Matt looked at Hellerman, letting his thoughts play out on his face.

“I know what you’re thinking, Matt, but I’m one of the good guys here. And I’m bringing you in on this thing to get you back into the action. That’s what you want, right? While you can’t go on the eventual raid, you can work with me on this thing in my command post. Advise me.

“Anyway, with your injuries you’d be no good to anyone. Plus, the president would have my ass if I sent you on a tactical mission when he wants you preparing for this job advising the director.”

“I’d prefer to go after Ballantine.” Matt’s voice was stone cold.

“I’ve talked to the president and Director Houghton already, and they both want you on this mission,” Hellerman continued.

Matt waited a moment with his eyes fixed on the vice president, then spoke. “I’m an operator, sir. That’s what I do.”

“I know you’re an operator. Hell, the entire world knows you’re an operator, and that’s part of the problem. Everyone knows you. Anyway, you’ll be representing the president. The Department of Homeland Security is barely even an agency; it’s just some people looking for office space. You know how to wade into the middle of chaos and sort it out.”

“That I do,” Matt said. “What do you want me to talk to them about?”