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half so frightening to her now, when compared with what lay ahead, D.J. stepped into the day-care facility and shut the door behind her. |
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The front hall stood empty, but the sound of excited children's voices came to D.J. from the room to her right. She stepped around the corner and caught her breath. The room contained children of every imaginable shape, age, and size. At least twenty-five of them turned to stare at D.J. as she slid against the wall toward a chair. As soon as she sat down, they charged. |
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D.J. sat up straight with a little yelp of surprise. Her startled gaze sought out McCall, who stood watching her with an intent look on his face. What was he up to with this trick? |
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Twenty-five voices chimed. Little fingers clasped her jeans and held on; one tiny girl in a red and white pinafore and lace-encrusted panties climbed D.J.'s leg and settled onto her lap with a sigh of contentment. D.J. stiffened, staring down at the girl in confusion; then a little face turned up to her with a smile so sweet even D.J. couldn't resist. She reached out and stroked a tentative finger down the smooth cheek. Soft as a cloud. The child grabbed D.J.'s hand and wrapped it around her waist, ensuring a hug. |
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"Are you really a policeman?" |
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Looking to her left, she met the curious face of a towheaded boy. He perched his elbow on her knee and stared intently into her eyes. |
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"Uhyes. I mean, no. Well . . ." She looked to McCall for help. He'd left the room, along with Cindy and maybe fifteen of the older children, leav- |
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