"That stays, for now." William said, then: "But when the ISLE system is ready for production, we'll be less dependent on Wallaby. There's an important difference between what we've got with Wallaby, and what we are proposing for ISLE. With this, ICP will have invested hard cash in your baby. So don't worry, we'll see to it that she's a success."
"Then we're on," Byron said.
William beamed. "Excellent," he said. He checked his watch. "I'd better get moving if I'm going to catch my plane." The trio walked to the door together. They shook hands, and William departed.
"You see, Petey," Byron said after closing the door, "the big guys aren't all so bad after all, eh?"
"I like him," Peter admitted.
"Man, we've sure got our work cut out for us. I just hope we don't have any setbacks."
"How did it go?" Grace asked.
Byron kissed her on the cheek. "Like a charm."
"Congratulations," she said. "Peter, this man called while you guys were out in the yard." She traded a Post-it note for Isle. There was a name written on it that Peter did not recognize, and a phone number. "Thanks. I'll call him later. Let's go tell the guys the good news."
* * *