Page 26 of Campaign Season
Alex laughed, then her expression sobered.
“You didn’t come here to discuss candy,” Candace said.
“No.”
“Well, sit down. Let’s hear it.”
Alex lowered herself into the chair opposite. “Are you sure you want to nominate me to take over at the CIA?”
“I am. Do you disagree?”
“No. But it will tie my hands more. My ability to help Claire will be diminished.”
“Alex,” Candace said gently, “I need someone at the top I can trust. I know how you feel about being tied to a desk. But this position gives you access to the hierarchy—a chance to see what’s really happening among the rank and file. We both know I have adversaries within the government. That’s moredangerous than detractors. I could appoint someone else, but no one has your experience. You’ve worked across agencies and in the field.”
“Yes. But not on the record.” Alex’s voice was low. “My time at Carecom was cover. The official CIA isn’t the same as The Company. They work in partnership; that much is true. But my paycheck never came from the U.S. government.”
“I know. And that’s exactly why I want you there. Carecom isn’t the only civilian front. Those facades may have started with good intentions. I understand the rationale, but I don’t condone how it’s evolved. There are people inside that agency working against this administration.”
Alex sat back. “I’ll do whatever you ask. But we need someone lower, too. Someone who can feel the ground under their boots.”
Candace nodded. “Then close the gap.”
Alex frowned. “Meaning?”
“I’ve heard you talk about your people at Carecom. Make the directorship hands-on. Walk the halls. Learn the names. Tell Congress, in your confirmation hearings, that you’ll do just that. There’s been a drumbeat about intelligence budgets, bloat, and lack of oversight. You’ve testified on the Hill before. They respect you—both sides of the aisle. Despite our friendship, they see you as nonpartisan. That’s why this is the right move.”
Alex’s lips quirked. “You’re casting a line into Congress.”
“Let’s just say there are members on the Hill who might come to you first with their concerns once you’re no longer in the West Wing.”
“And what about filling my role?” Alex asked.
“I have a few ideas. I want to run them by Joshua first.”
“Someone outside our circle?”
“I think so.”
“Candace?”
“I was thinking of Greg Scott.”
Alex blinked. A former Marine captain, Scott had left active duty to found Sentinel Global, an international security company that earned its reputation by supplying private soldiers to hotspots where governments hesitated to tread. Three years ago, he had stepped away from the company to work as a consultant, lowering his profile but maintaining his influence. He was more than qualified to serve as Deputy National Security Adviser, though Alex wasn’t convinced all his methods had been ethical.
“You have concerns,” Candace observed.
“He has the qualifications. Some of his ideas—and his clients—could be described as unorthodox.”
“I’m aware. He also has a powerful ally in the Army.”
“Who?”
“Matthew Waters.”
Alex pinched the bridge of her nose and groaned.
“It’s a necessity,” Candace said.
