“I haven’t had the opportunity to ask you how the investigation in the United States is going,” the older one asked.

“It’s been filed in the archives, of course. Natural causes.”

“Perfect. May I deduce that no trace of evidence was left at the location?” The older man revealed his calculating mind. He’s not given to imponderables or last-minute surprises.

“Complete security. I collected everything before the authorities arrived. His age also helped to close the case rapidly,” the younger man explained in a cold, professional tone.

“Perfect.”

They continued eating in silence. Anyone noticing the tone of the conversation wouldn’t characterize it as an interrogation, at least at this stage, although this wasn’t a friendly dinner, either, but a meeting with an agenda planned by the older one. Both ate slowly, taking small forkfuls and pausing to chew without hurry.

“The second part of the plan begins immediately,” the older man began. “It’s going to be more and more demanding. There can be no mistakes.”

“There won’t be,” the younger man, quite confident, assured him.

“How’s the team?”

“Already in place for several weeks, as you directed. All the subjects are under constant surveillance, except one.”

“Good, very good.” He would’ve rubbed his hands with pleasure if he were a man given to expressing himself with gestures. He guarded his emotions and never shared them. “And in London?”

“Our man has privileged access to the subject,” the younger one explained. “As soon as I give the okay, the way is open.”

“These are the hardest parts of the plan to implement. London and JC,” the man with his back to the dining room said firmly.