Grant glanced up at one of his men who had hovered in the background but now stepped forward and gripped Tyler’s shoulder so hard he gasped in pain.
“Enough,” said Grant simply and the man let go.
Grant looked back at Tyler.
“Why do you think we want to harm your father?”
“Because you’ve already tried to kill him.”
“How do you know that was us?”
“I just know. Who else could it be?”
“Maybe his own government. And you’re right, we’re not with the government.”
“Then who are you?”
This question came from Kathy, who had not spoken before.
Grant focused on her. “Ah, now that’s a good question. Who are we? Who do you think we are if we’re not with your government?”
“Spies, terrorists,” exclaimed Tyler. “Which makes you bad guys.”
“Sometimes spies are on the right side,” said Grant. “Even spies who have to kidnap children because there is no other way to proceed.”
“Bullcrap,” Tyler said again.
“You’re as stubborn as your father.”
“You don’t know my dad.”
“On the contrary, I know him very well. And the woman who was pretending to be your stepmother.”
“Pretending?” said Kathy.
“She’s missing,” said Tyler.
“I know she is. Do you have any idea where she went?”
“No. Do you?”
“You’re very brave, Tyler, even though I know you’re very scared.” Grant reached over and gently gripped Tyler’s arm. The teenager flinched.
“I have no idea how this will turn out, Tyler, but I do know that you will see your father at some point. I can guarantee you that.”
“Why?”
“Like I said, I need to speak to him. And once that is over, you and he can be reunited.”
“Just like that?” scoffed Tyler.
“A call will be made. He will ask to talk to you.”
“Then I’ll tell him to keep very far away.”
“Are you sure of that?”
“I’m not afraid of you.”