Executive Orders

CH 59: A Private Summit

After they received a summons from Nathaniel, it was a slightly larger group that met back in his private study. As Fitz took one of the two single seats that were set at either end of a grouping of paired leather sofas, Nathaniel took the other one.

Colleen and her father were two of the new additions, along with Susan Ross, Fitz noted. It was clear from her expression that she was puzzled and more than a little intimidated by the company she now found herself in. She sat herself uncomfortably on the couch by Olivia's side.

There was also a young woman that he didn't recognize who was seated on one end of the double couches closest to Nathaniel. He tried not to stare but couldn't help himself. She couldn't be more than seventeen at the most - so close - too close to Karen's age. The realization was a sharp jolt to his heart. Her being Hispanic, all wide dark eyes and darker hair left very little doubt as to why she was here. She had to be somehow connected to situation in San Collondias.

Both Olivia and Jocelyn took seats opposite one another on both couches, positioning themselves closest him, consciously declaring their loyalty. Colleen and her father found their seats, as Will seated himself at the bar.

Peter was the last to take a seat, locking the door behind him at his father's request.

"This time there'll be no interruptions." He sent an apologetic glance in Fitz's direction before joining his brother at the bar.

Susan looking around, was the first to speak, wondering aloud why she was here.

Fitz smiled at her. "We're gathered here to make some decisions about a delicate situation."

"So again, I ask - why am I here?"

"Your opinions came highly recommended, Susan." He said, trying his best to reassure her. "You know that you and I have had more than a few interesting conversations - and that made me more determined than ever to bring you in on this."

His words did little to ease the deer in the headlights look on her face.

"In on what?" she asked.

"Protecting a fledging democracy." Nathaniel explained.

"A goal that's more than worthy of your talents." Fitz added.

"Who recommended me?" It was clear that Susan still wasn't convinced.

Both Olivia and Colleen smiled their answer.

Nathaniel answered everyone's unasked questions by introducing the young woman sitting silently beside him. She was Annarosa Diaz-Ramos and once they heard her last name, there was no further explanation necessary - she was clearly a relation of General Ramos. The family resemblance was clear.

Fitz saw something that he wondered if anyone else did. As a student of history, Fitz recognized what Ramos has done by sending this young woman here; it was an old world tradition to send a family member into negotiations as a sign of trust given and offered for both sides. He was careful not to show it, but his heart ached a little at the idea that so much responsibility had been placed on such young shoulders.

If she was wary of them, it was only to be expected and if she was more than a little afraid - and who wouldn't be if his assumptions were correct - well then, Fitz thought - she was hiding it well.

Nathaniel guided the conversation. "I coordinated with the General to have Annarosa arrive at this time to keep her appearance from appearing suspicious. I don't know how successful we were, since she was delayed by what we're being told were mechanical difficulties."

At least, it was clear that had been what they'd hoped it was.

His words were the opening of what followed; the Cassidys spoke up first; first they introduced themselves to Annarosa - this was the first time that they'd met face to face.