She didn’t reply.
“No one would fault us if we decided to get out of this country. In fact, that’s what Worley and Dombroski wanted us to do.”
“Thanks for the option. I’m all in for Kavak.”
“Okay.”Just remember you said that. He added, “I think he’d also be game to take us from Kavak to Bogotá.”
She nodded, then said, “You need to call Colonel Dombroski, as per orders.”
“It would take the embassy commo people less than three minutes to pinpoint our signal.”
“Call from a landline.”
“I don’t see a phone booth.”
“Scott—”
“Let’s just get the hell out of here. We’ll call from Tomás de Heres.”
“Promise?”
“No. Look, Maggie, we are like ballistic missiles on a mission—unguided, and not able to be controlled, called back, or aborted by an electronic signal. We are on our own, flying toward our target. And that’s the way it’s got to be.”
She thought about that, not looking totally convinced, but said, “Okay.”
“I could learn to love you.”
“Don’t bother.”
They continued toward the aircraft, where Collins was checking out Mrs. Bowman in the dim light. He extended his hand to her. “Pleased to meet you, Mrs. Bowman.”
“Same here.”
“The bad weather has moved out to sea. This will be a very safe and smooth flight.”
“Good.”
“Is this all your luggage?”
Brodie replied, “We wanted to keep the plane light.”
“Okay… Weight shouldn’t be a problem at Kavak.”
“Have you flown there?”
“A few times.” He looked at Taylor. “Nothing to worry about.”
“I’m not worried.”
“Good. You just relax and enjoy the flight.”
Taylor glanced at Brodie, suspecting that he’d indulged his sick humor at her expense.
Collins motioned to the aircraft and assured her, “This is a Cessna Turbo Stationair HD, new model, one of the best and safest aircraft—”
“Let’s get moving,” Taylor suggested.
“Yes, ma’am. Just a formality, but I need to see your IDs.”
