Sensing his lack of interest, Mason continued. "The department wasn't making as much money as anticipated, but it wasn't losing money either, so some of the higher-ups aren't happy. Now, disbanding it would require paying out large compensation and wiping out the entire investment.”

"Who's complaining?" inquired Leon.

"Kip," Mason answered.

"Of course it's him." Leon’s voice cold, he scribbled his signature on a page. "Tell him if he's got more complaints, he can pack his bags and follow the game team out the door."

"Yes, sir," Mason muttered quickly, his nerves tense. He hesitated, then took a step back as made his way to leave the office. "Mr. Web,...