“Understood,” Miller replied. “We have an open slot for another twenty-five minutes. After that, we lose our oceanic track and have to refile the entire transatlantic plan.”
“Then we refile,” Marcus said firmly. “I will not have this aircraft over the North Atlantic with an unverified credential floating through its internal passenger service directory.”
Richard looked up from 2B, his voice trembling slightly.
“Mr. Coleman, I swear on my life, I had no knowledge of any luggage or security breaches. I just wanted my seat.”
“I believe you were a pawn, Mr. Bennett,” Marcus replied coolly. “Arrogant men make wonderful shields for clever conspirators. Your vanity made you the perfect distraction in this aisle.”
Richard sank back against the headrest. The sting of those words was far worse than any civil lawsuit. He realized his reputation had just been shattered by his own pride.
Vance brought out a small electronic scanner. He reached up toward the overhead bin above 2A, running the wand along the latch and the interior hinges of the ceiling panel.
