The attack site was cordoned off by the time Maya and James arrived at the Meridian Bay Financial Center. Unlike previous incidents, this one had targeted a smaller gathering—a closed-door meeting of regulatory officials discussing new oversight measures for communication technologies.
"Access badges," the security officer demanded, his posture stiffening as he registered James's guide dog.
Maya held up her Federal Analysis Bureau credentials. "Dr. Maya Chen. This is James Harlow, special consultant."
The officer examined their badges with exaggerated scrutiny before reluctantly stepping aside.
James's heightened hearing picked up the officer's muttered comment: "Sending a deaf woman and a blind man. The bureau must be desperate."
Maya didn't hear it, but noticed James's jaw tighten.
