Saunders was standing in front of the Control Room entrance when we arrived. He escorted us past the computers and ancient equipment with dozens of knobs and buttons to the corner where the exterior monitors were. “The Queen’s Canyon fire is within ten miles of the Complex.”

“So? The irrigation systems and the Complex Fire Department can handle it. We can bring all personnel and equipment inside,” Trex said. He looked at us, taking a step toward the door. “We should get started.”

“The winds aren’t in our favor, and…” Saunders pointed at a section a few miles out from the outer fences. “There’s a small group of wildfire fighters who are getting closer to our outer perimeter. They’ve been instructed to save the Complex. But if the winds change, they’re fucked.”

Trex’s expression changed. Two deep lines formed between his brows. “The Alpines are out there today. Did anyone on com happen to say it was them?”

My throat felt tight, and that uneasiness I’d been feeling intensified.

“No, they didn’t,” Saunders said.

No one was moving. “We should get out there,” I said. Keep eyes out, maybe be ready for a quick evac.”

“You’re not trained for that,” Saunders said.

Before I could cut off his balls with my words, Trex did his thing.

“Get the satellite on the area,” he said, pointing at the monitor. “Now.”

Saunders sighed. “Your objective is to make sure the people in this facility and property are safe. That’s your only objective.”

“We’ve all been staying at the same hotel for weeks. They’re all friends, and they’re not only civilians, but civil servants,” Trex said, taking a step toward Saunders. “And they’re protecting this complex. This falls directly under my objective.”

Saunders was trying to hide that was he was intimidated, but the deep bob of his Adam’s Apple when he swallowed gave him away. “With all due respect, Trexler, I disagree.”

“I don’t give a fuck if you agree or not.” He headed for the door. “Let’s go.”

I tried not to grin too much when we followed, glad to see my commanding officer back to his old self. He stopped just outside the metal door of the control room. “Naomi, go upstairs and get us clearance to help.”

“What?” I said, instantly feeling sick. “How?”

Trex frowned. “From Bennett.”

I began to talk, but nothing came for several seconds until I felt my cheeks flush, and that pissed me off enough to speak. “You want me to owe him a favor? Are you fucking serious? There’s gotta be another way.”

Harbinger frowned. He wasn’t happy with the plan either.

“It’s the quickest way,” Trex said.

I looked down Charlie corridor to the stairs that led to Peter’s office. We had no time to waste. Trex was right.

“Damn it,” I hissed under my breath.