“Well, I—” He swallowed hard. “Yes, I will, if I make it.” That was all he said.
At the airport gate he put out a hand for a good stout handclasp.
“Ships that pass in the night.” His voice was husky.
“Yes,” she replied quickly. “Fighting ships that are going to put things to rights in this old world of ours.” At that she turned to march away.
“By the way,” he called after her. “Just in case you might like to know, my name’s Jerry Sikes—”
“Thanks, Jerry.” She smiled. Then without thinking she added, “I’ll be seeing you.”
One more hour passed. Just as they were ready to take off, Mary brought Sparky his dinner on a tray.
“It’s paid for, tray and all,” she said.
“Good! Then, let’s go.” He led the way into the cabin. “They say it brings good luck if you throw your dishes into the sea,” he laughed.
Mary did not laugh. One word Sparky had spoken stuck in her mind.