I pull the shoes out of the closet and ask, “So who d’you think the greatest catch in your class is? Maybe I can help you snag him.”

She pauses in thought for a minute. She’s obviously struggling with what she wants to say. “You have to promise me you won’t tell ANYONE this,” Caitlin says emphatically. “I’m only telling you this because you’re my best friend and I know I can trust you.”

“You can trust me,” I tell her with sincerity, “after all I’ll be gone in a couple of months.”

“Okay,” she leans close and whispers. “But you can’t tell anyone–especially your cousin. I’d just die if she found out. If I could pick any guy to be my boyfriend,” she pauses and looks furtively around, “it would be Chris Quinn. God, I get wet every time I even think of that boy.”

Chapter 31: Revelations and Spy Lessons

Air Force Sweetheart TacPzlSolGp Chapter 13/34 by T. D. Aldoennetti

previously read:

The Mâitre d’ holds the chair for Mom, Tony for Janet, and Jack for me. I sit the way I have been practicing, noting a number of others, men and women, in the room watching our procession and seating. Our waiter comes to the table about a minute later and asks if we would like any refreshments before the meal. Mom and Janet each take a glass of red wine.

I thank him, but say I will be just fine with water until the meal. Tony asks for a beer and Janet’s eyes look at Mom and myself then go toward the ceiling. Jack declines also saying water is fine. The waiter scurries off between the tables reminding me of a mouse navigating a maze. Jack leans over and whispers,” I hope you don’t mind but I don’t want anything to drink tonight.”

I lean over to his ear and whisper back, “Not at all. I seldom do myself. Thank you for being so considerate.”