Chapter 8 - RookThe lead F-22 pilot from Flight 229 finally called Sarah.
Lieutenant Colonel James Walker.
Call sign Rook.
Her old squadron mate.
“You sounded terrible on radio.”
“Nice to hear you too.”
He laughed.
Then:
“I recognized you before Eli did.”
“Why didn't you say?”
“I thought I was hearing ghosts.”
Sarah looked out apartment window.
“Same.”
Rook had stayed Air Force.
He remembered Nathan’s reports.
“He complained about Vector constantly.”
“Did you tell investigators then?”
“Yes.”
“Was it in final?”
“Barely.”
Rook lowered voice.
“Sarah, Vance held a squadron meeting after accident.”
She remembered.
“He told us not speculate.”
“He said discussion of contractor issues could compromise investigation.”
“Yes.”
“We obeyed.”
Everyone.
Authority again.
Rook continued:
“I found my old notes.”
“Preserve.”
“Already with investigators.”
Sarah smiled.
“You've improved.”
“So have you. You used to steal my coffee.”
“Still would.”
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