“I want you to know I’ve never shared any part of a mission with a civilian, until now.” I went still, unsure exactly what he planned to share with me. “I asked for permission and am laying myself on the line to share this with you. I need you to see I know every step of my mission inside and out. I’m not reckless, Ivy, but this is something I must do, not just for me, but for us.”
I nodded, unable to speak. Today was emotional enough as it was.
“I leave for Washington in a few days, where I’ll be briefed and provided with everything I need. Then, the next day, I leave with another team. They have a whole other mission. The seven of us will be dropped here,” he pointed on the map, “and travel by foot across here.” He dragged his finger farther along. “At this point, I’ll branch off on my
