Jack wondered what kind of trouble his partner was in. It was against FAA rules for the pilot to vacate his cockpit while in flight. Something was wrong. He nudged Paul. “Hey, buddy, better wake up.”

“Wha . . . ?” Paul woke with a start.

“Paul Brown,” the captain whispered. “I don’t believe it.”

Paul blinked heavily. Squinted. His face broke into a smile. “David Miller. What are you doing here?”

“Flying, supposedly. Babysitting the autopilot is more like it.” The tall aviator held out his hand. Paul shook it. “I saw your name on the manifest and just wanted to make sure. I’m so glad you’re on this flight. What brings you my way?”

Paul was still groggy. He pulled his glasses off and wiped his eyes. “Business trip. Oh, I’m sorry. This is my associate, Jack Ryan. Jack, this is David Miller. An old friend.”

Jack extended his hand. “Nice to meet you, Captain.”

“Same.” A firm, steady grip. But the captain clearly wasn’t interested in a conversation with Jack. He turned his attention back to Paul. “Is Sally taking good care of you?”

Jack saw the respect in Miller’s eyes. Or was it something more?

Paul smiled. “She’s been wonderful.”

The flight attendant beamed. “Thank you, Mr. Brown. It’s been a pleasure. There will be a regular food service in half an hour, but if there’s anything special I can get you before then—”

“Oh, no. I’m fine, thank you.”

Jack tried to hide his utter confusion. She was acting like he was a celebrity or something.

What the hell was going on?

The captain leaned close and lowered his voice even further. Jack could barely hear him say, “Look, Paul, I just checked with Sally. There was a last-minute cancellation in first class. I want you to take it.”

“Me? No, I couldn’t—”

Captain Miller grinned. “I insist. For old times’ sake.”

Paul turned toward Jack, his neck still wedged in the inflatable pillow. “How about you, Jack? Why don’t you take it?”

Sounded like heaven to Jack. Hot facial cloths, mixed drinks, steaks. “You need to take it. Your back and your knee will do a lot better in first class if you can stretch out.”

“You sure you don’t mind?”

“I’ll be fine. I’ll just be reading anyway.”

Paul rubbed his knee. “Yeah, maybe you’re right.”

“Good,” Captain Miller said. “Sally will help you with your things. I need to get back to the salt mine. Good to meet you, Jack. Have a pleasant flight.”

Captain Miller turned and headed back toward the cockpit while Sally helped Paul gather his things. He wouldn’t let her carry the heavy duffel, though.

“See you in London, Jack. Hope you sleep well.”

“Thanks. Have fun up there.”