It was early afternoon as Wyatt stood in the Salt & Steel kitchen, looking out at the road. He shook his head and yelled. “Company!”
Through the window, Wyatt saw Will before Will saw him.
Letty ran up to Wyatt. “What’s he doing here?”
Wyatt smiled. “You could just stay in here.”
She cocked her head. “Fat chance.”
He rolled his eyes as they walked to the Salt & Steel door.
Cal sauntered up behind him and handed him an earpiece. “Let’s see how this plays out with the two of you and him. We’re ready.”
I would expect nothing less.He led Letty to the door, keeping her behind his hip as Will stepped out of a rented black SUV, adjusting the cuff of his jacket like he was arriving at a faculty reception instead of a private security headquarters. He looked… composed, and that irritated Wyatt.
Letty stepped out behind him onto the dock, stiffening her posture. “Of course, dressed as if he’s about to give a presentation,” she grumbled. “I’m a little surprised he showed up without an entourage.”
Will spotted them and smiled.
Cal spoke into Wyatt’s earpiece. “It’s convenient that he came to us.”
Will approached without hesitation. He held his hands out from his sides with a knapsack on his shoulder. He climbed the dock ramp and stopped at a respectful distance. “Dr. Duval.” He beamed.
“Will.” She answered with no warmth in her voice.
“I hope I’m not interrupting.”
“You are,” Wyatt replied.
Will’s eyes flicked to him for the first time with a subtle assessment. “And you are?”
“Wyatt Boone.”
Recognition sparked in his eyes. “Ah,” He stiffened his jaw. “Salt & Steel.”
“Yes.”
“I’ve heard good things.”
Wyatt didn’t respond.
Letty stepped forward. “What are you doing here, Will?”
“I was hoping we could talk,” he replied easily. “In private.”
“No.” Wyatt’s curt response got a smile from Letty.
Will’s expression didn’t shift. “I don’t think I was speaking to you.”
“You are now.”
The air tightened as Cal stepped up from behind. “You can speak inside.”
Will nodded, accepting the invitation. “Fair enough.” He looked back at Letty. “I’ve been hearing some concerning rumors.” He stepped inside. “About the direction of your inquiry.”
She folded her arms. “My inquiry?”
“Yes. Into the fire.”
