The Gray Man Ch. 40 - Madison

TJ Gray's office was a bastion of calculated decisions, the air thick with tension as he met with Gretchen, the Head of Legal Affairs, and Allen Babin, the financial powerhouse that got Pelican Intel off of the ground.

The three were discussing staffing and integration with the more well known intelligence agencies of the western world when Allen dropped a bombshell idea.

"I've been reading your report on Nazir and Fatima," Allen began. "I have a question that I'd like some input on."

TJ looked over his reading glasses, "Okay..." his voice went up at the end of the acknowledgement.

Allen sat back in the large leather chair. "What if we fight fire with fire?"

TJ's green eyes stared at his friend, "Go on."

Allen sighed, "Putin has The Wagner Group. Fatima and now radical Jihadi organizations have Al-Qatil. What if we fund and equip our own military extension?"

Gretchen shook her head, "You mean a mercenary group? Like Blackwater, because that ended so well."

Allen nodded, "Blackwater had their issues, but they have found footing. Constellis is still working with certain intelligence agencies. What if we create our own?"

Gretchen shook her head, "From a legal perspective I need to say Allen, this is reckless."

TJ leaned back, "Allen, I disagree with Gretchen about the idea being reckless. I think the idea actually has merit, especially to counter Al-Qatil. We eliminate the need for Congressional or Pentagon approval."

Gretchen interrupted, "Or fucking oversight for God's sake."

TJ fought the urge to react to Gretchen's comment, "However, currently there are at least 20 publicly known agencies in the United States and the UK. Over ten of them are headquartered within 100 miles of this office. Let me do some corporate outreach and see if we can possibly partner with one or more of them. We stay on the intel side and allow them to carry the risk of the action part of the plan."

Gretchen, her gaze a storm of purpose, "Thomas Patrick James, do you hear yourself? A private army to carry out a personal war? Have you lost your fucking mind? You are not Nazir or Fatima. You are one of the good guys - or at least I thought you were."

TJ turned his gaze to his cousin, but before he could respond there was an urgent knock at the door.

"Come!" TJ called out. He quickly turned to Gretchen, "This is not over."

Rebecca Ramirez, the meticulous intelligence analyst, burst through the door with a sense of urgency. "I think I've found her. Parisia. Badia Al Farsi of the Saudi Royal Family is keeping her in the Asir Province."

TJ's steely gaze fixed on Rebecca. "Are you sure about this?"

Rebecca nodded, her eyes reflecting the gravity of the situation. "I've cross-referenced intel, and it all points to an estate nestled within the Asir Province. Badia is hiding Parisia there."

Gretchen leaned forward, her tone sharp with anticipation. "What do we know about this estate?"

Rebecca pulled up satellite images on the screen, revealing an opulent estate surrounded by towering walls, blending seamlessly into the lush landscape of the Asir Province. "It's a discreet sanctuary, off the grid. Traditional architecture merged with modern security measures. Badia has chosen a haven that mirrors her stature within the Saudi Royal Family."

TJ's eyes flashed, "How do we know?"

Rebecca pulled up another screen, "From the time of the event in Yemen I found a series of communications, all from the same general area on the map but using hundreds of different numbers. All to the same two numbers - one belonging to Badia and one to someone that has geolocated to Riyadh and then to the Asir Province. I believe that the contacts have been from Fatima or someone in her very near orbit."ce."

TJ, the lines etched on his face deeper with the weight of the revelation, met the intensity of their gazes. "We move discreetly. Rebecca, gather all the intel you can. We meet tomorrow morning at zero eight hundred hours to put a plan in place.."

Gretchen looked at her cousin, "What are you thinking?"

TJ's eyes turned cold as a cruel smirk crossed his face, "I'm going to get my daughter."

Gretchen reached her hand out. "Teej, you are talking about kidnapping a foreign national on the soil of an ally."

Gray laughed, "You and I have a different definition of ally. The Saudis are only concerned about what's good for the Saudis. If it aligns with our interests then they look like an ally - but make no mistake, they are not an ally."

Allen sighed, "Officially, they are listed as allies and if you get caught they will certainly prosecute you to the fullest extent of their law. Moving against a royal family member would be the death penalty for you."

Gray stood up, "Then it would be in my best interest to not get caught. We are through here. Tomorrow, zero eight hundred. You all are dismissed."

Allen and Gretchen looked at one another. They had never seen TJ dismiss anyone, much less the two of them. TJ doubled down on his comment, "What part about being dismissed do the two of you not understand?"

