”“Dad, they are some of the nicest people I’ve ever met. And I’m certainly in no position to provide them with anything other than friendship....I’m just a college student with some programming skills. It’s not like I have a security clearance or anything!”“I understand that, Steve, but just be careful. If you sense anything strange at all, let me know.”That was an odd thing to say, and it didn’t make sense, but I guess he figured he could give me advice instead of having me go to the FBI and. In fact, what about having him over for lunch and maybe the afternoon?" Laura suddenly had a huge smile on her face. "Daddy, are you kidding? I would love it! Can I call him and see if it would be okay?" "Sounds good to me. Of course you would have to do a few things for me in return. But why don't you give him a call?" Laura came up to him and put her arms around his neck. "I love you Daddy!" she tilted her head up to kiss him on the cheek but he turned his head slightly and met her with his. She was sure she had several years on him. But he was youthful and fit; not a big man, she looked directly into his eyes. His size had probably kept him from professional sports. She watched as he rattled his fist again. The coach took a step closer and extended his hand, opened his fingers. He held two chestnuts. Melanie abruptly went all weak inside. “Are... are those mine?” “Yes,” he said, and tucked one up under her nose. It smelled like animal, a barnyard. He dragged it down across her. I know I should have them on a leash and all..." my voice trailed off as I realized the figure who had been kneeling before me was a woman. A striking woman from what I could tell, but it was difficult to know for sure with her cheeks red from the cold and bundled up in a large parka. I thought she might be older than me, but that was also difficult to discern. I noticed her face was wet but I didn't know if the moisture on her face was rain or tears. I thought she looked like she'd been.