“I’m fine.”
The lie came automatically.
“Easy. Are you all right, ma’am?”
I stopped.
“No. Actually, I’m dizzy. I skipped lunch, and I’m just trying to catch my breath.”
“Do you need medical help? What’s your name?”
“I’m Carol. No, thanks. I just need to sit down.”
Mary hurried over with water.
Before I could take it, Christopher called from behind us.
“Do you need medical help?”
“She’s fine. She was just leaving with her ugly dog.”
The stranger slowly turned.
“Your name is Christopher, isn’t it?”
Christopher straightened.
“Yes. Why? Do I know you?”
The man glanced at Benny, then back at him.
“She was just leaving with her ugly dog.”
“Tell me, Christopher… does the name Victoria mean anything to you?”
Every bit of color drained from Christopher’s face.
“What?”
“Victoria.”
Christopher stared at him.
The stranger waited until I was steady before letting go of my arm.
