20 “William, the four ex-military who rescued Dr. Simms are here. I thought you would like to meet them as part of the pre-interview.” He turned fully to judge the four men who stood, shoulder to shoulder, inside his office. Shifting his gaze to Piper, he clarified, “Pre-interview?” “Yes,” she smiled and waved her cell phone. “Jesse and I discussed something unique for this team, which includes a task for each individually. Let me know when you’re done here, and we’ll get started.” William nodded once. Though he wasn’t privy, thus far, to the pre-interview they had planned, he trusted Piper and Jesse and would see what he could do to be in on that step. “Gentlemen, have a seat,” he said. “I understand you have all recently resigned your commission with the military.” Waiting until the

