“Oh, I agree completely,” Beth said. “I just wasn’t sure because, let’s face it, the MBF can be very byzantine and unpredictable in how it responds to problems. But I still have to wonder if the use of the weapon is the only misdeed here, or if it’s a sign of something worse. I mean, someone must have inspected the Eberhart and let it pass. Was it just a simple case of bribery that got us to this point?” She shook her head. “Maybe I’m just being paranoid.<br/><br/>“Anyway, Jess—if you don’t mind me calling you that—I really appreciate you taking the time to talk to me. Please take care and keep in touch.” She smiled at the image of the other woman.