“You’re the new agent?”

Emir’s words were heavy with disbelief. “You’re the one Adam recommended?”

“Yes,” Kate said. “I’m K.J.…”

“This won’t work.”

“By this, you mean me?” She took a step forward. Now she was in his face.

“That’s what you meant, wasn’t it? I’m not a man so…” She left the remainder of the sentence hanging.

“You need to get on the first flight home,” he said through clenched teeth.

“Give me a chance.”

“It’s not me that’s the problem.”

“I know,” she interrupted. “It’s the customs, the tribes outside the city, the…”

“It won’t work.”

“Look, I know what I’m getting into. I’m qualified. I specialized in Middle Eastern studies—an exchange student. I’ll help you find your sister. You just need to trust me.”