15 minutes later Gray was pouring over satellite images of the Royal Compound in the Asir Province. There was no sneaking in or sneaking out. Towers, camera's, infrared sensors, Special Security Force soldiers. Fatima may have been right, if Parisia was in this place then it may indeed be impossible for Gray to get to his daughter.

An hour later there TJ was still no better off than he was at first glance. The compound looked impenetrable. Hidden under camouflage netting the Palace and Compound was even protected by Patriot Missile Batteries.

Just before lunch TJ's newest assistant Ananya walked quietly into his office. TJ noticed that she wore an ankle bracelet with a small bell. She also wore a ring on her left hand that contained a petite gold chain that affixed to a metal bracelet.

Before she could speak TJ leaned back and gazed upon the diminutive Indian beauty, dressed in a traditional saree. It was apparent that she wore nothing beneath the silken gown as she almost floated barefoot across the floor.

TJ smiled, despite his mood, "Ana, I notice the bell and the ring. Would you explain?"

The radiant beauty blushed as she knelt next to her boss, "The ankle bracelet is a slave bell. It was to let the Master and Mistress know where their girl was. The ring is a modern version of an old slave bracelet." Ananya lowered her gaze.

TJ reached out his hand and lifted her chin, "Who told you to wear these? I do not consider you my slave."

Fear raised in the young girl's eyes, "Nobody, Master. I wear them to remind me of my place when you are away. I will remove them at once."

Ana's hand started to unclasp the bracelet until she was stopped by the soft touch of Gray. "I did not say you had to remove them. I was just curious."

The petite woman pulled TJ's palm to her cheek as she exhaled in relief. "Thank you, Master. This makes me happy."

TJ leaned forward, "Would you prefer me to treat you more as a slave, Ana?"

Again the gorgeous young woman blushed and lowered her gaze, "Master may treat me however he sees fit, just know that I see myself as yours. Yours to command, yours to control. I am your slave, Master - no matter how you see me."

TJ sat back, "Ana, what I need is for you to be you, authentically and completely you. Slaves are not something the Army trained me to have so this will take some getting used to on my part. As long as you are authentic, I will adjust."

Ana bent forward and touched Gray's shoe with her head, "That is most fair, Master. Thank you, Master."

TJ fought the urge to unzip his pants and have her perform her oral magic on his cock. "Ana, is that why you came in here?"

Ana smiled, "No, Master. I came in to let you know that an assistant to Mr. Conrad Sterling and his wife Virginia would like to meet you for dinner at your earliest convenience."

TJ looked down at today's copy of the Wall Street Journal that was perched on the corner of his desk with the image of a smiling, balding man in his late 50's over a headline that read, "Sterling brings a proxy fight to main street." TJ picked up the paper, "Do you mean the billionaire investment banker Conrad Sterling?"

Ana nodded, "Yes, Master. One and the same."

TJ shook his head, "What would a man like Sterling want to have dinner with a nobody like me?"

Ana frowned, "You underestimate yourself Master. You are a hero, you run a new intelligence startup, and you are well known throughout the highest levels of government and business."

TJ shook his head, "Probably just wants me to fuck his wife or something."

Ana's voice dropped to a low purr, "That is possible too, for many men wish they could do to a woman what you do, Master."

TJ smiled, "What does my calendar look like?"

Ana smiled, "I scheduled you for Thursday night. You are meeting Mr. and Mrs. Sterling at The Inn at Little Washington at 7:00. They have reservations for the Inn and for dinner. They offered to send a driver but I know how much you like control so I declined on your behalf, Master. I hope that is acceptable."

TJ nodded, "Very. What are we going to wear?"

Ana smiled, "I have sent your blue suit with the light pinstripes to be dry cleaned, Master. I will have your shirt starched and pressed and an appropriate tie chosen for you."

TJ nodded, "I asked what were we going to wear, Ana? That's only what I am wearing. What about you?"

Ana's eyes grew large, "Me?"

TJ nodded, "Yes, you will accompany me as my assistant. You will function in that capacity. I am not going to sit at a meeting with Conrad Stirling alone. Find something appropriate for the evening and contact his assistant and tell him that I agree to the dinner, but I will be accompanied. You may go now."

Ana's legs were almost rubbery as she tried to stand. Before she left the office she turned and looked at TJ, "One question if I may, Master."

