The decision to inspect the aircraft sparked both doubt and intrigue. Richard watched closely as the ground crew and airport security swarmed the jet, their faces a mix of focus and unease. The terminal hummed with activity, whispers spreading quickly among staff and bystanders.
Amid the tension, Richard approached Ethan, still nervously held by a security guard. Motioning for the boy to be released, he asked, “Ethan, can you tell me exactly what you saw?”
Ethan hesitated, scanning the unfamiliar faces, but the urgency in his gaze remained. “I sometimes sleep near the hangars,” he began, his voice steadier now that someone was listening. “It’s quieter there. Last night, I saw two men go under your plane. They didn’t seem like they belonged. I think I saw them leave something metallic near the fuel tank.”
Richard’s mind raced. He had built his success on intuition and careful risk-taking, and something about Ethan’s account felt genuine. While the boy could have been mistaken—or even dishonest—Richard sensed the need to trust his instincts.
Minutes stretched as the inspection unfolded. News crews broadcast live updates, speculating about a potential threat, while Richard’s phone buzzed incessantly with anxious calls and messages.
Finally, the chief mechanic approached him with a solemn expression. “Mr. Callahan, we’ve found something,” he said quietly, avoiding the crowd. “There’s a device near the fuel tank. We don’t know its full potential, but it shouldn’t be there.”
The revelation drew a collective gasp from those nearby. Richard’s heart raced, a mixture of relief and fear washing over him. Ethan’s warning had been accurate—he may have prevented a catastrophic event.
