As she left he began discussing with Chloe what he should say in the request. Apparently there were nuances he didn't understand because he still didn't have it settled to his satisfaction when Mary Ellen returned.
"I'm ready," she said, pirouetting for his approval.
She was ready, but not for a quiet little dinner. "I suggest a wrap for your shoulders," he said. She made a face, but went to get one.
"How long will it take to get this through?" he asked Chloe.
"Four to six years. There's a backlog."
"Four to six years?" he repeated incredulously? He began to see that the loophole the government had provided was very small indeed. Who would bother, even if he felt strongly about it, when he knew it would take so long?
"That's going through regular channels." Chloe frowned and smoothed her hair. "You may be very lucky though. Today, just today, we might find a much faster way. You said they are moving A-CELO?"
"They are," he said, hoping he knew what she meant. This was a golden opportunity that might never come again.
"Then they'll be busy through the night. A workman should have access to the master robot."
Marcus smiled. "I'm an excellent workman."