‘I mean how easy is it to find a new captain though? Surely it’s got to be a lot of hassle.’ Ore wasn’t sure how all that worked. She couldn’t imagine it was the sort of thing where you just put up a LinkedIn ad.
‘It is. The agency was lucky that I had some time booked off, and I could jump in to replace Annie at the last minute.’
‘I think that’s the missing link. I need to work out what Claude is offering Chuck that’s worth all that hassle, not to mention the bad blood it’s created with all his staff …’ Ore felt sure this was the key; she just had no idea how to work it out.
‘What do you know about his Klauparten company thing?’ Daniel asked, and Ore was quietly impressed that he had followed the interview so intently.
‘I couldn’t find anything when I googled it, but I’ll have another look tonight.’ They stood for a moment in silence, each mulling over the puzzle.
‘I think we should get out of this cupboard now; sorry it’s all so cloak and dagger. I’m probably overreacting.’ Daniel made for the door.
‘You don’t strike me as the sort of man who overreacts, Daniel, and you know this world better than me, so maybe we should try and only talk about this stuff when we’re alone like this.’ Ore felt a thrill at their newfound camaraderie.
‘OK, well if I hear anything, I’ll knock on your door, and then we can meet here to discuss it.’
‘So you’re a double agent then?’ she said teasingly. ‘Turning on your former spymaster to work for the enemy?’
But Daniel looked serious as he responded, ‘Honestly? I wanted to stay out of it all, but if I am going to get involved, I want to be on the right side … with you.’
Ore felt heat rising into her cheeks. ‘Well, glad to have you on board, Captain Wilsons, if you’ll pardon the pun.’
He laughed, and it made Ore feel less alone.
