The Gray Man Ch. 30 - The Ambassador

The chill of a late January in the Arena District in Detroit was a joy. The Red Wings were relevant again and tonight TJ and Gretchen had 4 front row mezzanine tickets to take their dad's to watch a game between the Wings and the hated Toronto Maple Leafs

It had been years since TJ had been to a game. He was blown away by how the city had changed in recent years. Between Little Caesars Arena, Comerica Park, The Fox Theater, and Comerica Park the Arena District was on par with any entertainment center in the country.

Crowds lined the streets as they moved in and out of bars and restaurants and made their way to the game. The energy of the crowd surged like a mighty wave, carrying with it the energy of thousands of fans wrapped in their traditional red and white Winged Wheel jersey's (I know it's a hockey sweater but not everyone does.)

Gretchen watched her cousin in joy. TJ had loved hockey, she remembered hearing him talk about the game unceasingly when his dad would take him to see the Wings at The Joe back in the day. At one point Gretchen nudged her dad with her elbow and whispered, "He looks like a kid at Christmastime." Gretchen's dad shared a chuckle as they made their way into the arena, picked up 4 beers and some amazing food and posted up in the hallway just outside of their portal.

TJ felt like a kid at Christmas. With everything that had gone on over the past year, having a sense of normal - even if only for a few hours was a reboot that his spirit desperately needed. For years, the tradition of attending hockey games had been a cherished bond between TJ, Gretchen and their dads. A family tradition that forged unbreakable connections. Their fathers, brothers in law who had grown up in the same neighborhood playing pond hockey, had handed down their love for the game, along with the loyalty to the Red Wings, from one generation to the next.

The two dad's were in awe at the luxury that surrounded them. TJ's dad mentioned that watching on television these days was disappointing. At 'The Joe' a few fans could fill the arena with noise, while at this palace the place needed a rowdy crowd to bring the energy. Finally, after years of frustration The Wings were on their way back, a bonafide playoff team that was on the way up.

However, tonight, amid the roar of the arena, Gretchen's thoughts were far from the game at hand. She knew this evening was more than just an opportunity to watch their beloved team in action. It was a chance to discuss a matter of great importance--one that she had been contemplating for quite some time. She nudged her cousin gently, drawing his attention away from the ice.

"TJ," she began, her voice barely audible over the din of the crowd, "Have you talked to Allen?"

TJ turned his head to face Gretchen, his eyes still locked onto the furious battle on the ice. "Really? Right now, in the middle of the game? What's gotten into you?"

Gretchen leaned in closer, anyone looking would have seen her blush, "You did, just a few days ago, but the point is, I want in. You need me, Teej."

TJ's eyes widened, and he turned his gaze fully towards his cousin. There was no talking her out of it. TJ frowned, his brow creasing in thought. "Gretchen, I will call Allen first thing tomorrow morning. You need to be damn sure, you are walking away from a partnership at the firm. You sure about this?"

Gretchen nodded, her gaze unwavering. "I am, TJ. I've studied law for this very reason. I need in, besides until you can talk Angela into retiring you need someone to know where you are."

TJ took a moment to absorb his cousin's words, his mind racing. "So, you want to babysit me?"

The beautiful woman shook her head, "No, but if I'm on the inside it will be easier to know what's happening. It will help me protect myself, I will feel safer."

TJ's expression softened, and he placed a reassuring hand on Gretchen's shoulder. "I'll talk to Allen first thing in the morning. The final decision is his."

Gretchen smiled flirtatiously, "Will I have to fuck him?"

TJ shook his head, "Allen, nah. Valerie though... possibly."

Gretchen purred. "As you saw with Miriam, I can hold my own in that department."

Gray shook his head, "You are a woman of many talents. A woman full of surprises."

Fortunately for TJ, the goal horn blasted and all four of the family members jumped out of their seats joining in with thousands of others with the Eminem "Na Na Na" chorus from "Without Me" that was played after a Wings goal!

A Wings win, the four caught the shuttle back to the MGM Grand. TJ and his dad spent some of the evening at the Blackjack Table to wind down. Gretchen and her dad headed upstairs.

TJ's dad won a decent amount sitting at the table. "Enough to make the night almost perfect."

TJ knew better than to ask but he couldn't help but entertain his old man, "What else is there to make it better?"

His dad laughed, "Your mom bouncing up and down on my dick for a half hour."

