Chapter 18 Summary

At GenaSeed headquarters, Daniel Bruner receives a call from Roger Cortez regarding the previously postponed meeting with Anthony Russell. Bruner, though preoccupied with the fallout from Walter Jenkins’s abduction, insists the meeting must go forward. With EnvironLife gaining influence after the LAB Conference, Bruner feels compelled to confront Russell directly and protect GenaSeed’s market position. Cortez agrees to coordinate, but also mentions that Jeffrey Kruger reacted with anger upon learning of the plan—something Bruner promises to smooth over later.

Left to his thoughts after the call, Cortez reflects on his own role within GenaSeed. As Vice President of Corporate Development, his career has been built around ensuring the company’s relentless expansion. His background, from modest beginnings in San Diego to securing an MBA through a military family scholarship and eventually joining GenaSeed through Bruner’s personal recruitment, is traced out in his thoughts. Though successful and respected, Cortez has not hesitated to rely on shadowy contacts and questionable methods to “remove obstacles” standing in the company’s way. With Russell now emerging as a significant competitor, Cortez quietly considers him the next problem that may need to be eliminated.

Meanwhile, Tony Russell finishes breakfast and turns his attention to his plane. A call to Sam’s Avionics brings good news: the repairs are complete, and the aircraft will be ready for departure by late morning. Relieved, Tony arranges his flight plan for St. Louis and reconnects with Cortez to confirm that the meeting with Bruner can take place later that afternoon. Both sides agree on a two o’clock arrival, though Tony declines an offered limousine, preferring to travel discreetly on his own.

Before leaving the airport, Tony takes a moment to express his gratitude to the mechanics who worked on his aircraft so quickly. At the terminal restaurant, he arranges a paid dinner for the entire team, presenting them with a voucher for twelve full meals as a token of appreciation. The gesture is warmly received, and the staff, surprised by his generosity, thank him enthusiastically. For Tony, it is a small but meaningful way to acknowledge their efforts in getting him safely back in the air.

By mid-morning, Tony settles his invoice, refuels the plane, and prepares for departure. As the Piper’s engines roar to life, he is reassured by their renewed strength. Taxiing to the runway, he exchanges a final wave with Sam and his crew before takeoff. In less than thirty hours since narrowly escaping disaster in the mountains, Tony is airborne once again, this time headed directly into the heart of St. Louis, where his long-anticipated meeting with GenaSeed awaits.