Ian Mallory has a rare condition that keeps him from feeling his emotions right away. He's able to keep his cool in situations that would make other men panic, which came in handy when he needed to help his step-daughter cover up a murder. Now, the NSA thinks Ian's services would be useful in neutralizing an operative who's outgrown his usefulness, and they're not leaving Ian any choice. The only detail to be worked out is what exactly they mean by "neutralize."