CHAPTER SIX
Riley felt a sharp tingle of expectation when the speaker stepped in front of the 200 or so recruits. The man looked like he belonged to a different era, with his thin lapels and his skinny black tie and his buzz haircut. He reminded Riley of photos she’d seen of 1960s astronauts. As he shuffled through a few notecards, then looked out over his audience, she waited for his words of welcome and praise.
Academy Director Lane Swanson began much as she had expected …
“I know that you’ve all been working hard to prepare for this day.”
He added with a half-smile …
“Well, let me tell you right now—you’re not prepared. None of you.”
An audible sigh passed through the auditorium and Swanson paused to let his words sink in.
Then he continued, “That’s what this 20-week program is a
