Chapter 13 [New York—Swann Observatory]
After five hours of trying to sleep in Swann's guest room, J. T. surrendered to his anxiety. His mind wandered over too many potentially negative details concerning his friends. His heart beat anxiously in his chest. He had wiped the sweat away from his forehead several times.
Still the question remained, Why was Swann so interested in helping them?
He's an astronomer not a detective. What's his deal with Vincent anyhow? He sat up on the side of the bed and glanced at the oak door beyond to the hallway. Then his eyes shifted to the oak dresser and the closet with a few shirts and slacks hanging in it. The walls were painted blue with a matching carpet lining the floor. "At least it's not a jail cell." He poked his head out the door in time to see Crosby coming toward him. "Morning."
"Good morning, Dr. Forbes. Did you sleep well?" she asked politely.
"I…uh tried. Sorry. There's still a lot going on in my head. I'm concerned about my friends," he replied hesitantly not sure about the reaction he was going to get.
"I understand. Dr. Swann's waiting in the other room. Seems we have some news for you. Please follow me," she instructed before starting back down the hall.
"We have news? How long?" he wondered.
"We just received word about your friends. Do not worry, Dr. Forbes. We aren't holding anything back from you," she assured him while leading him back into the host's chamber.
"Good morning," Swann greeted while motoring into view. "I had Dr. Crosby arrange for some cinnamon rolls and coffee." He turned to the computer screen. "Screen, bring up images from last night please."
The computer screen brought up the screenshot of Vincent confronting the Image at the farm.
J. T. nodded. "That's him. When was that?"
"Last night. As I told you, your friends are where we thought they were. In addition, however, the FBI and your Muirfield group also know this information," Swann clarified. "Your friend confronted a known metahuman with astral projection abilities. Everyone is all right."
"Is he Muirfield?" J. T. wondered.
"No although Muirfield tried to recruit him at the same time they experimented on Dr. Keller's test group. You don't need the details on that individual at the moment, Dr. Forbes. As we speak, however, your friends are in a bind and could use your help there. As soon as you eat your breakfast, the car will take you to my private airstrip. The plane will fly you straight to Smallville, Kansas. That is where you will find your friends," Swann explained further.
"If that's the case, maybe I can get this to go?" J. T. requested.
"Of course. It's been a pleasure, Dr. Forbes. Perhaps we shall meet again," Swann concurred.
"Likewise. Thanks for pointing me in the right direction," J. T. expressed.
Swann allowed his visitor a smile before wheeling himself out of the room.
J. T. grabbed onto his laptop case slipping the strap over his shoulder. "Sorry. This wasn't the best planned move on my part but well…."
Crosby shrugged almost nonchalantly. "It was expected. With the FBI and Muirfield moving in as quickly as they are, it would be best to get us in the air as soon as possible." Seeing his surprise, she added, "Yes. I'm coming with you." She produced a paper bag and some paper towels. "Let's get these wrapped up for the plane."
"Okay," J. T. relented in surprise. "Maybe you can answer some questions on the way then?"
"I shall answer what I can," she agreed cryptically as they went to work on the food. Within a couple of minutes, she was leading him out the front door and toward the waiting black car. "Our ride. You first, Dr. Forbes."
"Thanks," he expressed cautiously while getting into the car once again. While the duo had been very helpful with accommodations, food and some information, he didn't trust them as of yet. Still that didn't mean he couldn't accept help if he kept his eyes open in the process. Hang on, Guys! We're coming!