Ethan returned to the lavish reception hall and located Congressman Thompson, who was now engaged in a lively discussion with a group of businessmen.
Thompson spotted him instantly. "Mr. Blake! All is well, I trust? Your 'friend' was properly accommodated?"
"Perfectly, thank you," Ethan said, giving a polite but non-committal smile. "Everything is in order."
Ethan began to circulate the event again, his eyes sharp and analytical, trying to find any sign of Emily or Samantha. He scrutinized the staff, the security, and the few closed doors he passed. There were no obvious signs of anything amiss or any unauthorized personnel.
He rejoined Thompson. Though Ethan desperately wanted to ask about the hostages, he knew he couldn't reveal his true intentions. Thompson was an asset, but not a subordinate; their relationship was purely transactional, and exposing the kidnapping would risk Thompson either panicking or leveraging the information against him. Sowing discord was key.
