Relentless (Option Zero 2)

“You look angry,” she said.

So much for the effort.

“Been a long day.”

“The operation was successful. Twelve women rescued. No one died.”

“Yes.”

“And yet?”

He shrugged. “There are a lot more out there.”

“But for today, you can’t be happy for those you rescued? For the families that will be reunited? For the bad people who will be punished?”

If only it was that simple. Or maybe that’s the way it should be.

“Yeah, I guess I can.” He took a breath and said, “Sorry you didn’t get to see what you came to see. Things didn’t turn out as we’d planned.”

“I saw more than I’d ever seen before. The house…” She shook her head. “I don’t think it should be called a house, more like a torture chamber. I cannot fathom the hell those women endured.”

“Did you get enough for your project?”

“I’m not sure. I need to put my thoughts together, get everything down. Once I do that, I may have questions.”

“I’m sure any of us can help you with that.”

“Serena said you’re the go-to person for human trafficking.”

“I’ve had my share of experience.”

“Is there any reason you’re so interested in it? Do you know someone who was trafficked?”

No way would he tell her about Cat. The last thing he wanted was their story to end up being discussed in a film. That was private and none of anyone’s business.

“It’s a multibillion-dollar business. The idea that people sell human beings to make money is repugnant. I want to do my part to stop it.”

He could tell she was disappointed in his answer. Her eyes darkened, lost a bit of their sparkle.

“Whatever the reason, I’m sure the people you’ve rescued are extremely grateful.”

“What about you? Why do you do what you do? Seems the whole focus of your films is on informing people about human trafficking. Did you know someone who was trafficked?”

“No. But I’m of the same mind as you. The evil of selling a human being for profit is a disgusting act that needs to be stopped.”

“I’ve seen your films. They’re good.”

“Thank you.”

“This n

ew one you’re making. It’s a follow-up to your first one?”

“Yes, but I want to go more in-depth. I felt like I just barely scratched the surface in the first one.”

“I understand you’ve created some enemies.”

“That’s not uncommon. I can protect myself.”