“That’s entirely possible,” his father said. “In fact, it’s the only logical explanation I can think of. People simply don’t go around stealing radioactive isotopes without a mighty important reason.”
“Dinner’s ready,” Eddie’s mother called from the kitchen.
During dinner Eddie wasn’t sure just what he was eating. The idea of spies stealing atomic materials kept building up in his mind. By the time dessert was finished, he was anxious to talk with someone, yet he knew he shouldn’t bother his father with any more questions. He asked if he could go over and visit with Teena for a while.
“Well, you were together most of the day,” his mother said, “but I guess it’s all right. Be back in about an hour, though.”
It was a balmy evening. On such evenings, he and Teena sometimes walked along the beach barefoot, collecting sea shells. Today Eddie had no desire to do that. He ran down the block.
Teena answered his knock.
“Come on in, Eddie,” she invited, seeming surprised to see him. “Mother and I are just finishing dinner.”
“Oh, I figured you’d be through by now,” Eddie apologized, following her inside.
“Hello, Eddie,” Mrs. Ross said, but she didn’t seem as cheerful as usual.
“Good evening, Mrs. Ross,” Eddie said. “I—I hope I’m not making a pest of myself.” He looked around for Mr. Ross, but Teena’s father apparently hadn’t arrived home from Acme Aircraft yet. There wasn’t a place set for him at the table, either.