Chapter 87 Summary

Mark picks up Samir Patel from his hotel in a rented red Mustang convertible shortly before noon. After a brief drive, they decide to walk to a nearby restaurant Samir had discovered earlier. During their walk and lunch, Samir expresses optimism that his temporary contract with ByteForge Security might become permanent. Mark reveals he’s heading to Charlotte, North Carolina, but keeps the full details of his travel plans vague.

Meanwhile, at the CIA’s underground data center, Janet Faber monitors the final stages of restoring the Quest system. Alexandra Conner, visibly anxious, steps outside with Ken Hookey to get some air, but the break only heightens her stress. Back inside, Janet announces the restoration is complete and begins the carefully documented startup procedure. Conner, exhausted and running on little sleep, agrees to return to her office to rest but insists she be alerted if anything unusual occurs.

Later that day, following a Giants baseball game, Mark and Samir return to Thomas Allen’s luxurious home. Samir is impressed by the home’s grandeur, and the two make their way to the patio to join Thomas and his guests. The chapter ends with Mark caught completely off guard by an accusatory outburst, setting the stage for a tense confrontation.