Chapter 322

“That’s the guys!” yelled Kate. “Look! One of them is climbing out and down a ladder. He’s getting ready to board the ship! I bet it’s Steve!”

President Rosen watched the same scene that the group in Sparta, and viewers all over the world, were treated to. He found himself holding his breath.

“Sir! Steve Hammer is descending a rope ladder in preparation to board the ship,” came Petrosky’s emotional voice. “The helicopter is going far too fast for a safe dismount. Men with guns are waiting for the choppers to get within range. If there are no orders to the contrary, I’m going to fly very low over the ship, just above the tower. That may distract the shooters a little. It’s the best I can do!”

***

Gwen had an uneasy feeling after finishing her conversation with Steve. She knew he wasn’t the type to overreact, and he seemed genuinely concerned about the ship sailing near the coast of Somalia. With that in mind, she made her way to the bridge. The captain greeted