Nandan’s intuition nudged him to think simpler, outside the pile of research and rather outside the box.
He cleared space on the desk and laid down the three books with clues in a sequential pattern. Just as he finished reading the last clue, he took off his hat and rested it on the desk to give a breather to the already receding hairline. It was his favorite hat in green, white and black bearing the logo of his favorite NFL team – Philadelphia Eagles.
Nandan was jolted yet intrigued but continued to brainstorm.
First clue was on 98th page, second on 55th, and the last on 566th. umm…Eagles…yes Philly!! Who flies to Philadelphia? Who wrote these notes signed off with numbers – 14, 9, 20, umm….25 and 1? Does it mean 14th, 9th..20th English letters ummm…
A feeling of weakness in the legs is followed by a long drawn silence.
After a quick internet search he was absolutely stunned to learn that British Airways BA067 flew from London to Philly.
Nandan quickly scribbled the numbers and a summary of his analysis on the white board
98555 66067 signed by N, I, T, Y, A
He knew he was staring at an India mobile phone number. His heart was racing fast. He was palpitating as he fumbled and grabbed the phone to dial the numbers.
There was virtually a perpetual ringing on the other side. Finally the line connected and a familiar soft voice answered, “Hello.”
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