“I know what you’re going to say. You’ll tell me about being careful, and people listening, and I understand all that. But I’m still your father, and I can’t protect you if I can’t talk with you about stuff.” Rachel extricated herself, and began moving toward them. Only when she was almost—but not quite—within earshot did Sam speak again. “But you’re not protecting me, Daddy. I’m protecting you. “And,” she added softly, “the ones who are listening aren’t people
