In Snakehead, by Anthony Horowitz, end up being pulled into another dangerous mission immediately after surviving the events of Ark Angel. He is suddenly separated from MI6 and placed under the control of ASIS, who expect him to help stop a criminal operation known as the Snakehead. In this part of the book Alex is reflecting on how little choice he has ever had in the life of spying, even while standing beside Ash the man who may be connected to his parents’ past. Alex feels torn between wanting answers and fearing betrayal.
“He had never chosen this life. It had chosen him.”
Alex’s reflection shows how really conflicted he is. He is only a teenager, but he is repeatedly forced into life hreatening missions by adults who treat him more like a weapon than an actual person. This moment also shows how tired he is of being controlledlied to and pushed into danger without his consent. It also shows the emotional distance between Alex and the people who should have protected him.
What made this moment stand out to me is how honest it is. Alex rarely expresses vulnerability and his feelings out loud, so his internal realization hits hard.