The Listener. Kay David

you interested in weapons, Dr. Worley?”

      Maria’s pulse surged unexpectedly. She wasn’t too sure why she had the strange reaction, but she was sure she didn’t like it. “Not really,” she replied coolly, “but my son wanted to see.” She turned to Christopher and reluctantly made the introductions. He immediately put on an air of indifference and shook Ryan’s hand with conscientious disregard.

      Ryan didn’t return the casual attitude. He studied Christopher carefully. “I think we saw each other earlier, didn’t we?”

      Christopher shrugged.

      “Did you enjoy the demonstration?”

      “It was okay.”

      “There’s a lot of information about the team on our Web site if you want to know more. I’m in charge of maintaining it. I’ve posted some photos and other material about our weapons and the War Wagon, too. You might want to check it out sometime.”

      From the pocket of his black T-shirt, Ryan took out a small notebook and scribbled something on it. From her upside down advantage all Maria could read was “www…” Ryan ripped off the page and handed it to Christopher who stuffed the paper into his pocket and mumbled a quick thanks.

      Before Maria could add her own thank-you, someone called out Christopher’s name. He raised his head and she followed his glance. A group of his school buddies stood by the other end of the fence, snickering and trying to act cool. Pretending he hadn’t been caught talking to some adults, Christopher sent them a nonchalant wave, then he glanced askance at Maria, his brown eyes begging her not to embarrass him.