Meanwhile-
Coulson arrived at Victory Square and said, "Maybe once he activates the kill switch, he'll leave immediately."
May, monitoring the location on the screen, responded quickly, "He's still there, 20 meters away from you."
Coulson began scanning the crowd in the square and quickly identified a burly man, around 40 years old, who had just exited a building.
"I think I've found him," Coulson said as he started approaching the man.
"Excuse me, sir," Coulson called out.
The British man waved dismissively, saying, "Sorry, I'm late for something."
Coulson flashed his S.H.I.E.L.D. credentials, holding them in front of the man and said, "I'm with S.H.I.E.L.D."
Upon seeing Coulson's badge, the man's face fell in despair.
"Oh God," he muttered.
In the next moment, the deadly device implanted in the man's eye was triggered, and he collapsed to the ground.
Coulson froze for a second, realizing that Amador's handler also had a similar implant in his eye.
The lead had gone cold, and with nothing else to pursue. With no other choice, Coulson headed back.
…
Back on the aircraft-
Coulson informed S.H.I.E.L.D. headquarters. By now, transport personnel had arrived to take Amador into custody.
As Coulson escorted the post-surgery Amador outside, he explained, "Your handler used to be an officer in MI6. He disappeared a few years ago."
Amador was silent for a moment before saying, "My handler had no choice, just like me."
Coulson nodded. "The real threat is still out there. S.H.I.E.L.D. is working on deciphering the equations on that blackboard. No one's ever seen anything like it."
"Some think it could be alien script, or maybe it's just normal equations," Coulson continued.
"Since it's worth 30 million, it's certainly important."
"We'll figure it out."
By now, they had reached the aircraft stairs, where S.H.I.E.L.D. agents were waiting to take Amador into custody.
"You'll get a fair trial. I plan to testify," Coulson said, smiling slightly as he noticed Amador's surprised expression.
"I know some people."
"You deserve a second chance."
Amador looked at Coulson, her expression filled with disbelief.
"You've already given me one. Whatever happens next doesn't matter."
"I'm free now. Thank you."
At that moment, May appeared behind them.
Coulson wished Amador, "Good luck," and turned to leave, not wanting to see his former student being taken into custody by S.H.I.E.L.D.
As Coulson walked away, Amador followed May towards the transport vehicle and asked, "What's with Agent Coulson? He's changed."
May, unconcerned, replied, "He's loosened up a bit."
"Before the Battle of New York, he nearly died."
Akela Amador moved closer to May, her voice serious as she asked, "What did they do to him?"
May stopped in her tracks, looking puzzled as she turned to Amador.
"What are you talking about?"
Seeing the expression on May's face, Amador paused for three seconds before shaking her head.
"Forget it. I didn't ask."
She then turned and walked toward the transport vehicle.
May watched as Amador walked away, a thoughtful look on her face.
With Amador's departure, May started the plane, ready to leave the area as well.
As the aircraft smoothly ascended into the sky, Coulson approached the car where Skye was hiding.
He opened the door and asked, "Do you need a bit more time alone?"
Skye smiled and replied, "I wouldn't mind hanging out with AC for a bit."
"Hop in."
Coulson got into the passenger seat, closing the door, and looked at Skye. "What's wrong with Agent Coulson, or just Coulson?"
Skye laughed. "Nothing's wrong with it, but AC just sounds cooler."
"Because you're cool—like giving Amador a second chance."
Coulson reflected for a moment, "I got a second chance myself. It's only fair that I offer the same to others."
He took a deep breath, leaned back into the seat, and relaxed.
"I understand why you like it here."
Skye leaned back and smiled, "Yeah, it's like my van."
"But without the homeless people trying to break in. I don't miss that."
"It's quieter here."
"Knowing that no matter what happens, someone has my back."
"It feels good."
Coulson agreed, "Quiet is good."
…
Meanwhile-
Akela Amador had been placed in prison, awaiting her trial. She lay down on the bed slowly.
For the first time in a long while, she could finally sleep in peace. Closing her eyes, a tear slipped down her cheek.
###
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