Dossier Le Chiffre
I like her | Je l’aime bien
‘Someone seems to have it in for you.’
‘…? What are you talking about?’
‘Clearly you insulted or embarrassed one of your higher ups so badly, they sent you on this mission to get rid of you.’
‘I… I don’t know what you’re talking about.’
‘At least you can speak Russian fluently. But… Easter in March? The only thing missing was you holding a huge placard saying “please KGB, catch me, I am an American spy!”’
“I got the dates mixed up. It happens to the best of us.’
‘You are hopeless. I like you. Report to me tomorrow at this address. It is a charming tearoom in the Arbat. You do know where that is, don’t you?’
‘Wait, what?’
‘Oh don’t you get it? I’m recruiting you. As far as your superiors are concerned you’re already dead. You might as well become a double agent and enjoy what little protection I can give you. That’s a whole sight more than what your own side gave you. It’s your choice. Dead by my own hand, or live a little longer and perhaps not be killed by your own side. I don’t care.’