Book Seven: Chapter 58

“Because you don’t trust me, right? It’s okay if you don’t, I wouldn’t trust me either.” Mike looked at Francois, who was frowning. “My home and the people who rely on me, they trust me to make the important decisions. It’s my job to protect them, much like it’s Leilani’s job to protect her people. Every choice we make may have long-term repercussions, so excuse me if I’m not up to meeting the Captain’s standards for the sake of expediency or convenience.”

“You speak of trust. Do you not trust us?” Francois swung his arms wide to incorporate the Order.

Mike took a moment to look at everyone, his eyes lingering briefly on Ingrid’s. “Should I?” he asked. To Ingrid’s credit, she didn’t look away, but he could sense the guilt draped across her soul.

“This is such a stupid discussion.” Wallace shook his head and climbed onto the driver seat of one of the quads. “One way or another, I’ve got to hike this damned mountain, so I don’t give a shit what you all decide.”