Michael was sitting alone in his when his phone rang.
He had been waiting for the call since the operation began. Even though he knew the people handling it had been careful, there was still a difference between knowing a plan was underway and knowing it had actually succeeded.
He looked at the number before answering.
"Yes?"
The voice on the other end was low and unfamiliar. "We have the girl."
Michael remained quiet for a moment.
"Is she alive?"
"Yes."
"Anyone hurt?"
"The security guard was taken care of. The girl wasn't injured."
Michael leaned back in his chair. "And nobody followed you?"
"No. We checked twice before leaving."
"Good. Where is she now?"
The man gave him the location.
Michael listened without interrupting, then looked down at the notes in front of him. Everything appeared to be where it was supposed to be.
"Don't move her again unless you have to," he said. "Keep her somewhere secure. She stays alive, and nobody touches her. Do you understand?"
