Statecraft Affair: The Zoey Jane Files

By H.M. Barone

The final book in the Zoey Jane saga. This is the culmination of all their hard work, blood, sweat, and tears. Zoey and her team face their fiercest adversary. See how it all ends.

• Language: English
• Publisher: H.M. Barone
• Release date: Feb 14, 2020
• ISBN: 9780463818961

H.M. Barone

My name is Heather Barone. I am a single mother of two girls. I have always loved writing, art and photography. I started writing a series nearly ten years ago but it did not completely survive our move, five years ago. After the loss of so much hard work, I decided to write something that was more in tune with my personal beliefs as well as with the adventures I wanted to have. I have always believed that anything a man can do, a woman can do too. That was when I created the characters in my current series.I earn a paycheck at the local ice cream factory, as a janitor. This affords me the free time to write and research for my books. Some of the people I work with may even find bits of themselves scattered in the pages.I am a born again believer in Jesus Christ. I do my best to reflect biblical beliefs in my stories as well. I am not perfect, nor are my characters. I hope you fall in love with them, nonetheless, the same way I have.

Book preview

Statecraft Affair

The Zoey Jane Files

By: H.M. Barone

Published by Heather M. Barone at Smashwords

Copyright 2020 Heather M. Barone

Prologue

A cat? Zo, you can’t be serious? Sloan groaned.

She folded her arms over her chest and leaned back in her seat. Why can’t I be serious? Just because we never had pets growing up, and it was impractical for me to have one as an operative, doesn’t mean I never wanted one. Besides, if I’m going to be here, all by myself, for the foreseeable future, it’d be nice to have some sort of company. Staring out the window and working out only do so much before I really start to lose it. Since I’m supposed to be dead, I can’t safely have regular human visitors. A cat is the logical solution.

Sloan heaved a sigh and threw his hands in the air, in surrender. Fine, I’ll talk to Sakura and Joseph and see what they think. Is there anything else you need?

Zoey shifted her weight and studied him. She chose her words carefully.

Do you think you could get Charlie to throw together a little camera, so I can at least watch Briarious’ wedding? she ventured. I know Claudia despises me, but I’d still like to support Bri.

A soft smile turned up the corners of his mouth. I’m sure we can work something out. I’ll run the idea by the groom and see how he feels about having it recorded for posterity. I doubt he’ll object.

Thank you, she said softly. And, I’m sorry. I know this all has been terribly difficult for you. I never intended to cause so many problems for so many people. I was just . . .

Sloan reached over and placed a gentle hand on her knee. You’ve always been so focused on your duty, on the greater good. For that I’m indescribably proud. I’m glad you finally took hold of something for yourself. I just wish things worked out differently. But they didn’t, so we press ahead with what we have. Dwelling on it does no good.

She smiled up at him. I’m still here, Daddy. I’ll take the wins where, and how, I can get them. Especially in our line of work. I’m still sorry for the trouble.

He nodded and stood. Sloan leaned forward and kissed her brow.

I love you, Zo, he said. I’ll see you in a few days, if all goes well.

She nodded and watched him leave. With a soft sigh, she put her feet up on the coffee table and stared at the ceiling. The silence was deafening.

It had been weeks since she turned on the television. Nothing interested her. Usually, her father visited on Mondays and Fridays. Still, she wasn’t entirely sure which one it was. She was nearly sure I was Friday. The month eluded her.

With a shrug and a soft sigh, she climbed to her feet and headed into the kitchen. She puttered around, searching the cupboards. Nothing seemed appetizing. She had to eat. At last, she made a salad and plunked down at the kitchen table.

Once done, she washed the dish and headed onto the back deck. Slowly, she stripped off her clothing and climbed into the hot tub. She splayed her arms out along the edges and leaned back to stare up at the sky.

The tedium was mind-numbing.

Sloan dialed a number. It rang twice then went to voicemail. With a soft sigh, he left a brief message. At that, Sloan headed for Murphy Tower. As he drove, he dialed another number.

Sloan? To what do I owe this call? asked the voice at the other end.

I’m sorry to bother you at work, Sakura, he offered. But I was wondering if you thought it would be a good idea for her to have a pet of some kind? She wants a feline.

She laughed softly. This is most unexpected. However, I don’t believe she’s allergic, so I don’t see it as a problem. It may do her some good, even. Get Joseph’s opinion, though.

