Playing Bat and Mouse Pt 3

Matthew awoke with a splitting headache. His ears were still ringing. His duster and visor had protected him from the worst of the attack. The shock and awe tactics had made short work of him. His face flushed a little at how easily he had been baited. His eyes were covered with gauze. He couldn’t sense the room or outside wherever he was. Whoever they were they had been studying him for some time.

A woman’s voice interrupted his thoughts. “You’ll be fine. The gauze is there as a precaution. We did try to speak with you, but you are a hard man to get in touch with.”

Matthew was silent for awhile. Finally he found his voice. “So … why? And what gives you the right to capture me like some animal?”

“An executive order,” came the response.

“That doesn’t make it right. That would be a justification.” Matthew’s voice was cold.

“Okay. Vigilantism, breaking and entering, assault and battery, vandalism, theft, grand theft… Shall I go on?”

Matthew grinned in spite of himself. “Okay … those are reasons. Prove it. No wait. Am I actually being charged?”

“Not yet. We haven’t read you your rights. Once we do that, THEN we might charge you.”

“So … I am not being charged with anything…”

“National security.” The woman cut him off.

“Ahh. What in the world do I have to do with national security?” Matthew rolled his eyes under the gauze despite the pain.

“Because you are not unique. And there are a number of people like you out there are would have rap sheets a whole lot longer and worse. We think you could redeem yourself. Do your part for your country. Very simply, we need your help.”

“This is a volunteer thing?”

“Absolutely.”

“I can leave anytime I want?” Matthew fought back a smile. It was his turn to bait them.

The major hesitated. “Yes, although I will inform you now that this is all classified.”

“What’s her name?” Matthew asked.

The major was actually taken by surprise. “I could tell you, but then you might get shot.”

Matthew actually grinned. He liked the answer. “Worth the risk. Tell me her name and I’ll stay and listen.”

“Young man, this isn’t a dating agency.”

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