Free Caught in the Net by Breanna Hayse Page B

already accusing us of trying to
steal him from her.”
    “Think he can handle her quirks?”
    “Yeah, I do.  He's already given her looks that made
her pause mid-step.  My gut tells me he's good people.”
    “Mine, too.  And Dad as well.  Let me know what you
need for him and we’ll get it.  I think it will be good for the men to have an
officer in here full time, too.”
    “I’ll let them know he’s coming.  Hopefully, they’ll
be okay.  I spoil them a bit.”
    “Give them time.  We’ve taught you two how to build
loyalty and I would hope they’d be concerned about someone replacing you here. 
I also want you to move the transmitter and band study this way.  Closer to me
and your father, just in case.”
    “You read my mind.  I really don’t want her to have
unlimited access to the bands if I can stop her.  I want to keep an ECG in the
new lab, though.  I need that.”
    “No problem.  How’s she doing?  Anything new?” Scott
asked with concern. 
    Michael shook his head.  “No.  She seems balanced
right now.  No more of that swirling stuff either.  I think she convinced the
pod to stop it.  I’m getting ready to start the weapon detection study and she
gave her promise to cooperate.  We plan to begin that next week.  Hopefully,
we’ll have Rich on board by then.  That is right up his alley.”
    “We should.  The colonel anticipated completion of the
project by the end of the week.  He’s going to call me and let me know.  And
Mike?  Please come to me if you see anything odd with Sam.  Dad is already
stressed enough about it.”
    “I will.  But you have to trust me when I tell you
she's fine.  I would know.  I always do.”
    Rich was ecstatic when Michael shared the news, as
well as the precautions taken against his sister meddling with his new office. 
Rich started laughing.  “Would she actually try to pull stunts at work?”
    “Don't underestimate the Siren.  She has a huge
following, including all the men in your unit.  Most of them were present when
she had the accident, so they share a very special bond with her.  I can assure
you, with all certainly, that she would prank you as often as possible and that
she will have assistance.  Your only hope is to get the men to develop the same
amount of loyalty towards you as they give to her.  I can't think of any other
way to put the brakes on her.  I guess I should warn you that they still back
her with pulling crap on me.  This is your last chance to back out… are you
sure you want to date her?” Michael teased.
    “She’s adorable and her pranks are harmless.  Yes, I
do.  Are you having concerns over this?  I will respect your opinion if you
feel that it would interfere with our work.  You know her much better than I do.”
    “I would never get in the way of my sister’s
happiness.  I’m hoping that having you around will allow her to slow down and
not be so work-driven.  As long as we can stay professional and focus on our
jobs, then there is no problem.  If something happens and you guys break up,
you will still be friends.  She doesn’t hold grudges.”
    “Neither do I.  I want your word that you will be up
front and honest with me should you see or hear anything that might cause
problems.”
    “Always.  And likewise.  Especially regarding her.”
    Rich was transferred that Friday to his new duty
station and was greeted warmly by Scott and Dr. Quimby as he entered the lab. 
He stood quietly as the engineering team was instructed by Michael to be
helpful and hospitable, uncomfortable with the frowns as they realized that
Michael was sifting command of the section to the newcomer.  Sam also noticed
and sharply informed them, hands on her hips, that if she discovered anyone
giving Rich problems, that man would have to deal with her.  Rich’s eyebrows
rose as they immediately responded, promising to help in any way possible. 
Glancing at Michael, he read the words ‘told you so’ on