19

Now is the critical moment when everything between you and Darien Vance comes to a head. You look wildly about the camper for something—anything—to get you out of this jam.

Coruscating orange lights flicker once, twice, then die out. Vance twists around in his seat, his face filled with desperation. Skyler curses and reboots. It's no good.

You knew the camper wasn't jumping anywhere. It's a little late to volunteer to fix the flux navigator properly. But you're hardly out of ideas. You can bring them all home in your Land Rover. If you dump everything, they could squeeze in, that is if nobody moves or breathes.

Nor is this your only option. There's a propane tank in the RV, the kind used for outdoor grilling. An internet video pops into your head, one you watched a dozen times with Brett. Some dude opened the valve on a propane tank, lit it, and then shot it with a rifle. What an explosion! Awesome fireball, too. You picture yourself lighting the tank, rolling it toward the T. rex, and shooting a few rounds. That ought to drive the savage beast far away or even take it down, depending on timing.

The question is, are your mechanical and marksmanship skills up to some dramatic heroics? Or are you inclined to go home more quietly now that you have the chance?