“You didn’t know? We’ll be taking the Allegro out periodically for testing. All of you will be involved. I hope you are ok with this.”
The response was enthusiastic. Sam smiled. “We will all also be doing pod work. Yes, that means you techs get to play. We will be working on pinniped comms eventually, so if any of you have any expertise, we could use your assist. I’m going to chow, anyone coming?” she asked.
To her surprise, the entire crew followed them into the enlisted chow hall. The room was called to attention with the entry of the officers. Michael gestured them down and joined his large team at the long table. He looked at his sister’s tray and, much to the surprise (and amusement) of his crew, he ordered her back immediately for more. She scowled, stomping a foot as she reluctantly obeyed. He whispered something in her ear and she blushed slightly. The Allegro men grinned, they knew what had been said.
Chow was a good time for the newly merged crew to learn about each other. Michael noticed some silence due to fear of being overheard. He eyed his sister, she had noticed the same.
“How would all of you like to come over to our place on Sunday for a BBQ and a question-answer time? No ranks, just a bunch of people who need to learn about each other and have lots of questions about us. Away from unauthorized ears. Would anyone be up to it?”
Every person nodded eagerly, not wanting to turn down the rare opportunity of seeing the Generals’ home, getting to personally know their COs and free food. Sam elbowed her brother. “Are you going to get permission, or are you going to make me do it? They are going to kill you,” she snickered.
Michael shrugged. “I’m not afraid of them. I’ll do it.”
“Yeah, right. Call me when you need support, ok, big brother? Let’s get back to work, you need to fix those calculations.”
“There is nothing wrong with my calculations. You are not considering the variable pattern and bi-functionality of the device sequence.”
“Excuse me, but if you would bother to pay attention to anything other than your overblown ego, you...”
Chapter Nine
“You did what?” Scott bellowed as Michael approached him and his father about the event on Sunday. Sam giggled, watching her brother shift his weight uncomfortably. He took a deep breath and explained the necessity of the crew learning about each other and being comfortable in close quarters before taking them out on ship. Dr. Quimby continued to read his paper, listening with interest.
“Oh, come on, Scott. You, of all people, know this is vital to prevent any discussion outside the unit. You’re the one who always stresses communication and community on the team. Please, don’t be so unreasonable.”
“He hasn’t said ‘no’ yet, Michael,” Dr. Quimby murmured, turning the page.
“Oh, and all this yelling means maybe? Dad! Some help here,” Michael cried, his frustration increasing as Scott shook his head with a scowl.
“Really, son? Why don’t you just stomp your foot and cross your arms just like the baby.”
“I am not a baby! And I’m the good one tonight,” Sam stated firmly, crossing her arms. She uncrossed them when she saw his smirk.
“You’re my baby, and always will be,” Dr. Quimby said with a laugh. “Ok, Scott, lay off. It’s fine with me if the kids want to have a little party. It would be good for them.”
“Fine, I don’t care. No smoking or alcohol,” Scott huffed. He was in one of his grumpy moods.
His niece giggled as she wrapped her arms around his waist. She knew how to change it. “Why are you acting like such a bear? You’re being a butthead again,” she said, cheek resting against his chest.
“I suppose you are going to want me to do the cooking,” Scott remarked crossly, resisting the urge to return her warm hug.
Sam knew she would break through very shortly. “I guess I could do the BBQ, although, we all know that no one can grill as well as you do, Uncle Scott. You are the BBQ king. All I wanted was for everyone to see that you aren’t the beast that certain people say you are.”
“Who says that?”
“You do have a little bit of a temper, you know. Of course, no one knows the real you like we do. They never get to see the soft, sweet, loving side that I can always depend on when I’m hurt or sad,” she snuggled closer. His hand began to stroke her hair. Dr. Quimby and Michael looked at each other and smiled. She was good!
“Am I that awful?”
