Ten in the morning.

Hattori Mei dialled up Thompson’s number.

“It’s me, Mister Thompson, what time are you getting off from work?” She was straight to the point.

Thompson’s voice resonated through the opposite end. “Why would you ask?”

“I need a safe location to proceed with our deal. My place is without a doubt the most secure spot there is. I have your money ready. Once you bring the things that I need, our deal is done.”

“Hahaha...” Thompson burst into laughter. 

“What are you laughing at, Mister Thompson?”

Thompson replied, “Look, Miss Hattori, I understand your perspective. But there’s no way I’d agree on your place. I mean sure, it’s the safest place for you. But it could very well be a trap for me. I want to be within the vicinity of my control if we were to proceed with the deal.”

“You can trust me completely, Mister Thompson. A few million dollars isn’t a big deal for our family.”

“Of course it’s not, but if the Pentagon and the White House know about the deal it wouldn’t fare well for you Japanese. And what about me? You don’t sound...