TJ shook his head, "Thanks a hell of a lot, that's an image burned into my mind that's going to need therapy."

TJ's dad laughed and flipped him off. "I may be old, son, but I still have good ears. You got into your cousin?"

TJ had no words. A wave of embarrassment rolled over him before his dad thankfully changed the subject. "So, what is this business deal you have happening?"

TJ paused, choosing his words carefully. "I can't delve into specifics. The nature of what I do demands confidentiality."

His dad nodded, "That would explain why twice people with ear pieces had to keep an eye on your mother and I?"

TJ nodded, "Yeah, I've made some enemies over the years and one of them found someone they could turn inside the organization and put a lot of people at risk. You and mom included."

His dad hugged him, "I am so proud of the man you've become. You do what you are doing and don't worry about your mom and I. I'm a tough old Irishman."

When his dad stepped away from the hug TJ had tears in his eyes. What is it about a man, no matter how successful or age that hearing their dad is proud of them is more rewarding than anything else?

Early the following afternoon TJ and Gretchen returned the rental car as their dad's made their way back home. The cousins made their way to the FBO where Allen Babin and Admiral Barnett were waiting.

TJ extended his hand to the smaller Babin and the taller Admiral. "Wasn't expecting an escort."

Allen smiled, "It seems we have our first contract and there really isn't time to waste. I hope you don't mind."

TJ paused before he introduced Gretchen to the two men. "Not a problem at all. I know my cousin is eager to have a conversation with Allen and the Admiral can bring me up to speed."

30 minutes later the HondaJet soared into the evening sky, arching over Lake Michigan before setting course to Dulles.

TJ and Admiral Barnett sat near the rear of the plane while Allen and Gretchen moved to the front of the aircraft. Allen played the accommodating host as he poured generous pours of Bardstown bourbon for his three guests before settling into his seat.

Gretchen was not a woman to beat around the bush, which made her a formidable foe in the courtroom. She looked across the row at Allen Babin and spoke directly. "I want to be the legal counsel for Pelican."

Allen swirled his drink. "Aren't you still a partner?"

Gretchen nodded, "I'll leave private practice first thing Monday morning. That's how bad I want this."

Allen scrolled his phone, "Ms. Foster, I am looking at your profile and your courtroom history. You are an amazing attorney, probably only waiting for the correct person to have the ear of a president to become appointed to the federal bench or perhaps even the Supreme Court. You want to sacrifice that for a startup?"

Gretchen leaned forward, "Don't blow sunshine up my skirt, Mr. Babin. I know what I bring to the table. I also know what I will be sacrificing."

Allen sighed, "Gretchen," he began, his voice hushed as he leaned forward, "you understand the nature of Pelican Intel, don't you? We are not just a corporation; it's a covert government operation operating off the books. Are you prepared for the responsibilities that come with it?"

Gretchen, seated across from Allen, met his penetrating gaze with a quiet determination. "I'm well aware of the clandestine nature of Pelican Intel, Mr. Babin. I was taken captive by the people TJ was tracking in his last operation. The operations of Pelican will often delve into gray areas, and its legal needs are no exception. I'm prepared to handle the legal intricacies that come with this covert territory. If shit goes south, there will be no government attorney coming to your rescue. You need someone good, you need ME."

"The lines between law and national security can blur in Pelican Intel," Allen noted. "How do you see your role contributing to this hybrid of corporate and covert operations, Gretchen?"

Gretchen leaned forward, her voice tinged with a sense of purpose. "I envision my role as a guardian of Pelican Intel's legal interests, ensuring that the company operates within the shaded boundaries of the law while advancing the nation's security objectives. It's about preserving the synergy between our covert mission and the legal framework that underpins it."

Allen sat back, "How much will it take?"

Gretchen lifted her glass in a toast as she leaned back in her seat. Her full breasts caused her sweater to stretch alluringly around them, "How much do you have?"

Meanwhile down the aisle Admiral Barnett was briefing TJ. The Deputy Director of National Security leaned in to speak quietly with Gray, "Sergeant Major," the admiral began, his voice barely above a whisper, "I'm sure you have been keeping up with the chaos in the Middle East."

TJ sipped his bourbon, "Honestly, I have half expected to get a call from Bragg about being recalled and deployed, what a fucking mess."

Barnett nodded, "You still may be, but for now what we need is for you to swing a vote in the Security Council."

TJ looked puzzled, "Why? Whatever we do will just be voted down by Russia and China?"

