While eating breakfast the next day, Amy and Barb watched more news. “It’s not news if you don’t learn anything new,” Barb complained more than once.

Government sources were calling it an “event” instead of an “attack,” since no one had claimed responsibility for what happened, there was no discernible pattern that could point to a goal, and there was no trace of a problem after it stopped. All they could say for sure was how long it lasted, which Amy knew was wrong, that it involved mostly communications technology, and that it was limited to the state of Colorado. Luckily no planes had crashed even though they couldn’t communicate with ground controllers. 

What Amy found most interesting was a lack of video footage taken during the blackout, on TV and on the Internet, although afterwards people described what happened to them from memory. She suspected that David’s drones had the only recorded photos, which she assumed he was sharing with authorities.

Alex called just as Amy and Barb were getting into her car to go to work. “Hi!” Amy said, thrilled to hear his voice. “I’m so sorry about Mark.” She switched seats with Barb, who had silently offered to drive.

“Me, too,” he said with effort. “It was strange the way it happened. Almost as if he and Jenkins were targeted.”

“Targeted? How?” she asked, and Barb glanced at her questioningly.

“They were the only people in the break room when it blew. Everyone else was far enough away to get out safely.”

Amy paused, processing what he said. “What do the others think?”

“They believe it was just bad luck. By the way, you’re the only one I’ve said that to, because you wouldn’t think it’s crazy.”

“What’s that mean?” she blurted, although she instinctively knew the answer.

“You don’t think it’s crazy, do you?” he asked plaintively.

“No,” she said, trying in one word to ease his pain. “Where are you, Alex?”

“Still at work. I’ve got to go back soon.”

“We’re on our way to work. Will you be free when I’m off?”

“I think so. It’s all hands on deck today.”

“I love you, Alex,” she said, wishing she could be with him.

“I love you too, Amy. More than anyone or anything.” The ache in his voice made her want to cry.