Chapter 5

When we calmed down, we looked at each other like you look at a plateful of hot bacon on a Sunday morning, and I knew we were going to back into his room and…about that time, the veranda door swung open and a very old, but very fit, woman stepped out. Her upright carriage and short hair made her look like an officer. I wanted to get up and salute, but I was never in the service anyhow, so I didn’t.

“Who are you?” she and I both asked at the same time, though I wondered why Steve didn’t ask. Then I saw his face was reddening. Uh oh, I think I was about to learn something about him that I might not like.

She recovered first. “I’m Sonia,” she said, sticking her hand out to shake hands. “Although I’ve always wanted to say I you wifeor even I his wifebut ugh, men, no thanks!”

“Um, I’m Lane,” I got out, embarrassed for no reason. Especially no reason because I could see Steve’s face trying hard not to break into a laugh.