Jonathan and Geoffrey sat at a quiet table in the cafe down in the hotel lobby. A few minutes later, Mr. Starkov appeared. He was accompanied only by Vlad. There were no handshakes, or introductions whatsoever.Jonathan gazed directly at the older man. Finally, after weeks of tension, they were meeting face-to-face. He leaned over the table, keeping his voice steady and low.“You will let the lad go free for now,” Jonathan said, his eyes locking onto Starkov's weathered face. “And I will keep the confession with me until Walter Media is completely safe.”Mr. Starkov chuckled, a dry, raspy sound. He hit his heavy black cane hard against the marble floor, making the coffee cups rattle. He lifted his chin and stared back at Jonathan with pure defiance. Then, he leaned forward, resting both of his rough hands on the cane.“This is not a game, Jonathan,” Starkov said, his voice dropping to a harsh whisper. “I will find Yamalenko either way. You cannot protect him.”Jonathan nodded slowl
Read more