Toward the Brink (Book 3) by Craig A. McDonough Read Free Book Online Page B

Riley.” He threw out a hand.
    Once the introductions were over, they returned to the discussion at hand.
    “What I meant, Chuck,” Bob continued after the short delay, “is that everyone in your group piled into a single truck and headed out to the airport. Out into the night, and you have already attested to the fact that’s when the foamers are most active. Now, I ask … were you really coming to warn us, or did you perhaps see the plane as your ride out of here?”
    “You’re a pretty clued-in guy for a politician,” the Tall Man retorted.
    “You have to be at times,” Bob replied. “I only have one question. What did you initially intend to do with the occupants of the plane? You had no idea who it would be. The answer won’t bother me at all. I’m just curious.”
    “To be honest, I hadn’t thought that far ahead,” the Tall Man began, “but if it came down to our survival or yours, I would have forced you off the plane or killed you myself.”
    The Tall Man was nothing if not honest—and blunt! Kath was taken aback more than the others at the table. She understood by now that the man she’d fallen in love with was no shrinking violet, but to hear his words sent a chill down her back. She knew and believed in the man with a heart as big as his physique, and that’s what counted the most. And with all the foamers about, his cold but practical attitude would be welcome. Of that she was certain.

    I f there were any doubts about the professionalism and ability of this tall individual, his straightforward reply had laid them to rest. Chess, more than anyone, understood that should a time come when control of this group had to be taken, it wouldn’t be easy. The loyalties within this group would complicate things, as well. But so far, Chess was impressed with their organizational skills and the tactics they employed to survive. Still, he would keep a wary eye out; the status quo could change drastically at any time.
    As Elliot listened to further details of how the collapse had unfolded, he felt sick to his stomach to know that this man Ethereidge, now only feet from him, was responsible.
    Elliot shook his head. “Asshole!”
    “Something the matter, Elliot?” Bob had overheard the younger man’s disapproval.
    “Oh, uh … no, no. I was just lost in thought, Mr., err … Bob.”
    “About what?”
    “I was wondering.” Elliot paused a moment, then had to think quickly. “Did you plan to come here to Prince George to escape the collapse?”
    The former president of the United States turned to Tom Transky and indicated that he would be best suited to answer.
    “We were on our way to Vancouver,” Tom began. “Our intentions were, and still are, I might add, to go to Graham Island just off the coast. I was looking at a place called Sandspit, which has a small harbor. It’s technically on Moresby Island across the channel, but Graham is the name that stands out on the map. As we crossed into Canadian airspace, out pilot was able to make contact with another pilot, who informed him that Vancouver—the city and the airport— is a disaster zone. We didn’t want to take the risk to fly through to Graham Island if there was trouble at the airport there.”
    “I know Graham, but is there an airport big enough for that plane of yours to land?” Mulhaven interjected.
    “Our pilot said that in an emergency, he could land at Sandspit Airport, on Moresby. Along with the harbor, that’s why I selected it.”
    “What’s so special about this island?” The Tall Man’s interest had been piqued.
    “The president and I came upon a theory that these foamers can’t survive the inclement weather of a northern winter. We also believed that placing a barrier between ourselves and these creatures could improve our chances of survival immeasurably—and what better barrier than the sea?” Tom looked around the table and saw everyone nodding. “Food, water, and shelter would be our main concerns, not death