He waits for his compliments to land, then goes in for the kill.
“That said, I think we all recognize the dominant risk factor isn’t mechanical. It’s human.”
Scott shifts in his chair. I don’t care for this guy either.
“Before we make any decisions on the dives, and potentially risk more human life, I want to ensure we have a full set of options on the table. We’ve got tools and contingencies we can employ to triage this. Right now.”
Finn’s face drops, and he swallows. We all know what that means. Plan B.
“I think it’s too soon to—” Finn starts.
The liaison snaps his gaze to Nicolaus.
“Dr. Clark. Let him finish.”
The DARPA liaison continues. Sure enough, he lays out alternatives. Freezing agents and a targeted seal of the caves. Methods that would be disastrous to the reef and the blue hole.
I’m grateful Crystal’s not with us. Hearing the liaison’s cold, clinical tone as he explains how he could make our problems go away with a click of a button would crush her. And piss her off.
When he finishes, he turns back to Commander Nicolaus and waits.
“Thank you,” the commander says at last. “Those are all valid alternatives. If they become necessary.” He pauses. “But I don’t believe we’re there yet. My men can properly train for cave diving. They’ll do it fast. That’s the next step.”
“Respectfully, that’s not going to work,” Scott jumps in. “Your men can learn fast, but our priority is execution. We’re already trained on the Shields. Let’s get this done.”
The commander studies Scott for a moment, then leans toward the DARPA liaison. They exchange some words privately. Commander Nicolaus gives a small shake of his head.“Fine. If you’re confident in your readiness, we’ll put your team in the Shields—with our oversight. Are you confident, Rickter?”
“Yes.”
“Very well.” The commander straightens. “Given how quickly this is escalating, I agree we need to move. I don’t want our next conversation to be about those alternatives we just discussed.” He gives the liaison a hard look. “And I, for one, would consider it a tragedy to lose a geographical treasure like Carter’s Drop.” His attention returns to Finn. “Let’s brief after each thermal dive.”
The DARPA liaison, commander, and his staff leave.
As soon as the door shuts, Scott turns to Garrett, dropping his fist on the table. “We need every skilled cave diver who has experience in the Drop.”
“Isn’t that what we have?” Garret asks sarcastically.
“Garrett, we need Wes. Get over whatever grudge you have with him—NOW.”
“Wes Harrington isn’t an option,” Garrett says.
“Why not?”
“I have my reasons. Anyway, he’s off the table.”
Scott looks like he’s about to tear into him until Sid stands up.
“Daddy Dearest.” She smiles sweetly at Garrett.
He looks at the table, unable to meet her eyes.
“Scott’s right. You need to let this go andstopmeddling in people’s lives. This is too important, and it’s not about you.”
He gives her a long stare.
What is going on with those two? Why doesn’t he just chill? She’s his daughter, for God’s sake.
Natalie’s little face pops into my head. I promise you I’ll always be on your side, Sugar Muffin. You’ll never feel less than around me.
