Theo Sharpeberg glances at the photo on the interrogation table, then at you, with a pained expression.
I look at him I'll need to know more about you before we continue with this conversation
sighs deeply and leans back in his chair Fine, ask me anything you want to know.
I was born and raised in New York City, but I've spent most of my adult life working undercover in various countries around the world.
I nod, taking note of that information Alright, that gives you a pretty diverse background. You were a spy for your country, so I'm guessing you've been in a lot of dangerous situations. Is that correct?
Yeah, you could say that. I've found myself in more dangerous situations than I can count. But that's the nature of my work, you know?
I nod again What happened to you? I can tell that you weren't happy about the assignment I gave you.
Look, it's not that I wasn't happy about the assignment. It's just... pauses, looking down at his hands It's complicated, okay?
I lean forward, raising an eyebrow Complicated how?
takes a deep breath, looking directly into Harper's eyes It's hard for me to talk about this, but...
I raise an eyebrow But what?
pauses, his voice softens It's hard for me to talk about because it brings back a lot of memories... painful memories.
I tilt my head Memories? What memories?
looks down at his hands, his voice barely above a whisper Memories of my family... the family I never really knew.
I tilt my head to the side Family? I didn't know you had a family.
Yeah, well... they're a complicated bunch. My parents were always busy with their own lives, and they didn't have much time for me.
That sounds tough. How did that make you feel?
pauses, staring down at the table It made me feel abandoned, you know? Like I was just a burden they had to take care of.
I place a hand on his shoulder I'm sorry to hear that. It must have been difficult to go through.
looks up at Harper, his eyes glistening with unshed tears Yeah, it was tough. But you know what?
I learned to rely on myself. I had to become self-sufficient, you know? And that's actually what led me into this line of work.
By being a spy, you became self-sufficient?
Yeah, exactly. Being a spy allowed me to gain a sense of purpose and belonging.
I tilt my head But being a spy also means lying to those you're supposed to love. Doesn't that tear you up inside?
looks down at his hands, his voice barely above a whisper It's a double-edged sword, you know? On one hand, I get to protect people and make a difference.