Page 77 of Too Far To Sea
“That has to be a joke. Colin programmed it.”
“He claims he had nothing to do with it. Good luck getting past her.”
Dana entered the main residence. The AI’s voice confirmed her access and smoothly recited her schedule for the next two days. Not wishing to be on its bad side—just in case Chris wasn’t exaggerating—Dana thanked the computer.
“Peter’s new hiding place for his elephant is the cubby under the stairs,” the AI informed her. “I will alert you if he moves it.”
“Thank you.”
“It is my opinion that you blew it with the ship’s officer. I agree with Tian.”
Dana froze. The AI really did know everything. Or it was an exceptionally good eavesdropper. “Noted.”
“According to my research, you should make a grand gesture. Unfortunately, I cannot help you locate the Officer. My ethics contract limits my research model.”
A contract that apparently didn’t include being nosey or listening to conversations. Tian must have discussed the Officer Worth situation within the AI’s hearing. Dana wondered if the AI’s ethics contract had a clause about meddling in romance—and if not, whether she should suggest one to Colin.
“Just four more days, Uncle Mac!” Gracie bounded into the house, her excitement filling the room.
“Are you all packed yet?”
“Everything except my toothbrush. Mommy won’t let me pack that yet.”
She danced across the room, stopping in front of her grandmother to give her a gentle hug. “How are you feeling today, Grandma?”
“Just fine, sweetheart.”
“I wish you could come with us to Robyn’s Place.”
“Ah, but there are only tickets for three people, and I think Uncle Mac is a better person to go.”
They’d been hiding the truth from Gracie that the recovery was slower than everyone liked. Mom wouldn’t last the drive over.
“I’ll tell you all about it. Did you know they have a roller coaster inside?” Gracie threw her arms out wide, indicating its size. “Yes, I believe you’ve told me that before.”
Jen entered through the front door, a casserole in her hands and a grocery bag on her arm.
McKay held out his hand to take something. “I see someone’s a little excited.”
“A little?” Jen handed over the grocery bag. “You would think we had an all-expense-paid trip to Florida with her enthusiasm.”
“Ah, but this is better.”
“I know. I won’t have to worry about all the people and all the germs.”
“I can’t believe I’m letting her go to public school this fall.”
“It will be good for her,” said Mom.
“I know. I still, worry.”
Seeing the bag contained books, McKay set it down on the end table. “Does the doctor?”
“No, thank heavens.” Jen carried the casserole into the kitchen. “I brought your favorite chicken and rice, Mom. I’m sure Mac’s been eating you out of house and home.”
His mother chuckled. “Not as much as you think. He seems to have lost his appetite.”
Jen reappeared in the doorway. “Is that what men do when they’ve lost the love of their life?”
