When Dr. Liam and Dr. Subra frown, maybe it’s my imagination but I get the feeling they don’t believe me.
“What’s your interest in this, Gray?” Dr. Liam folds his hands, index fingers at his pursed lips.
“It’s simple, actually. Calliope’s mother hired Patten Securities to protect your protégé, here. Unfortunately, the contract puts my company in conflict with the FBI.”
Dr. Liam stands. “Stop there. I’d rather not know anything more. If questioned, I can feign ignorance. Rahul, are you okay with this?”
Dr. Subramanyam nods. “For now. However, I’ll need some time to study all the facts.” Then, he shakes his head and looks at me. “I wish you had come to me sooner.”
“Me too.” I don’t tell him I thought Gerard was filling him in, every step of the way.
“Gentlemen? I’ll keep you apprised of the situation. If the FBI approaches you, I request you say nothing of this meeting. Other than that, feel free to give them your full cooperation.”
“Thank you, Mr. Patten.” I can’t believe he stepped in to help me and for the first time in many years, appreciate my mother’s buttinski-ness.
We say our goodbyes, the projected image goes blank, and I gather up my laptop. Alan, Gerard, and now, Yuri? I am such an idiot.
At least, my real thesis is under review.
However, I may be getting my degree behind bars.
