Part 3
Michael headed for munitions to turn in his equipment just in time to catch up with Operations. "What are you doing here?" Operations demanded. "I thought you were handling the situation in Belgium."
"I am handling it," Michael answered stoically. "I handed team lead in the field off to Darren. He and Alexandra have the situation well under control."
"Who authorized that change in profile?"
"Madeleine," Michael replied.
At that moment Madeleine arrived. "Michael, glad to see you made it back in time. The others are waiting at van access for your arrival."
Michael nodded and continued past his superiors to munitions.
"What’s going on here?" Operations queried.
"There is a dance class tonight. We are nearing completion on that mission and Michael couldn’t miss another rehearsal," Madeleine told him with a Mona Lisa smile.
"I am tired of having missions interrupted for these damn dance classes, Madeleine," Operations announced. "Let’s just neutralize DeHann and get back to our business."
"Our efficiency numbers have not dropped in the least. And we have been able to utilize some previously untapped talents of several of our second tier operatives. Keeping DeHann around will also benefit section. I am not sure what will be gained by terminating the dance mission at this juncture."
"How much longer must we accommodate this silliness?" Operations asked wearily.
"This is their last rehearsal before their performance at the benefit dinner banquet next week. That is why it was imperative all the operatives be present for today’s class," Madeleine answered.
"Very well," Operations said and stalked off.
Michael arrived at van access to find the other operatives practicing their routine. The corners of his mouth twitched upwards slightly at the sight of twelve operatives salsa dancing in van access. Even Avillion and Sinjn seemed to be having fun, though they would never admit it if you asked them. DragonLady and Damien were dancing Michael and Danielle’s part. The performance that was to be put on by the salsa class was carefully choreographed to showcase Danielle.
"Let’s go." Michael ordered, turning the music off and hefting the boom box.
Everyone else gathered their stuff and fell into line quickly heading for transport.
On their way back from class Genie and DeLeah reported on the guest list for the banquet. "DeHann is confirmed," DeLeah announced. "Evidently he gives a lot of money to the center and is an honored guest."
"We managed to get seated at his table, as well," Genie added.
"Very good. I’ll let Madeleine know." Michael told them.
Part 4
DeHann froze when the salsa class took the stage. There was Michael Samuelle with his arms around his little girl. Alexander started to get up but was stopped by DeLeah’s commanding hand on his thigh. "I wouldn’t do that if I were you," she whispered softly. "All I have to do is give the signal and Michael will break her neck. Do you understand?" DeHann nodded.
"All your agitation is upsetting some of your associates," Genie remarked quietly from the other side of DeHann. "Why don’t you reassure them?" she ordered steely.
DeHann relaxed with visible effort. He waved off the security forces that had headed his way at his distress and made a tasteless sexual advance at DeLeah. She smiled and whispered in his ear, "Excellent cover Mr. DeHann. Your little girl may yet live through this night."
While the others danced Genie and DeLeah continued to flirt with Alexander DeHann for the benefit of the other people at their table. Ever once in a while one would make a big show of nuzzling up to him so they could whisper into his ear. "To answer the question in your eyes, no she doesn’t know who we are. She just thinks they are people in her dance class and we are center volunteers."
DeHann’s eyes widened slightly as he realized the implications of what Genie had just said. They were all Section. DeLeah noticed his anxiety and cooed, "Now Mr. DeHann no need to get so worked up over Genie over there. She is not half as interesting as I am."
Genie smiled and said in a stage whisper, "But DeLeah isn’t nearly as interesting as we are together."
The director of the center, well used to the antics of these two by this time, chimed in with, "Now girls, don’t give Mr. DeHann a heart attack. He has been very good to us."
"We were just having fun, Mr. Avery," DeLeah pouted prettily.
"Mr. DeHann knows that DeLeah," Genie said. "Don’t you Mr. DeHann?"
"I think I understand you very well Genie," Alexander replied.
After the recital the participants of the various dance classes mingled with the guests.
"Come meet my friends from class," Danielle cajoled her father, taking his hand and leading him over to where the group was assembled.
When they arrived, Brenna extended her hand to Alexander and said, "Danielle, I didn’t know this was your father. So nice to see you again Alexander. Madeleine will be so glad to hear you are looking well."
"Yes, please send her my warm regards," Alexander replied.
"I’ll do that," Brenna said meaningfully.
"How do you two know each other?" Danielle asked innocently.
"We did some business together last year," Alexander replied. "If you will excuse us, I must take Danielle and head home. We have an early day tomorrow."
The team from Section participated in the reception long enough for their departure not to cause suspicion and then headed back.
Madeleine met them at van access. "DeHann just called. I think our message was received loud and clear. Good work."
As the team dispersed with most of the girls heading back to CLHQ, Curlly announced, "I think salsa dancing should be a regular CLHQ activity."
"That can be arranged, I’m sure," DragonLady answered. "Several CL operatives have approached me about getting lessons."
"But who will Michael dance with?" Brenna asked.
"Maybe we’ll only have salsa night when either Rita or Sherry is on a mission," Avi suggested.
"Think we’ll get Operations to join us?" Kathy mused.
"Oh my, now that would be a sight to behold," Brenna giggled.
The End
**Darren and Alexandra are used with permission from Kimberly. Read her stories at http://www.geocities.com/SoHo/Museum/9498/