5.2 Implication

Returning to the depilated structure, you follow Boyd around back to the other side of the building. There, in the landing strip, is a weathered but seemingly undamaged plane. A half gutted engine sits in the bay, its parts strewn around the ground haphazardly. Looking down at them warily, you contemplate the extent of your knowledge. While you had helped assist in some routine maintenance, it's nothing compared to a complete overhaul. Keeping your thoughts to yourself, you follow Boyd to the exposed engine and chew the inside of your lip nervously. It's clearly in need of much needed repair, though to what extent you're not quite sure. Running a hand through your still damp hair, you look over at the man carefully.

"What's wrong with it?" You question hesitantly, aware of your need to appear knowledgeable.

"What isn't?" Boyd exhales in frustration, stepping forward to open the cowling flap wider. "It hasn't been used in a couple of years, so all of the lines need to be bled."

Glancing over at some discarded fuel lines, you assume he's currently in the midst of that process. Large pieces of the M350 also lay about, presumably scrapped for parts. You're only half listening as he continues listing off additional issues found in the craft. Thankfully, most seem to be tied to the engine itself, the part you're most familiar with.

"Where did you say you learned about this stuff?" He asks when done, moving to stand beside you.

Pausing, you feel your pulse increase at what should be an innocuous question. It occurs to you this is a prime opportunity to come clean about the limits of your proficiency. However, you also fear your supposed knowledge is the only thing stopping Boyd from casting you out as originally intended. You straighten your back slightly before walking forward and pretend to examine the engine.

"I didn't say." You reply curtly, running your fingers along one of the cylinder heads. "My dad owned a few planes."

While it's a blatant lie, you hope it will lend more credibility than the honest answer might have. Leaning forward, you begin more seriously looking over the compartment. Globules of dredge oil drip along the inside of the bay, one landing on the back of your outstretched hand. Frowning, you quickly pull the hand out and shake the vicious substance off. After turning around, you use a corner of your shirt to wipe off the remaining liquid.

"There must have been a bad leak at some point." You remark brusquely, as you begin rolling up your sleeves. "Everything will need to be cleaned before the engine is reserved."

It's fairly basic knowledge if you're familiar with the subject, however, it can only serve to further prove your use. You can see Boyd shift slightly in the corner of your eye when he folds his arms over his chest. Attempting to ignore him and your internal doubt, you bend down to pick up some of the discarded parts.

"So you grew up around planes." You hear Boyd comment after a moment while moving over to assist you. "Then you know how to fly them?"

The linkage assembly you're picking up nearly slips out of your fingers. Quickly composing yourself, you toss it aside after straightening back up. Your thoughts drift back to the few times you briefly took over the controls when flying with your ex. You'd hardly classify it as substantial experience, however, you're willing to bet it's more than he possesses.

"It's been a while." You reply tentatively as you begin wondering the extent of his own knowledge. "I take it you don't?"

Boyd's stern expression waivers slightly at your question. His brow creases lightly as a somewhat conflicted look comes over his piercing eyes. A feeling of tension begins building while you apprehensively await his response.

"No." He finally admits, his tone sharp and combative. "But I find it a bit too convenient that you do and somehow lucked your way into finding this place."

Swallowing dryly, you manage to keep your expression neutral after his veiled accusation. His large figure stands before you, reminding you of your size disparage. Inhaling deeply, you're met with an unexpected rush of adrenaline. Taking a step back, you square your shoulders while tilting your chin up at him.

"What part are you having trouble believing?" You question somewhat arrogantly while raising one of your brows.

If Boyd is surprised by your sudden boldness, he doesn't let it show. He steps forward casually, stopping just a few inches before you. Your back stiffens slightly when he leans down towards you.

"All of it." He states bluntly, his warm breath brushing past your suddenly cold skin.