Sloan sighed and nodded, knowing he couldn’t be seen. Thank you.

He hung up and dialed a third number as he pulled into the parking structure.

Sloan? Is everything all right? he questioned.

Again, he sighed and stepped onto the elevator.

Yes. I just wanted to cover all my bases, Sloan explained. She wants a pet and I wanted to be certain you and the physician were on board.

Ah, he mused. Yes, it shouldn’t be a problem. Certain animals can be beneficial to the healing process.

Even felines?

Joseph chuckled.

Why does everyone find this so amusing?

I’m sorry, he offered quickly. I can tell you’re not fond of the idea so it must have been hers. But the answer is the same.

Thank you.

He stopped at the Research and Development floor. Charlie was easy to locate.

Do you have a few minutes? he asked.

She bobbled her head and led him to a quiet corner.

What can I do for you, Sloan? she questioned.

Z was wondering if you could get her some sort of video camera for Bri and Claudia’s wedding, he explained. She knows she can’t be there in person but wanted to support them.

Is your daughter psychic or something? Charlie asked with a playful wink.

Sloan regarded her carefully. No, why?

I was planning on asking her if she would operate this drone for the wedding, she explained with a smile. I’ve designed this one to fit in with their theme but I’m one of the bride’s maids, so I can’t operate it. I know Claudia isn’t fond of Z and she still can’t be seen in public, so she was my best option. I was going to head out there later today.

He nodded slowly. I understand. Just make sure you’re inconspicuous, as usual, about getting it to her.

Charlie grinned and bobbled her head. No worries. I’ll be sure to handle it. She may need a little practice to get the hang of flying it. And trust me, this isn’t the first time I’ve played this game. I know what to do.

I need your help with another matter, regarding her, Sloan ventured.

What’s that? Charlie asked.

She wants a cat, he said bluntly. I know nothing about the creatures. Perhaps you can find a good one that will be more independent once Z’s back in the field.

Charlie giggled behind her hand. I have just the place to go. Don’t worry, I’ll handle that too. After all, we do have her hidden away with almost no human contact. I think a furry little companion won’t hurt anything. In fact, it may be just what she needs.

Sloan gestured with his hand. Thank you.

I’d better get to it, then, Charlie stated, if she’s going to be passable at flying this little guy in time. The new headset could make it tricky.

Not waiting for his response, she scooped up a bag and headed for the door. Sloan shook his head and hurried to follow her. They rode the elevator in silence. In the garage, they parted ways.

As she climbed behind the wheel, Charlie tapped her left earring.

Hello?

Hey, it’s me, she smiled. I was wondering if you’ve gotten any new ones, I might be able to look at.

A squeal of delight echoed through the connection. She winced.

Is that a yes? she questioned.

I never thought I’d live to see the day you finally decided you wanted a fur baby, was the answer. Yes. I most certainly do.

Good. I’m on my way now, Charlie announced. You should know it’s not for me. It’s for a friend who can’t leave the house.

Aw, that’s so sweet of you.

She ran a hand through her curls and smiled, knowing she couldn’t be seen. I suppose. Look, I’ll be there in about fifteen to twenty minutes, depending on traffic.

Not waiting for a response, she ended the call. She returned all her attention to driving. As promised, eighteen minutes later, she pulled into the parking lot of a cat shelter.

A flouncing blonde met her just inside the door. Tell me more about this friend of yours. This way, I can better match her with her kitten.

Charlie laughed softly.

What’s so funny, Charlie? she asked indignantly.

I’m sorry, Clarice, Charlie offered quickly. It’s not you I’m laughing at, I promise. It’s just that describing her is rather a bit . . . challenging.

Oh.

With a soft sigh, Charlie shifted her weight. Abruptly, she snapped her fingers.

Small in size, but trouble otherwise, she announced. That’s about the only way to describe her effectively.

Ah, Clarice murmured, well, let’s go into the back and see who we can find. Your friend is lucky you know me.

You have no idea, Charlie muttered and followed her to the kennels.

Now, Clarice continued, this little missy came to us when she was just a few days old. She and her siblings, and momma, were found and brought to us. Momma died two days later. All her siblings were adopted. She’s quite the little pistol.

