Chapter Twelve: Here's the Deal

MAX'S POV

When I touch back on the ground in front of the Admiral's cabin, soldiers jump out from every direction. I put my hands up, not wanting to cause any more trouble. I am here for Jeb and cooperation is the only way I am going to get him.

The door to the cabin swings open and steps out a smug looking Admiral. He motions for me to come closer and I walk slowly, keeping my hands up and eyes trained on the guns pointed at me.

"Calm down, gentleman. She isn't going to do anything drastic." He motions for me to take a seat in one of the porch chairs. He sits, leaning back while I stay at the edge of my chair.

"I'm surprised you came back."

My knee bounces with nervous energy. "Well, I want something and the only way I am going to get it is with your help."

He raises his eyebrows, wanting me to elaborate. I roll my eyes. "I want Jeb." Is all I say.

He nods and smiles. "Of course. And you're right, the only way you are going to get him is with our help. Of course, it won't come for free but I take it you know that?"

I nod. "You're a smart kid, you know that?"

I shrug because I won't say I'm exactly smart. I'm able to read the room and figure out things on my own.

"I understand why you escaped. It wasn't right of me to lock you in that room and I apologize. Of course, all we can do is move forward." I stay silent, letting the Admiral talk.

"So here's the deal. . . You could be an asset to the United States Navy with your abilities."

I scoff. Has he learned nothing? Of course, he's just like everyone else. He wants to use my abilities for his own personal gains.

"I want you to work for us and aid us on stealth missions. Of course, at any time, you are free to go. We aren't forcing you to do anything but you do want Jeb, right?"

Okay, he got me there. I know what I want and in the process, he is asking for my loyalty until I find Jeb.

"What do you want me to do?"

"Kill,"

I raise my eyebrows, surprised. "You're asking me, an eighteen year old girl to kill for you?"

All he does is smile. "I'm sure you have done it before. No judgment."

I laugh. "Of course I have killed."

"Then it shouldn't be much of a problem." He extends his hand and I shake it, confirming the deal. No turning back now.

"Just do as you're told and we'll find Jeb for you."

"Of course,"

"I have your first mission. . ."

"Go on,"

He hands me a file that was placed on the ground and I flip it open. "Ex-Navy. He's after the head of one of our defense branches. Can you take care of it?"

"Quick and easy."

He smiles and stands. I follow. "You're terrifying, you know that?"

My smile turns sad. My mind flashes back to all the kids, all the blood on my hands. My mind not really my own. "I know."