“I caused trouble. I didn’t feel good when I got back from the cemetery. I should have said something.” Her eyes watered.
Troy pressed his lips together. “Hmm, I’m going to have to do something. You’re having a crisis of confidence.” He smiled. “Eyes on mine and repeat after me:I will stop worrying about causing trouble. I am a strong and capable operator.”
Gwen smiled. “Thank you.”I am a strong operator, just not around you.
Troy shook his head and twirled his finger, so Gwen repeated what he asked. “That’s better. Doc Miller is going to hold you at least until tomorrow. I want you to rest, watch silly TV and eat whatever you want. Jule said the cafeteria has five-star Yelp reviews.” He leaned in and whispered, “If you want, I’m sure I can find an operator to buy you one of those novels that are not about field-stripping a rifle.” He winked.
Gwen laughed hard. “Thank you. I think I’ll be okay. Now we have your schedule to discuss. My dad always said wasted minutes are wasted opportunities.”
“Your dad is a smart man. Tell me about him.”
“He’s big. When I was in high school, my phys-ed teacher said he reminded him of an old-time player named Refrigerator Perry. But thin and in shape.”
“That’s big. You don’t follow football, do you?”
“It shows, huh? I like hockey.” Gwen made her hands like she was holding a stick. “He’s a lieutenant general at Fort Irwin.”
“And you’re working for a company built by two SEALs?”
Gwen was sure Troy already knew that.He’s so easy to talk to. It’s been a long time, Gwen.“He’s happy if I’m happy. Now you’ve distracted me enough. I’ll tell you about my family after we run through your schedule.”
Troy blew out a breath. “The plan is for me to go to work. One step at a time. I told Jule I’ll take over the client interviews, San Diego’s Eagle’s Talon Teams and oversight of the medical division. After work, I have a discussion with Dr. Sommerfeld and a PT evaluation.”
Gwen noticed Troy’s eyes drifted downward when he said PT. He was hiding something. “That’s not a slow day.”
He chuckled. “Slow for me. And as for you, follow doctor’s orders.”
Gwen held her hand up to her mouth to cover a yawn. “I promise I’ll listen.”I’ll listen unless something more important comes up.
A nurse joined them. “Mr. Bremen, Ms. North needs to get some rest.”
“I’ll see you in the morning,” he said.
“I’m a phone call away.” Her eyes followed him until the door closed. A lump developed in her throat, wishing he’d stay.
“Ms. North, is there anything you need?” the nurse asked.
“No, unless you have a dermal regenerator.” She shrugged.
“I can check with Dr. Miller,” the nurse offered.
Gwen held her hands up. “You’re not aStar Trekfan? It’s a fictional healing device.” She was disappointed the nurse didn’t get her joke. She wondered if Troy would.
Chapter 6
Tuesday, May 29th
Troy walked through the front doors of Tower 1.It’s the first day of the rest of your life. “Okay, I’m ready for my close-up, Mr. Dupart.” Troy gave Julian a cheeky smile.
Julian led him to the reception desk, which was run by level-one employees. “Good morning, Mr. Dupart,” one said.
“Morning, we are heading upstairs.” Julian flashed his ID.
Troy stepped beside Julian and continued to walk toward the elevator bank. “Excuse me, sir. May I see a form of identification?” another asked.
Troy nodded. “Good job.” He presented his ID and began to chuckle. The four greeters turned varied shades of white to green after they saw Troy’s ID. “Have a good day.” He waved.
Inside the elevator, Julian laughed. “I always liked shock and awe.”
