CHAPTER 42
The Road Sam Chose
NOLAN
The overheated chase truck remained on the forestry grade overnight.
The next morning, Sam led the recovery.
He arranged a tow vehicle, checked road weight limits, assigned Kira mechanical authority, and selected Priya as communications recorder. Nolan was told to remain at camp for pilot rest.
“I can help,” Nolan said.
“Yes,” Sam replied. “By not turning one recovery into an entire team’s fatigue problem.”
Nolan watched the trucks leave.
Avery found him checking First Light’s basket for the third time.
“You are trying to travel through inspection,” she said.
“I am maintaining equipment.”
“The basket has become emotionally overmaintained.”
They walked the launch field instead. Nolan described the route Sam had chosen, every grade and turnout.
Avery listened, then asked, “What evidence would make you believe he can manage it?”
“Successful recovery.”
“That is result, not evidence.”
Nolan stopped.
She continued. “He planned the route. Kira approved the tow. Weather is clear. Communications are redundant. You would accept those facts from another crew chief.”
“Yes.”
“Then what remains?”
“Fear.”
There was relief in naming it without converting it into a command.
Sam returned at noon with the truck. The radiator hose had split. Kira repaired it at the roadside after the tow moved them to level ground. No emergency. No dramatic rescue.
Nolan met Sam by the trailer.
“I was afraid,” he said.
Sam nodded. “I know.”
“I did not call.”
“I noticed.”
The achievement was small enough no one else would have seen it.
Sam reached into the recovered truck and tossed him a crushed granola bar.
“Reward,” he said.
Nolan caught it. “This expired last year.”
“Growth should remain humble.”