Joel cleared his throat and said, “Everyone?” The voices died down, and without standing he spoke, sounding more subdued than he had earlier. “Firstly, I want to apologize. I knew we needed to organize, and I took on the role of leader. I was just trying to do the best for everyone, and I’m not sure what I could have done differently, but it’s obvious some of you think I took my eye off the ball, and that we’ve lost a couple of people as a result. I’m willing to take full responsibility if that’s how you feel.” There was a brief chorus of dissent, reassuring him that he wasn’t to blame. He ignored it. “I know some of you believe there’s no need for anyone to take charge, and I don’t agree with that, but I accept I might not be the best for the job, so if anyone else wants to step up—” The chorus became more agitated, Chloe being particularly vociferous in Joel’s defense.

Tom didn’t trust Joel at all, seeing that the apology and the offer to step aside were both designed to elicit more sympathy and support, at the same time disarming any further criticism. Some of it had even been directed specifically at Tom, and Tom got the feeling everyone knew that and they were waiting to see if he’d respond.

Joel put his hands up now to quiet them, like some great political orator, and said, “Okay, but the offer stands, and if anyone isn’t happy with anything I say, let me know. It’s better we discuss it than have any more accidents. You know I’ll try my best, but I can’t cover every base without everyone working together.” There were more encouraging noises, and he nodded in response, sucking it all up. “Good, now, does anyone have anything to say, any questions, anything at all?”

They fell silent, and Tom was conscious again that a reasonable number in the group were looking at him, not necessarily staring, but glancing repeatedly in his direction, expectant.

As a result, the silence only intensified when Tom said, “I have a question. Two questions.” They were all staring now, but all of them would be disappointed in some way, because Tom had figured out how to play Joel, how to flatter him into doing the things that needed to be done. He’d learned from watching Alice. “I was just wondering where we’re all going to sleep tonight, and how we make sure the fire keeps going.”

Joel nodded, apparently acknowledging that they were good questions. “I’m glad you asked that, Tom, because I’ve been thinking about it. I know it won’t be comfortable, but I think it’s best if most of us sleep in the seats on the plane.”