“You’re not a fool,” Hector said.
“Yes, I’ve been one,” insisted Leoh. “Worse, I’ve been a dupe, letting my own glory get in the way of my judgment. But that’s over now. My place is in science, not politics, and certainly not show business! I’m going to concentrate on your ‘jump’ in the dueling machine. If that was a sample of teleportation, then the machine can amplify that talent, just as it amplified Odai’s telepathic abilities. Now, if we put enough power into the machine. …”
The car glided to a stop under the roofed driveway in front of the entrance to Geri’s house. Leoh stayed in the car while Hector walked her to her door. In the shadows, he couldn’t see her face too well. They stopped at the door.
“Urn … Geri, I … well, I just couldn’t kill him. Not … not like that. I wanted to please you … but, well, if you want an assassin … I guess it’s just not me that you’re interested in.”
She said nothing. A gentle warm breeze brought the odor of wet leaves to them.
Hector fidgeted.
Finally he said, “Well, good night.. ..”
“Good-by, Hector,” Geri said flatly,
Leoh was studiously looking the other way, watching the final few drops of rain splatter on the statuary alongside the driveway, when Hector returned to the car. The old scientist looked at the Watchman as he ducked into the car and slumped in the seat.
“Why so glum, my boy? What’s the matter?”
Shrugging, Hector said, “It’s a long story.. ,.”
“Oh, I see. Well then. To get back to the teleportation idea. If we can boost the power of the machine….”