𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐒𝐚𝐟𝐞 𝐇𝐨𝐮𝐬𝐞 - Mitch Rapp

Chapter Three - Sceptical Impressions.

Ava awoke fifteen minutes before the alarm was due to ring, which is a first. It usually took her a lot longer to roll out of bed and start the day, but, today isn't going to be another regular day. It's the first day of the mission to commence- consisting of hours long preparation meetings with the CIA, and more training with Stan. She wasn't sure what she was dreading the most- exhausting training sessions with Stan, or more time with Mitch and his perplex personality.

With about an hour to make it to the confidential compound, Ava grabbed some things she would need for the day and packed them into a black sports bag to store in the locker room when she got there. Surprisingly, Ava was little apprehensive about the jeopardy of the mission. Bearing in mind she has only dealt with common criminals, it's fair to say she's going into this case lacking knowledge on how to accomplish the task of taking them out. Then again, she was sure today's meetings and training will prove her doubts wrong. She doubted Irene or Stan would've considered her for this mission if they thought she wouldn't be able to handle it.

At least one thing good came out of being picked to assist the case- her own car. Ava thankfully wouldn't have to take anymore ubers around the city, or worry about blowing her cover. A brand new matte black land Rover was waiting in the hotel parking lot, courtesy to Irene and her ability to get things done fast and on demand. The brunette pondered whether or not Mitch received his own car months ago or recently, since he's already assisted Stan on a case before. Hm, maybe that's why he thinks he has one up on me, just because he has a little more experience than me, she mumbled to herself. Ugh, big deal. We'll see how great he is when he's side by side to me on the playing field.

After a ten minute journey of fiddling with the stereo system, the new recruit arrived at the plain grey building. There was actually an underground parking lot for the occupants of the building, which makes sense when everyone here is undercover for the French government. Ava parked the land Rover right next to the elevator entrance, which occupied a very similar looking car to her left, only this land Rover was dark grey. Mitch Rapp's car possibly, but I better not accidentally scratch it in case it belongs to someone else, she humourisly thought to herself.

Laughing off the thought to herself internally, Ava stepped inside the elevator and pressed the first floor button. She didn't even realize someone else stepped in until she turned around.

"Sorry, I would've waited for you if I wasn't so blind", she admitted to the tall male who seemed to be similar in age, if not older.

The Raven haired guy turned his eyes in her direction, revealing piercing blue eyes, greeting her with an affiliative smile. " It's no trouble, I think we're early for the meeting anyways".

This made Ava slightly furrow her brows, "oh - are you on the case?".

" Sort of", he shrugged his shoulders with a bashful grin. "I'm backup. So if you or Mitch were to somehow become unavailable, I'd assist Stan on the case".

" Oh, yeah, that makes sense. I just don't remember seeing you at training yesterday", she retorted with hesitation.

The light on the elevator button dinged, and the doors spread open. The guy gestured his hand for her to go first, then followed swiftly. "I was a last minute plan, I don't think Irene was comfortable with the remaining three recruits filling in the spot- I'm Ethan by the way", he added as they walked down the hallway towards the meeting room.

"Nice to meet you, Ethan. Im-"

"Ava londel", he suddenly cut in, which made her lips part ever so marginally.

" Do.. We know each other?", Ava asked him, feeling a little taken back.

Ethan pursed his lips slightly, finding the girl's reaction amusing. "No, I just heard a few things about you through Stan. All good, of course".