“However, the microchip Dr. Winston was implanted with also had a secondary function. As team leader, her subconscious was supplied with confidential information NTC had on file about the Organics. Images of the first drone, data revealing what NTC knew about the high-pitched frequencies the aliens use to communicate, and information about their thirst for our resources—for our water.”

“Oh my God,” Sophie gasped, dropping Emanuel’s hand and wrapping her hands around the nape of her neck.

“Dr. Winston, the second function of your microchip was only supposed to be activated if a catastrophic event occurred. Clearly, the chip was flawed, and caused you to suffer from recurring nightmares prior to the invasion. I should explain that this device never made it past laboratory testing. The FDA did not approve it for human experimentation. NTC, however, felt the importance of the Biosphere mission justified utilizing it.”

“Of course they did!” she said, keeping her voice just shy of a scream. “The depths of NTC’s manipulation doesn’t surprise me. What I want to know is why you didn’t share this information earlier.”

“The information was stored in a database I did not have access to until Dr. Hoffman’s message was delivered. It was then that I was informed of the microchips.”

Sophie rolled her eyes. “Figures. Dr. Hoffman kept us all in the dark.”

“Dr. Hoffman told you exactly what you needed to hear at the time,” Alexia responded calmly.

“Forget Dr. Hoffman. Forget NTC. How do I get it out of me?”

“Dr. Winston, I would strongly suggest keeping it. That chip contains everything NTC knew about the Organics, more than even I know. Besides, without the proper medical tools, the surgical procedure could be dangerous.”

“I don’t care. Take it out of me and download the information,” Sophie insisted.

“I’m afraid that’s not possible. We simply don’t have the surgical tools here. Besides, it was designed to recognize your DNA. If it is removed, the device will be rendered useless.”

Sophie’s nostrils flared. “I don’t have time for this. I’ll dig it out myself if I have to.”

Overton blocked her from leaving the room. “Dr. Winston, maybe Alexia is right.”

For a second she studied his features—the scar lining his cheek, his bushy blond eyebrows, the stubble on his chin. Then she caught his gaze and held it for several seconds, refusing to back down.

“I’ll consider your suggestion,” she said, her warm breath brushing over his face. “Now, if you would, I want to check on Owen and Jamie. Holly could use a break, I’m sure.”

Overton hesitated but finally withdrew his arm from across the door, allowing Sophie and Emanuel to pass.

“Just when I was starting to like her,” Overton said under his breath. “Come on, Bouma, she’s not getting off the hook that easily.”