When Russian spy Irena Kolodenkova stumbles upon project Whirlwind and makes a run for it, Sam, the National security Advisor, calls on Charlie McKenzie, former Central Intelligence Operations director, for one last job. Having lost his position and served time in prison after following mistaken orders from Sam, Charlie sees it as an opportunity to make a lot of money and force Sam to give him a presidential pardon. Sam also hires ruthless mercenary Johan Schmidt, who hopes his assignment will not only result in the capture of Irina, but the death of Charlie. Charlie quickly locates Irina, only to let her go. He'll catch up with her soon enough. As the chase ensues and becomes more volatile, Charlie unravels the mystery of Whirlwind and finds himself falling for the beautiful, talented and good-hearted Irina. He appoints himself her protector, though Irina isn't so ready to let him help her. Humiliated by her father while growing up, Irina is determined to prove she's good enough. As Johan and his henchmen close in on Irina and Charlie, the bond between them grows, but is it enough to save them both and bring Irina over to Charlie's side?