The Alliance (6 page)

 

UNCORRECTED E-PROOF—NOT FOR SALE

HarperCollins
Publishers

....................................

Chapter
14

I packed what supplies I could find and am leaving to find other survivors, hopefully some with more information.

—­The diary of Megan Jean

The group had returned from the orphanage hours ago, but Madame Dulac's question and Mia's lack of an answer still plagued her. She barely touched her dinner. Now as she walked along the grounds with Flo she didn't find herself any more alert.

“Mia?”

“What?” Mia looked up at Flo, who wore a mischievous grin.

“You haven't said a word all evening,” Flo said. “Are you lost in your head?”

“Sorry,” Mia said. “I suppose I'm just nervous.”

“Only two more nights until we fly out,” Flo said. “Don't worry. You'll do fine. What did you think of the children?”

“Wonderful,” Mia said. “I didn't realize other countries had problems with parents not taking care of their kids.”

“The whole world has problems,” Flo said. “It's how the ­people manage them that shows their character.”

“What kind of person do you think I am?” Mia asked. “I know that we just met, but lately I'm not sure who I am anymore.”

“I think you are brave and intelligent,” Flo said. “I think you put others before yourself and are scared to upset ­people. But what I think shouldn't matter. The only opinion that should is the one you have of yourself. What kind of person do you think you are?”

Mia sighed and shook her head.

“Have you been questioning yourself lately?” Flo asked.

“I feel like I'm not my own person,” Mia said. “I have these specific goals. If we are successful and the Registry is stopped, what then? I feel like a symbol, not a person.”

“You will find a way,” Flo said. “Trust in yourself. Are you still upset with Andrew?”

“No,” Mia said.

“Have you spoken to him?”

Mia shook her head.

“Go see him tonight,” Flo said. “Sometimes seeing ourselves reflected in another's eyes helps.”

“Won't that draw attention?” Mia asked.

“We can go now,” Flo said. ­“People will think we are reviewing our security detail for the trip.”

Flo switched directions before Mia could object. She didn't know why she wanted to anyway. Maybe Flo was right and seeing Andrew would do Mia some good.

They arrived at the employee housing and as Flo promised she walked off with Zack. Jesse and Bryan weren't around and Mia was left with Carter and Andrew.

“How's learning to act French?” Carter asked.

“Interesting,” Mia said. “How's being a bodyguard?”

“Boring,” Carter said.

He stood up from the couch and started to leave.

“Where are you going?” Mia asked.

“To leave you two alone,” Carter said.

Mia wanted to tell him to stay, but she did want alone time with Andrew. She took his spot next to Andrew.

“How are you?” Mia asked.

“Nervous,” Andrew said.

“Did you memorize your cover story?”

Andrew relaxed on the couch and turned toward Mia. He lifted his hand and started to twirl a lock of her fake hair.

“I'm nervous for you,” Andrew said. “There's a lot riding on this.”

“For some reason I'm not that scared,” Mia said. “Flo is very smart and she's in charge.”

Mia lifted one of her legs and tucked it under herself. She placed a hand on the couch between her and Andrew. He lifted his free hand and set it on top of hers.

“We can still call this off,” Andrew said. “France is a safe country. The two of us can live here together.”

“You know that's not an option,” Mia said.

“I had to say it anyway.”

Mia thought about the type of person she wanted to become and Flo's suggestion about open and honest communication.

“Why wouldn't you let me help out on the trip over here?” Mia said. “Or at least include me in the planning?”

“We've been over this,” Andrew said.

“I have helped a lot,” Mia said. “I was just as important to you when we stopped the militia from raiding Affinity and you didn't object. I saw the look in your eyes. You know more about this mission than I do.”

“It was Zack's call,” Andrew said.

“So you're back to following orders?”

Andrew pulled his hand away and Mia grabbed it back, pressing it between both her palms.

“That's not fair,” Andrew said.

“I didn't like being treated that way,” Mia said. “Promise you won't keep me in the dark?”

“I can't,” Andrew said. “This is what you wanted. If anything bad happens to you the plan falls apart.”

“What about you?”

“I'm expendable,” Andrew said.

“No,” Mia said. “If anything happens to me, would you fall apart?”

