Chapter 9 - The Promotion
I pulled the encrypted phone from my pocket and checked the caller ID.
It was the Director of the Defense Criminal Investigative Service calling from the Pentagon.
“Agent Walker speaking,” I answered professionally.
“Grace, outstanding work down there in North Carolina,” the Director's booming voice praised.
“Thank you, Director, it was a complex operation but we secured the objective,” I replied.
“Because of your flawless execution, the President has personally reviewed your file,” he continued.
My heart skipped a beat at the mention of the Commander in Chief.
“We are officially promoting you to the rank of Senior Supervisory Special Agent,” the Director announced.
“You will be relocating to Washington D.C. to lead our elite counter-espionage division.”
I closed my eyes, a genuine, massive smile spreading across my face.
This was the exact promotion I had been secretly working toward for my entire career.
“I accept the position with honor, Sir,” I told him confidently.
“Pack your bags, Grace, a military jet will be waiting for you tomorrow morning,” he instructed before hanging up.
I walked out of the briefing room and stepped out into the bright North Carolina sunshine.
The air felt cleaner, lighter, and completely devoid of the toxic weight I had carried for six years.
I drove my car back to the house I had shared with Ethan.
The military police had already searched the property, leaving it feeling empty and cold.
I didn't care.
I quickly packed my clothes, my weapons, and my real identification documents into a tactical duffel bag.
I left my wedding ring sitting on the kitchen counter next to the divorce papers I had already signed.
I walked out the front door, locking it behind me for the very last time.
I climbed into my car, ready to start my incredible new life in the nation's capital.
May you like
The future belonged entirely to me, and nobody would ever call me a freeloader again.
I felt completely triumphant, knowing I had defeated my enemies and won my freedom.
