The Invisible. Andrew Britton

extremely upset over your position on Israel’s arms sale to India, I know, but Musharraf has too much to lose by engaging in something of this magnitude. I just don’t think it’s a possibility, despite the evidence we’ve seen so far.”

      “And what if you’re wrong?” The president turned away from the monitors to face his subordinate. “You told me yourself how seriously Pakistan takes the dispute over Jammu and Kashmir. You emphasized the fact that they’ve fought a number of wars over that land. Kargil in ’99 is only the latest example, and by no means is that the worst possible scenario. We’re talking about a country with at least forty nuclear weapons here. Maybe the arms sale to India was just the tipping point. The final straw, so to speak.”

      “Sir, I just can’t believe they’d risk something like this,” Harper repeated, “but I think we should withhold judgment until the Bureau’s team submits a preliminary report. Like I said, the Agency will be thoroughly involved as well.”

      “Which brings me to my next point,” Brenneman said. “You just returned from overseas, correct?”

      “Yes.”

      “I trust you managed to find your man.”

      “I did. And he’s willing to help.”

      “Good.” A genuine smile crossed the president’s face, but it disappeared just as fast. The situation was much too dire for any real relief to take hold. “I’m reassured to know you have your best on this, John. I’m well aware of what Kealey has done for us, and I’m confident he’ll be able to resolve this situation as well.”

      “I’m sure he will, sir, but he won’t be working alone. Naomi Kharmai has also been tasked with this. You’ll remember her from the incident in New York City last year, as well as the attempt on your life in 2007. She was instrumental in preventing both attacks.”

      “Yes.” Brenneman nodded slowly. “She’s a very capable young woman. I owe her a lot, as does the country, and I’m pleased to hear she’s involved. But just so we’re clear, I want to know exactly what their instructions are. Because I’m convinced that Amari Saifi is somehow involved with the abduction of Secretary Fitzgerald, and that’s where I want you to focus your efforts.”

      “I understand, sir. And to answer your question, yes, finding Saifi is their primary objective.”

      Brenneman nodded his approval. “Have you talked to them since the attack?”

      “No. I haven’t had the chance yet. I’ll make the call on the way to Langley.”

      “Good.” The president’s shoulders seemed to relax a little, as if some minor weight had been removed. Still, the burden that remained was clearly visible in his worried gaze. “I’m sure it’s him, John. It fits his profile. He may be working alone; he may have backers in the Pakistani government. Either way, I want you to find him. Find him and you’ll find her. I’m sure of it.”

      Harper got to his feet, sensing the meeting was over. “We’ll do our best, Mr. President.”

      “Don’t do your best.” Brenneman met his eyes once more, and this time, his demeanor was adamant. “Just get it done. I’m counting on you, and so is she.”