Charlie couldn’t help but laugh, again. I’m sorry. I’m not laughing at what happened to her. It’s how you described her. Her gaze fell on a petite calico kitten. Oh, Clarice, she’s beautiful. I’ll take her. I’ll also take whatever she’ll need, too. Organic food and a dish, all-natural litter and a covered box, toys and a climbing tower, a water fountain bowl and don’t forget a flea collar and walking harness. If you’ve got organic cat nip that might be fun too.

Clarice stared at her in stunned silence for a minute. At last, she nodded and scrambled to gather everything Charlie requested. Your friend has deep pockets and cares about her animals.

"She cares about what goes into her body, so naturally she’s going to care about what goes into her pet’s body, Charlie explained. Yes, she’s well financed."

With a shrug and a bobble of her head, Clarice returned her attention to gathering all the necessary items requested. Charlie made her way back to the front of the building. Several minutes later, Clarice returned with a large box, filled with several smaller boxes and bags, in one arm and a carrier with the kitten in the other.

Charlie handed her card to Clarice who completed the transaction. Feel free to come back if your friend would like a playmate for her little one. I’ve got another fireball she may like.

She bobbled her head. We’ll see how things work out with this little one before we see about a second one.

Carefully, she set the box in the back seat of her car. She placed the carrier on the front passenger seat. She started the engine and made her way to the safe house, taking the most indirect route she knew.

Zoey answered the door and stepped aside, taking the box from Charlie as she did. This is a surprise. To what do I owe the honor of your visit?

She grinned as she closed the door behind her. Charlie followed Zoey into the living room where she set down the carrier and her messenger bag.

Your father came to visit me, she explained as she opened the carrier door. Bri’s still not ready to come back. Not to mention, he has a wedding to prepare for. Lucky for him, I was already planning to come see you. I need your help with Bri’s wedding. I’m the maid of honor, so I won’t be able to operate the tech for filming it. I was coming to spend a few days helping you get used to flying the drone. I don’t have wedding planning duty until Friday. Then your father mentioned something about you wanting a cat. Both Sakura and Joseph said it was beneficial. I know someone who runs a cat shelter. She didn’t tell me her name, but she did say she was a little pistol, so I named her Beretta on the drive over. I hope that’s all right.

As she spoke, Charlie removed a silvery robotic dragonfly, the size of the kitten, from her bag. She set it on the coffee table. Zoey partially paid attention as she unpacked the box.

Charlie took out a headset with an eye piece and set of controls. She handed them to Zoey who set down the bag of cat food and studied the items carefully.

After a moment, Zoey set the controller on the table and put on the headset. Charlie flipped the dragonfly over and turned it on. The silvery wings fluttered, and it whirred to life. She righted the device and set it back on the table.

All right, Charlie instructed. Pick up the controller, turn it on, and take it for a spin.

For a minute, Zoey picked it up and studied it carefully. She moved the toggles around and pressed the buttons. Reflexively, she flinched and dropped the controller. The device raised up then dropped onto the table with a heavy thud.

Charlie stared at Zoey in astonishment. Can it be possible? she gasped playfully.

What’s that? Zoey grumbled. That I actually suck at something? Why are people so surprised to learn that I’m as human as they are? I don’t understand.

She shook her head frantically. No, that’s not it. Not entirely, anyway.

Zoey tried again. For the second time, she was unsuccessful. With a soft growl of frustration, she flopped back against the sofa.

It’s just like playing a video game, Charlie explained.

Zoey looked at her sullenly. I don’t play video games. I never have. I tried, once, back at the Farm. But, even then, I was lousy at it. Got crap for it then, too.

Charlie covered a giggle with her hand. Well, I suppose it’s a good thing that little guy is made with carbon fibers. Go ahead and take your time getting the hang of him.

With a deep breath, Zoey nodded and sat up. She rolled her shoulders back, rolled her neck, and focused her attention on the device.

The two spent several hours working with the drone. Zoey showed significant improvement. Abruptly, Beretta hopped onto Zoey’s lap and meowed loudly. She shoved her head against the young woman’s hand. As she did, Zoey’s stomach grumbled.

Well, she giggled, it would seem we should take a break and get something to eat. Would you like to join us? I don’t eat as much as I used to, lately, so there’s plenty of extra food. I can throw something together.

