The Enigma Factor

After Otto saw Jacob disappear behind the elevator doors, he smiled at Haddy and placed a call on his cell phone while returning to his office.

            Standing in front of the window overlooking New York, he said, “The meeting is over. He is an impressive young man, much better than his photographs. Continue your reconnaissance efforts. Just do not reveal your involvement. And don’t let yourself get too personally involved. He is not in our fold yet,” he gently warned.

            “I know my job, Otto. I am a professional who has been a part of this team since I was born. If you do not trust me, then get someone else for this part. I like him and would not like to see him hurt,” the person at the other end of the phone call rebuffed with mild irritation.

            “Yes, my dear. I know that you do not mix business and personal, but he is a striking man, is he not?”

            “It does not surprise me that you of all people would think that, Otto.”

            “You know me so well, my dear. Well then, I am meeting with him next week and will give him a bit of a test. I may need your help in crafting something that would prove interesting to him and yet give me some insight to how he thinks. Julianne seems to have done well by him or perhaps it was more Adriana. Alert JAC that we may be ready to move to the next stage within a month. I am sure she will be grateful for a change of pace,” he said, knowing no response was needed as he disconnected.