“He’s not liable to take the news well.”
“That,” said Seymour, “is the least of our concerns. The expulsions will begin right away.”
“How sure are we about Russia’s involvement in Alistair’s death?”
“I wouldn’t allow the prime minister to take such a drastic step without ironclad intelligence.”
“What’s the source?”
“We’ve received critical assistance from one of our partners.”
“Which one?”
“The Israelis.”
“Allon?” asked Rebecca skeptically. “Please tell me we’re not taking this step based on the word of Gabriel Allon.”
“He’s got it cold.”
“From where?”
“Sorry, Rebecca, but I’m afraid—”
“Can I see the intelligence before we meet with Morris?”
“You’re not coming to Langley.”
“I’m H/Washington, Graham. I need to be in that meeting.”
“This one is going to be chief-to-chief. I’m going to Dulles directly from Langley. I’d like you to meet me there.”
“My role has been reduced to waving good-bye to your airplane?”
“Actually,” said Seymour, “you’re going to beonthe plane.”
Rebecca’s heart banged against her breastbone. “Why?”
“Because I want you to be at my side in London when the storm breaks. It will provide you with invaluable experience in managing a crisis.” Lowering his voice, Seymour added, “It will also give the mandarins of Whitehall a chance to meet the woman I want to succeed me as chief of the Secret Intelligence Service.”
Rebecca felt as though she had been struck mute. Four decades of plotting and scheming, and it had worked out exactly as Sasha and her father had planned.
But you, my precious, you are going to finish the job for me...
“Is something wrong?” asked Seymour.
“What is one supposed to say at a moment like this?”
“Itiswhat you want, isn’t it, Rebecca?”
“Of course. But I’m going to have very big shoes to fill. You’ve been a great chief, Graham.”
“Are you forgetting that ISIS laid waste to the West End of London on my watch?”
“Five was to blame, not you.”
He gave her a smile of mild rebuke. “I hope you don’t mind if I give you a piece of advice now and again.”
“I would be a fool not to accept it.”
