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I Don't Want To Grow Up: Ramones
"Ah. Perfect timing." Russ stands up as I enter the room.
"Yeah, cause I'm so punctual." I close the door.
"Angus MacGyver, Lina Petronis, Matty Webber, meet General John Acosta and Major Anne Frost from the Department of Defense. John and I, we go way back to when I was running Spearhead Operations."
"Oh. Promise not to hold that against you." Matty quirks up and I cross my arms. "What brings you here, General?"
"Are you familiar with the term Red Cell? John asks.
"Of course. A Red Cell is a team that finds vulnerabilities in security systems." I tell him.
"Precisely. And while we have our own Red Cell teams, from what Taylor says about the Phoenix, especially you, Miss Petronis, Mister MacGyver, your unorthodox methods are just what we need."
"Well, I'm flattered, but what exactly are you asking of us?" Mac questions.
"My command oversees security at a DARPA lab south of Los Angeles."
"This lab is our premier facility for developing cutting-edge military technologies. We've received credible intel that it's been targeted by foreign agents." Frost informs.
"And you want us to pretend to be these foreign agents, break in, and test your security before they actually try it?" I suggest.
"Exactly. We need a fresh set of eyes on how our lab's protected."
"I'd like to hear some more details before we commit." Matty says.
"I would think, given your need to have your security clearance reinstated, you'd jump at the chance." John tells her.
"Which is why we're actually thrilled to commit." Russ picks up a case from the table. "Here. Enjoy the cigars, my compliments. "And we'd like to thank you for this opportunity, John." He opens the door and the pair leave.
"Russell?" I turn.
"Yes, Lina?" He turns to me.
"What the hell are you doing?"
"I just secured our first government contract."
"Which apparently is being done in exchange for our security clearances?" Mac uncrosses his arms.
"Something you said was already taken care of." Matty adds.
"Are you asking for a tracheotomy?" I snap.
"We find ourselves in the unfortunate position of having to prove our worth to the powers that be. Matty's connections and my considerable charm will only get us so far. When that well runs dry, if we are not in, then we are out. And if we are out, then we are finished." Russ tells us.