“I don’t think you’re awful at all. I love you. Besides, I’m more like you than Daddy. Michael always says so. We have the same temperament, so people misjudge us. At least you and I understand each other. I’m so glad I have you,” she reached on her tip toes to kiss his chin, melting her smoky blue grey eyes into his heart. Yes, Uncle Scott, resistance is futile when I do this!
“Would you like me to help with the shopping too? We could do it together.” “That would be fun! Can we go now?”
“Sure, let me grab my wallet,” Scott said, quickly leaving for his room. Once out of site, Dr. Quimby and Michael shared a high five as the girl did her ‘I rock’ dance.
“You two are the biggest con artists I have ever known. Mike, I’m sorry, but that was the largest load of crap I’ve heard in a while.”
“Truthfully, Dad, it wasn’t. I just noticed how hard it was for them to talk openly during chow and we don’t have a lot of time to socialize during work. I also owe our little sweetness a spanking tonight. She lied to me this morning about the reason for getting up so early.”
“Take care of it now so she has something to think about while riding with Scott,” Dr. Quimby said, yawning as he picked up his paper again.
Sam yelped as Michael grabbed her wrist while flopping her over his knees and yanking down her jeans and panties. He started lecturing her about lying to him and respect while smacking her round bottom heartily. Scott, putting his wallet in his pants, grabbed his keys then waited patiently for Michael to finish his business with his little sister.
Michael finally got some tears from her and a promise to be nicer in the mornings. He smiled, patting her reddened bottom, and then pulled her panties up before standing her in front of him to fix her jeans. When done, he looked up into her eyes. “No more brattiness?”
“Not for a while. That hurt.”
“Good, it was supposed to. Don’t forget Cheetos,” he said, kissing her hands and patting her bottom as she turned to leave with their uncle. Scott ruffled her hair, smacking her rump once before leaving, flashing a huge grin at his nephew.
***
The 20 member crew of engineers, research techs, and Recon chatted comfortably together as they freely acquainted themselves with each other and the family that Sunday. One of the techs approached Sam. “We’ve heard rumors that General J was tough. Is it true? He seems pretty nice,” the man asked, watching Scott cheerfully load more food into plates.
“He is the best. They both are wonderful. They only get beastly if they think their cubs are in danger. You’re going to find that this command is much different than any other you’ve been in. It’s because of them. Family is everything to us. I’m a lucky gal,” she said as she observed her brother showing his full charm as well as he interacted with the crew. Michael turned to look at her and winked. Like always, he was right. This was needed for all of them.
After eating, everyone sat down for information. Scott invited an open forum and the questions flew. The family sat together on the couch. Much to Sam’s embarrassment, she was pulled onto her uncle’s lap and rocked lovingly. The men smiled as they admired the unusual gentleness and display of affection that their commanders openly displayed. The family relationship and background was shared and the crew was caught up on most of the discoveries and findings, goals and projects in the works.
The issue of Sam’s accident arose. The family was quiet for a moment before Scott sullenly explained the events. Shocked, the crew found the girl’s amphibious state miraculous, if not unbelievable. Their losses, and near losses, also expl
ained why the family never took anything for granted. In an effort to change the subject, Dr. Quimby addressed each individual’s personal goals and desires and encouraged them to speak up and offer ways that he could help them be reached. The offers were confirmed as being legit by the Allegro crew, and the new team left the Generals’ home with excited anticipation of their new command.
“Well, that was successful,” Scott said, picking up trash, “I’m glad I thought of it.”
“Give it up, old man,” Dr. Quimby laughed, catching the bag Scott tossed at him, “Michael was right. Give the boy some credit.”
“Yeah, give the boy some credit. Give me some, too. I got Scott to cooperate,” Sam giggled, ducking her brother’s swing.
“I will have you know, young woman, that I knew what you were up to long before you even started.”
“Bullshit. She had you wrapped around that pretty little finger. We saw the whole thing,” Dr. Quimby quipped.
Scott looked indignant. “Did not. And aren’t we supposed to be watching our language?”
“Oh please! I should start recording you. You are becoming a mean old grump.”
