Heiser-The-Facade - Sparkling Eyes

worry about your reputation here, Doctor; I'm not interested in supplementing yourbiography for your peers.""Fine," she sighed."That's better. The reason I know what I know," he continued, "is because, as amember of the Group, I've not only gathered the information on you, but I've taken aninterest in your career.""Why is that?" she asked quietly."It's about debts, Doctor. I do something for you now, you do something for melater—perhaps years later, but you will reciprocate. All you need to know for now is thatI have my reasons, and that the Group is divided over the wisdom of your team'sproject—""But Colonel Ferguson said— ""Don't mind what he says; he's only a mouthpiece. To be more precise, there wasconsiderable consternation over whether out-side involvement is wise."Melissa squirmed uncomfortably."Ahah, Dr. Kelley." She heard the button pop on theintruder's holster."I can't help it!" she protested."Try harder. You wouldn't be nearly as attractive with a hole in your forehead.Besides, I'll detain you only a few minutes longer." "What a shame.""You should know, Miss Kelley, that there is someone on your team with, shallwe say, divided loyalties.""What is that supposed to mean?""Some might use the word traitor, but saboteur is perhaps more accurate.""You mean someone on the team wants to ruin the project?""Exactly.""Who is he?""Very clever, Doctor.""Come again?""Trying to prod me into revealing the gender of your mole so you could narrowthe possibilities. I expose your attempt only so that you know you're no match forsomeone who's played this game hundreds of times. Actually, I have no problem tellingyou that your infiltrator is male.""Why don't you just tell me who he is if you're so concerned about the project?""I never said I was concerned about the project, Doctor, only that I'm here to helpyou. I'm withholding his identity simply be-cause I haven't figured out yet if he's myadversary or a potential ally. I'll only tell you who it isn't—Dr. Scott is in the clear.""Why single him out?""You forget—I know all about him, too. Of all the people on this team, he'll bethe most trustworthy if you run into a problem.""I thought you were my knight in shining armor.""I am, but I can't be everywhere.""What a disappointment," she added sarcastically. "Perhaps this small token ofmy affection will comfort you. Be advised that no one must know you have it.""Wonderful."The mysterious figure reached into his lapel pocket. He tossed a badge onto the76