I started worrying after five minutes had passed. I got out of the car, walked to the front door, and opened it. Lauren and Abby were standing in the foyer. Lauren turned to me, a cold smile crossing her face.

“Professor. Abby and I were just wrapping up. It’s been a pleasure having you here in Washington.”

I glanced at Abby, who looked horribly uncomfortable. “We need to go,” I said, guiding her out. I closed the door behind us.

The car drove toward the airport. Ben and I talked about his plans while Abby sat silently. Finally I turned to her. “Did everything go okay back there, Abby? Are you all right?”

She reached out her hand and placed it in mine. “Everything will be all right, Creighton.”

Ben accompanied us to the gate when we got to the airport. Abby walked to the women’s rest room. Ben turned to me after she was out of earshot. “When was the last time you accessed Cleary’s memory stream?”

“That’s what I was doing when Abby was talking with Lauren.”

“And?”

“They just finished meeting two hours ago. They deactivated the nanites.”

“You’re sure?”

“As sure as I can be. I still recommend you guys find the nanite bombs.”

“I’ll get the bureau on that. What about Pape?”

“Cleary infected him with nanites. He has three days. Maybe four.”

“And Cleary?”

“He plans to upload himself into VR tomorrow night. I’ll check the day after to make sure.”

“That he’s erased himself instead?”

I nodded.

Abby returned, and a moment later we heard the first boarding call. Abby stepped over and looped her arm in Ben’s. Her eyes were full of tears. “It seems like too little to simply say thanks for all you’ve done.”

He shook his head. “I would’ve—” He stopped.

“Would have what?”

“I was going to say I’d have done the same for anyone. But that’s not true. You gave me a chance to redeem a wrong choice I made nine years ago. And you’ve helped me understand my daughter just a little more. I’ll never forget that.”

“Your daughter would be so proud of you, I’m certain.” Abby’s voice was thick with emotion. “And if it weren’t for you, Ben, I never would have met my grandfather.”

He gazed into her eyes. “I’m sorry he’s gone, Abby.”

She smiled. “I’ll see him again someday. I’m sure of that.” She looked at him for a moment. When she spoke again, her words held sadness. “I don’t imagine I’ll see you in person again.”

He seemed to force a smile. “Oh, you never know. I make it down to Texas from time to time. Besides, you can tap me.”

“Yes, I can tap you.” She nodded, but I knew she felt that a tap wasn’t the same.