Andrew looked Mia straight in the eyes. He let out a light laugh and his eyes went warm. He opened his mouth to answer but then shut his lips and shook his head. That look was all Mia needed to know his answer was yes. She reached up and grabbed his chin, pulling his face down toward hers, and planted a light kiss on his lips.

“You're not expendable to me,” Mia said. “And you can't protect me from everything. Especially if your protection gets in the way of me living my life.”

Andrew brought his hand down on Mia's back and started rubbing up and down.

“I want to though,” Andrew said.

“That's not your call,” Mia said.

“I promise,” Andrew said. “I won't keep you in the dark.”

Mia leaned her head against Andrew's shoulder and he wrapped his arm around her. She closed her eyes. Flo was right. Talking about this and letting go of her anger did make Mia feel much better.

 

UNCORRECTED E-PROOF—NOT FOR SALE

HarperCollins
Publishers

....................................

Chapter
15

We have spent days reviewing every document we can get our hands on. Whatever caused this disaster was man-­made. For the first time in a long while I am grateful I don't have a family.

—­The journal of Isaac Ryland

The grand commander's desk was made of fine wood and he sat in a chair that was much taller than him. Grant sat across from Ian and tried his best to focus on the old man's words, but his mind kept wandering toward the not-­so-­distant future, when Grant would finally occupy that seat.

“Gifts are already coming in from our foreign counterparts,” Ian said.

He pulled his shirt forward, so Grant got a clear view of the jewel-­encrusted American flag pin. The red and gold gems looked over-­the-­top and garish.

“What country sent this?” Grant asked, trying his hardest not to let his true opinion shine through.

“France,” Ian said.

Grant was curious why Ian was receiving gifts when Grant was the one who was getting married, but not enough to ask. Grant saw little need for presents; he could afford anything he wished to purchase, and that included feminine jewelry. He smiled, thinking of how Ian was decorating himself like a woman, convincing Grant more and more of the old man's incompetency.

“Tell me,” Ian said. “What do you know of the world's history?”

“Life before the Great War or after?”

“I'm afraid I may have phrased the question wrong,” Ian said. “It is important you are polite and respectful to our international guests. I want to ensure you are aware of their cultures.”

“The only ideals that matter are American ones,” Grant said.

As soon as he spoke he regretted his choice of words. This would only result in Ian handing out more lessons.

“Of course,” Grant said, “I am aware of the ever-­shifting global climate.”

“Indulge me,” Ian said. “Speak about Ireland.”

“Ireland is a series of islands in the Atlantic Ocean,” Grant said. “They have grown significantly in size, taking over what was once referred to as Scandinavia as soon as the Great War was over. About thirty years ago the former United Kingdom came under their control as well. Ireland was one of the few countries who stayed out of the Great War and were met with little resistance when they acquired their new lands since their neighbors were broke and beaten from the battles.”

“Hmmm,” Ian said.

Grant thought the man would be impressed by his knowledge. He wasn't finished yet.

“Some ­people would say they are the second-­strongest country next to America, since they have a strong economy, but their armed forces are nothing next to ours. Our international relations with them are weak at best. They detest our way of life. I believe it is safe to say their leaders will not be invited to the festivities.”

Ian took a breath before responding.

“They are not on our guest list,” Ian said. “I must say I am a little alarmed that a private citizen like yourself has access to such knowledge.”

“I previously confessed to you, sir, that I have been known to stroll the international Internet from time to time.”

“I suppose I should take some comfort that you are aware of what is happening in the world yet stay loyal to American principles. If others have also found a way to step outside our guards maybe they feel the same.”

“I am confident there are no others,” Grant said.

Ian gave a half smile and nodded his head. Grant was not the average American. He was special in many ways, including his technological advances.

“You are wrong about Ireland though,” Ian said.

Grant tried his best to look interested and not annoyed, making sure he raised his eyebrows in the least condescending way possible.

“The countries didn't put up little resistance,” Ian said. “They put up no resistance, opting instead to welcome the shield of the Irish flag. We don't want that to happen again.”

“If countries think they can go to Ireland for aid over America it would not benefit the country?”

“It is necessary to avoid an attack on America at all costs,” Ian said. “Remember that. Keep many men stationed overseas, give aid to foreign countries who are worthy.”

“That is a fine idea, sir.”

