"Can you think of any reason why not?" the man said, fondling the weapon in his hand.
I can, Silvia thought; George and I aren't getting caught in our own traps if I can help it. If I can only tilt the ship, get him off balance—
Slowly, she edged toward the control panel, signaling George with a careful nod of her head. George caught the signal, and she could see him tense.
"We're wasting time," the man said, a trifle impatiently. He readied the gun. "If there are no last questions—"
Silvia made a sudden thrust for the control panel.
The man whirled, cursing, and brought the gun to bear on her. But George was on him, gripping the man by the throat. The gun went off, and a searing blast of flame filled the lifecraft.