“Not.”
“Way.”
“Move the furniture!” Michael ordered his sister as the two dove at each other. The kids sat on the back of the couch as their parents wrestled joyfully like two teenage boys. Michael handed his sister a bag of Cheetos to munch on as their elders grunted loudly. The older men finally sank to the ground, sweating and laughing hard.
“Are you two done? Good, now go shower and get cleaned up. You’re smelly. Go, now!” Sam ordered, snapping her fingers and pointing to the stairs. Without a word, they both left to obey.
Michael elbowed her. “If they weren’t so worn out, they wouldn’t have let you get away with that, even playing.”
“Why do you think I waited until they were out of breath?” she giggled back. They returned the furniture to its place and took out the trash, all smiles. “I think this was the first time we’ve ever had a party,” Sam commented, wrapping her arm in her brother’s elbow.
“I believe you’re right. And our folks didn’t try to embarrass us either. I hate when they get cuddly in public. They don’t care that I’m a grown man, either.”
“I can’t ever remember when we were with a command that wasn’t affectionate. Besides, you don’t mind it that much. You do it right back. As for being embarrassed, speak for yourself. I was placed on Scott’s lap and rocked like a 5 year old.”
“I think he did that on purpose. The men love it when they see you being loved on. It brings out the instinct in us to protect you.”
“Mike? Have you ever noticed how the women on base stare at them? Some sigh too. ”
“They always have the hots for the old guys.”
“They are really good looking for old people, huh? I’m glad we have an all-male crew. I like being the only girl. Mike? Do you think Uncle Scott would have married if not for us? And Daddy remarried?”
“I don’t think so. Mom was Dad’s only love. Scott is a playboy, a confirmed bachelor. If it weren’t for us, he would not even have the stability of a family. We’re good for him, we keep him focused.”
“I just feel like they get lonely sometimes. Scott dates a little, but he’s more interested in being home with his television. I can’t remember if Daddy has ever gone on a date. What’s he gonna do if we ever are stationed apart?”
“Retire so he can stay close and torment us. I have a feeling this family will never be torn apart. Especially our team. Twins?” he made a fist, knuckles to her.
She touched her knuckles to his. “Twins. You really are a goof, but I love you.”
“I’m back. Miss me?” Dr. Quimby said.
Sam rushed to hug her father, laughing as he picked her high up into the air, spinning her around like she was no bigger than a toddler. “I love you so much,” she said, arms around his neck and legs wrapped around his middle. He carried her to the couch, covering her face with kisses. “You smell much better. We had a great time and you guys were perfect hosts. Thanks so much.”
“What’s all this lovey-dovey shit I’m hearing?” Scott asked, coming from his section of the large house as he toweled dry his short hair.
“Language, please. Your niece was expressing her gratitude in our hosting skills.”
“Hmm, my niece? You mean the one who inappropriately ordered us to our quarters to get cleaned up as she disrespectfully snapped her little fingers in quite a bossy manner?”
“Yes, that niece,” Dr. Quimby answered, still holding the girl on his lap. She had her limbs well wrapped around his waist making it difficult to dislodge her. She had learned this strategy years ago.
Scott cracked his knuckles. “Are we intending on doing anything about it?”
“Oh, you’re in a mood,” Dr. Quimby laughed, unable to disentangle himself from her strong grip.
She continued to hold herself as close to his body as she could. “Just because I’m here doesn’t mean you have to look for reasons to spank me,” she said, face buried in her father’s neck. He grinned, recognizing the tactical move: the closer the target got, the harder it was to dislodge.
“Aw, but it’s been so long. My hand is itching,” Scott teased, sitting next to them.
“We really need to get you a girlfriend. Stop!” she shrieked as he started to tickle her, causing her to release her iron hold and try to protect her ribs. He tackled her to the floor to sit on her and continue to poke fingers into her side.
Michael, still perched on the back of the couch, kneed his father. “Promise us that this craziness will never stop.”
Dr. Quimby reached to squeeze his son’s hand. “I promise.”
