Page 207 of The Texas Sterling Collection
The server brought their drinks and food. They dug in, conversing as they ate.
“I spent time in class, too, Ailbe,” Wyl said. “I learned from the same cybercriminals who created the problems we must solve. They get caught. And as restitution, they spend time helping us understand their point of view and teaching us to think like they do.”
A brief flash of tension passed through Ailbe’s eyes, gone as quickly as it appeared. He picked up his glass of cider and took a sip. “You know, Wyl, my students could not attend your presentation. Would you consider coming and giving a short talk to the class?”
Wyl glanced at Rod before returning his focus to Ailbe. “Sure, Ailbe…as long as Rod is okay with me taking honeymoon time for that.”
Rod finished his bite of fish and wiped his mouth. “Babe, if it helps our new friends, I’m fine with it,” Rod said.
Wyl could see the uneasiness in Rod’s eyes. They both knew the dangers of working with Ailbe and Declan.
“How about tomorrow? The class starts at 9:00 a.m. I’ll have them assembled for any questions about the final details of their course projects.” Ailbe looked to Wyl for confirmation.
“Do we have plans for tomorrow, Rod?” Wyl asked, scraping the last potato from his Irish Stew bowl.
Rod shook his head. “Nothing we’ve discussed. Maybe I’ll come with you. I’d like to see the campus.”
“That is a good suggestion, Rod,” Ailbe said. “I can give you both a quick tour after Wyl finishes. It’s quite a place.”
Wyl kept his focus on Ailbe during the conversation. Ailbe’s pupils constricted as he spoke to Rod. His words didn’t match his reaction.
“Sounds like a date, Ailbe,” Wyl said. “Anything special you want me to cover?”
“Cover the highlights of your keynote address. It will be good for the lads to hear from someone of your caliber. You have quite the stellar reputation.”
“Nah,” Wyl said, tossing his napkin on the table. “I know a little bit about coding.”
“That is like saying the pope knows a little bit about Catholicism,” Ailbe laughed.
* * *
After his first set, James Pearson wandered through the crowd, ending up at their table.
“Well, if it isn’t the two lads from Texas. Welcome back, gents.” James extended his hand for a shake. “How is Ireland treating you?”
“We’re enjoying it,” Rod said.
“We miss the horses on our ranch, but Ireland is beautiful.”
“I know of stables up the country a bit,” James said. “If you like riding, I’m sure they would be glad to have you.”
“That sounds like a great way to spend a Saturday,” Wyl said. “Is it far?”
“Westport, I think, is about 90 minutes from here. Check for a website on the Internet. I assume you know how to work a computer.” James winked.
Ailbe laughed, drawing Pearson’s attention his way.
“This guy is a computer genius,” Ailbe said.
“Fierce!” James said, covering the fact that he knew both Rod and Wyl outside the bar. “I noticed you two in here before. But we haven’t officially met.” James extended his hand. “I’m James Pearson.”
“Ailbe MacGowan, and this is my partner Declan Knowlan.” Ailbe accepted the proffered hand. Declan did the same.
“It’s a pleasure to meet you,” Declan said. “We love coming to hear your music. Do you have CDs available?”
James chuckled. “No, I never did any studio recording. I’m not that good.”
“Oh, I beg to differ,” Rod said.