The Admiral nodded, "The outcome of the vote isn't important, the vote of the Arab member of the Council is. Others in the bloc will not care about anything other than how their rep votes."

TJ cocked his head, "I guess this is why Babin pays me the big bucks. You've got my attention.

Barnett chuckled, "Fair point. What we need is for you to make suere that Sheikha Leila Al-Mahdi understands the wisdom of supporting our motion in the Security Council. We need to deploy UN Peacekeepers, led by Germany and Poland to stop this war from spreading into something regional. The last thing the world needs is Iran and Israel lobbing nukes at one another. Putting a buffer zone on the ground is our best chance of that. We need her to vote with us. Even without full approval, there will be blue helmets on the ground. We need her vote and a speech so that the Arab world sees this as prevention and not escalation."

TJ's expression turned serious as he understood the weight of the task at hand. "Admiral, with all due respect, I'm sure the CIA has a docket 6 inches thick on the Ambassador. If there is nothing there I doubt I will find anything in a week. Sheikha Leila is a high-profile diplomat and I am sure well protected. What's my angle?"

Admiral Barnett nodded in agreement. "You're right, we have the in for you on this. The US Ambassador is having a dinner for the Security Council delegates and their staff on Tuesday. You need to do what you do best, Gray. Seduce the Ambassador, get video, pictures, audio. We need to be able to blackmail her."

TJ shook his head, "I had a feeling that's where you were headed. I only see a shit ton of problems let me just name a few. First, she's highly protected. Second, her religion and culture are pretty strict about sex outside of marriage. Third, I'm an infidel. Fourth, I have one week to meet, seduce, and gather evidence. Fifth, Sheikha Leila is a life long diplomat, she will see through me in a heartbeat. That's a tall order."

The Admiral smiled, "You opened your mouth at the meeting about how you flipped Johnson and Smith by fucking them. It's time to put up or shut up Mr. James."

Gray finished off his bourbon. "I will do what I can do, Sir."

As the HondaJet descended, gradually leaving behind the serene night sky for the bright city lights of Dulles International Airport, the mood inside the cabin shifted from focused deliberations to a critical mission.

As the wheels of the HondaJet made contact with the runway at Dulles International realty sat in with TJ and Gretchen. He had an almost impossible mission, she had to end one career to start another. There would be a lot of long days and short nights ahead.

Babin had arranged for a car for TJ and Gretchen, no sooner were they seated in the back that TJ's phone rang.

TJ Gray's phone rang, the soft chime cutting through the muted conversation inside the car as it made its way through the city. He answered, the screen casting a gentle glow on his face in the dimly lit vehicle.

"Gray" TJ said curtly, "What do you have for me, Elizabeth?"

On the other end of the phone, Elizabeth Johnson's voice was calm, yet carried the unmistakable sense of urgency that made her good at what she did. "Sir, we've received fresh intelligence regarding Sheikha Leila Al-Mahdi and the dinner party. Her staff will be going, and our agent on the inside is attempting to redirect her security detail from attending."

TJ exchanged a quick glance with Gretchen, both recognizing the significance of the information. "What are the odds?"

Elizabeth's voice was confident. The brilliance of including staff members at a secure location may help us cut the entourage down to one or two."

Gray exhaled, "Roger that, keep me posted. I'll be feet dry in New York City first thing in the morning."

In the dimly lit car TJ turned to his cousin, "Are you sure you want into this dog and pony show?"

Gretchen's hand rested on TJ's thigh, "More than ever."

On Monday morning TJ Gray found himself dressed in a dark charcoal suit, as he stood in the corner of a well-appointed room in a discreet New York City hotel. The atmosphere was hushed, a stark contrast to the bustling activity outside the window.

The U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations had arranged this meeting to discuss the upcoming dinner event on Tuesday and to provide him with a crucial update on Sheikha Leila Al-Mahdi, the diplomat they needed to work on to assure her support on the crucial security council vote.

The Ambassador, Patricia Sterling, a seasoned diplomat with an aura of authority, entered the room, her expression both welcoming and serious. "Mr. Gray, It's a pleasure to meet you, your reputation precedes you."

TJ returned the greeting and nodded in agreement. "Good morning, Ma'am. I'm not sure that's good news.

The Ambassador's demeanor shifted as a sly smirk crossed her face, "Oh, I assure you, your previous operation with The Fox was amazing."

