I sighed and moodily contemplated my uncreased trouser legs and thought of my non-existent bank balance. Whoever said war was hell, sure hit the nail on the head.
The door opened and I heard a shuffle of footsteps on the floor. I tipped my derby back and looked up, expecting to see Jake, but the office was empty.
The door was standing open and I scratched my head. Maybe it had blown open. Then I remembered the sound of footsteps I'd heard and my bewilderment increased.
"Hello," a voice said.
My feet came down from the desk with a crash. I sat up straight and stared about the small room.
"Who said that?" I demanded.
"I did. I'm right here." It was the same voice and I jerked my head in the direction of the sound.
For an instant I didn't see a thing. But then, my eyes seemed suddenly to focus, and I saw a tall, lanky young man standing a few feet from me. He had a shock of straw colored hair and mild blue eyes. He wore a light suit.
"Can you see me now?" he asked, and his voice sounded strained, as if he were exerting himself in some manner.
"Yes, I can see you," I said. I was a little nettled. "What do you mean coming in and scaring people that way?"