Page 58

“Let’s get to work.” Karn ran his hand over the access panel and was surprised when the docking ramp dropped down. “Whoever owns this ship really doesn’t care if it’s stolen.”

“What about the guards?” Billy whispered. “They’ll think it’s strange if a ship takes off without logging a flight plan.”

“Don’t worry about that. I messaged a couple of friends. They’ll be here in a moment to provide a suitable distraction.”

“You’re taking out the guards?”

“Nothing so violent. There are other ways to distract them.” Karn nodded toward the docking bay doors where two provocatively dressed humans sashayed through.

Both the guards’ backs straightened as they watched the women approach.

“You know those hot chicks?” Billy asked.

“They’re friends of mine,” Karn said. “I paid them a little money to keep the guards entertained while we leave.”

Billy laughed, his eyes glued to the women as they flirted with the guards.

“Come on, kid. Less leering and more action.”

They headed onto the ship. It really was a hunk of junk. There were bare wires exposed, and the pilot seat was nothing more than an upturned crate. So long as it went that’s all Karn cared about. He needed to get off this station before he was arrested again. This was his new start.

Karn secured the docking ramp to avoid any unwanted guests sneaking on board. The controls were basic. It was easy to bypass the security and engage the engines.

“Everything looks good to go,” Karn said.

“The docking bay doors are opening,” Billy said. “Somebody else must be leaving.”

“Perfect. We’ll jump on their tail and get out. With a bit of luck, the guards will be so busy they won’t notice a small ship heading into space.”

Billy sat in the co-pilot seat next to Karn and strapped in. “This is so cool. We’re really going on an adventure.”

“Of course we are. A new start somewhere else. I can take my work anywhere.”

Billy was silent for a moment. “What about me? Can I work for you?”

“You want to be my bodyguard?”

“Not really. I mean, I could do it. I’ll protect you if I have to.”

“Of course you will, kid.”

“Maybe I can be like you. I can be a spy.”

“An intelligence gatherer.”

“Sure. I can be one of those. You can have me as your apprentice. You know I work hard.”

Karn’s mouth twisted to the side. He worked alone. That was how he’d always done things. It was simpler that way. There was nobody else to risk getting hurt. He didn’t like the thought of Billy being put at risk.

“I’ll think about it. This isn’t an easy job.”

“I know I can do it.”

Karn smiled at Billy. “Do you know how to fly this?”

“Sure. We all had lessons in the simulator when we first got here. I aced my tests, even with only one arm.”

“Do you want to do the honors and fly us out?”