Dick sits in his cubicle staring at the “breaking news” on his computer. In front of him are his last-minute notes for the clinical trial, shorthand he knows Graham will be able to decipher. He won’t be here for RepAir’s success, a loss nearly as devastating as everything else he’s giving up, but he hopes to leave it with its best chance for success.
A detective stands on the steps of Cray’s house, a tall man in a gray jacket with a reassuring, calm manner. He nods somberly. “The boy is okay. He has been reunited with his family and, I am pleased to say, released from the hospital.”
Dick’s emotions flood into his eyes, a tidal wave that takes enormous effort to contain.
“The family has asked me to convey how grateful they are to the police, the paramedics, and the community. And of course to the Good Samaritan who intervened and stopped this from becoming a much worse crime than it was. They also ask that you respect their privacy during this difficult time. Thank you.”
The reporters scream questions, but the man ignores them and returns into the house. The camera pans back to the reporter, and that’s when Dick sees him, Steve standing in the driveway, his hands loose at his sides and his head cocked left as he looks at the house.
Dick blinks several times in surprise, wondering how he got there so fast. But he knows. Steve was already here. He was at the fundraiser last night. Dick just didn’t see him.
Steve being here changes things. He glances at the clock then returns to his work.
Time is running out.