Chapter 18

“And where do you come to us from?” Captain Inskeep said.

“My last tour was on a carrier, Sir.”

“That’s certainly a good experience to have, but in my judgment, a waste of a good RNFA’s talents.”

“That’s what my last CO said, Sir.”

“Scooter will put your skills to good use, I’m sure. Now, if you gentlemen will excuse me, my wife is trying to get my attention.”

When the captain was out of earshot, Dr. Cobb said, “I wasn’t kidding about him being starchy. He’s not quite a ‘by-the-book clown’, but close enough. I can tease him about it because we’ve known each other for many years.”

“Yes, Sir. Advice noted, Sir.”

“Chris, if we’re going to be working together, you need to ratchet those ‘Yes, Sirs’ down a notch or two.”

“It’s a hard habit to break, Sir.”

“Yes, I know, but try, especially when we’re alone. In fact, when we’re alone, call me Scooter.”

“That won’t be easy, Sir. Old habits and everything.”