I Spy

Chapter 7

"I can’t believe this,” Mr Grey said as Ryan and I sat in his office.  We had explained to him exactly what happened since we arrived in Paris until we arrived back at the Institute.  “How did you let that happen?” 

“It wasn’t her fault,” Ryan said, standing up for me. 

“Both of you, how could you give him an easy target like that?”  He sighed. 

“Ryan, go to the hospital,” he waved him away.  Ryan nodded, glanced at me quickly and then left. 

“You approached him alone?” he asked.  It was the first sign of emotion I had ever heard him use. 

“This wouldn’t have happened if you hadn’t sent us in like that.”

“I did what needed to be done,” he said.  “But you still went in alone?” 

“I did what needed to be done,” I replied, mocking his tone. 

“What on earth were you thinking?” 

“He gave me an offer to join his company,” I said.  “I think it was more successful then everyone is giving me credit for.” 

“Successful?  You got one of the best agents in the world captured and another agent almost killed.  And apart from that Labelle said he was going to kidnap you; will you please explain to me how that is successful?” 

“That was not my fault,” I said again. 

“Marley, I am not blaming you I am simply telling you that you need to understand a few things about this world.  The first thing is to always be cautious.  If something doesn’t seem like a good idea, don’t do it.  The second thing is that if you are working in a group or pair, your first priority is them.  Thirdly, if you are with other people you always make sure you can hear them, see them or contact them.  Lastly, men like Laurent Labelle can never, ever be trusted.  Do you understand?” 

“Yes, sir,” I mumbled. 

“Good,” he nodded carefully. 

“What’s going to happen now?” I asked. 

“You are going to carry on with school as normal until I tell you otherwise,” he instructed me. 

“What about Ryan?” I asked. 

“What about Ryan?” 

“Is he going to move up a rank or not?” 

“That does not concern you,” Mr Grey said.  “Now, if I’ve correct you are meant to be in a combat class.” 

“That’s correct,” I said with a nod, standing up. 

“Oh and Marley?” Mr Grey asked.  I looked up and he caught my eyes with his piercing gaze.  “Ryan and you leave for London on Saturday morning to do the mission.  That’s all.” 

I nodded and walked outside, letting the fresh air attempt to wash out all of my thoughts.  I decided not to go to the sports centre and do combat training, but instead to go and visit Ryan.  He was probably feeling as miserable as I was and I thought he’d enjoy a bit of company.  Nurse Martin let me into his room and left us by ourselves. 

“Ryan?” I called timidly. 

“Is that Marley?” he responded, sitting up in his bed. 

“It’s me,” I replied, walking over and sitting on the edge of his bed.  “I’m so, so sorry.” 

“I think you’ve said that to me enough today,” he said, no amusement in his voice or eyes. 

“How are you feeling?” I asked, taking his hand.