A/N: So, uh, it's been a while. Now that this semester's done, though, I should have time to write more regularly. This is my first attempt at a longer, episode-style fic (more chapters will be coming), so any feedback would be much appreciated.
Like seriously. Any. Positive reviews make me happy and want to keep writing, and criticism helps me improve as an author.
The throng of concerned staffers came into view before the doors had finished opening. Elizabeth sighed, rearranged her facial features into an expression that might be construed as cheerful. "Ah, the early morning elevator ambush. What is it this time?"
Blake looked like he was deciding whether to apologize, but Jay cut in before he got the chance. "The prime minster of Kazakhstan is on the phone, ma'am. He says it's urgent."
Elizabeth stepped out of the elevator, motioned for her staff to follow as she headed toward her office. "It's not about that oil field, is it? I already told the foreign minister, I have no influence over the UN's Environmental Impact Assessment. And I wouldn't get involved if I did, even if American companies do stand to benefit."
Blake shrugged. "He wouldn't say. But he did not sound happy."
"Thanks for the warning." She stopped to pour herself a cup of coffee, taking a sip before making her way to the desk and picking up the phone. "Prime Minister Ibrayev, this is an unexpected pleasure."
When she came out of her office five minutes later, the Secretary's frustration was palpable. "Blake, get me the director of the CIA. Now."
"On it."
Elizabeth stalked back to her desk, and started to look over the day's itinerary as Blake dialed. Meetings, more meetings. An interview with some journalist. Nothing that couldn't be rescheduled if this thing went south. She looked up from the folder to find Blake in the doorway. "He's on the line."
She mouthed her thanks before picking up. "Good morning, Director Ellerman. Please tell me you don't have a spy in the Kazakhstani government."