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“I’ve informed Dr. Doyle he may no longer do any outside tours without my explicit permission.”

“I see.” Nicole narrowed her eyes. “Then I’d like you to give him permission.”

The Watcher’s head snapped back in surprise. “Why would I do that? Anything could happen to the timeline…”

“I am aware of your duties. It was an agreement I made in order to get this journey approved,” Nicole said, standing straight. “However, my duty is to give these people the best and most authentic experience possible.”

The Watcher’s upper lip twitched. “They paid a lot of money, I understand that. But the timeline is far more important.”

Nicole took three steps forward, landing in their personal space. “They are also making history as the first group to travel through time. This is about more than money, Mx. Watcher. Yes, the timeline is important, but there is a reasonable balance, and I’ve weighed the risks.”

The Watcher let out one mirthless laugh. “You decided what was good for everyone. Well, then I should just step out of your way and allow you to do whatever your heart desires.”

“That would be best,” Nicole said, and Doyle backed away from both of them slightly.

Was it truly necessary for him to be there? Doyle drew a deep breath. He supposed he should do something, or they may end up wrestling.

“Excuse me,” he said, pulling off his hat and rolling the brim between his fingers. “You both obviously have the best of intentions, but if I may?”

Both Nicole and the Watcher turned to him and waited. Doyle cleared his throat.

“I’ve been out there, and it’s really very straightforward. I don’t take them anywhere dangerous.” Other than mountain lion territory, but no need to say that out loud. “We explore the wilderness, get a long-range glimpse of the town, and observe native animals. I assure you, they aren’t talking.”

The Watcher narrowed their eyes, but Doyle maintained what he hoped was a polite and encouraging smile.

Finally, the Watcher sighed deeply and closed their eyes. “You may take one more days’ worth of ‘tours’ but no going near town. This area’s population makes it far too likely we will be noticed. No people from this timeline. Just animals. Is that understood?”

Doyle nodded. Sadie and Teddy didn’t count, he reasoned, they weren’t even supposed to be part of the timeline anymore.

“And,” the Watcher leaned in menacingly despite Doyle towering over them, “if I find out that you’ve done anything else without approval, you’ll face charges of recklessness when we return.”

Doyle swallowed. He had to be careful, or returning to his own time and a jail cell was a serious possibility.

“That goes for both of you,” the Watcher said, pointing between them as they backed toward the elevator. “I do not appreciate being purposely kept out of the loop.”

Having made it inside the elevator, the Watcher punched their destination into the panel with far too much force.

“Good job, Doyle,” Nicole said, getting his attention once the doors of the lift closed.

“Thanks, boss.” Doyle relaxed, rocking back on his tired feet.

“Get some rest,” Nicole said, eyeing him. “I have a feeling you’ll need it.”