TJ smirked, "I guess I don't have to ask about how high your clearance level is."

Patricia sat down and nodded for TJ to sit as well, "High enough to know who it is I am dealing with. Now, let's talk about Sheikha Leila Al-Mahdi. The information we have is limited, but we've been able to gather some details about her background, interests, and potential vulnerabilities."

TJ's focus sharpened as he leaned in to listen. "What have we found, Ambassador?"

The Ambassador shared the gathered intelligence. "Sheikha Leila is a well-regarded diplomat with a strong background in international humanitarian work. She's known for her philanthropic efforts, particularly in providing aid to regions affected by conflicts and natural disasters."

TJ absorbed the information, recognizing that this insight could be invaluable. "Her humanitarian work could be a potential point of connection."

The Ambassador nodded in agreement. "Precisely."

TJ considered the challenge ahead, recognizing that subtlety and discretion were key. "My staff is doing some digging too. I'm sure by tomorrow night I'll be fully up to speed."

The Ambassador's eyes reflected a sense of curiosity, "Can I ask you a question?"

"Yes, Ma'am, feel free to ask away."

Patricia took a deep breath, "Do you ever feel bad? I mean Leila is an amazing woman."

Gray sighed, "I do, however, have to take a deep breath from time to time and think about the greater good. What I try to do is remember that a positive vote from her can prevent tens of thousands of deaths. The entire idea is for her secret to never see the light of day."

The Ambassador nodded, "Government and peace is an ugly business."

Gray gave a curt nod, "Yes, Ma'am, it is."

The Monday meeting and Tuesday's dinner were more than just diplomatic gatherings; they were opportunities to set the stage for a pivotal Security Council vote, and Sheikha Leila Al-Mahdi's support was a key piece of the puzzle. Gray was the key to unlock that vote

As Tuesday arrived, TJ received more information from Elizabeth, while a phone call from Gretchen let him know that she was in the process of resigning from the firm while working out final details with Allen and Admiral Barnett

The Whitby Hotel's opulent ballroom was aglow with the soft, golden hue of chandeliers, casting an air of elegance over the gathering of diplomats and officials. The atmosphere was charged with hushed conversations, subtle power plays, and an undercurrent of diplomacy. TJ Gray, impeccably dressed in a finely tailored tuxedo, stood near the entrance, scanning the room.

Ambassador Sterling, approached TJ slipping her hand underneath his arm as she guided him through the well-dressed crowd. "TJ Gray, I'd like to introduce you to Sheikha Leila Al-Mahdi, a distinguished diplomat, a permanent member of the UN and currently on the Security Committee. She is a brilliant woman with a strong background in humanitarian efforts. She would make Dag Hammarskjöld proud."

TJ smiled warmly and nodded without extending his hand. Her presence was captivating, and her eyes held a blend of charm and intrigue. "A pleasure to meet you, Sheikha Leila. I've heard so much about your remarkable work in the field of humanitarian projects."

Sheikha Leila took in the tall American, impressed that he had ignored western custom and honored her cultural belief in physical contact. "The Ambassador speaks too highly of me, it is a pleasure to meet you Mr. Gray. Ambassador Hammarskjöld I am not, but his legacy should inspire all of us. Humanitarian work should be a universal calling, don't you agree?"

TJ nodded, "My life's work has been about bringing peace and freedom to oppressed people."

Ambassador Sterling excused herself, pulling a couple of Shiekah Leila's entourage with her. Leila looked up at the tall American, her almond eyes and perfect complexion captivating, "I'm sorry, but I've not heard of your work."

TJ smiled, "As I have intended. My aim has been to equip the oppressed with the tools they need to secure peace and freedom. My goal has always been to be as invisible as a ghost."

Leila smiled, "I see. TJ, that's an interesting name. Is there a story behind it?"

TJ nodded, "There is, I share a name with my father and my grandfather. My grandfather is Thomas, my father Tommy, and I got shortened to TJ. It just stuck."

The ambassador smiled, "A humanitarian who understands culture, doesn't seek the spotlight, and honors their family. That is a rare combination in today's world."

The conversation flowed naturally as they discussed their mutual interest in humanitarian projects. Sheikha Leila's eyes lit up as she shared stories of her experiences in conflict zones and disaster-stricken regions. TJ, with genuine interest, recounted his involvement in war zones, carefully editing out some of his history. He painted the picture of a man who had seen the world's most vulnerable up close.