Charlie shrugged and bobbled her head. All right. If it’s not an inconvenience.

What’s wrong?

She studied the younger woman carefully. Y’know . . . if talking to the shrink isn’t helping, I’m always around. I haven’t known anyone who’s been through as much as you, but I’m a good listener and I don’t judge.

Realization swept over Zoey’s features and she nodded slowly. Did Daddy put you up to this?

She placed a reassuring hand on Zoey’s arm. This is all me. We’re going to be working together. You’re important to Killian and he’s my boss, so . . .

Zoey sighed softly. All right. At that, she returned her attention to feeding the cat and preparing their dinner.

*

What do you think he wants to talk about? she asked.

The woman was five and a half feet tall with a dark blue power suit. Her medium brown hair was short, professional. The glasses resting on the bridge of her nose, over dark blue eyes, were black-framed and just as professional as her hair.

He shrugged. It’s Chris. Your guess is as good as mine.

The man was stocky, for his age, with balding, graying, brown hair. He too wore a dark blue suit and black glasses. His dark blue eyes were focused on the task of driving.

She leaned back and watched the scenery zip by. At last, she sighed. His message was rather cryptic, she stated.

He kept his attention on the traffic in front of him. Chris has always been a bit cloak-and-dagger. Spending time with that Killian Murphy character and his team, and Sloan McGlynn hasn’t helped.

Do you suppose it has anything to do with him? McGlynn? Or his deceased daughter? she persisted.

He gave a soft growl of frustration. I don’t know how many times, or how many ways I can tell you, Anna: I have no idea what our little brother is up to, nor do I care. I’m simply here to shut him up and get him to leave us alone.

She gave him a mollified look and returned her attention to the world outside.

A strange nervous tension crept into her chest as they turned up the driveway to the residence.

Can I help . . . Oh, my apologies Judge Jacobs, Congresswoman Meraway. You got a new car, stated a voice on the intercom. Come on in, the Senator is expecting you.

Thank you, he snapped.

At that, the gates swung open and the vehicle rolled forward. He grumbled under his breath as he pulled up to his brother’s house. For a minute, the two sat in silence.

We have to go inside, Anna commented.

I know, he muttered.

After another minute, the two sighed and opened their doors. They made their way slowly up the walkway to Chris’ front door. As he reached up to knock, the door swung open. Hesitantly, they entered.

Anna, Matthew, he beamed from the landing. I’m so glad you were able to make it out today.

Well, we’d hate to put you out, Senator, Matthew growled. And you did summon us after all.

He folded his arms over his chest and studied his siblings carefully. After a moment, he made his way downstairs. Gently, he embraced one and then the other.

I know you’re both extremely busy, he stated, and ushered them into the sitting room. So please believe that this is terribly important, or I wouldn’t have bothered you with it.

Anna studied him carefully. Was he joking? She was uncertain. She glanced to Matthew, who didn’t react.

We’re listening, he grumbled as they plunked onto the sofa. Go ahead and regale us with your dramatic tale of whatever-the-hell-it-is.

For a minute, Chris looked as though he’d been struck. Anna strode over and placed a gentle hand on his arm.

Look, little brother, she began. We can’t just drop everything and run to you whenever you think you might possibly smell a scandal.

His brow furrowed and he studied his siblings carefully. I’m fully aware that you two, as well as most local law enforcement, are skeptical when I make a phone call with such an outlandish claim. However, this time there truly is a threat to national security.

Matthew threw his hands in the air. Fine. What is it?

Chris leaned back and folded his arms over his chest. I don’t have all the details yet so I’m not going to use names. There is a man, high in the echelon of our government, who has been moving behind the scenes. He has been gathering power and manipulating events for nearly two decades.

The two studied their younger brother cautiously. After a moment, they shared a look and then burst into laughter.

He looked genuinely hurt. I guess it was foolish of me to think that you two would take anything I’ve said seriously. You’ve never believed a word before, so why start now. Right?

After raking his left hand through his hair, he stood and headed for the door. I’m sorry. I’ve been a terrible host. Can I get either of you something to drink? Tea? Coffee? Water? Scotch?

Again, the older two shared a look. Matthew gave the slightest shake of his head. He did his best to discourage Anna from answering.

