Toni grabbed her shoulder and shook it. “We’ve got to get you home. Back to the BrainTrust, so you can get back to work.”
Dash shook her head. “But I gave my word that—”
“Yes, yes. You’re our human shield. But let’s face it, you’re more important as a scientist than as a hostage.”
Dash looked stubborn for a moment, then started to wilt.
Toni exploited the advantage. “Look, eventually my dad will tell the Iranians that in order to speed the development of the vaccine they need, he kicked you out of the country. Think about it for a moment: the Supreme Leader will be delighted that we forced you out.” She gave Dash a short laugh. “It’s true, you know. You don’t have a choice. I’ll bring in armed guards to drag you out of here if I have to.”
That got a laugh out of Dash. “I can’t take th