Ian again nodded his head, happy with Grant's answers. He switched the subject back to the gifts and Grant started fantasizing again. Only a few more weeks, then the official announcement would be made and Grant would no longer have to repeat Ian's sentiments. Once he was grand commander Grant would squash any Irish threat by sending the men stationed in Europe into their country. He would give the go-­ahead to destroy anything and everyone, sending a message to the whole world that America would always reign supreme.

 

UNCORRECTED E-PROOF—NOT FOR SALE

HarperCollins
Publishers

....................................

Chapter
16

My heart is still racing. I came across my first group of survivors. Fellow soldiers who also returned to this catastrophe. They were nice at first, but one attacked me. I shot him and ran. I have never taken a life on American soil before, but I fear this won't be my last.

—­The diary of Megan Jean

“I sip a full glass of water,” Mia said.

She repeated the phrase, making sure to draw out her vowels. Tomorrow was the day they left for America and Mia worried her French accent wasn't going to fool anyone at this point. A knock on Mia's door came and she saw Albin enter the room.

“How are you doing?” he asked.

Mia cleared her throat and tried her best to speak with the accent, opting to respond with one of the few French phrases she had picked up.

“
Je suis bien,
” she said.

“One last opportunity to see France this afternoon,” Albin said. “I will escort you to Madame Martineau.”

Mia hadn't expected another trip out but thought anything sounded better than pacing around in her room obsessing over tomorrow.

“Please try to speak like a Frenchwoman,” Albin said. “You must exude confidence and sophistication. This is the final test of your skills.”

Mia nodded her head. She picked up the white cardigan that was on her bed and pulled it over the nude tank top she wore. Mia glanced in the mirror at her tight black pants and wondered if she should change. She didn't want to ask, since she'd decided to get used to speaking as little as possible.

The car dropped Mia and Albin off at a storefront. Mia looked through a large glass window and spotted Flo. She didn't bother looking at the rest of her surroundings and instead made a beeline to her mentor. Mia was quick to greet Flo with a kiss on each cheek and the woman smiled warmly at Mia. Albin was greeted in the same manner and Mia looked around the building. There were black chairs spaced out, each in front of a vanity. Different beauty products lined the counters. Before Mia could ask where they were Andrew and Zack appeared from the back, with two strangers also dressed in black, though their outfits were less intimidating.

“The area is secure, madame,” Zack said.

Mia looked around the empty building. They were the only ones inside. She caught a glimpse of the street through the glass window, which was now guarded by at least five men.

“Hiring American bodyguards now?” one of the strangers asked. She was a young woman who did not look impressed.

“They're on loan,” Flo said. “For my trip overseas.”

The woman scowled. Mia knew she needed to ignore the two men. Andrew was playing the role of a stranger. Mia thought not acknowledging his presence would be the most difficult part of today and wished any other guard had come.

“America has done good things for our country,” Flo said. “We don't have to agree with their way of life but we must respect them. Angelique, this is Jeanette; she will be accompanying me on my travels.”

Mia walked toward the woman, expecting a greeting with the typical cheek kiss, but Angelique made no effort to move forward.

“
Approuvez-­vous la politique américaine?
” Angelique asked.

“Please,” Flo said. “English only, I don't want my new guards to think I am speaking about them.”

Angelique rolled her eyes.

“I said: and do you agree with American politics as well?”

Every part of Mia wanted to scream about her hatred for the Registry, her firsthand knowledge of the horrors America was capable of, but she knew that was not an option. Besides, today was a test of Mia's accent, not of her values. If she could fool an actual French person into thinking she was from France, then convincing other Americans should be a breeze.

“I agree with Madame Martineau,” Mia said.

Angelique rolled her eyes and walked off. The man standing behind her came forward and kissed Flo, then Mia. He was much more friendly.

“My name is Valentin,” he said. “Pleased to meet you, Jeanette. Don't mind Angelique, she fancies herself an activist.”

“Valentin and Angelique are two of the best beauticians in all of the world,” Flo said. “I thought it would be nice to freshen up for our trip.”

Mia touched her long hair. The last time she'd had a makeover it was done with little consent. The women had glued fake hair to her head.

“Yes,” Valentin said. “I will start with removing those extensions, they look cheap.”

“That is not very kind,” Flo said.