Thank you, Chris, she answered sweetly. But if there’s really nothing else, we should be going. We’ll see you at family dinner on Sunday. Angelina and her fiancé, Louis will be there.

Not waiting for his response, Matthew stood and hustled toward the door. Anna was close on his heels.

Chapter One

Killian’s hands trembled as he straightened Briarious’ necktie. With a slight nod, he stepped back. He adjusted it one final time.

There you go, he announced. You’re all set.

He noticed the dragonfly drone floating casually around the room. A slight smile tugged at the corners of his mouth. When he glanced back, it was gone.

Thanks, again, Briarious murmured, for doing this. I know things between us have been strained at best.

He dismissed it with a wave of his hand. Nothing brings people together quite like a wedding. Besides, after everything we’ve put you through, it’s the least I can do. I’ll always be here for you two.

Terry came to stand behind them. They’re ready for us, he reported. Let’s do this.

Briarious took a deep breath and let it out slowly. He nodded and followed the others out of the room.

The church’s foyer was emptying as guests found their seats. The auditorium was decorated with white rose bouquets with baby’s breath and silver and white ribbons. The arches over the altar was decorated in a similar manner. The preacher waited for them.

Killian watched Briarious stride down the aisle to join him. Terry and Jerith waited with him.

Charlie fastened the last button on the back of Claudia’s dress. Perfect. You look stunning, darling.

The woman turned and studied herself in the mirror. She smiled broadly and thoughtfully fingered one of the seed pearls.

You don’t look half bad yourself, she smiled, glancing in the mirror at her.

Charlie grinned. She looked at the drone in the corner and nodded slightly.

Relax, she instructed. I’ll go see how things are going.

She made her way out into the church auditorium. The room was filled with guests. They chattered and waited patiently. Briarious stood at the altar, patiently waiting. She glanced at the reverend. He nodded. She dipped her head and turned to retrieve the others.

Arlene and Jerith were the first ones down the aisle.

The irony abounds with this, Charlie commented quietly to Killian.

Jo and Terry were next down the aisle.

Yes, I know, he replied and offered her his arm.

The two made their way up the aisle to the altar. Killian placed a reassuring hand on Briarious’ shoulder as he took his place.

The silver dragonfly flitted around as unobtrusively as possible. She watched the ceremony with the eye piece. It was less disconcerting now, than when she first started.

She focused on the small square in front of her left eye. The images were joyful and boisterous. Briarious, Killian, and the others looked splendid in their Winter Solstice wedding regalia, in sharp black tuxedoes with silver bow ties, pocket squares, and cumber buns.

Claudia wore an elegant white mermaid gown with thread-of-silver and seed pearl accents in intricate dragonfly designs. Her veil had similar embellishments. She veritably floated down the aisle on her father’s arm.

All her bride’s maids wore silver cocktail dresses that had similar embroidery in pearlescent thread with seed pearls.

The drone continued fluttering around the ceremony. As it concluded, she stifled a yawn. She stood and made her way out to the kitchen. Reflexively, she flinched when she saw a hand reach for the drone.

What’s going on, Killian? she asked into the microphone on the headset.

He’s taking you with us for the photo shoot, answered Charlie in her ear.

Oh? she murmured. I’m going to catch a power nap, then. Buzz me when you’re ready to have me start filming again. This is the longest night of the year, after all.

Will do, Charlie answered.

At that, Zoey curled back up on the sofa. Beretta gave a chirping purr and hopped up onto her hip. The tiny calico curled up and promptly fell asleep. A moment later, Zoey followed.

They stood where they were. Smiled when directed. Moved to different locations and did the same thing again. Killian held on to the dragonfly drone through all the photography.

Don’t think I didn’t know what you’re doing with that, Charlie teased.

He arched an eyebrow. Your point.

She placed a reassuring hand on his shoulder. I get it.

With a heavy sigh, he nodded.

That’s it, boys and girls, the photographer announced. Let’s head for the reception hall.

They climbed into the waiting limo and were on their way.

She startled awake to the sound of her phone vibrating and ringing on the coffee table nearby. With a soft groan, and a quiet hiss as Beretta’s claws sank into her thigh, she grabbed it.

Yeah, she muttered, is it that time again?

It certainly is, sleeping beauty, answered Killian. Are you ready?

Zoey yawned, stretched, knuckled her eyes, and put the headset on. "All right. I’m