"Come in," she said softly, not bothering to cover herself.Her mother ascended the stairs into the attic, smiling when she saw Kate. Then her father e...tered, closing the trapdoor behind him. He too, smiled at Kate."Look at you," said her mother. "Eighteen years, and all grown up."She extended her arms, and Kate walked into the embrace, feeling the nice, soft fabric of her mother's clothes against her body, her arms on Kate's bare back."Did we wake you?" said her father.She shook her head. "I. " Hope flared, then died as Marla saw Eckerts reaction to the next transmission. "Two-Three, Answer me, This is Lt. Grose, acting commander of the third battalion." Another long pause. "Two-Three, I am giving you a lawful order. Identify yourself and give me your location so I can arrange an evac for you."Eckert's eyes turned hard. "Last calling station, Authenticate Bravo Sierra, Over."The Lt. Came back immediately. "What do you mean authenticate? I'm the ranking military officer in this area,. He came into the house and found us upstairs. I don’t remember any of this part. I was unconcious. He checked Isabella first, but she was dead. He thought I was too, but apparently found that I was still breathing. He was able to raise the household staff. He even covered her body – so that she wouldn’t be gawked at. I can’t thank him enough for that. ‘The staff went for the doctor and he managed, with great skill, to sew me up and saved my life. They told me I was in and out for over a week. As time when on she would always seem to be on the balcony cleaning or sunbathing alone as I returned from my early walk. I got to thinking this maybe for my benefit as I could see her looking at me probaby hoping to catch me staring again. After the dog walk I took to sitting in my garden facing the direction of her balcony. I would read my newspaper keeping an eye out for any chance she may want to get topless! One fine morning as usual she was sat taking in the suns rays as I passed. I.