TJ nodded, "Go on,"

Ana was visibly shaking, "Am I going as your assistant or as your slave?"

TJ stood and walked over to where the young lady was. In a flash his right hand raised and landed on her ass with a resounding smack. "I told you to be authentic. You will not hide who you are from me or from anybody at any time we are together. Are we clear?"

Ana bit her lip, TJ wasn't sure if it was from the sharp sting of the spank, or from a state of arousal. His question was answered when her voice came out with a tiny pant and an almost breathless moan, "Very clear, Master. Thank you."

On Thursday, just after 4:00 TJ and Ana pulled out of the driveway to begin the 90 minute drive to the Inn at Little Washington. The couple arrived, checked in to their suite and changed for dinner. The famous Patty O's awaited them. Patty O's has 3 Michelin Stars, the most of any restaurant in the DC area. It has been named as one of the top ten restaurants in the world.

As Gray opened the door his hand went to the small of Ana's back. His warm hand caused a shiver to run down her spine.

TJ was dressed in a blue pinstripe suit, a white dress shirt, with a red and blue paisley tie. Ana wore a beautiful dress, which was a kaleidoscope of rich colors, embraced deep burgundies and royal blues, interspersed with intricate gold embroidery that traced delicate patterns along the fabric. The gown's silhouette celebrated Ana's figure with a fitted bodice that gently flared into a flowing skirt.

The entrance to Patty O's emitted a lively hum, filled with the clatter of plates and the rich aroma of spices. TJ escorted Ana into the restaurant. Every eye in the house turned to take in the stunning couple. TJ was the type of man that people noticed when he wanted them to. His very presence put others on notice. The beautiful Indian woman at his side caused both men and women to envy the couple.

After they gave their name to the hostess they were immediately led o a table within the kitchen's lively sphere, where the rhythmic sounds of culinary mastery echoed. Being escorted promptly to one of the two kitchen tables led to many whispers wondering just who the couple were.

Conrad and Virginia Sterling rose to greet their guests. Conrad's eyes lingered on Ana, an unspoken appreciation in the air, while Virginia's warm smile embraced the table.

"Good evening, you must be Mr. Gray," Conrad extended a hand, and the two men exchanged a firm handshake.

Virginia turned to Ana, her eyes lighting up. "And you must be Ana. We were told you'd be joining Mr. Gray, but our Conrad's assistant did not inform us of your exquisite beauty."

Ana nodded with grace, a touch of humility in her expression. "Thank you, Mrs. Sterling. It's a pleasure to meet you both."

As menus were distributed, TJ took the lead, his voice confident. He looked to the wine steward, "A bottle of Caroline Parent Bourgogne Rouge for the table. To begin, my date will have a Frozen Rose and I will have a Cavendish Old Fashioned."

Conrad nodded approvingly. "You've been here before?"

TJ shook his head, "No, but I did take some time to study the menu. I have little patience for people who arrive at an amazing restaurant and study the menu for an hour. You can find most everything online these days - prepare before you arrive so that you can enjoy the evening without the stress of uncertainty."

Virginia smiled, her platinum white hair beautifully framed her face that had been bronzed by hours on their sailing yacht during the summer. She looked at her husband, "I can see that you and Conrad will get along splendidly."

Conrad smiled as he looked at the wine steward, 'Mrs. Sterling and I will have the same as Mr. Gray and Ms. Devi."

The conversation meandered through various topics, blending business discussions with shared connections. Ana, aware of her role, engaged when prompted, her responses reflecting both intelligence and respect.

When it came time to order, TJ leaned toward Ana, his words a soft murmur that danced along her senses. "We will both begin with a bowl of Onion Soup Gratinee. I will have the Pan Seared Swordfish. The lady will have the seared Scallops."

Ana met TJ's gaze, a silent agreement in her eyes. "Thank you, Master," she whispered just loud enough for Virginia Sterling to hear and immediately blush.

Following what she had heard, Virginia looked to her husband and without a word encouraged him to get to the point. Conrad eagerly took the hint, "Mr. Gray," he began, "I'm sure you are wondering why we have invited you here."

TJ sipped his Old Fashioned, "I have to admit this was not an invitation I ever expected."

Conrad, his expression marked by both gravity and vulnerability, took a sip of his wine before broaching the delicate subject. "TJ, there's something important I need to discuss with you. Something that Allen Babin recommended you for."

TJ, ever the picture of composed authority, raised an eyebrow. "You have my attention."

