Page 45 of Crocodile Tears
I grab the dashboard as we hit a particularly large pothole.“Flexible how?”
“Flexible in the sense that all roads through this region eventually connect to the river system, and river systems connect to extraction points.”
“So we’re navigating by geographical logic rather than detailed planning.”
Cal shifts gears to handle a steep incline.“We’re navigating by geographical logic combined with tactical improvisation and professional optimism.”
“That’s either very reassuring or completely terrifying,” I say, partially echoing his earlier words.
“It’s both.Most good tactical decisions involve elements of both.”
Our remaining pursuer falls farther behind as we navigate terrain that favors our lighter vehicle over their heavier truck.The jungle closes in around the road, creating a green tunnel that muffles sound and reduces visibility to whatever our headlights illuminate.
I’m grinning with genuine excitement rather than fear.The combination of scientific problem-solving, physical danger, and Cal’s tactical competence creates an adrenaline cocktail that my crocodile nature finds intoxicating.“This is definitely an interesting second date,” I say while checking our remaining chemical supplies.
He navigates around a fallen tree branch.“Better or worse than dinner and a movie?”
“Significantly more memorable, though I’m curious about what you consider normal dating activities.”
“Normal dating activities don’t typically involve international criminal organizations or improvised explosive devices.”
I consider this while watching the jungle scenery.“What do they involve?”
“Restaurants, theaters, or maybe museums.You know, activities that don’t require tactical planning or combat skills.”
“That sounds disappointingly predictable.”
Cal looks at me with obvious amusement.“Most people prefer predictable to life-threatening.”
I grin back at him.“Most people don’t have PhDs in biochemistry and crocodile physiology.”
With a chuckle, he says, “Most people don’t combine scientific expertise with reptilian predator instincts.”
I grin while preparing another chemical diversion.“Most people are missing out on a lot of interesting possibilities.”
Chapter 12
Cal
Thejungleroadswinddeeper into territory that feels increasingly remote from civilization.I navigate by compass bearing and geographical logic, choosing paths that favor our lighter vehicle while putting maximum distance between us and our pursuer.The canopy overhead grows thicker, filtering dawn light into green shadows that make depth perception challenging.
Becci maintains her chemical vigilance while cataloging the changing ecosystem with obvious scientific excitement.She points out plant species that suggest altitude changes and soil composition, creating a running commentary that’s both educational and oddly soothing given our circumstances.
“Those are strangler figs.”She gestures toward towering trees while I navigate around a fallen log.“The root structure indicates we’re moving into higher elevation rainforest ecosystem, which means better drainage and potentially clearer water sources.”
I adjust our route to avoid a muddy section of road.“Useful information for survival planning.”
She continues her botanical survey with obvious enthusiasm.“I’m naturally inclined toward data collection, even when people are shooting at us.”
The pursuit vehicle has fallen behind as we traverse terrain that challenges their heavier truck.I take advantage of our lead to seek a defensive position where we can assess our situation and plan the next phase of extraction.
A small clearing appears ahead, hidden by dense vegetation but accessible through a gap that I recognize from my reconnaissance preparations.I guide the Jeep off the main track and through the natural concealment to reach a space that provides cover while offering multiple escape routes.
Becci examines our surroundings with obvious scientific interest.“This looks like you’ve been here before.”
I retrieve a camouflaged container from its hiding place beneath fallen logs.“I cached emergency supplies here during my initial reconnaissance.Standard operational planning includes contingencies for extraction complications.”
She watches me unpack the container with systematic attention to detail.“You prepared for the possibility that your original extraction plan wouldn’t work?”
