Tyson jumped to his feet and scrambled out of the cafeteria after us. “Can I come?” Major Wilks lifted one of his eyebrows into a skeptical arch. “Can you keep your mouth shut if you tag along?” “Silent as the grave,” Tyson promised. The major stared down at Tyson’s hopeful face, and although he heaved an exasperated sigh, there was a hit of endearment in his eyes. The major acted like a tough guy, but he definitely had a soft spot for the kid. Silently he began to walk again, giving Tyson a nod as if to say, “Come on, then.” Tyson grinned and took my hand, tugging me along after Major Wilks. “Have you seen the command center yet?” he asked. “It’s so cool!” I laughed. There was no way he’d be able to stay quiet on this tour. We got about five feet before Johnny G cleared his throat to get our attention. “Sir,” he asked Major Wilks, “would it be all right if we tagged along also?”