Conrad took Virginia's hand before he leaned in, the weight of the words he carried evident in his gaze. "This is not yet public knowledge but I've been diagnosed with Stage 4 Pancreatic Cancer."

The revelation hung in the air, thick with unspoken understanding. TJ's features softened, a rare expression of empathy crossing his face. "I'm sorry to hear that, Conrad."

Conrad nodded, appreciating TJ's sincerity. "When my brother and I started our firm we promised one another that the business would always stay in the family. Just before the pandemic Richard and his wife Amelia were killed when their plane crashed just off the coast of Florida. Rick was an experienced pilot, but something happened to the plane that he couldn't recover from. With Virginia and I childless that means that everything goes to Madison, our niece. She's the last piece of family I have left."

TJ's eyes narrowed with curiosity. "I am so sorry to hear that, however I am not sure how I can help, unless you want to adopt me."

Conrad's lips curved into a wry smile and a small chuckle. "As tempting as that sounds, our partnership agreement did not allow us to have adoptees or others as heirs of the firm."

TJ nodded, "My cousin is a top notch attorney, I understand the nuance of contract law."

Conrad sighed, "So, here is my situation. Madison is... a challenge. An overzealous, spoiled, pampered, entitled feminist zealot. The kind that needs a good dose of reality. I need her tamed, TJ."

TJ leaned back, considering the proposition. "Why me, Conrad?"

"Because Allen shared with me some of your skills. While I may not be a trained spy, wealth has allowed me access to many things that the average man on the street does not have access to. In short, I've seen how you operate, how you handle things," Conrad replied. "You're the man for the job. And I'm willing to make it worth your while. One million dollars to hire Madison, bring her into the fold, and humble her."

TJ's eyes glinted with a hint of mischief. "You want me to turn a feminist zealot into a humble businesswoman? That's a tall order, Conrad."

Conrad chuckled, the sound tinged with resignation. "I wouldn't ask if it wasn't important. Madison needs a reality check, and I need someone I can trust to guide her. Will you do it, TJ?"

TJ cocked his head, "She is your family. If you have spoken to Allen I would imagine that you have heard that..." TJ paused looking for the right word.

Virginia Conrad leaned in, "That you have a big cock and have left women barely able to remember their name after you've fucked them."

TJ shrugged, "That's one way to put it. So, what are your limits?"

Virginia smiled as she looked at Ana, "How did you refer to Mr. Gray when he ordered for you, my dear?"

Ana smiled, "He is my Master."

Virginia looked at TJ, "Whatever it takes to have Madi learn her place Mr. Gray. Those are the limits."

TJ's gaze held steady, contemplating the challenge laid before him. "Alright, Conrad. One million dollars and a reality check for your niece. Consider it done."

Conrad smiled, "Thank you, Mr. Gray. I will also see to it that Madison's salary is returned in full."

TJ nodded, "Is there anything else?"

Conrad blushed, "Just one other thing. The next few months for Virginia are going to be hell. Medical Science has come a long way, but there are some things that can't be fixed. My grandfather had pancreatic cancer, he lived with us during his last few months."

Conrad looked at his wife as her eyes filled with tears. Conrad smiled, even though his chin was quivering as he fought back his own tears, "When I am gone, if Virginia would like to experience what Valerie Babin has, and what undoubtedly Madison will, I would ask that you grant her wish."

TJ sat back in his seat, "Conrad, I have seen death on many levels. I've held men's hands on the battlefield, I held a dear friend's IV bag as the doctor's realized their efforts were in vain. I hold the death bond sacred. I would never deny a man's dying wish. If there is a time that Virginia would like to be reminded she is not just a widow but a woman, I would be honored."

Tears streamed down both of the Sterling's faces as Conrad gripped TJ's hands with both of his and whispered, "Thank you."

As the amazing dinner ended Conrad Sterling stood and shook Gray's hand, "You are a good man, TJ. Madi will be at TechSynergy Monday at 8:00"

TJ smiled and pulled out his Pelican Intel card, "Have her report here instead. She may as well start swimming in the deep water."

As the couples walked out of Patty O's and decided to stroll the beautiful grounds surrounding the inn Virginia started to walk with Ana, a couple of steps behind the men. "What is it like to be TJ's assistant?"

Ana smiled, "I am his slave, ma'am. Not his assistant."

Virginia was shocked, "You mean like a 50 Shades type of relationship?"