“Was Mort’s story true?” Rob asked.
“I don’t like his use of the word ‘bragging,’” Clay protested. “We just happened to get to talking about sports and I told him about the track meet in 2002 when I set new records in the running broad jump and mile run. Then suddenly he springs up all red-faced, accusing me of bragging ever since he has known me. That got me hot then, and I guess one thing led to another.”
Rob looked at him squarely. “I’m afraid I’m going to have to replace you on Titan, Clay,” he said quietly.
The color drained out of the big fellow’s face. He was shocked. “Why—why?” he blurted.
“Because I’m afraid your attitude is a danger to the success of the project,” Rob said.
“My attitude?” Clay asked in surprise. “What attitude?”
“Think about it awhile and I believe you’ll understand if you’re honest with yourself. If you can’t figure it out, my explaining won’t do much good.”
As this sank in, Clay’s initial pallidness gave way to a red suffusion of anger. “I know what it is! You can’t stand the competition! You’re afraid the name of Gerard will steal the glory from the Allison reputation on this flight!”
Just then there was an unexpected witness on the scene. Lieutenant Swenson was striding rapidly up the corridor.
“I couldn’t help listening,” he said, “and I can’t help putting in my two cents!”