“I may be kind in certain areas,” Valentin said. “But not when it comes to beauty, and you, Jeanette, are as gorgeous as they come. Please tell me what you would like and I will try my best to keep my opinions to myself.”

“Actually I was hoping Angelique would work with Jeanette,” Flo said.

Out of all the hairdressers in France, Flo had picked the one who hated Americans the most and was sending Mia straight into her clutches. Valentin nodded and held his arm out, signaling to Angelique, who was standing behind a chair. Flo wore a large smile on her face and nodded her head. Mia threw her shoulders back and tried her hardest to walk with confidence and sophistication.

Mia didn't say a word as she took a seat in Angelique's chair. The woman was mumbling in French and Mia was glad she couldn't understand the words. She spoke louder, switching to English.

“Valentin was right,” she said. “These are cheap extensions. Did you get them in this city?”

Mia shook her head. Angelique let out a sigh.

“Well, what do you want? I am not a mind reader.”

Trying her hardest, Mia mustered up the best accent she could.

“Whatever you think looks best,” she said.

Mia looked at Angelique through the mirror; the woman was frowning and examining Mia's head. Mia felt a moment's relief that her accent didn't draw suspicion.

“I'm going to try my best to remove these and then we will see what we have to work with,” Angelique said.

Mia nodded and the woman left her to get whatever supplies she needed. She kept her eyes glued to the mirror and was thrilled to see Flo leaving her chair and approaching Mia. She turned to see the older woman, who was quick to speak in a low whisper.

“Small steps,” Flo said. “Trust me, you're fine. Remember your lessons.”

She reached up and squeezed Mia's hand before returning to Valentin. Angelique returned with a basket of oils whose labels were in French. She pulled up Mia's real hair and started rubbing liquids on her scalp in a less-­than-­friendly manner.

“I don't know how you stand her company,” Angelique said. “She ran promising fair treatment of everyone, yet continues to offer support to America. She is a hypocrite and I cannot wait until the next election when she is voted out of office. Then maybe someone with actual morals will replace her.”

“She is a good woman,” Mia said.

“And I know her guards can hear me,” Angelique said. “And I don't care. This is the free world. They cannot stifle my opinions.”

Mia let out a small yelp as Angelique tugged on her hair.

“In my eyes if you support her you are just as bad as her,” Angelique said. “Do you have any children?”

Mia shook her head.

“Keep still,” Angelique said, grabbing the sides of Mia's face.

“No,” Mia said.

“If you did would you throw them away like garbage or sell them to a complete stranger?”

Mia was all too familiar with the system Angelique was describing.

“No,” Mia said.

“Then why are you going with her?”

Every bit of Mia wanted to scream at this rude woman, to tell her that Mia was going back to put a stop to the very system she was describing, but doing so would jeopardize the mission. Defending herself to a stranger was not worth that compromise.

“I trust her,” Mia said.

“Blind faith is no way to live,” Angelique said.

Mia let out another cry and the extra hair came out from her head in Angelique's hands. Mia felt the back of her head, expecting to see blood on her fingers, but instead there was oil.

“Come with me,” Angelique said.

She didn't wait for Mia before walking toward the back of the shop. Mia followed her toward a chair with its back to a sink.

“I have to wash your hair now,” Angelique said. “You must look perfect for the Americans.”

She wore a smug smile and Mia felt her frustration grow. Mia took a seat and leaned back. The water was too hot, but Mia didn't complain. She was glad the noise from the sink blocked out whatever Angelique had to say.

This woman could not have been more wrong about Flo or Mia. It wasn't fair for her to judge them so harshly. Mia wanted to stand up for herself, to let the world know what her intentions were. Then Mia wondered what would happen if she did. Sneaking into America would no longer be a possibility. Ending the Registry would be off the table, and that was much more important than the opinion of another.

Like the water washing away the oils from Mia's scalp, some things became clear to her now. If she were a symbol to the world of what was wrong in her home country she wouldn't have to deal with this persecution. But Mia wanted more than that. She was ready to have a real place in the upcoming rebellion. That was much more valuable than anyone's opinion of her.

Mia let her eyes close. She understood one of Flo's lessons. Caring about other ­people's opinions did not matter because Mia knew what she represented to herself, and that was enough for her.