Page 240 of Silent Target

“No,” Rook says.

The senator’s eyes narrow.

“You contacted me because you need help.”

“We contacted you because the First Circle marked you for death. That doesn’t mean we hand over the only evidence keeping us alive.”

Vance leans back.

“What do you propose?”

Evie steps closer to the camera.

“You’ll receive three files. The recording. The assassination directive bearing your name. And satellite proof of the West Virginia facility before it collapsed.”

“Why only three?”

“If the First Circle has someone inside your office, the files will tell us.”

Vance studies her for a long moment.

“You haven’t changed, Agent Hart.”

“I have.”

“No.” Something like approval enters his eyes. “You simply stopped pretending you didn’t see what everyone else missed.”

Evie’s shoulders lower.

Only slightly.

Vance continues. “I can suspend the federal manhunt pending an emergency classified review. It won’t clear Shadow Division publicly, but it will stop tactical teams from shooting you on sight.”

“How long?” Rook asks.

“Give me six hours.”

“You have three,” Evie says. “Archive Seven activates in less than seventy-one.”

Vance’s expression changes. “What is Archive Seven?”

“We don’t know yet.”

“Then you’re going to Charleston.”

“Not until we determine whether your office is compromised,” Rook says.

The senator nods.

“Send the three files.”

The call ends.

Fathom prepares the transfer.

Mac stands at the far end of the room, listening without speaking.

His gaze remains fixed on the Second Circle ledger.