Chapter Ten
About a week later, after a rather heated argument with her brother over a frequency adjustment on the I-band, Sam departed in a huff, diving into the tank to cool down. The crew was now accustomed to this routine and had witnessed the amazing results of the siblings’ unusual thinking processes. They paid it no mind until, one hour later, Sam didn’t return.
Michael was exiting his office, expecting to see his sister emerging from the tank. He frowned. “Where is she?”
“I don’t know, Sir. Maybe she was really pissed this time.”
Michael shook his head, trying to sense her whereabouts. All he could distinguish was that she was not in any danger. A frown passed across his face as he quickly stepped out of his cammies and into his wetsuit. He dove into the tank and sped out without a sound.
“What’s going on?” a tech asked, watching the Allegro men shake their heads.
“If we don’t hear from him in an hour, we’ll let the doc know. He didn’t look worried. Trust me, he always knows if there is something wrong. They call it the ‘Twin’ powers.”
“But they aren’t twins.”
“Same birthday, same time, exactly four years apart. They told you, they’ve been joined at the hip since Sam was born. We still haven’t been able to demystify it, but he is always right about her.”
Michael swam out of the bay and into open waters. He removed the neuroband from his throat. The constant white noise in his mind interfered with his perceptions. He swam to the kelp beds a few miles offshore and treaded water. He felt her presence and knew she was there—somewhere. Why hide, though? It didn’t make sense. Unless….
Holding back the surge of fear, Michael dove deep and scouted for her bubbles. He found her wedged on a rock and focusing her concentration towards the small leopard sharks that swam around her. Growling, he calmly approached her. He was livid! She had deliberately disobeyed him again after he specifically told her not to try to band yet!
Without warning, the sharks quickly turned and speed toward her. Ton sped out of nowhere and intercepted two as Michael slammed one in the snout with his fist. Ton went after a fourth when Michael grabbed his sister’s shoulder, jarring her out of concentration. He could see her eyes widen as she realized it was him.<
br />
“Get your little ass back to that lab now,” Michael hissed, pushing her before reattached the neuroband around his neck. Ton followed and imaged his displeasure with his ‘calf’, sending strong thoughts to Michael to ‘bite her tail flukes.’ Michael couldn’t help but grin. The whale was finally getting the idea about how to discipline land walkers! When they entered the tank, Ton roughly shoved Sam into the glass to demonstrate his anger. With a quick flick of his flipper against her, he turned and left. She just stared in disbelief.
“I believe you just got a cetacean version of a spanking, little sister,” Michael said loudly as he yanked her out of the tank. She blushed madly as the tech team snickered. Thank God that Recon wasn’t there! She would never hear the end of it. Michael shoved her into their offices and slammed the door behind them. “What the hell were you thinking? They charged you this time! Ton couldn’t handle all of them, either. I am pissed.”
“Lower your voice, everyone will hear you,” Sam whispered, jumping as he slapped his palm on the table.
“Good! Let them hear! Come on, we are going to see Dad about this.”
“No! Mike, please, we can wait until we get home. He’s gonna kill me!” Sam begged, grabbing his wrist.
“That’s not all he’ll do. And when Scott find out, you are in for it double. I can’t believe you! Put your lab coat on, you don’t need to parade around in that wetsuit for every man to drool. Now!” he shouted, peeling off his wetsuit and pulling on his cammie trousers and t-shirt.
The men in the lab looked with concern to the Allegro crew. They didn’t seem to be bothered.
“Is this normal?” one of the tech asked. He received a smile.
“Oh yeah, for her definitely. She’s gonna get a good old fashioned paddling from Daddy and then be good as gold for a week or two.” Nick sighed.
“You’re kidding me. You’re serious? Oh, that poor kid. He’s a big guy.”
“He loves her, don’t worry. Now, if they involved Scott… we might not see her for a couple of days. He handles her hard,” the man said absently as he returned to work.
The Siren, the General's Daughter Book One Page 12