SEPT 26, ‘25 // Arthur called the director again to keep him informed of the latest developments. Again he got the executive secretary, who eventually got the director on the phone. “Jamil has called again, and we have pinpointed his location,” Arthur reported. “How do you know he hasn’t done the same thing he did before? Maybe he’s dumped the phone.” “He’s still on the line with Rachamim.” “What are they talking about?” the director asked curiously. “They aren’t talking. They’re crying.” “What did you say?” “They’re crying,” Arthur repeated. “At least Rachamim is. I suspect Jamil is doing the same thing.” “Doesn’t sound like a run-of-the-mill terrorist,” the director commented. Arthur frowned. The director wasn’t taking this too seriously, that was clear. “Our units have already been Recap: The FBI finds Jamil’s phone in an empty garbage can. When he calls again, it is traced to a location near the airport. CHAPTER 43 alerted, and they’re converging on him now.” “Where is he?” the director asked, his voice devoid of any real interest. “Not far from the airport.” “What! Did you say that he’s near Los Angeles International Airport?” Arthur could not understand the director’s excitement. “Yes, that’s exactly what I said.” “That’s him! That’s him!” the director yelled. “He’s the guy who’s threatening LA!” “What are you talking about?” The director ignored Arthur’s question. “Hang on a minute. I’m going to pass this on. I’ll be right back.” Arthur heard the receiver drop to the floor. A few minutes later, the director was back on the line. “Okay. Here’s what you need to do. Forget about your plan to capture Jamil. Divert everyone who’s heading for his current location and surround the airport instead. He’ll be heading toward the airport shortly. But be discreet. We don’t want to scare him off.” The tiny light bulb burning in the corner of the huge 198
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