Chapter Sixteen
Hal squinted under the hot studio lights. This was his punishment for letting Sophia escape. At least that’s how it felt.
The English newscaster, Zavrina Southwark, introduced him to the cameras as Hal Claycomb, lecturer, expert on CIA covert operations and author of the recently published non-fiction bestseller, Night Witches. Zavrina turned to him with her habitual precision.
‘Mr Claycomb, thank you for joining us. The question on everyone’s lips: is there any truth to this alleged Russian covert program, or is this simply a work of science fiction?’
Ignoring the cameras as they maneuvered into position for their two-shot, Hal focused on Zavrina’s glazed, almost disinterested, expression. He approximated a smile.
‘Ma’am, first of all, I’m much obliged for your time h
