Without another word, the three of them sprinted up to the lab.They couldn't make long-distance calls from the lab phone yet, but they sure as hell could send off an email.It was new technology, but Dr.T had been an early adopter, so they could email a message and hope it reached the Arctic in time.
Chapter 79
Allies
Shelleywasn'tthrilledaboutbeing sent away, especially when Cam had insisted she take the two massive equipment bags with her.He hadn't even bothered to take out the TDRs or videotapes she'd brought for Gray.Sure, he didn't need them, but lugging these bags around was pure torture.
Luckily, the two young men driving the catamaran had been all too eager to help her haul everything back to Gray's place.And Malcolm was blissfully unaware there was a problem, so he'd given her the spare key.
"Well, aren't you two just the most helpful!"she cooed, her voice dripping with sweetness.The young men both blushed, unused to someone showing gratitude.Most tourists barely noticed them, let alone handed out compliments.
"How about this?Help me get these bags inside Gray's place, and I'll take you both out for something to eat?"Shelley's tone was inviting, though her mind was already strategizing.She needed allies, or at the very least, someone willing to say she wasn't a complete monster.If these two could vouch for her, she'd take it.
The younger of the two, Leroy, perked up."Well, Miss, that sounds great.We're done for the day, and there's this spot with the best fried chicken; only locals go there.We could take you if you're up for it?"
"That sounds amazing!"Shelley's smile widened, already picturing the meal.She knew exactly the spot, and they had delicious fried chicken, as she'd learned a few nights ago with Bruce.
Had it only been a few nights?It felt like weeks, and the weight of it all was catching up with her.Exhaustion tugged at her, but she wasn't about to sit and wait for Gray to get back; she might as well have some fun.Especially knowing it would be at least a few hours before his day ended.She guessed he was going through each tape again with the false hope that he'd find his recordings.
Just in case Gray came looking through her stuff while she was gone, she grabbed the dry bag and slung it over her shoulder, the tapes quietly clinking together inside.
"Lead the way, gentlemen!"she said with a bright smile, locking the door behind her before following them out to the lane.
Chapter 80
Message sent
Grayfiredofftheemails, his fingers flying across the keyboard.
To: Katie Ingram
From: Gray Whittal
Subject: Urgent
Katie,
Did you know Shelley is here on the island?She told me the funding committee is unhappy with my results.Have you heard anything about this?Also, I sent in a few more weeks of data.Did you see it?
I can't take calls here, but please email me back ASAP.It's urgent.Since Shelley arrived yesterday, everything's gone sideways.My recorded videotape data are missing.Please help!
Regards,
Dr.Gray Whittal
He hit "send" and immediately started a second email.
To: Dr.Terry
From: Gray Whittal
Subject: Urgent-Need to Talk
Dr.Terry,
I've been trying to reach you; this is urgent.Shelley showed up here on the island, claiming the funding committee sent her.Is that true?Did you get the data I sent?
Also, all of my recorded videotape data has disappeared, and we don't know how.Please respond as soon as you can.If there's a way to coordinate a call, let me know.I don't know what to do.
