Chapter 36

“Just a geeky history buff.”

“Okay. We’re ready to go,” I said.

“Can I have a minute with my brother-in-law?” Rip asked.

“Sure. I’ll get us something to eat—really late lunch, really early dinner.” Patrick shrugged. “I knew I couldn’t come here without going in. Big Macs and fries?”

“Sure.” I nodded. “Thanks.”

“Diet or regular?”

“Regular. Orange,” I said. “I like orange.”

Patrick chuckled. “Good to know.” He tugged on his beard. “And while I’m at it, I know a few people who might be able to search some military records better than we can. We’ll try to find Calvin.”

“He went by the last name Goodacre,” I said.

“Is that right?” Patrick asked. “I don’t remember that from the journal.”

“No?” I played dumb. “I thought I read it in there. I could be wrong, but we can try that last name, just in case.”

“Sure. Be right back.” Patrick took off for the front of the restaurant.

I took a breath. I needed one. “What?” I asked once he was out of earshot.