
“Shh. Come here.” He pulled her onto his lap and cradled her. “Megan is safe, and we will find Volkov and the sarin.”
He sounded so confident.
“How?”
“No one can hide forever. We have the best people looking for him.”
“Do you need to go be with your team?” She didn't want him to go, but with what was going on, they must need as much help as possible.
His grip tightened. “I’m not going anywhere. We can’t be sure that Volkov won't contact you. Until we have him, I’m not taking any chances with you or Megan.”
She sighed, snuggling closer into his chest.
“I bet you wish I hadn't told you anything now.” Steve nuzzled her hair.
“No. I’m glad you did. Of course it scares me, but I would still rather know. Thank you for telling me. Were you cleared to do so?”
Steve chuckled. “No.”
“So why did you?” she asked softly.